DAB stands for Digital Audio Broadcasting. DAB radio is being rolled out across the UK, and is now available in most parts of the country – Currently around 85% of homes in the UK can receive it. It offers a wider range of radio stations than FM radio, and boasts a clearer sound.

The range of stations you receive will depend on where you live, but should include;

• The national BBC stations plus their digital-only stations 1Xtra, 6Music, BBC7, Asian Network and 5Live Sports Extra
• The Digital One Network’s stations, which include Absolute Radio (plus sister stations Absolute 80s, Absolute 90s and Absolute 00s) Planet Rock, Classic FM, Smooth Radio, TalkSport
• Your local BBC and larger commercial FM stations (including Heart and Gold)
• Traffic Radio for your local area

Should I Buy a DAB Radio?

DAB radios are best for people who know exactly what they want to listen to, and like the simplicity of stations at the touch of a button. They’re cheaper than Internet Radios, and are available in a wider range of styles, from a simple box to listen to in the kitchen, up to a top-of-the-range unit to integrate into your sound system.

Pros:

• DAB radio has a clearer sound than traditional FM and AM  radio.
• You should be able to get the same stations you receive on FM with better sound quality, along with additional digital-only stations.
• Unlike FM radios, a digital screen on your DAB radio will tell you which station you’re listening to and, in some cases, the name of the song currently playing.

Cons:

• DAB radio can be prone to interference. This can give the output a ‘bubbly’ sound.
• Depending on where you live, you may receive a limited number of stations.

What Should I Look Out For When Buying a DAB Radio?

Before you buy, make sure you can receive DAB radio. Coverage varies around the country, as does the range of stations you will be able to receive.  Before deciding to buy a radio, use this tool to check DAB reception in your area.

You may have heard of DAB+. This is a new format which offers better-quality sound than DAB, and is to be adopted as the new standard by the World Digital Multimedia Broadcasting organisation. There are currently no plans for the UK to switch to DAB+, although this may change in the future. Older DAB radios may not be forward-compatible with DAB+, although models built from 2009 should include a multi-standard chip which will work with the new format. In general, DAB radios bought now should be compatible with DAB+, but it’s worth checking before you buy.

Want to Buy a DAB Radio?

If you think this is the format for you, Best DAB Radios on offer.