Panasonic SL-CT480 Portable CD Player (Silver and Blue)

The player is conveniently compatible with either AA or AAA batteries, deriving up to 35 hours of playback from two AA batteries or 14 hours of playback from two AAA batteries (two of each are supplied). Logically arranged, top-mounted controls simplify operation, while a large, easy-to-read LCD shows disc status. A hold function prevents unintended interruptions in playback and saves batteries by negating playback when the player is stopped.

The SL-CT480's digital-to-analog converter is Panasonic's single-bit MASH (multi-stage noise shaping technology) DAC, designed to virtually eliminate distortion and deliver all the subtleties and nuances that make digital recordings so rich.

Playback options include 24-track programming, repeat (track or disc), and random play, and a four-preset equalizer lets you tailor the sound to your preference--choose from S-XBS (extra bass system), live, train (high cut). Auto power-off prevents battery drainage after your CD has ended, and the unit's aluminum top cover and polycarbonate body protects the player from the elements.

What's in the Box
CD player, stereo headphones, two AA batteries, two AAA batteries, and a user's manual.

1) The buttons are stiff and unyielding to press; the volume buttons are especially agitating as you have to push them twice to make an adjustment - and I have always been against volume buttons versus the tried-and-true volume knob which is much more quick and efficient, particuarly if you are listening to music where the sound can go from very soft to very loud in a matter of seconds.

2) The replay value on this product is remarkably low. Considering the age of the model, it should've been able to get at least 30 hours, and it falls remarkably short. Worser still, unlike most models which flash the 'low battery' icon at least an hour in advance when the juice is low, the SL-CT480 will die without any warning whatsoever. None. This makes for a most irritating time if you are caught without spare batteries, which brings me to my next complaint.

3) The ability to play both AA and AAA batteries. You'd think this would be a blessing, but it's an uncomfortable inconvenience. As a result of having to accomodate two very differently-sized batteries, this model has a particuarly loose battery compartment cover that is prone to flying off altogether when the tricky 'lock' switch allows you to open the blasted thing to change batteries; which, as I have mentioned earlier, happens often. Furthermore, another complication arises from the oddly designed compartment: It does not 'lock' flat. If you've seen the thing, you know what I'm talking about. The cover sticks out, preventing it from lying flat on surfaces and making it exceedingly difficult to grip.

4) Its performance is way, way below par. The SL-CT480 is a horrible workmate; I have found that with age -- and this is particularly of note considering I'd only started using the blasted thing two months when this problem arose -- its functioning decreased almost to an unusuable level. It will frequently stop altogether in the middle of a track, sometimes as often as every 15 seconds. This is not unusual when it comes to very worn, outdated CD players from the days of yore, but remember, this is a relatively new model we are talking about. It is alarmingly decrepit and I could go on all day about its glaring flaws.

Using this CD player has been an uphill battle every day; it has frustrated me enough to give it an utterly scathing review so I can spare others the heartache. Stay away from this model, but do not shy away from Panasonic: They are generally a very reliable and high-quality brand. If ever a rotten egg in the Panasonic label, this is it.


Awesome   May 28, 2001
 2 out of 4 found this review helpful

This cd-player by panasonic is awesome. I've owned two other portable cd-players by panasonic which have been excellent, and this has followed through exquisitely. This model has good looks, nice features, and is extremely slim and light.


Lightweight CD Enjoyment   May 26, 2001
 3 out of 3 found this review helpful

Being a creature of the subway in NYC, it is essential to have the right headphone system. This extremely light portable CD player has all the options you could need. Using it in crowded situations and experiencing my share of bumps, this solid 40 second antishock system is reliable. The volume of +25 is more than adequate although the volume buttons are a pain to reach if you carry this in a coat pocket. Overall, for the price, this product is a steal.