TEAC T-R650DAB review

It's been a long time since we looked at a tuner separate but unfortunately the TEAC T-R650DAB struggled to inspire us Tested at £150.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Struggles to inspire either sonically or in terms of build, even for such an affordable machine

Pros

  • +

    It's a decent price for a hi-fi tuner

Cons

  • -

    Mediocre sound

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It has been a long time since we looked at a tuner separate, and even longer since we've seen one at this sort of price.

The TEAC T-R650DAB manages to pack in a DAB/FM/AM tuner alongside a digital optical and a set of analogue outputs, so as far as specification goes, it's got most of the tuner bases nicely covered.

At this price, you can't expect a huge amount by way of build and design finesse, but nevertheless some of the edges could do with smoothing over.

The remote control, too, is prosaic, and while it's easy enough to get your head round the controls they could be a little more responsive.

Sound lacks a little dynamism
Still, all those relatively minor complaints would be forgiven if this TEAC tuner proved to be a sonic bargain.

Sadly, it's no great shakes in that area, either. The FM tuner is relatively free from hiss, and it delivers decent detail considering the price but it lacks dynamics and excitement.

Switch to DAB and the much-maligned digital signal only further enhances this TEAC's mediocrity.

It may sound better than similarly-priced portables but offering less by way of style, features and portability, we can't find too much to grab us here.

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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.

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