Sony CMT-X5CDB

AM reception in our area is woeful, so after some investigation we decided to try digital audio (DAB+). After looking at a number of different units we chose this Sony as we could connect our Walkman MP3 player and phone and it had the advantage of a CD player as well. We're delighted with the DAB+ radio reception and the sound quality - clear, with no fade out and we can finally listen to all stations without the constant crackle and continual re-tuning.
It has 40 watts of output, more than enough for even the largest room. Despite a rather daunting looking sheet of instructions it was very easy to set up and use. WIth both an analogue and USB input, it can connect most devices and with the availability of the Sony Songpal app, the unit can be controlled remotely from your phone or tablet, great when you misplace the rather ordinary remote control. The Bluetooth connection is easy to set up via NFC or through Bluetooth pairing on a suitable device.
But it is not the completely perfect unit. A very flimsy non-standard aerial connection could be improved, the remote control is very small (suitable for a child's fingers, but not for an adult's) and the display is on the top of the unit instead of the front, so you have to hang over it to see what function is displayed, etc. and whether it is switched on or not. But these are only minor niggles as the unit overalI performs well and is all that we expected. A typical quality Sony product, well put together with clean unobtrusive lines. If you're looking for a quality DAB micro hi-fi system that is easy to use and has great sound, this is the unit for you. .