Product Review: SoroSuub C1 Comlink from the Galactic Empire
We at Radio Design Group take product reviews very seriously,* especially those from a galaxy far, far away.
So when we were fortunate enough to get our hands on a slightly used SoroSuub C1 personal Comlink, we were thrilled as a Jawa finding an abandoned case of power converters marked for Tosche Station!
The C1 was the field deployed personal comlink of choice for the Galactic Empire during the civil war. Every Stormtrooper equipped with a DH77 or DH107 helmet was also issued a C1. The comlinks are small handheld devices designed for humanoid or humanoid-like hands. Some non-human testers here at Radio Design Group had difficulty gripping the comlink and would occasionally turn the device on or off unintentionally. Given the production was geared towards the human-only army of the Empire, this cannot be held against SoroSuub, but we gave the transmitter slightly decreased marks for ease of use.
“Use the comlink? Oh, my. I forgot. I turned it off.”
C1 Comlink used by C-3PO on the Death Star
Where the C1 really shines is in its ability to receive and transmit encrypted signals to a range of 50 km, especially for such a compact device. Typical of its Sullustrian engineering and manufacturing roots, the C1 demonstrates an ability to perform effectively, even in highly RF-congested areas - a primary rationale for deployment in Stormtrooper kits - even operating without any decipherable audio quality loss in our most demanding tests. Runtime tests were equal to 8 standard galactic hours. Impressive, most impressive.
The construction of the comlink is rugged and waterproof (to at least the driving depth of a Dianoga attempting to retreat with prey). It can withstand the extreme colds of Hoth, is unfazed by the binary suns on Tatooine, and operates cleanly, even in the congested bowels of Coruscant. (Note: our local population density made it impossible for us to fully realize how effective this comlink has proven for testers in other galactic systems).
Unfortunately, the comlink is susceptible to RF (radio frequency) jamming. Given its widespread usage by Imperial combat forces, many have been incentivized to continuously overcome whatever new algorithms SoroSuub supplies to the Empire. But if we are honest in our review, most Imperial coms are easily jammed—including more sophisticated, vehicle-installed systems like those found on Aratech Repulsor Company’s 74-Z speeder bikes.
“Quick! Jam their comlinks. Center switch!”
Given the relatively low cost of 200 Imperial credits, we classify this comlink as a substantial bargain. Comparable models such as the Cross 3-MAL personal comlink, which only monitors standard clear frequencies at the cost of 250 Imperial credits, simply do not represent as strong of a value. With these savings, you could enjoy a round of frosty Corellian Ale (or blue milk for those who prefer a non-alcoholic reward) at your local cantina!
Cons
Jammable Imperial technology
Not ideal for non-humanoids
Did we mention the Imperials use these things?
Pros
Discrete, rugged design
Excellent range
Affordable
With its widespread deployment by the Empire and its significance in the rescue of a certain Princess-turned-General, the SoroSuub C1 comlink remains highly sought after by rebels, smugglers, bounty hunters, and scoundrels of all species. As a high performer with solid durability marks, the Comlink is also available at a price point even a Blurrg farmer could appreciate.
For purchasing information, contact SoroSuub Corporation on the planet of Sullust.
For assistance in developing (or improving) your communications equipment, Radio Design Group can help (for real)! Schedule a consultation to discuss your needs, or get in touch with us for more information.
*For actual real-life products, that is. This article is purely fictional in celebration of May the Fourth. Happy Star Wars Day!