Digital radios v Internet radios

Like analogue TV's, standard radios will probably be obsolete in the coming years, and the new technology is rapidly coming down in price, so the question is whether to go for a digital radio or an Internet radio? The digital option has become more mainstream in the last few years and there is a wide range available, but against that there seems to be few stations other than the new RTE channels that you couldn't hear on a conventional radio. Internet radios have the best equipment and have a global station range, but as they're relatively new to the market, the price and range could well be better in 12 months time. Anyone here with either with any thoughts, opinions?

I would've thought that most DAB radios come with internet access too? Don't think I'd buy one without, digital rollout in Ireland has been a complete mess.

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Originally Posted by dahamsta

I would've thought that most DAB radios come with internet access too? Don't think I'd buy one without, digital rollout in Ireland has been a complete mess.

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Most DAB radios aren't internet radios. Digital TV is finally getting it together, but there is no plan for DAB rollout - there's zero interest from the commercial stations, even though it would probably mean National coverage (for some of the niche Dublin stations (Dublin Country or Phantom) and the quasi national stations (4fm and I don't think Newstalk is fully national)). So I wouldn't bother with a DAB radio unless you really only listen to RTE. Also, check your coverage, as it isn't necessarily the same as TV transmitters at the same locations (I couldn't get Kippure even though it's really strong TV).

I did look at internet radio's, but discovered they're very hard on batteries or came with a rechargable battery that was an additional cost. Anywhere in the house I could just listen to the radio via satellite, or on PC/ Laptop so figured I couldn't justify the cost until I had the outside power points where I would be listening (that shed still isn't built!). If you've a wireless network, some will let you play stored music too, which would be cool.

btw I don't think even the UK is talking about switching off standard FM yet - DAB isn't that popular and coverage isn't nearly as good as FM. For all the criticism of the switch from analogue to digital here, and believe me I'm a big critic, at least we're looking at better compression software/ technology for both Digital TV and Radio (if it were to happen).

I have 2 x DAB (Pure Evoke & Pure Chronos) radios, and the reception is very ropey. If they are moved at all from their current positions, or if you accidentally move the aerial, then all reception is lost.

With the benefit of hindsight, I should have plumped for a model that allowed me to pick-up DAB, FM and Internet radio (and stream music from my PCs).

IMHO - DAB is doomed.

I eventually opted for one of those all-in-one radios, and, as it turns out, scanning couldn't pick up any digital stations, so now I've to try and get the WiFi working - it's asking me for an SSID and a WEP key. My Internet connection is a 3 dongle (Huawei Mobile Connect), no idea where my router is.