What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
27 JUL 2009
Vita Audio R2i
Small spaces and serious stereo sound need not be mutual exclusives, as Vita Audio has ably illustrated in recent times, especially with its R2 DAB radio.
That model is no more, but its replacement, the new R2i, is as elegantly styled and solidly made as ever: it can be had in either a more traditional walnut finish or, for an extra £20, glossy white or black lacquer.
There's a larger, easier-to-read display too, while the new Vita also boasts a revised tuner module compatible with both DAB/FM and DAB+ broadcasts (as and when they emerge) plus a usefully flexible suite of inputs and outputs.
iPod dock now included
However, it's the R2i's fitted iPod dock that does most to cement the new model's appeal.
Operated via Vita's familiar 'RotoDial' controller (plus a less tactile credit-card style remote), the iPod dock transforms the R2i, turning it into a compact hi-fi system that's an elegant alternative to more traditional mini systems.
Of course, stereo imaging isn't the equal of a more conventional set-up with widely separated speakers, but the R2i's '3D' sound processing mode helps to create a broader soundstage than you'd expect – and besides, how many micro or mini systems are ever installed correctly, with speakers well spaced?
Warm, rhythmic sound
The Vita doesn't just sound big: it's as tonally affable as its siblings, with a warm, rhythmic sound that's always engaging, even with lower-quality AAC files.
Switch to WAV or Lossless music, and the Vita's sufficiently transparent to make the differences plain, too. Radio performance is to Vita's usual high standards: a smooth, rich sound that works well even with poor signals.
The only issue is that, while it charges them, it doesn't, as yet, work officially with iPhone – but stick your player in flight mode and that's less of a hurdle.
Couple its hi-fi capability with the fine tuner – lucid, articulate, low on sibilance – and you've got a winning system at an attractive price.
See all our iPod dock system reviews
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