Verdict
If you’re looking for a stylish standalone radio packed with modern streaming features, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one that looks and sounds as good as this. It’s on the pricey side, but for the right person, it’ll be worth every penny
-
Gorgeous retro design
-
Versatile playback options
-
Great sound quality
-
It’s pricey
-
The stereo version is even pricier
Key Features
-
Retro looks
The nostalgic walnut trim and utilitarian metal face plate make this radio look like it came straight from the 70’s, and I absolutely love it
-
Wi-Fi streaming options
Despite the vintage vibe, the SuperConnect is packed with modern conveniences, including the ability to stream Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music natively
-
DAB, DAB+, FM, and internet radio
Of course, a radio wouldn’t be a radio if you couldn’t tune into the airwaves. With DAB, FM, and internet stations supported, you can easily tune in to your favourites
Introduction
In a world filled with smart speakers, portable audio, and smartphone-first streaming solutions, the classic radio doesn’t get as much attention. Still, Revo’s SuperConnect is alive and kicking, and it’s lauded as one of the finest radios money can buy.
That’s because this isn’t an ordinary radio; despite the retro looks, this device is packed with modern conveniences like Wi-Fi streaming, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and more.
If you’re looking for a radio that’s fit for the modern world, complete with fetching throwback looks and top audio fidelity, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself considering investing in the SuperConnect.
But, is it as good as it appears? I’ve been using it for the past few weeks to find out.
Design
- Real walnut veneers
- Industrial-looking metal face plate
- Pull out ariel
The Revo SuperConnect reminds me of a piece of 1970’s hi-fi equipment, and that’s a good thing, in my opinion. It has a real walnut veneer encircling the whole radio, and an industrial-looking metal face and speaker grille.
The silver version is the most retro-looking option, but I opted for the black model. Both have the same walnut sides, but the black model looks slightly more modern, with its dark matte finish on the front and rear. There’s also an all-black model, if you want something a little more subtle, aptly named the Shadow Edition.
The radio has a large volume knob on the right-hand side, while the rest of the controls are found on the face. There are no less than 17 tactile buttons here, mostly to access your presets, as well as basic controls like play/pause, skip, menu, and modes.
Most of your interactions with the SuperConnect will involve a tiny joystick found towards the top of the front panel. This can be pushed in four directions to navigate through menus, and the button below it selects the highlighted option.
There’s a 2.7-inch monochrome OLED panel to the left of the joystick. It’s a very basic display, but it’s easy to see and has just enough pixels to display all of the required information. I think I prefer having this over a full-colour touchscreen, as it blends well with the retro aesthetic and doesn’t overcomplicate things.
Around the back, you’ll find a telescoping metal antenna, just like the old days. There’s also a stereo RCA input, a 3.5mm AUX-in, an optical output, and a barrel jack for power. This radio doesn’t support battery power, so you’ll need to be near an outlet to use it.
Features
- UNDOK app
- DAB, DAB+, Internet Radio, and FM
- Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth
The Revo SuperConnect is packed with features, but let’s get the basics out of the way first. This is a radio, so as you might expect, it can tune into FM stations, as well as DAB and DAB+. If you want to listen to something further afield, it also supports internet radio playback.
You will need the antenna extended to get good reception, but there’s nothing too surprising about that. I can’t help but feel it sort of ruins the otherwise clean and minimal aesthetic, though. There’s a reason it’s hidden in all of the promotional photos.
The SuperConnect also supports Bluetooth playback, and the latest version of this radio supports a wide range of Wi-Fi streaming options, including Spotify, Deezer, and Amazon Music, built right into the speaker.
The easiest way to configure these options is with the UNDOK companion app for your phone. However, I really appreciate that it’s optional. You can set everything up using the built-in display and joystick, if you’re patient enough.
The built-in UI even lets you search and explore different podcasts, all without needing to reach for a phone or computer. In a market saturated with Bluetooth speakers, there’s something to be said for a truly standalone device.
That said, the app is well worth exploring. It’s the quickest way to adjust the EQ and set up things like your network connection and linked accounts.
Of course, the SuperConnect can also play wired sources. So, for instance, if you wanted to hook up a turntable or a digital audio player, you can use either the stereo RCA inputs or the 3.5mm AUX connector. It’s very versatile.
Sound Quality
- 15W Class D amplifier
- 3.5-inch BMR
- Multiple EQ options
The Revo SuperConnect has a single 3.5-inch flat diaphragm BMR driver on its face, so obviously, it’s not going to give you a full-on stereo experience. However, I was very pleasantly surprised by the capabilities of this single speaker.
The SuperConnect is much more powerful than you might expect; it can easily fill a sizable room, if you need it to. It does begin to sound a little harsh if you max it out, but there’s very little distortion. It’s highly impressive for a compact single-driver solution.
The default EQ is well balanced, if slightly on the warm side. It’s a very pleasant sound that works across all genres, but if you jump into the EQ options, you can get it sounding a bit more lively.
I enjoyed the Rock preset the most; it makes the sound slightly more V-shaped and provides the extra oomph I was craving. You can also create your own EQ, but the options are relatively limited. You only get bass and treble adjustment, but on the plus side, they make a massive difference to the sound.
I wouldn’t say the Revo SuperConnect is enough to replace a full hi-fi system, but if you want something to provide a soundtrack in a smaller space like your kitchen or bedroom, for example, this is a fantastic choice.
The bass has good weight to it, the highs are detailed and well controlled, and vocals sound fantastic. I’m astonished at what Revo has been able to achieve with a single driver. It’s a very complete sound that works well across every genre – and it’s great for spoken word, too, which is crucial for a radio.
Should you buy it?
You want a retro radio with modern conveniences
The Revo SuperConnect is a beautiful radio with a vintage look, but that doesn’t mean it lacks in features. It’s bang up to date with Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth connectivity.
You want something portable
The Revo SuperConnect is mains powered, so you can only use it at home. It’s not convenient if you want something to listen to in the garden or on a camping trip, for example.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard to judge the Revo SuperConnect in the context of radios, because I can’t remember the last time I listened to a radio that wasn’t built into a car. So, perhaps it’s more apt to judge this unit in the wider context of speakers.
The SuperConnect has a few key advantages. It looks awesome, it’s fairly compact, and it can be used completely standalone, without needing to reach for your smartphone. The radio tuning capabilities go without saying, but competing devices that offer the same are few and far between.
Can you find speakers for the same price that sound better than this? Absolutely. The Revo SuperConnect sounds great, but an actual stereo configuration is always going to sound better. At this price, you’re approaching Sonos Era 300 territory, and this radio simply can’t compete with such an immersive soundscape.
Still, in many ways, the Sonos option is the antithesis of the SuperConnect, and they’ll likely appeal to different people. If you want a radio tuner without sacrificing modern streaming options or audio fidelity, this is likely one of the best options.
How We Test
We test every radio we review thoroughly over an extended period of time.
We use industry standard tests to compare features properly. We’ll always tell you what we find. We never, ever, accept money to review a product.
Find out more about how we test in our ethics policy.
- Tested for a week
- Tested for several days
FAQs
No, the SuperConnect works on mains power only.
Yes, the SuperConnect supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi streaming, and has a wired AUX connection.
Full Specs
| Revo SuperConnect Review | |
|---|---|
| UK RRP | £389 |
| Manufacturer | Revo |
| Size (Dimensions) | 140 x 135 x 210 MM |
| Weight | 2.3 KG |
| Release Date | 2023 |
| Audio (Power output) | 15 W |
| Connectivity | AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, Internet Radio |
| Colours | Walnut/Black, Walnut/Silver, Shadow Edition |
| Display Technology | OLED |
| Frequency Range | – Hz |
| Remote Control | Yes |
| Tuner | DAB, DAB+, FM |
| Inputs | Aux, Stereo RCA |
| Outputs | 3.5mm headphone, Optical |
| Alarm | Yes |
