ATMT MP170 DAB radio and mp3 player

Radio junkies will no doubt be aware of digital audio broadcasting (DAB), a service that has sat quietly at the back of the classroom since its stuttering introduction to the UK back in 1995.

Those unfamiliar need only know that it offers a slightly wider selection of channels and services than FM, but has come up against criticism in the UK because the quality of the transmissions are typically inferior. However, DAB’s drawbacks haven't stopped companies like ATMT releasing the MP170.

As a DAB player, the 170 (available in black, white and pink) suffers from the general inconsistencies of the technology, but you will find a few interesting features. Automatic and manual scanning find stations at your location, although few had sufficient reception to actually play, and you’ll find time-shift and record features built in.

You can also enable announcements such as traffic and weather reports; part of the nature of DAB radio is to provide you with additional information while you listen by way of scrolling text.

As an mp3 player, the 170 is severely lacking, with next to no features besides a graphic equalizer and basic repeat functions. Sound quality is passable and the 1GB storage capacity certainly won’t light any fires in today’s market.

The basic mono LCD screen makes it awkward to scroll around large collections of music and the controls are enigmatic at the best of times, leaving you playing a guessing game as to how to manage your music.

At £130 the MP170 isn’t cheap, but is actually pretty reasonable when compared to similar DAB products.

You’ll need to really want to listen to these digital stations to justify picking one up, and with issues over quality and choice (you’ll find typically around 27 more channels than FM, but only a few tend to have adequate reception), you’d have to wonder why you really need it.

Also consider:
Pure Digital Evoke-3 DAB radio
Browse DAB radio schedules and programme recordings

All home entertainment reviews

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