Collection: DAB+ Radio

A DAB+ radio receives digital terrestrial radio (Digital Audio Broadcasting) – noise-free, with the station name and extra info on the display, and without any internet subscription. Extend the antenna, switch it on, run the station search – done.

In this category you'll find digital radios in every size: from the compact kitchen radio to the stylish table radio for the living room, right up to the small compact system with DAB+, internet radio and streaming. Brands like Ruark and Sonoro show that a radio today is allowed to sound really good and look good, too.

Why DAB+ instead of FM?

Because Switzerland is phasing out FM step by step – DAB+ and internet radio are the successors. DAB+ brings more stations than the old FM band, clear reception without noise or crackling, the station name plus track info on the display, and programmes that never existed on FM at all. Run the station search once, and after that everything runs automatically.

What matters

What matters is what the device can do besides DAB+: many models also bring FM for the transition period, internet radio from all over the world, Bluetooth, Spotify or Qobuz – some even a CD drive. Then there's sound (an honest wide-range driver or a real stereo system sounds different from a plastic cube), the controls, the display, and of course whether the radio is going into the kitchen, onto the nightstand or onto the living-room shelf. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we first listen to where the radio will stand and what it needs to do – and then look for the right model instead of simply the best-seller.

Who it's for – and straight talk

A DAB+ radio is for anyone who wants to listen to the radio without fuss – in the kitchen, in the bathroom, in the bedroom, in the office, or as a relaxed second system next to the big HiFi chain. If you only ever stream playlists from the sofa and never listen to the radio, a streaming speaker suits you better.

Straight talk: DAB+ is no magic word for good sound. A 39-franc kitchen radio stays a kitchen radio – received digitally, but still small. The difference is made by the device around it: speakers, amplifier, build quality. If you're looking for a radio that sounds like music instead of a news anchor, plan for a bit more budget. And: reception depends on location – deep in a basement, sometimes only internet radio helps.

Verdict: digital radio has grown up. Today's good devices are fully-fledged little music systems that combine DAB+, internet and streaming – and cut a good figure in any room.

Frequently asked questions

What is DAB+ and how does it differ from FM?

DAB+ stands for Digital Audio Broadcasting – digital terrestrial radio. Compared to the old FM, you receive more stations, without noise or crackling, and you see the station name and track title on the display. You need no internet and no subscription for this, just the device's DAB+ antenna.

Do I need internet or a subscription for DAB+?

No. DAB+ arrives via the antenna just like FM used to and is free – no WiFi, no subscription, no ongoing costs. You only need internet if the device is also meant to offer internet radio or streaming services. Plain radio listening via the antenna is and remains completely free, as often and as long as you like.

Will FM really be switched off in Switzerland?

Yes, Switzerland is switching from FM to digital reception step by step. DAB+ and internet radio are the official successors. A DAB+ radio is therefore future-proof – many devices still come with an FM receiver on board for the transition period, so you won't miss out on anything in the meantime.

Do I get DAB+ reception equally well everywhere?

Mostly yes, the transmitter network is well developed in Switzerland. In basements, behind thick walls or in outlying areas it can get weaker. Then the extended antenna helps – or a device that can also do internet radio and fetch any station via WiFi.

Can DAB+ radios also stream or do Bluetooth?

Many can, but not all. Depending on the model, Bluetooth, Spotify, Qobuz, internet radio, AirPlay or even a CD drive are included. Just tell us which sources you use day to day, and we'll show you a radio that covers DAB+ and your other services properly.

Why buy a DAB+ radio at HD Zürisee?

Because from years of experience we know which radios really sound good and which just look good. We advise you based on the room, reception and your sources, set up the device on request and are there for questions. We deliver throughout Switzerland – free shipping from CHF 190.