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The Histon II is an affordable digital radio from budget radio brand Majority. It was released in April 2018 as an update to the original Histon model, with updated software and extra alarm functions.
At the time of writing, the Histon II is one of the cheapest DAB radios on the market, and appears to offer a lot of features for the price. But how does it perform? Find out in this review…
Features
- FM/DAB/DAB+ radio
- Saves 20 preset stations (10 on FM and 10 on DAB/DAB+)
- Mains or battery powered (4 x AA)
- Dual alarm clock
- Sleep timer
- Headphone jack
- Telescopic aerial
- Can be powered by USB cable
Dimensions: 18 cm wide x 11 cm tall x 5 cm deep
Weight: 249 g
Performance
The Majority Histon II automatically sets the correct time and date when you first turn it on, making it very easy to set up. It lets you save 10 preset stations on both FM and DAB, and you can also set an alarm or a sleep timer.
Given the radio’s small size and low price, you can’t expect to be blown away by the sound quality. However, the Majority Histon II sounds reasonably good for a radio in this price range. It’s a bit tinny, but sounds crisp and clear.
The radio reception on both FM and DAB is relatively good on this radio, and there is minimal interference and crackling. This is thanks to the Histon’s large telescopic aerial which is longer than most small radios’ aerials.
Design-wise the Histon II is modern and minimalistic. It’s very thin and elegant and looks more expensive than it is. It looks very similar to the Goomans Canvas radio, though with a black or rose finish rather than grey, silver or copper. The Histon II’s slim design means it will fit easily on a shelf or windowsill.
Like most portable DAB radios, the battery life is quite poor, so it’s best to plug it into the mains if you can. The radio comes with both a mains lead and a USB cable that lets you power the radio from a computer.
FAQs
Do the AA batteries charge when the radio is plugged in?
No, this radio doesn’t charge the batteries. One portable DAB radio with a built-in battery charger is the Roberts Play.
Are batteries included?
No, batteries aren’t included with this radio.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Decent sound quality for the price
- Easy to use
- Long aerial giving good reception
Cons
- Disappointing battery life
- Sounds a bit tinny
Verdict
The Majority Histon II is one of the cheapest DAB radios in the UK at the moment, and it offers great value for money. If you’re expecting hi-fi quality sound you’ll be disappointed, but if you want a functional and cheap DAB radio it’s a good choice.
Alternatives
One radio with an almost identical design to the Majority Histon is the Goodmans Canvas. It might cost a bit more, but the Goodmans brand name is better known, and this radio also comes in a few different colours to choose from.
A popular alternative from respected British radio brand Roberts is the Play 10, which has some nice features such as dedicated preset buttons so you can quickly access your favourite stations.
For some more options see our roundup of the best portable DAB radios or our top picks of the best DAB radios in the UK.