My smartphone has a built-in FM radio. Local shops are selling DAB+ radios. So I have to decide whether to buy one. I’m not really keen accumulate more electronic appliances for marginal gains.

Sound quality alone doesn’t justify it. What other factors are there? Will I get many more stations in Brussels?

I’m hesitant because AFAIK I cannot buy a DAB radio with an EPG+record fuction. (update: looks like I can get a USB stick & use software to fetch timetables & schedule recordings)

  • ᴇᴍᴘᴇʀᴏʀ 帝AEnglish
    3·
    1 year ago

    My old DAB radio stopped working and I replaced it with a smart speaker. Seems like the better choice as it gives me more flexibility.

    • freedomPusher@sopuli.xyzOP
      1·
      1 year ago

      What does that mean, exactly? Do you mean an Alexa type of thing? I don’t have a normal unlimited broadband connection so internet radio streaming is not an option for me.

      Many DAB radios have a bluetooth input option, which I would have to insist on so I could also play to the speaker from my phone.

      • ᴇᴍᴘᴇʀᴏʀ 帝AEnglish
        1·
        1 year ago

        What does that mean, exactly? Do you mean an Alexa type of thing?

        That type of thing.

        I don’t have a normal unlimited broadband connection so internet radio streaming is not an option for me.

        Ah OK then.

  • Baggins@beehaw.orgEnglish
    2·
    1 year ago

    You might be OK sat indoors with adequate reception. From my experience (in the car) just driving around town (Ware/Hertford) the reception is awful. Constantly dropping out because of dead spots. FM was always good reception - we’ve gone backwards.

    • freedomPusher@sopuli.xyzOP
      2·
      1 year ago

      I would generally be at home in the city, not on-the-move. But I was ½ tempted to get a portable bluetooth speaker w/DAB+ which might be tempting to take cycling. Based on what you’re saying, I suppose it should also have FM or I should plan on playing from the phone’s collection when moving.

      • Baggins@beehaw.orgEnglish
        2·
        1 year ago

        You may have better reception in Brussels. I can’t help feeling we were sold a turkey here, though. Even when I used to drive around the outskirts of North London, reception was pants. Personally your plan of a Bluetooth speaker sounds like the best option. Certainly the best choice of music. And no annoying adverts every couple of minutes! I’ve given up with radio in the car, and just use my phone as a music player.