What is a DAB+ Radio?

Exploring DAB+ Radios in More Detail

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a deeper look into what makes DAB+ radios such an appealing option. From the rich array of features to the questions most frequently asked by curious customers, here’s everything you need to know before making the leap.

The Future of Radio - DAB+

One of the biggest draws of DAB+ radios is the extra functionality they bring to the table. You’re no longer limited to simply tuning in and turning up the volume, as today’s radios come brimming with useful features:

Pause and Rewind Live Radio:

Some advanced DAB+ radios allow you to pause and even rewind live broadcasts. Perfect for when you miss a news item or want to replay your favourite song. Similar to how ‘catch-up’ TV works, the broadcasts are buffered as they stream and stored by the broadcaster, allowing you complete control.

Full Colour Display:

Though some models do still opt for a simple, single-colour LED, two-line display, the majority of DAB+ radios feature 2” to 3” full colour screens which give you a lovely interface for station and track information, along with station logo art or track/album cover art to be displayed (many stations transmit this data).

Dual Alarms and Sleep Timers:

Many DAB+ radios double as bedside clocks, with programmable alarms and sleep functions. Many feature dual alarms, allowing two separate wake-up times. The media display can be set to show a large clock for easy time checking.

Smartphone Apps and Remote Control:

Some radios come with companion apps that let you control the unit remotely, making it easy to switch stations or adjust volume from across the room. Many models will also include a traditional IR-remote control.

FM/AM Reception:

A surprise to newcomers of digital radio systems, but FM and AM are often not included on DAB+ radios. They operate on completely different systems of modulation, and at opposite ends of the VHF frequency band, so they require independent circuitry for reception. With most broadcasters using either DAB or Internet radio, and the use of FM/AM being phased out completely across Europe and the UK, it's a feature that is becoming more uncommon.

That's not to say they aren't still available, for now at least. We have many models which include FM tuners alongside DAB+ reception, giving you access to your favourite stations wherever they may be found.

Audio Input and Output:

Many DAB+ radios include a line-level output, meaning they can be linked up to a separate amplifier or Hi-Fi system, allowing them to become a digital source device. This will mute the built-in speakers, providing you the latest digital radio access to your existing home audio system.

Built-In Rechargeable Batteries:

Our portable DAB+ radios come fitted with long-life, lithium-ion batteries, which provide extended wire-free enjoyment that’s perfect for those summer afternoons and evenings outdoors. With fast recharge times and minimal current use, they are extremely efficient in comparison to older radios that relied on traditional throw-away batteries.

USB Charging:

For total convenience, the majority of our DAB+ radios operate on just 5V DC, allowing them to be powered and charged using any USB C cable and wall adapter you already own, such as the one you use for your mobile phone.

What is an Audio Codec?

To start with, you must understand that music you listen to on the radio is all stored by the radio stations digitally, on a computer system (the days of physical media such as CDs are long gone from professional broadcasting).

Modern recording studios are 99% digital, so music played by an artist on any analogue instrument such as a guitar or piano, along with any vocals, is captured through analog microphones and then sent into a digital mixing desk, where the analog to digital (A/D) converters turn the soundwaves into data, which is then stored as an information file. These digital master recordings are stored in the highest possible quality, which is simply too large (and unnecessary) to transmit over radio waves.

The word codec is a mashup of "coder-decoder" (or sometimes "compressor-decompressor"). It’s a piece of software or hardware that compresses audio data for transmission and then decompresses it for playback.

So, when you’re listening to a DAB or DAB+ radio station, the audio you hear has been:

• Encoded by the broadcaster from its original file size using a specific codec (to shrink the size of the digital audio so it takes up less space on the airwaves)
• Transmitted as digital data over specific VHF frequencies.
• Received and decoded by your radio, which unpacks the digital signal and converts it to analogue audio so you can hear it in real time.

This is a bit like zipping a large file so it can be sent over email, and then unzipping it to use it again.

Codecs in DAB vs DAB+

Here’s how codecs differ between the two:

DAB (original version)

DAB uses the MPEG-1 Layer II (MP2) codec. This is quite an old compression format, being first used in 1991, so it’s not very efficient at all by modern standards, both in terms of power consumption and sound quality post-compression. Its data stream also requires more bandwidth and a higher bitrate to get decent sound quality, which limits how many stations can be broadcast at once.

DAB+ (the upgraded version)

The newer 'plus' format uses HE-AAC v2 (High Efficiency Advanced Audio Coding version 2) codec, also known as AAC+.

It’s much more efficient than MP2, providing better sound quality at much lower bitrates. This frees up bandwidth, allowing more stations to be transmitted in the same digital space, and generally improves audio clarity. The extra bandwidth also allows for other data, such as track information and even album artwork. Its compression is far superior, as is its error correction, which doesn't just improve the overall sound quality, but also keeps the vibrancy and subtle volume changes of the original source material.

So when we say DAB+ is superior, a big part of that superiority is thanks to its modern codec, though with a new radio you also have the benefit of modern amplification and speaker technology, all leading to a big leap in performance and sound quality.

DAB+ FAQ Answered

Let’s unpack some of the most commonly asked questions about DAB and DAB+ radios, so you can make an informed decision.

What's the difference between DAB and DAB+?

As mentioned earlier, the key difference lies in the audio codec: DAB uses MP2 while DAB+ uses HE-AAC v2. The latter provides better sound quality and efficiency, meaning more stations and less signal clutter. DAB+ is also more adaptable for broadcasters, enabling them to offer additional services such as text and images.

What does DAB mean on a radio?

DAB stands for Digital Audio Broadcasting. It’s a standard that allows radio stations to broadcast digitally rather than through analogue means like AM or FM. DAB provides more consistent sound quality, the ability to display text (e.g. song titles), and access to a broader range of stations. Stations are assigned specific channels, and unlike tuning into an FM station, these will not clash with stations on similar frequencies.

Are DAB radios being phased out?

No, but they are evolving. As DAB+ becomes more prevalent, traditional DAB will gradually be retired, as the system is inefficient and broadcasters will not want to transmit in two different formats. This is why it’s a smart move to choose a DAB+ compatible device, it’s backwards compatible but also future-ready.

Do I need an aerial for DAB radio?

Yes, but the type depends on the model. Most portable DAB+ radios have a built-in telescopic aerial that does the trick, or they will come with a T-shaped cable aerial. For areas with especially weak signals, an external aerial can improve reception.

It’s worth noting that this is a different type of aerial to the one your TV uses, so you can’t just take a feed from that (TVs are UHF, while DAB is VHF).

Does DAB radio pick up AM stations?

Not directly. DAB and AM are different technologies. However, many AM stations also broadcast on DAB/DAB+ platforms. So while your DAB+ radio won’t pick up AM frequencies per se, it might still allow you to listen to the same content via a digital channel. You will find that some DAB+ radios do currently still come with traditional FM and even AM capability, so if that’s a requirement, make sure to look carefully at the features and specifications before you buy.

Is DAB radio better than Internet radio?

It depends on your needs. DAB+ offers excellent audio quality without requiring an internet connection, making it reliable and cost-free to use. Internet radio provides global station access and often higher bitrates, but it depends on your access to Wi-Fi or wired Ethernet. If you simply want plug-and-play reliability and portability, DAB+ wins. If variety and global content are more important, internet radio might suit you better.

What are the benefits of DAB+?

DAB+ offers clearer sound, a wider selection of stations, and more efficient use of spectrum. It supports additional metadata (like song info), is less prone to interference, and can be more environmentally friendly by enabling broadcasters to reduce power usage. For listeners, the benefit is simple: more choice, better sound, and fewer dropouts.

Why won't my DAB radio pick up stations?

A few possible culprits here:

• Old Hardware: If you're using an older DAB-only model, it won’t be possible to detect DAB+ stations. Time to consider an upgrade to DAB+!
• Outdated Software: Some models require firmware updates to receive new stations. It's always a good idea to check that any modern electronic device is running the latest firmware, which can fix problems and glitches the unit may be experiencing.
• Factory Reset or Re-Scan: Sometimes, a factory reset will prompt your radio to scan for all available stations, or a complete scan, depending on the specific model. This can often reveal new stations and force the radio to search for new metadata.
• Weak Signal: You might be in a low-coverage area. Or you may have local interference. Reception can also be affected by metal structures, so certain buildings may suffer. Try repositioning the aerial or upgrading it.
• Dead Zones: Though rare these days, there are specific areas of the country that struggle with any aerial-based reception, be it TV or radio, due to environmental factors. If this is a problem, it's well worth looking at internet radio tuners instead.

DAB+ Radios - Final Thoughts

Choosing a DAB+ radio is an investment in the future of your audio experience. With robust features, better sound, and broad compatibility, these devices offer a far richer experience than traditional radios. Whether you're looking to upgrade your kitchen radio, or enjoy your favourite station in the garden, DAB+ radios provide a modern, flexible, and user-friendly solution.

As with all the products we offer, our team are available online and over the phone to answer any questions you have, so if you cant find the information you need, or you just need a little helping hand with getting the radio that will suit you the best, get in contact via whichever method you are most comfortable with.