Beecher Networks - Web Development, Hosting & Domains
Results 1 to 5 of 5

Thread: Digital radios v Internet radios

  1. #1
    Seasoned Pro
    Joined
    Jan 2009
    Location
    Tralee
    Posts
    2,806
    Thanks Thanks Given 
    266
    Thanks Thanks Received 
    275
    Thanked in
    216 Posts

    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?

  2. #2
    Director dahamsta's Avatar
    Joined
    May 2001
    Location
    The Internet
    Posts
    14,042
    Thanks Thanks Given 
    518
    Thanks Thanks Received 
    844
    Thanked in
    519 Posts
    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.

  3. #3
    Godless Commie Scum
    Joined
    Jun 2001
    Location
    Co Wickla
    Posts
    11,396
    Thanks Thanks Given 
    138
    Thanks Thanks Received 
    656
    Thanked in
    436 Posts
    Quote Originally Posted by dahamsta View Post
    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.
    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).
    If you attack me with stupidity, I'll be forced to defend myself with sarcasm.

  4. #4
    Reserves
    Joined
    Nov 2004
    Posts
    541
    Thanks Thanks Given 
    34
    Thanks Thanks Received 
    68
    Thanked in
    30 Posts
    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.

  5. #5
    Seasoned Pro
    Joined
    Jan 2009
    Location
    Tralee
    Posts
    2,806
    Thanks Thanks Given 
    266
    Thanks Thanks Received 
    275
    Thanked in
    216 Posts
    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.

Similar Threads

  1. Sky Digital
    By roinuj in forum Off Topic
    Replies: 18
    Last Post: 13/01/2010, 10:35 PM
  2. For people with radios at the game tonight...
    By Shedzer in forum Sligo Rovers
    Replies: 4
    Last Post: 14/11/2008, 5:13 PM
  3. Internet Radios
    By monutdfc in forum Off Topic
    Replies: 4
    Last Post: 26/09/2008, 2:05 PM
  4. Sky Digital
    By KR's Post in forum Off Topic
    Replies: 24
    Last Post: 25/01/2008, 10:19 AM
  5. NTL Digital
    By Footie_Fan in forum Off Topic
    Replies: 8
    Last Post: 13/08/2003, 12:17 PM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •