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This article was taken from the March 2013 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by <span class="s1">subscribing online.
How we tested Our audio expert Adrian Justins connected these five web radios to a 60MB wireless network and assessed the sound quality of three stations offering 320kbps, 128kbps and 96kbps channels. The scores were awarded on the basis of sound performance, design build and ease of use.
Revo K2
The K2's design is distinctive, but its operating system is very similar to the Tivoli Audio Networks+, as is its use of a palm-sized remote control. The base houses a pop-out iPod/iPad dock, with networked music sources and Last.fm on tap.
Navigation is generally intuitive and logical, aided by a responsive remote (although the absence of a mute button is annoying). Performance from the neodymium Balanced Mode Radiator speaker drivers in the tower is well-refined, but feels marginally underpowered.
Wired: <span class="s2">Intuitive operating system; controlled sound; distinctive and well-built
Tired: <span class="s2">Outdated iPod dock; no Android app; no mute button
Score: 7/10
Price: £299
Pure Sensia 200D
The Sensia sports a colourful 5.7in touchscreen that supports low-resolution graphics, shows streamed JPEGs and provides access to social media. Owners can also get access to the Pure Connect online music store. Performance is decent given its compact size, capable of going loud without distortion, but can sound a bit thin.
Wired: <span class="s4">USB recording; colour screen
Tired: <span class="s2">Ineffective remote control; performance a bit on the weedy side
Score: 6/10
Price: £250
Brionvega TS525
A mix of retro styling and contemporary connectivity, the TS525 comes with a plug-in 30-pin iPod dock. The operating system and LCD display are near-identical to the Revo, but navigation is easier thanks to a smarter remote and simple knobs on the unit. One half houses its electronics, the other the single full-range speaker. Sound quality is balanced through the dynamic range, but bass is imprecise. Power output, like the design, is suited to bedside or kitchen.
Wired: <span class="s2">Retro-modern design; responsive in use; versatile
Tired: <span class="s2">Pricey; weak performance; heavy remote control
Score: 8/10
Price: £440
Sonos Play 3
Requiring a separate control device, such as a smartphone, laptop or Sonos' own tablet controller, the Play 3 contains three individually powered speakers plus a passive bass radiator.
Ethernet will get you online, and ease of use is near-faultless thanks to a slick interface: finding favourite stations is a cinch and subscription services in the app are comprehensive.
Wired: Premium services; easy-to-use interface
Tired: <span class="s2">Dull design; no USB or line-in; no headphone jack
Score: 8/10
Price: £259
Tivoli Audio Networks+
This is a serious box of electronics with a price tag to match. Your money does get you access to Tivoli's online community and a second stereo-speaker, plus an assured performance in the mid and high ends -- but not one that masks the flawed quality of the unit's internet-radio streaming. Also, the operating system is at times infuriatingly unresponsive to use.
Wired: <span class="s2">High-quality amplification; attractive LCD display
Tired: <span class="s2">Confusing search facility; pricey
Score: 6/10
Price: £598
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
