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The Goodmans GSR1889DABBT
Features
- FM/DAB radio
- LCD display
- Bluetooth
- Telescopic aerial
- Rotary tuning and volume controls
- Saves 10 preset radio stations on FM and DAB
- 2 x 10W speakers
- Metal Grille with an enclosure made from real wood
- Aux-in socket
- Headphone jack
- Alarm
- Sleep timer function
- User guide (available online here)
Dimensions: 32 cm wide x 17 cm high x 15 cm deep
Weight: 499 g
Performance and use
As soon as you turn the Goodmans GSR1889DABBT on, it will scan for DAB stations and automatically save them in alphabetical order. The radio has rotary tuning and volume dials which are more pleasant to use than the plasticky buttons found on many other DAB radios.
The LCD display gives you the option to see various options including Dynamic Label Segment (DLS), which shows scrolling text about the station, programme and song you’re listening to. You can also see information such as the time and date, signal strength, programme type, bitrate and the name of the ensemble or multiplex the radio station belongs to. This is great if you enjoy geeking out about radio! The screen’s brightness can also be adjusted with a choice of either ‘High’ or ‘Low’ brightness.
The Goodmans GSR1889DABBT has a good alarm feature that lets you wake up to a choice of a buzzer sound, FM or DAB radio. You get a lot of control over the alarm, and can choose the volume, day and alarm duration, as well as the time of course.
This radio lets you save 10 preset stations using a single preset button. This is a bit less convenient than on some other radios that have 5 or so dedicated preset buttons so you can access your favourite stations with just one button press. One radio with individual preset buttons is the Pure One Maxi Series 3.
Technically, the Goodmans GSR1889DABBT has stereo sound since it uses two 10W speakers. However, they are very close together so you don’t get much stereo separation. Nevertheless, this radio has a crisp and clear sound with a good amount of warmth. The speakers seem when constructed, and the radio has a decent amount of weight which helps give the sound some depth.
The Goodmans GSR1889DABBT has an attractive retro finish and feels very well made. It also has Bluetooth so you can connect it wirelessly to your phone, tablet or computer and stream audio through the speakers.
Pros
- Good build quality
- Easy to connect Bluetooth
- Feels durable
- Easy to use
- Very good value for money
- Good size for kitchens
Cons
- No remote control
- Might be too large for the bedroom
Verdict
Choosing a DAB radio can be tough as there’s are lots of radios with similar features at very different prices. The Goodmans GSR1889DABBT
It would be nice if the Goodmans GSR1889DABBT had a few more features such as a remote control and a USB port for charging devices or playing MP3 files. Nevertheless, if you want a radio that combines good sound quality, solid construction and classy design for less than £100, this radio is ideal.
Similar radios
Goodmans produce a higher-end version of this radio, the Goodmans Heritage II. In addition to DAB and Bluetooth it also has NFC and is compatible with Spotify Connect. It’s significantly more expensive than the regular Heritage at the time of writing, but could be a good option if you’re looking for something more luxurious.
Another good retro radio is the Roberts Classic Blutune which is an FM/DAB/DAB+ radio with Bluetooth from prestigious British brand Roberts. While the Blutune is a nice radio, it arguably offers worse value for money than the Goodmans Heritage.
For some more retro radios to consider, check out this article: Best Retro Radios Available in the UK.