New DAB+ sets available in Australia

By James Cridland for media.info
Posted 29 June 2017, 1.14am edt

The amount of manufacturers building DAB Digital Radio receivers is growing, and in Australia there'll shortly be a new radio brand - one already in use for speakers.

Richter, established in 1986 and a brand well-known in Australia's loudspeaker market, move into the Australian DAB+ market with two budget models, followed by some connected receivers later in the year.

The CORE, a kitchen radio, is a stylish retro-looking DAB/FM with an RRP of $74.98 (about £45). The set has a small display, an extendable antenna, and button controls. It can be operated off battery.

The WAKE is a digital alarm-clock radio with NFC-controlled Bluetooth connection, a large rotary volume control, a wire antenna, and a USB charging port for your phone. It'll retail at $159 (£95), and will be available in both a walnut and a black version.

Internally, both sets use the Frontier Silicon Verona 2 module.

Retailers at launch include Harvey Norman stores, online, and independent outlets.

DAB+ sets in Australia are still regarded as premium products by many manufacturers, and these lower-priced receivers should be welcomed by audiences. Within existing transmission areas, over 25% of Australians listen to DAB+ radio every week.

The Richter website also promises a portable receiver will be available shortly.

Press release

Richter Audio does Digital Radio

Richter, an award-winning Australian loudspeaker brand established in 1986, has added digital radio to its product range.

Australian-owned Richter Audio will launch its Digital Essentials Radio range in July, followed by a Smart Audio Digital Radio range later in the year.

Digital Essential Radios deliver quality, design and performance and provide an affordable entry into the Digital Radio DAB+ market segment. Radio is a big part of people’s lives and, now that so many digital-only radio services are catering for different genres, Richter is set to play an important role in this exciting audio category.

The CORE Digital Radio is finished in cool grey with stylish platinum grey metallic foil. It has a display for easy selection of your favourite digital stations as well as scrolling text, time and date. There is a headphone socket for personal listening and it runs on mains or battery power. The CORE uses the latest digital module for improved performance.

With the WAKE Digital Alarm Clock Radio you can start your day with your favourite digital radio station. Designed to complement its surroundings, the Wake is available in black or with a warm walnut finish. Easy to use, it has a generous 3.2” display and clearly laid out control panel with a large dial for volume and menu selection. Bluetooth with NFC tap and pair allows you to stream your own music from a compatible smart device and you can also fast-charge your smart device from the USB output.

Launching in July, the Richter Digital Essential Radios are priced from $74.98 to $159 and will be available from Harvey Norman stores and selected Richter Specialist retailers.