Six of the best DAB Radios (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Six of the best DAB Radios

7:00am Saturday 15th September 2012 in Lifestyle

Six of the best gadgets and gizmos on a theme. This week: Six of the best DAB Radios

By Peter Jenkinson

If you haven't experienced the delights of DAB (that's Digital Audio Broadcasting), then we're delighted to introduce you to a crackle-free world.

Tuning in to your favourite show on dated FM is acceptable enough, but if you want to enhance the sound, then it is time to make the move to digital radio.

Those who have been treating their ears to this superior sound for some time might like to fill more rooms with DAB units, so we've sought out the best devices for you to enjoy this radio revolution.

In Car - Pure Highway DAB - £69.99 from www.halfords.co.uk

Upgrade your in-car entertainment with this nifty unit from PURE, the doyenne of DAB. With great media connectivity, you'll be able to pause and play digital radio through your car stereo system and also release tunes from your iPod. With this unit, you're sure to never miss your favourite track.

Knock On Wood - Ruark Audio R1 - £159.95 from www.johnlewis.com

This high-end DAB radio from Ruark is available in a number of colour options, the one we've opted for is the rather retro Walnut finish option. The unit has a rotodial control unit on the top for easy access to your stations and various sound options. Other features include an alarm, headphone socket for private listening and a connection to plug in an external music source.

Note Taker - Roberts MessageR - £99.99 from www.hughesdirect.co.uk

This digital radio is unique because it allows you to record and save a couple of voice messages, ideal for when you have a lightbulb moment while listening. This compact DAB radio is at home in the kitchen as there is a handy egg-timer function built in as well.

Entertainment Hub - Sensia 200D - £249.95 from www.johnlewis.com

Much more than just a digital radio, this wireless music system could form the hub of your at-home entertainment. The Sensia allows you to stream millions of songs from the Pure Music web-based on-demand subscription service, or from your digital music collection via PC, as well as giving you access to thousands of internet radio stations or podcasts. You never need miss a thing either as this unit lets you pre-set recording times for programmes via the touchscreen or remote control unit.

Various Shades - PURE Evoke Mio - £129.98 from www.currys.co.uk

Add a splash of colour to your abode in the form of this Evoke DAB radio. Compact enough to squeeze in anywhere but still delivering a decent sound, this great-looking gadget features a kitchen timer, alarm and an auto-dimming OLED display. For a bit extra, you can buy a ChargePAK rechargeable battery for portable listening.

Move It - Tivoli PAL + - £249 from www.conranshop.co.uk

This is a very stylish unit that has a built-in rechargeable battery unit, so you can pick up and shift about without missing a beat. The Tivoli has a weatherproof rubber casing, so it's ideal for outdoor use. This award winner also doubles as an alarm clock, with dual independent alarms, and also features the all-important snooze function.

App of the week: Bantr - free on iTunes

Get social with your football rantings and ravings with this sublime application for football fans. You can interact with like-minded fans on all aspects of the game and vote on live matches in real time. But remember to show your caring side and listen to other supporters' opinions, too!