Kitchen Radios Fall Flat in DAB+ Sound Quality Test
Zurich, Switzerland – 2024/10/26 – A recent “Kassensturz Espresso” test revealed subpar audio performance from several DAB+ kitchen radios, prompting concern among consumers and manufacturers alike. The investigation highlighted important weaknesses in sound quality across multiple models, despite the increasing reliance on digital audio broadcasting.
The test, conducted by the Swiss consumer advocacy program, focused on the audio fidelity of popular kitchen radio brands. Findings indicate that while some units offer acceptable performance, others deliver noticeably weak sound, even with the promise of improved clarity from DAB+ technology. Migros acknowledged the poor results for its Durabase model, confirming the device will soon be discontinued. Interdiscount noted that its intertronic MCD-22, despite complaints regarding its radio performance, remains popular with customers due to its cassette player functionality.
The “kassensturz Espresso” report underscores the importance of careful consideration when purchasing DAB+ radios, as the digital signal alone dose not guarantee superior sound. Consumers are advised to prioritize audio quality during the selection process, potentially seeking autonomous reviews or in-store demonstrations before making a purchase. The test results are expected to prompt manufacturers to re-evaluate their audio engineering for kitchen radio models, potentially leading to improvements in future products.
