Roberts Blutune 5 review
Contributing Editor
Similar in style to the (far more expensive) Roberts Stream 218, the Roberts Blutune 5 is a handy and stylish bedside radio with extra funk and some killer features.
This portable radio comes with more than just FM, DAB, and DAB+ connectivity to keep you tuned in to your favourite songs. The device also features Bluetooth connectivity, so you can stream content straight from your smartphone.
If you’re looking for something that’s more than just a standard radio, but still comes with all the handy features and conveniences you need for “easy listening”, this Roberts Radio Blutune 5 has you covered.
Sure, it might not have the same visual impact as models like the Roberts Stream 94i, but the Roberts Radio Blutune 5 portable radio is packed full of style, panache, and enough crystal clear audio to remind you why you invested in Roberts to begin with.
Roberts Radio Blutune 5 review: Design and build
We don’t know about you – but we’re suckers for style here at Radio Fidelity.
That’s probably why we spend so much time waxing lyrical about iconic Roberts Radio pieces like the Revival RD70, for instance. At this point, if you’re willing to pay the extra for the Roberts brand label, then you probably already know that you can expect a beautiful product in return.
Roberts doesn’t have many “unattractive” devices in its catalogue, although it’s fair to say that different items have their own distinct feel. For us, the Blutune 5 feels very similar to an old-fashioned boombox.
From the huge visible speakers behind the black front grille, to the dual tuning and volume knobs and the robust plastic carrying handle, this looks like something from the 80s or 90s.
From the moment we unboxed the Roberts Blutune 5 portable radio, we had the urge to run outside and start blasting love songs under someone’s window with it. That’s the kind of vibe you’re going to get, and it matches well with the “retro” character that’s so common from Roberts Radio.
The system comes with five useful preset buttons, so you can find the channels that you love most with a single touch. Additionally, the sleek digital screen on the top of the device makes it easy to flick through content without having to spend hours getting your tuning just right.
The fact that the Roberts Blutune 5 is battery operated also means that you can take it with you on-the-go. We think it’d be perfect for a summertime picnic.
Roberts Radio Blutune 5 review: Features
So, the Roberts Radio Blutune 5 might sound good – the question is, what can it actually do?
More than just a pretty face, this portable Bluetooth speaker combines exceptional sound quality with convenience and simplicity. There’s built-in DAB, DAB+ and FM connectivity, so you can find and listen to the radio stations that you love in crystal-clear quality.
What’s more, for those who need even more options, there’s the opportunity to stream music directly from your smartphone via Bluetooth.
Although the Roberts Blutune 5 does make for a beautiful portable radio, it’s also an excellent partner to keep on your bedside table too. There are two alarms built-in so you can tune your radio to your morning routine.
Roberts gives you the option to either wake up to the sound of a standard buzzer, or a pre-set radio station. There’s also a snooze button for when you need “five more minutes.”
The 5 preset buttons included in the device make finding the content you love a lot easier, and the fact that the Bluetooth connectivity is easy to use is a huge boon too. We’ve lost count of the number of times we’ve ended up pulling our hair out when testing a Bluetooth speaker that just won’t connect.
Features include:
- 5 preset station buttons
- Dual alarm function
- Full-colour screen
- Carry handle for portability
- Mains powered or battery-powered
- DAB, DAB+ and FM connectivity
- Bluetooth streaming
Unfortunately, there’s no option to charge your smartphone through your speaker – which is something a lot of similar Bluetooth models offer.
Roberts Radio Blutune 5 review: Performance
Intended to be more than just a basic portable radio, the Roberts Blutune 5 is a high-performance Bluetooth streaming device and incredible bedside radio.
Whether you’re taking the device with you on the move for those afternoon picnics, sessions down by the beach, or romantic declarations of love under your crush’s window – the Blutune 5 will get the job done.
Though we couldn’t find any information in the instructions about the Roberts Blutune 5 battery life, our own tests indicated that the machine is pretty reliable. You can get several hours of playback without having to worry about being close to a socket.
However, we’d recommend keeping the Roberts Radio Blutune 5 plugged into the mains if you’re using it as a radio alarm clock.
In terms of sound quality, you can expect exceptional clarity and clear tones from the Blutune 5. Like most of the Bluetooth radios that you’ll find in the Roberts Radio portfolio, this stylish number doesn’t compromise on sound.
The connectivity is fantastic, which means that you can enjoy amazing music through digital channels, or Bluetooth wherever you are.
Roberts Blutune 5 review: Verdict
Like most items available from Roberts today, the Blutune 5 probably isn’t your go-to choice if you’re looking for a simple and cheap Bluetooth radio that gets the job done.
There are more affordable options out there, and to some extent, you’re paying for the classic Roberts styling and attention to detail with this model. However, we think it might be worth splashing the extra cash.
The Roberts Blutune 5 portable radio is a stylish and convenient piece of technology that you can pick up and take with you wherever you go.
Just so you know… This article contains affiliate links. The commission we earn helps to cover our costs, and comes at no additional cost to you. For more information on our affiliate program, please refer to our disclosure policy.
