Denon is no stranger to the world of mini/micro hi-fi components. Its latest creation may be small in stature but, for those of us used to compact living, will provide enough power and sound quality to add life to our music collections.

Like all hi-fi component systems, the D-F102DAB is made up from various parts. The DRA-F102DAB receiver cum amplifier can output a maximum of 70W from two channels and brags screw-type speaker terminals that support high-quality speaker cable or banana plugs.

Compared to other micro component units that used fixed, or cheaper spring-loaded speaker terminals, this Denon scores well.

On the back of the receiver are five stereo inputs for connecting analogue sources, such as a record player and tape deck. There are also two stereo outputs for recording to analog sources; a tape deck and minidisc player, for example. Radio antennas for FM, AM and DAB are also positioned here and the accompanying aerials are all included in the box.

However, if possible we’d recommend hooking up to a roof-top aerial for the best reception. The supplied aerials worked fine in our hilltop abode, but venture near built-up areas, concrete jungles or valleys and getting a decent reception will be tricky, which is crucial with digital radio.

A system connector and power output for attaching the other Denon component are also present here, as is a socket for hooking up a Denon iPod dock (more on that later) and a subwoofer pre out.

The downside is the lack of digital connections. There’s only one digital output (for recording), which means games consoles, set-top boxes and the likes will all have to connect via the analog inputs.

In Denon’s defence, the D-F102DAB is only designed for stereo playback, not multi-channel surround sound, so it might contest the relevance of sporting digital inputs. We would argue that there are devices, such as minidisc players, that we’d still prefer to connect digitally.

The front fascia sports a subtle two line LCD screen, volume and function dials, a headphone socket and a line-in port for connecting a portable media player via a 3.5mm jack.

The accompanying CD player (DCD-F102) can not only read shop-bought CDs but will also play back CD-R and CD-RW audio discs. Like most of today’s CD players, MP3 and WMA files can also be played back from a CD.

At the back are two digital outputs, one stereo output and a couple of system connectors for talking to other Denon components.

The D-F102DAB comes with a cracking pair of two-way speakers that can handle around 120W of system power. The speaker terminals will support banana plugs (although the supplied cable is bare wire) and the black finish complements the silver tone throughout the rest of the system, which has been borrowed from Denon’s more prestigious AE Series.

Although an optional extra, the aforementioned iPod dock (£70) is a nice accessory to consider. Connecting via a dedicated port on the back of the receiver, once an iPod is docked, its playback can be controlled by the comprehensive remote.

Sound quality is great too. The compromise for it needing its own power source is that it will charge the iPod when docked.

Sound-wise, the D-F102DAB proffers a rich tone for its size. The small, yet direct speakers project an impressive array of detail and can be punchy when needed. We were surprised just how well it coped in a larger-than-average living room too, filling parts of the room where it had no right.

For £500, the Denon DRA-F102DAB might not be the answer to all your AV needs but as a compact music system, it's a quality piece of kit.

Also consider
Pure Digital Evoke-3
Overall: An impressive DAB radio that delivers on its promises, but the £200 asking price will deter all but the most committed radio devotee
Rating: 4
Price: £200

All home entertainment device reviews