Flex launched a new $300 Stack Pack radio that connects to their other modular tool boxes.
The new Flex Stack Pack Radio, model FX5361, features dual speakers, a 5-1/4″ subwoofer, AM/FM radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Flex says you can pair up to 2 radios together for synced playback.
Additional features include an AC power cord, built-in Flex 24V Max battery charger, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, and weather resistant construction.
Price: $300
Discussion
I’m wondering – aside from how awkward this looks to carry with one hand due to the seeming lack of any large briefcase-style handle – is whether products like this can help Flex and their Stack Pack tool box system make a comeback.
Flex Stack Pack seemed to have been squeezed out of Lowe’s stores last year, with ToughBuilt and Klein winning over the pro tool box placements, at least at all of the stores near me.
This is one of very few Stack Pack products that Flex quietly launched since last year’s expansion.
Milwaukee’s Packout radio/speaker is regularly $299, and at the time of this posting Home Depot has a bundle deal with a free cooler bag. Dewalt seemed to give up on ToughSystem music players a couple of years ago.
I tested the Packout speaker for a while – again and again – and it sounded fantastic. It has full-range speakers, tweeters, and a subwoofer with passive radiator. Milwaukee says it has 10 speakers for balanced 360° surround sound.
For a matched $300 price tag, Flex offers “dual full-range speakers and a 5-1/4-inch subwoofer.”
Milwaukee can get away with charging $299 for a jobsite radio. Makita just launched a boxy-looking XGT Bluetooth speaker for $249 (via Acme Tools).
Bosch’s Bluetooth-capable Power Box jobsite radio and power station is $159 at Amazon.
I guess this is one for ardent Flex fans. I’m not impressed with the design, feature set, or the price. Maybe I’m wrong – what do you think about it?
