What Hi-Fi? Verdict
Although DAB+ may be exciting for some people outside the UK, for us Brits the One+ isn’t enough of an update
Pros
- +
Nice build
- +
bundled iPod dock
- +
smooth, fluid and controlled delivery
- +
good bass depth
Cons
- -
Lacks the excitement and organisation of the best
- -
DAB+ doesn’t benefit UK buyers
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.
Does the Cambridge Audio One+ look familiar? It should: a couple of logos apart, it's visually identical to its predecessor, the One. The ‘+' signifies that this version can receive DAB+ signals, which are of a higher quality than plain old DAB.
Before you get too excited, it's worth pointing out that the UK currently has no DAB+ broadcasts, and no concrete plans to add any.
Our friends in exotic and far-flung places such as Switzerland, Italy and Australia have plenty, so can feel as smug and excited as they like.
DAB+ is the core addition, but the One+ has a few other upgrades, including retuned circuitry, faster operation and standby power usage of less than one Watt.
Unfortunately, the sound hasn't improved a great deal since the One received its four-star verdict, and now there are extra-affordable rivals in this market sector.
Pop Foals' Total Life Forever into the slinky slot-loader and press ‘play' and the Cambridge reproduces the ethereal opening vocal of Blue Blood in smooth, floating style. As the track continues, that vocal becomes more focused, and the Cambridge brings it forward in the mix, just as it should.
A touch lacking in excitement
However, when the rest of the instruments kick in, the overall presentation becomes a little muddled.
