More power, better screen, new earbud jack

The model retains the features pilots desire most, with an easy-to-use, robust backup communication radio with built-in headset jacks and powered by either AA batteries or a USB-C power adapter.

To make way for the new 3.5mm earbud jack atop the radio without significantly changing the form factor, volume and squelch controls are combined concentrically on one stalk, like panel-mounted radio control knobs that users should find familiar. In practice, the volume and squelch can both be activated one-handed. Side-mounted push-to-talk, backlight, last channel flip-flop controls, and weather function keys are unchanged. Six watts of peak transmit power—a 20 percent increase over the original unit—and a higher contrast screen with easily readable frequencies complete the features of the new model.

John Zimmerman, Sporty’s catalog division vice president and instrument-rated commercial pilot, said the radio follows the company’s goals to produce a simple, easy-to-use design with built-in aviation jacks that can run on AA batteries or USB power at an affordable price point.

I put the PJ2+ Com Radio to the test during ground operations at Frederick Municipal Airport and pressed it into service in the air about five miles away from the Class D control tower. The quality was fine in the air or on the ground and the convenience of a handheld radio with built-in aviation headset jacks is a real plus if your panel-mounted communication radio bites the dust. The additional 3.5mm jack is convenient if your daily routine includes earbuds at the ready, or if you prefer to listen to airport or ATC communications via a computer’s earphone jack.

For the past three years I’ve kept my Sporty’s PJ2 emergency radio handy in a traveling pilot backpack and can attest to the dependability, simplicity, and rugged design. The radio recently took a hard fall from a six-foot ladder during a windy photo shoot and only suffered a minor scuff mark to the outside of the display’s raised frame. I use lithium AA batteries because they don’t leak, so I don’t have to worry about battery acid destroying electrical components, but the USB power option is appealing.

Expectations are that the new Sporty’s PJ2+ handheld radio will maintain the line’s quality, reliability, and ease of use for years to come.

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