Roberts RD46 review

The sturdy RD46 seems at first glance the ideal away-day companion... Tested at £70.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Looks good, but doesn’t sound it – that’s the story with the robust RD46

Pros

  • +

    Sturdy and solid

  • +

    long battery life

Cons

  • -

    Over-enthusiastic treble makes listening a pain

Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.

The sturdy RD46 seems at first glance the ideal away-day companion. Turn it on and you'll be further convinced: it's simple to set up, the display is big and bright, and it tunes solidly. What's more, thanks to Roberts Radio's green efforts, the RD46 gives up to 80 hours' use on a single load of four hefty LR20/D-cell batteries, as well as coming with its own mains adapter.

All of which makes the sound of the Roberts disappointing; there's too much clamour and fizz at the top end. In other respects, the RD46 is clean and inoffensive, but the unruly treble scuppers its chances of glory.

What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

Read more about how we test

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