R1 - Pros and Cons:
Here are the pro's and con's of the R1 compared to other premium radios/one-piece sound systems:
Pro's
- Superior sound quality – fuller, more-detailed, more-accurate sound than $300-$500 plastic-cabinet systems. As one example, users report highly preferring listening to the R1 over the Bose Wave II.
- Best available FM and AM reception.
- Even more beautiful sound with your iPod/iPhone/iPad and similar
- Full range of precision controls: bass, treble, even mid.
- Beautiful solid oak cabinet.
- 4 precision rotary/push controls for quick accurate settings.
- Concealed carry-around handle.
Con's
- No CD player – assumes users will plug in an iPod/iPhone/iPad or similar, or use Airplay.
- No remote – handy, intuitive front panel controls instead.
- No internal iPod dock. (So, there is no worry about obsolescence when you change your iPod/iPhone or Android phone over the years - simply plug your new dock into the standard USB port and 1/8 inch stereo audio jacks on the R1.)
- Costs more - due to use of premium components and design. But these will keep your ears happy for many years.
Other
- The up-right design actually takes a little less desk/counter space than horizontal radios, even though it packs in far larger, and more (2 woofers, 2 tweeters), speakers.