Tested Roberts Stream 94i
Turns out video didn’t kill the radio star
Roberts adds Bluetooth smarts to turn a fine Dab/internet radio into an even finer all-in-one music streaming centre
Q If you’re looking for an internet radio, the old Roberts Stream 93i is an obvious wishlist-topper… unless you want your new sonic sidekick to do Bluetooth streaming as well. Enter the Stream 94i, which fills the only significant gap in its predecessor’s feature set.
Q This is a real audio all-rounder. It will pump DAB, internet radio and FM stations into your home – and when you’ve had your fill of inane DJ piffle, you can play your own music over Bluetooth or Ethernet, or stream via Spotify Connect (if you have a Premium subscription).
Q A neat line of buttons replaces the little round ones on the Stream 93i, while the change from shiny black to a wood finish gives this radio a more modern look – and a flexible strap makes it easier to swing around.
Q Don’t panic, audio purists: all these changes in the dressing room haven’t affected what actually comes out of this box. The all-important stereo drivers and rear subwoofer are unchanged.
Q Sure enough, there’s a warmth to the 94i’s sound that lends itself well to the soothingly authoritative voices of Radio 4. Switch to music via Bluetooth and aggressive rock is delivered with real punch, while the most delicate dynamics of a classical symphony come through with impressive realism.
Tech specs
Audio sources DAB, internet radio, FM, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect Connectivity USB, Ethernet, aux in, headphone out, line out Streaming formats MP3, WMA, FLAC, AAC, ALAC, WAV Dimensions 260x170x132mm, 1.7kg