Monitor Audio Airstream 10

Monitor Audio is better known for making hi-fi speakers than computer products, and the Airstream 10 is its first computer product.

It is a radio that will play just about any type of station, whether it is broadcast on the internet, DAB or FM, or music from a computer or portable player.

The Airstream has an illuminated white-on-black screen, with ten touch-sensitive buttons and a central dial control. It is easy to use, although it is annoying to have to cycle through the various modes by repeatedly pushing one button to find the one you want.

The DAB radio proved better at picking up a strong signal than our portable Roberts receiver and the FM and internet radio functions worked well.

There is only one speaker, but this sounded excellent even at high volumes. The side holds an audio output socket, so you could connect an amplifier, and an input for connecting a portable player.

A network socket is provided and the Airstream can also connect to wireless networks, which was simple to set up.

Similar products can be found at far lower prices, but the Airstream's design is far from the plastic box you might expect from this kind of product. The case is metal, with an inset panel of dark wood, and wouldn't look out of place atop the poshest of hi-fi systems.

Not everyone will be prepared to pay this much for a music player, but those that do won't be disappointed.