Raddy DAB/FM Radio Review
Introduction:
I purchased this device from Amazon primarily to explore DAB band reception in Thessaloniki and experiment with a technology relatively new to me. Initially, I had considered a kitchen model from a supermarket chain, but timing didn't work out.
Delivery & Packaging:
- Delivery time: 10 days (faster than Amazon's estimated 15 days)
- Compact packaging: Pocket-sized box
- Contents: Radio unit, USB cable, carton box with foam padding
Physical Design & Build:
- Retro aesthetic reminiscent of 2000s Chinese MP3 players
- Metallic chassis with pixelated screen
- Curved design, approximately 3x thicker than typical models of the timne
- Left-sided antenna placement
- Headphone jack
- Power button
- TF and USB slots for MP3 playback
Technical Specifications:
Memory Capacity:
- Approximately 50 presets each for FM and DAB
- 6 direct memory buttons
- Carousel-style memory navigation using < and > buttons
Connectivity:
- Quick Bluetooth pairing with computers or any other
- No connectivity with Bluetooth headphones
- USB connectivity
- SD card slot (notably stiff mechanism). Difficult to remove the card.
Reception Performance:
Antenna:
- Detachable design (potential weakness)
- Recommended modification for better reception : wire extension
- Better reception in upright position
- Earphone wire also helps reception
Local DAB Performance:
- Receives ERA network complex
- Local municipality stations (FM100/100.3)
- Intermittent reception when moving
- Poor table-top reception
- 2-second lead compared to FM
FM Performance:
- Consistent reception despite interference
- Slight audio distortion at high modulation index (>150 kHz bandwidth)
- Signal level 1-2 dB lower than DAB
Audio Quality:
- Testing equipment: AKG DJ81 headphones
- Maximum speaker volume :
* FM mode: 80 dB at 50cm
* Bluetooth mode: 90 dB at 50cm
- CD-quality sound in both FM/DAB with stable reception with headphones
- Linear MP3 playback comparable to Tecsun Q3 mp3/radio
Additional Features:
- RDS support in FM
- DAB data display
- Frequency and bitrate information
- Internet streaming capability (6 streams)
Ratings:
- Audio Quality: 5/5
- Design: 4/5
Verdict:
Recommended device offering excellent value with superior audio quality and user-friendly operation. The main drawback is limited DAB station availability in Thessaloniki, though internet streaming provides additional options. Studio-quality sound reproduction is a notable strength, despite some design limitations.
Pros:
- Excellent audio quality
- Easy operation
- Fast device pairing
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Fragile antenna design
- No Bluetooth headphone support
- Rigid SD card mechanism
AI model : Claude Sonnet
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