Majority Arbury II radio review
Contributing Editor
Welcome to your all-access Majority Arbury II radio review. Today, we’re going to be exploring the unique features and functionality of a leading portable radio and alarm clock from Majority.
Known as one of the top providers of affordable radio systems with retro aesthetics, Majority has captured the hearts of audiophiles everywhere.
The Majority Arbury might not be the most eye-catching radio the company has to offer, but it is one of the more practical choices. The Arbury II radio is among the cheapest DAB radios and alarm clock systems on the market.
Here’s everything you need to know…
Arbury II: Design
Compared to other Majority radios, with their unique retro appeal and vintage aesthetic, the Majority Arbury II radio seems a little simple. We expected something with a little more charm when we began our Majority Arbury II radio review.
However, this is not to say this product is unattractive.
As dual alarm clock and battery-powered radios go, the Arbury II looks about how you would expect. It’s available in white or black, probably to suit your bedroom. You also get a large LCD screen where you can check the time or radio station.
An extendable antenna helps to deliver your radio channels, which are available via FM, DAB, and DAB+. You’ll also notice a series of large buttons making it easy to skip through pre-set channels, change the volume, and set your alarms.
Arbury II: Features
One of the simpler radios we’ve seen from Majority, the Arbury II would be a good choice for anyone who doesn’t feel overly confident with technology. There isn’t anything confusing to figure out here.
You can press one button to dim the screen, and another to enter snooze mode. The volume up and down buttons are clearly labelled, as are the pre-sets.
You don’t get any Bluetooth streaming or the option to connect your own devices here. Instead, the only connectivity offered is available through FM and DAB stations. You can save up to 10 pre-sets for the FM stations, and another 10 for DAB, so they’re easier to find.
The soft-touch buttons mean you don’t have to struggle to deal with any touchscreens or complex knobs when you’re half-asleep in the morning. You also get the benefit of up to 12 hours of battery life – more than enough for an evening camping, or away from home.
The alarm clock functionality comes with the option to set up to two alarms synchronously. You’ll also be able to instantly snooze your alarm if you need a few minutes of extra rest.
Features include:
- Large LCD screen
- Time and alarm clock settings
- 8-12 hours of battery life
- Rechargeable via a USB cable
- Mains-power accessible
- Automatic time setting
- Soft-touch rubber buttons
- Sleep and snooze function
- Auto-scanning
- Telescopic arial
- 3.5mm headphone socket
Arbury II: Performance
Available for less than £20, the Majority Arbury II is one of the cheapest products Majority has to offer. As such, the functionality is pretty basic.
We skipped the connectivity portion of our Majority Arbury II review entirely, simply because there’s no way to listen to music beyond using your FM, DAB and DAB+ stations.
The simplicity of the Arbury II doesn’t make it a bad purchase though. This portable radio is a fantastic tool, ideal for the kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom.
It can deliver decent sound quality, although it may sound a little tinner at higher volumes, so do be cautious about how you listen.
The Arbury II is very easy to use, making it a good choice for older people who might struggle with more advanced technology. You also get the benefit of a quick recharge rate, so even if you go without power for a while, you can get your alarm clock up and running again fast.
We liked the fact this radio came with 20 pre-set stations, though it’s a shame you have to sort through a menu, rather than using individual buttons. Additionally, the soft snooze button is a nice tough. Plus you get a 36-month warranty for peace of mind.
Arbury II: Verdict
Though the Majority Arbury II probably not going to blow your mind, you do get the benefit of a straightforward alarm clock and radio that delivers a great performance, night after night.
You’re not going to get a fantastic, audiophile-ready speaker or any high-tech tools like Bluetooth, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a product this good for the same price elsewhere.
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