Craftsman VERSASTACK Connect Radio + Charger

Craftsman has long been a trusted name in the world of tools, and their VERSASTACK Connect Radio + Charger exemplifies why. This jobsite radio and charger is designed to meet the demanding needs of professionals and hobbyists alike. Over the past few weeks, I had the opportunity to put this tool through its paces in various environments, from the jobsite to a backyard BBQ. Here's my comprehensive take on its performance, features, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the VERSASTACK Connect Radio + Charger impresses with its robust build. Weighing in at 17.2 pounds, it is certainly on the heavier side, but this heft translates to durability. The radio features rubberized bumpers on all corners, which provide excellent protection against drops and knocks. The IP54 rating ensures that the unit is resistant to both dust and water, making it suitable for outdoor use in less-than-ideal conditions.

The design is also highly functional. The radio integrates seamlessly with other VERSASTACK products, allowing for easy stacking and transportation. This is a huge plus for professionals who already own other VERSASTACK storage solutions. The carry handle is sturdy and well-placed, making it easy to move the radio from one location to another.

Audio Quality

One of the standout features of this radio is its audio quality. Equipped with four full-range speakers, two subwoofers, and an assisted bass resonator, the VERSASTACK Connect delivers a rich, full-bodied sound. The bass is particularly impressive, providing a deep, resonant thump that can be felt as much as heard. The mids and highs are clear and well-balanced, ensuring that vocals and instruments come through crisply.

Even at full volume, the sound quality remains excellent with minimal distortion. Whether you're streaming music via Bluetooth, listening to the FM radio, or using the auxiliary input, the audio experience is consistently top-notch. This makes the radio not just a functional tool but also a great addition to any social gathering.

Connectivity and Usability

The VERSASTACK Connect offers multiple connectivity options, making it incredibly versatile. Bluetooth connectivity is quick and reliable, with a range of up to 100 feet. I found that it maintained a stable connection even when moving around a large jobsite or backyard. The auxiliary input is a nice touch for those who prefer a wired connection, and the USB port is handy for charging devices on the go.

One of the more innovative features is the full-color flip-screen and touch-sensitive buttons. The screen automatically adjusts its orientation depending on whether the radio is standing up or lying down, which is a thoughtful design element. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing for quick adjustments to volume, bass, treble, and other settings.

The radio also comes with a dedicated storage compartment for your phone, which is both dust and water-resistant. This compartment includes the USB charging port, making it a safe place to store and charge your phone while listening to music.

Battery and Charging

The VERSASTACK Connect is compatible with Craftsman's V20 batteries, ranging from 2Ah to 9Ah. This flexibility allows you to use batteries you may already own from other Craftsman tools. The radio also doubles as a battery charger, which is incredibly convenient. When plugged into a 120V outlet, it charges the battery while also powering the radio.

In terms of battery life, the radio performs admirably. On a single charge of a 4Ah battery, I was able to get around 7-8 hours of continuous playback at a moderate volume. This should be more than sufficient for a typical workday. For those who need even longer battery life, using a 6Ah or 9Ah battery will extend the runtime significantly.

App and Additional Features

The Craftsman Radio App, available for both Android and iOS, adds another layer of convenience. The app allows you to control the radio remotely, adjusting settings, changing stations, and even updating firmware. While the app is generally user-friendly, it does have some quirks. For instance, it occasionally takes a moment to locate the radio, and the firmware update process could be more straightforward. However, these issues are minor and do not significantly detract from the overall experience.

Drawbacks

While the VERSASTACK Connect has many strengths, it is not without its flaws. One of the more significant issues is the touch-sensitive buttons on the screen. In a jobsite setting, where dust and grime are common, these buttons can sometimes become unresponsive or behave erratically. Physical buttons would likely be more reliable in such environments.

Another drawback is the intermittent Bluetooth connectivity issues. While the connection is generally stable, there were a few instances where it disconnected unexpectedly. This required manually reconnecting the device, which can be a hassle during a busy workday.

Lastly, the radio does not include an AM band, which may be a deal-breaker for some users who rely on AM stations for news and talk radio.

Conclusion

The Craftsman VERSASTACK Connect Radio + Charger is a powerful, versatile, and durable addition to any jobsite or outdoor activity. Its exceptional sound quality, robust build, and multiple connectivity options make it a standout choice for those who need a reliable and high-performing radio. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the touch-sensitive buttons and occasional Bluetooth issues, these are outweighed by its many strengths.

I would recommend this radio to anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and feature-rich jobsite radio. Whether you're a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, the VERSASTACK Connect will meet your needs and then some. Its ability to charge batteries, coupled with its excellent audio performance, makes it a valuable tool that adds both functionality and enjoyment to any workday or outdoor event.