Philips R7705 Review – A Modern Twist on Classic Radio

Introducing the Philips Audio R7705/10 DAB+ Clock Radio with Wireless Charging

At first glance, the Philips Audio R7705/10 DAB+ Clock Radio with Wireless Charging seems like a dream come true for the tech-savvy sleeper. It’s not just a clock; it’s a multifunctional device designed to enhance your bedside table with both its aesthetics and functionality. But what exactly does it do? Simply put, it tells the time, wakes you up, plays your favourite radio stations, and charges your phone without the need for any pesky wires. Sounds like a lot? Well, it is, and it’s pretty good at it too.

Benefits of using this clock radio

1. Exceptional sound quality: Wake up or fall asleep to crystal-clear audio, whether it’s your favourite radio station or the alarm.
2. Intuitive interface: Even half-asleep, you’ll find its buttons and LED display easy to navigate.
3. Access to DAB+ radio: Enjoy a wide range of radio stations in superior stereo sound.
4. Customisable alarm settings: Choose how you wake up with two separate alarms, various wake-up options, and volume control.
5. Convenient wireless charging: Simply place your smartphone on the pad, and wake up to a fully charged device.

These features highlight the ease and enjoyment of using the Philips Audio R7705/10, making it a valuable addition to any bedroom.

Un-boxing & First Impressions

Upon unboxing the Philips Audio R7705/10, its sturdy and elegant design immediately caught my eye. The device is compact enough to fit on most bedside tables without taking up too much space. Its build quality is reassuring, with a sleek finish that feels both modern and durable. The primary function of this clock radio, aside from telling the time, is its wireless Qi charging capability and DAB+ reception, setting it apart from your run-of-the-mill alarm clock. My first impression? This could be the upgrade my bedside table has been waiting for.

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Features: What’s in the Box?

• Display type: LCD
• Style: DAB
• USB Ports?: Yes
• Fast charging: Wireless Qi charging, USB port
• Great sound quality: Crystal clear reception with easy setup
• Intuitive interface: User-friendly buttons and a well-designed LED display
• DAB+ receiver: Access to a wide range of radio stations
• Flexible alarm settings: Two separate alarms with various wake-up options
• Wireless charging: Fast wireless charging for smartphones
• Signal quality issues: Requires precise antenna positioning
• Complex programming: Non-intuitive button layout
• Quality and durability: Sturdy design with a dependable warranty

While the Philips Audio R7705/10 packs a punch with its features, I was slightly disappointed with the complex programming and signal quality issues. The antenna positioning can be a bit finicky, and getting to grips with the programming might take a few goes. It’s a real shame that such a well-designed product comes with these hiccups.

Overall, my experience with the Philips Audio R7705/10 DAB+ Clock Radio with Wireless Charging has been largely positive, with a few minor setbacks. The combination of great sound quality, intuitive controls, and the convenience of wireless charging makes it a strong contender in the clock radio market. However, potential buyers should weigh these benefits against the signal quality and programming challenges before making their decision.

Smart Features

Wireless Qi Charging – The Philips Audio R7705/10 DAB+ Clock Radio doesn’t just wake you up; it ensures your smartphone is fully charged and ready to go. The inclusion of a wireless Qi charging pad means you can simply place your phone on top of the clock radio at night and wake up to a fully charged device. This feature is particularly handy for those of us who forget to plug in our phones before bed.

USB Charging Port – Not all devices are Qi-compatible, but Philips has thought of that too. The inclusion of a USB port allows for traditional wired charging, ensuring that no device gets left behind. It’s a simple addition that significantly enhances the clock radio’s versatility.

DAB+ Receiver – The future of radio is digital, and the Philips Audio R7705/10 is ready. With DAB+ compatibility, you have access to a broader range of radio stations in crystal-clear quality, not to mention the extra information like song titles and news updates displayed on the LCD.

Intuitive Interface – Navigating through the Philips Audio R7705/10’s features is a breeze thanks to its user-friendly buttons and well-designed LED display. Setting alarms, tuning into your favourite radio station, or adjusting the volume is straightforward, making the overall experience seamless.

What we liked about the Philips Audio R7705/10

Exceptional Sound Quality

The Philips Audio R7705/10 doesn’t just look the part; it sounds it too. We were really pleased to see that despite its compact size, this clock radio packs a punch in terms of audio quality. Whether you’re listening to the morning news or your favourite tunes, the sound is clear, rich, and fills the room. It’s a real testament to Philips’ audio engineering expertise.

Convenient Charging Options

In today’s world, a low battery can spell disaster, especially first thing in the morning. The wireless Qi charging pad and USB port on the Philips Audio R7705/10 are features we really liked. They cater to a wide range of devices, ensuring you start your day fully charged. It’s the kind of practical, thoughtful design that makes a difference.

Access to a Wide Range of Stations

The inclusion of DAB+ technology in the Philips Audio R7705/10 opens up a world of radio stations. We were impressed by the variety of stations available in crystal-clear digital quality. Whether it’s pop, classical, or talk radio, there’s something for everyone, making it a versatile choice for any household.

Flexible Alarm Settings

Not everyone’s morning routine is the same, which is why the dual alarm functionality of the Philips Audio R7705/10 is so valuable. The ability to set two separate alarms, each with various wake-up options and volume control, means that whether you’re a heavy sleeper or prefer a gentle wake-up, this clock radio has you covered.

What we were disappointed with

Signal Quality Issues

It’s a real shame that the Philips Audio R7705/10 struggles with signal quality in certain areas. Optimal DAB reception requires precise antenna positioning, which can be a hassle. For future versions, improving the antenna’s sensitivity or offering an external antenna option could mitigate this issue.

Complex Programming

While the Philips Audio R7705/10 scores high on design and sound quality, programming it can be a bit of a headache. The button layout and interface, though generally intuitive, can become cumbersome when setting up more complex functions. Simplifying the programming process in future iterations would enhance user experience significantly.

Limited Alarm Radio Station Selection

Having a wide range of radio stations is great, but our ability to use them as alarm tones was unexpectedly limited. This restriction feels like a missed opportunity to fully leverage the DAB+ capabilities. Expanding the alarm station selection would make the Philips Audio R7705/10 even more appealing.

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Getting Set Up

Setting up the Philips Audio R7705/10 DAB+ Clock Radio with Wireless Charging was an adventure, to say the least. While I fancy myself as somewhat of a maestro in the smart home tech symphony, this device had me scratching my head a few times. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience and the collective wisdom of the internet:

1. Unbox and place the clock radio on a stable surface near a power outlet and where it can get a good DAB signal.
2. Plug in the device and switch it on. You’ll be greeted by a blinking time display, a sign it’s ready for setup.
3. For DAB radio setup, navigate through the menu using the intuitive buttons to find ‘Auto Tune’. This scans for available stations, which can take a few minutes.
4. Setting the time can be done automatically via DAB or manually. I recommend the automatic option for less hassle.
5. Programming the alarms involves a bit of button gymnastics. Press and hold the alarm button, choose your alarm sound, and then set the time using the forward and backward buttons.
6. For wireless charging, simply place your phone on the charging pad. No setup required here, thankfully.

Other buyers have mentioned the antenna positioning can be a bit finicky for optimal DAB reception. A tip here is to move the antenna around while tuning to find the sweet spot. Also, the programming of alarms and presets might take a few tries to get right due to the non-intuitive layout.

Build Quality and Extras

The Philips Audio R7705/10 feels sturdy and well-made. The buttons provide satisfying feedback, and the LED display is clear and easy to read, even from across the room. It’s reassuringly weighty, suggesting good internal components and build quality. However, some users have reported the antenna feeling a bit fragile, so a gentle touch is advised.

The warranty is a solid 8/10, offering peace of mind for two years after purchase. This is pretty standard for Philips products but is always a welcome feature, showing confidence in their product’s durability.

Who is this product best suited to?

If You’re a Fan of Crystal-Clear Audio

With its DAB+ receiver, the Philips Audio R7705/10 offers access to a wide range of radio stations in crisp, clear stereo sound. This is perfect for audiophiles who appreciate the nuances in their favourite tunes or talk shows.

If You Despise Cable Clutter

The wireless Qi charging pad is a godsend for those who loathe tangled cables on their bedside table. Just plop your smartphone on the pad before you sleep, and wake up to a fully charged device.

If You’re a Heavy Sleeper

The dual alarm functionality with various wake-up options ensures even the deepest sleeper can be roused. Plus, the volume control means you can start your day with a gentle nudge rather than a heart-stopping blare.

Who should avoid this

Despite its many virtues, the Philips Audio R7705/10 might not be for everyone. If you live in an area with poor DAB signal, the struggle to get a clear reception could be a deal-breaker. Similarly, if you’re not tech-savvy, the complex programming and setup might prove frustrating. Lastly, those looking for a simple, no-frills alarm clock might find this model a bit overkill for their needs.

Value for Money

Considering its multifunctional features, exceptional sound quality, and the convenience of wireless charging, the Philips Audio R7705/10 offers excellent value for money. It’s priced competitively within the market, especially when you factor in the quality and reliability of the Philips brand. For those who will utilise its full range of features, it’s undoubtedly a worthwhile investment.

The verdict: Is the Philips Audio R7705/10 DAB+ Clock Radio with Wireless Charging worth a buy?

My experience with the Philips Audio R7705/10 has been largely positive. The sound quality is indeed exceptional, and the convenience of wireless charging cannot be overstated. The dual alarm functionality and the variety of wake-up options cater well to different preferences, making it a versatile bedside companion.

However, it’s not without its flaws. The signal quality issues and complex programming could be a deterrent for some. Yet, when weighed against its strengths, these drawbacks seem minor. Compared to similar products, the Philips Audio R7705/10 stands out for its innovative features and overall performance.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Philips Audio R7705/10 to anyone looking for a high-quality, feature-rich clock radio. Its benefits far outweigh its shortcomings, making it a solid choice for enhancing your bedside tech setup.

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Detailed Specs