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When it comes to music, there’s nothing wrong with going back in time. Even though vinyl is making a comeback and there are a lot of smart speakers on the market, we still have room for one of the best DAB radios.
We still like wireless a lot, and it looks like a lot of audio companies do too, since high-end radios with Bluetooth from brands like Ruark, Roberts, and Pure are all over the place.
The Best DAB 1 Breakfast Show, Lauren Laverne on Radio 6 for your morning commute, or bopping along to your favourite dance tracks on Absolute Radio ’80s or Heart Dance, radio gives your day structure and lets you find new artists, songs, and even facts and information, and it’s not going anywhere.
Best DAB Radios
Roberts Revival Petite
Specifications
Radio | FM, DAB+ |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB, 3.5mm aux in |
Spotify Connect | NO |
Dimensions | 7.6 x 12.4 x 7.3cm |
This model is even smaller and cheaper than the Revival Mini. It’s part of the Roberts Revival line, which is based on the 1950s. It fits in the palm of your hand, which makes it a great portable choice. It also has a rechargeable battery built right in.
This cool radio sounds great, but it’s not as loud as other Roberts models, which makes sense given how small it is. It doesn’t have alarms, but it has a lot of presets and can also be used as a Bluetooth speaker.
Pros
- Textured vocals
- Classy aesthetic
Cons
- Charges via microUSB
Sangean WR-16 AM/FM Bluetooth
Specifications
Dimensions | 9.4″L x 4.62″W x 6.75″H |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Auxiliary, USB |
Weight | 0.035 ounces |
Manufacturer | SANGEAN AMERICA INC |
The Roberts Stream 94L is the latest version of a radio that won an award. It has a new logo, a faster processor, and built-in support for Amazon Music, Deezer, and Spotify.
It looks good and is well made all over. The full-color screen is big and easy to see from far away. It’s also easy to use with the unit’s buttons and the smartphone app.
Pros
- faster processor
- smart-looking unit
Cons
- network problem
VIBY Radio Receiver
Specifications
Radio | DAB, DAB+, FM |
Display | Colour LCD |
Dimensions | 94 x 235 x 142mm |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, headphones jack, 3.5mm AUX in |
This excellent DAB radio with decent Bluetooth streaming is pricey, but it has great build quality, a cool retro look, and good sound quality all around. It comes in blue, green, and cream.
The Roberts Rambler BT Stereo has a handle made of fake leather and panels that go all the way across its back. On either side of a chrome and black speaker grille are clean oak panels. It looks like the first “Rambler” from the 1970s.
Pros
- 1970s retro design
- Good audio quality
Cons
- No EQ settings
Roberts Revival iStream
Specifications
Connectivity | DAB+, FM, wifi, Bluetooth, 3.5mm audio in, USB |
Power | Mains or optional battery |
Dimensions | 16 x 25.5 x 11 cm |
Weight | 1.8kg |
The Roberts Revival iStream isn’t cheap, but we think it’s worth the price. The 1950s-style smart radio is not only beautiful to look at—it comes in gorgeous colours like Sunburst Yellow, Berry Red, and Duck Egg—but it also does a lot of cool things.
The DAB radio has built-in streaming services for Spotify, Amazon Music, and Deezer, as well as more than 20,000 internet radio stations and thousands of podcasts. Plus, it works with Bluetooth, so you can connect your phone and play any song you want, like Britney Spears’ “Everytime” over and over.
Pros
Cons
WENLII DAB/DAB + FM
Specifications
Display | 2.4-inch colour LCD |
Charging method | Micro USB or 4x AA batteries |
Dimensions | 115 x 82 x 247mm |
Audio | 3W stereo |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, headphones jack, micro USB |
Even though digital radio is great, don’t forget about internet radio. The utilitarian stone grey or charcoal Pure Elan Connect+ gets on your computer and gives you access to international web-based radio stations and their podcasts. It also lets you stream DAB/DAB+/FM and Bluetooth from a phone.
It has a plasticky look, and the sound is best for voice radio and background music, but it is easy to use and has a big colour screen. It is also only 82mm deep, which means it can fit on any kitchen counter or bookshelf without looking too big.
Pros
- Internet radio and podcasts
- Great-sounding Bluetooth streaming
Cons
- Plastic look
FAQs
What is a DAB radio?
Digital Audio Broadcasting is what DAB is short for. So, in the end, it’s just a digitally sent sound. This is different from, say, FM, which sends sound over radio waves and can be changed to fit your location.
What is a good DAB radio?
- Ruark R1
- Roberts Stream 94L.
- Pure Siesta Charge.
- Roberts Rambler Mini.
- Roberts Revival iStream 3.
- Pure Evoke Play.
What is the purpose of a DAB?
Dabbing is a way to get high by putting a small amount of concentrated cannabis oil on a hot surface and letting it vaporise. Putting hash oil on a bowl or in a joint isn’t anything new, but dabbing lets the user get only the strong effect and taste of the hash oil.