A DAB unit that isn't there...

September 30, 2011 5:21 AM

I recently inherited a great sounding and incredibly attractive old AM/FM tuner/amplifier. Can anyone recommend an unobtrusive DAB unit I can connect to the AUX? (UK)

I've tried the normal Amazon/Google searches, but all component systems seem to be designed to be seen, and that's the exact opposite of what I want...

The unit is a lovely old fashioned system (allegedly tube driven, but I've never opened it) with a fantastic illuminated front, so I want something as unobtrustive as possible. If anyone can recommend a system I can hide in a cupboard and control by remote (without seeing the display) or control via an android device, then all the better.

I want something that will provide DAB. Internet or DNLA would be nice to haves but are by no means essential.

posted by twine42 to technology (8 answers total)

I'm not familiar with the terminology - What is a DAB? :) Can you name examples? I'll ask some knowledgeable friends.
posted by krilli at 8:19 AM on September 30, 2011

DAB on Wikipedia for my fellow Yanks. It's a system for broadcasting digital audio over the air that we don't have here, though now I wish we did.
posted by contraption at 8:24 AM on September 30, 2011

I'm sorry that I cannot be of help, but I'd sure like to see a photo of this unit, sounds lovely.
posted by nofunnyname at 8:33 AM on September 30, 2011

That's difficult: if you're prepared to sacrifice the remote control, then perhaps a portable unit with a mains adapter and mic out that you just hide behind the old receiver -- DAB radios get pretty small these days. Or perhaps something complementary and old-fashioned in its styling that wouldn't look out of place on display, like the Roberts Revival?
posted by holgate at 8:54 AM on September 30, 2011

Can I request a picture of the item the OP is referring to? Completely selfish curiosity here but don't see how it could hurt to have an image...
posted by RolandOfEld at 9:22 AM on September 30, 2011

This chap has made a hidden solution for DAB in his car which might be right up your street. Seconding request for vintage hifi porn!
posted by prentiz at 9:56 AM on September 30, 2011

If you've got some linux expertise (or are willing to learn), you could use a small embedded device like the Pogoplug, a tiny computer that runs linux. You could run MPD on it to play music, easily controllable by an android app.
posted by Adamsmasher at 11:25 PM on September 30, 2011

I don't believe the Pogoplug has any hardware to receive radio frequency broadcasts.
posted by contraption at 10:55 AM on October 1, 2011