Reviewed in the 2017 edition of the Radio Listener’s Guide
Price at time of review £280
The R100 is one of the latest range of Roberts R-Line devices offering control via the UNDOK app. Some in the new range are just Internet Connected speakers, but the R100 offers DAB and FM reception too, all in a slightly retro looking package. As with other products in the R-Line range they can be connected to create a network of devices around the home.
Physically the R100 is almost identical to the R1, and offers the same sound. Apart from the addition of FM and DAB, the main difference is more buttons, and a colour screen on the R100 so you can use it without the UNDOK app on your phone or tablet. The app does make things slicker, but if you are on a tight budget and will not make use of DAB and FM on the R100, the R1 may be a better bet.
Whichever you choose you’ll be rewarded with a solidly performing radio, equally at home on a desk, table, or kitchen side. Facilities are good, with FM, DAB, Internet radio, music streamer, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, 2 flexible alarms, auxiliary in, USB, and a headphone socket. Network connection is wired or wireless and a telescopic aerial (with a useful ball on the top to prevent eye injuries) rises from the top of the R100 for DAB and FM. Finally, a handy £40 rechargeable battery pack can be slotted underneath the R100, adding to its flexibility.
Performance-wise, all the features worked well. A ‘wizard’ guides you through Internet setup, and Bluetooth pairing was easy. Both DAB and FM sensitivity were good, and we liked that the menu system offers 40 presets for DAB, FM and Internet stations – compared to the 10 found on many other products.
The sound of the R100 is more than satisfactory, with good EQ options via the radio and UNDOK app. For even better sound you could buy a R1 speaker (£180) to run alongside the R100, acting as a left or right speaker in a stereo set-up.