Music lovers who spend a lot of time in the kitchen often consider installing under cabinet radios. Unlike the other models, the uniquely designed radio is usually fixed under the cabinets. The units have simple styles and occupies small space making it light. With this installed, you can operate while also carrying out tasks. This review looks at five best under cabinet radios that are practical and good-looking.
So you can better understand the features of the models currently available in the market. Read ahead and have a hassle-free purchasing and entertainment experience.
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Technology has made mobile users become dependent so manufacturers adapt it to remain relevant. So since the inception of the first under cabinet radios, things have changed. Unlike other radios, under cabinet, kitchen radio models are made to add convenience while cooking. Owning such is not difficult but getting the right is daunting. So when shopping ensure you consider factors as:
For you to get the best out of a radio, consider its style, color, and ergonomics. Aesthetics determines functionality and if it fits perfectly in the allocated space. The design should complement the existing cabinets and appliances. So always think about your kitchen's layout, and pick something to be installed near the sink, stove. However, if this is not practical go for what could be comfy.
There are designs that have been updated by manufacturers to current versions that can connect easily. Should your favorite type not have received this then it is worth to search for close by wired connections. In case, your under cabinet radio needs a kitchen makeover to install cover the required cables in the base. Running wires is quite expensive in such a project.
Once you identify the nearby cable connection and is ready for mounting, then understand the company's user instructions. Check the recommended mount holes and drill as required by the manufacturer. The process should not be demanding but quite easy. Since the key marketing feature of any under cabinet radio is the ability to save space. The model should have its mounting hardware provided. Indeed, your countertop has no shelf for placing your radio so expect to find these.
Many consumers are often vocal about convenience that a product offers. But where you put your item is either a make or a breakpoint to it. So you must mount it away from extremely hot places because this leads to damages. Ensure the countertop is secure enough and without any form of splash or spills. The radios like other equipment are sensitive so remain confident as you use them.
Never sacrifice this aspect because you are working in the kitchen. Current under cabinet radio models provide sufficient decibel range that is heard over mixers and blenders. The audio system should also be robust enough for high-quality sound.
The Sony ICF-CDK50 has existed in the market for a long time. If you ask anyone about the best under cabinet radio, then many will suggest it. One thing people love about it is because it produces some powerful performance. When installed you enjoy its bass reflex and deep bass sound. This also comes out clearly than what other models disperses. Therefore, you can hear your music well from various angles.
The radio looks very basic with well-placed front buttons. Operating it is known to be very user-friendly unlike the other options. Another key feature is that it is digital thus can deliver perfect sound. Its digital music players are supported with the included audio cable. Installation process is easy and takes a short time. Drilling holes is not necessary or even buying an extra support system.
The radio has AM/FM and also can store around 15 stations. Furthermore, it has a one-touch timer that helps you do your cooking in good timing. The accessory can play CD and also CD-R/RW. It simple design moreover makes it to blend well with other home decors.
Pros Cons
Finding the best under cabinet radio is usually a hard task. Fortunately, iLive iKBC384S units are here to bring your search to an end. The model is very common and has existed for a longer time. The features evidently confirm why it is worth considering for purchase. It has some fine color and stylish design which makes it to match well with other home settings. Besides, its slim outline makes mounting very easy and not noticeable.
If you are looking for a model with strong Bluetooth technology and light, then this is the best radio for your kitchen. The connectivity allows you to stream music from your device and get matchless listening experience and control. This also enables you to tune on for news, favorite music, traffic and weather updates. Its 20 preset station options enable you to save and select your ideal stations.
The featured LCD screen has a digitized sound control and bright backlight. With this, you can set an adequate noise amount as you desire. The controls are user-friendly to facilitate simple operation. Its big screen also gives clear viewing since it is well-lit. Kitchen timers aids all the cooking operations.
Pros Cons The JENSEN SMPS-628 under cabinet radio is designed to provide some amazing music experience while cooking. Many users choose this model because it has a classic design that blends well with traditional and recent decors. If conveniently set up, you can listen to music from different sources. This model also saves up your kitchen space used.
It comes with a LED screen to allow for quick time reading. Perhaps this is a bonus feature since the device can light up your kitchen's working area up to four times. In addition, it has an electronic volume control to produce a clear high-grade sound. The music reaches your ears less affected or distorted by other nearby frequencies.
Mounting the unit needs only basic tools, skills and insignificant time. That means you have no need to look for an expert to help during the installation. It comes with all the needed hardware, four screws, and four spacers and simple instructions.
The FM stereo receiver contains presets and a PLL control. That means you certainly have no worry in case the remote is misplaced. It is powered by an AC adaptor generating 120V and has a battery backup included.
Pros Cons 
Sangean WR-11 radio is a compact and full-featured kitchen counter compliment. Since the design of this unit does not allow it to be moved often, the weight is an advantage. The wooden radio is made from strong MDF making it have a useful appearance. This also improves its sound quality. Overall, the looks and feel are impressive as the radio is worth showing to friends.
The same is easy to operate all you need is to plug it and choose either AM/FM using the tuning knob. This model features an auxiliary inbuilt jack that allows its users to enjoy a personal audio source. Choose either from the inside FM antenna, or connect this external antenna. Its AM-band reception is surprisingly effective and makes it easy to listen to desired AM stations that other indoor radios cannot receive.
The radio has only one speaker that powers its sound experience. But it is all that is needed. It measures 3-inches and produces 65 watts and features a large magnet. This is responsible for the deep bass which is surprisingly powerful and well balanced for all music types. Many people prefer this radio because of its simpler approach and old school appealing features.
Pros Cons 
The auna KR-140 is another good addition to the kitchen accessories. This entertainment device not only have good looks but also has practical functionality. Many music lovers appreciate its simple design that contributes to its easy installation. The package comes with mounting hardware and manufacturer's instructions to aid in the mounting process.
One thing that majority of users agree on is that the radio stays safe after installation. Due to this aspect, it is not prone to interference and alteration. This in addition to the worthy in-built speakers makes it to produce powerful sound quality.
The 40 Station Preprogrammed feature makes it to be listed among the most multipurpose in this range. This usefulness makes selection of the preferred station to be easy and also convenient.
Even more, it comes with a well-lit LED screen for choosing the functions and give an awareness about its current operations. The lightning illuminated the cooking area very well. It is moreover easy to operate and clean later on. This radio boasts of a simple 4.1 Bluetooth interface. The feature provides easy connectivity to other gadgets and a hands-free use ability. Radio lovers choose this model as they remain in touch even when cooking.
Pros Cons But what some of us may not know is that there are different types of under cabinet radios. And this knowledge can make a huge difference when it comes to choosing the proper model.
(not all models come with batteries; check before buying)
This type of speakers is usually powered by direct current (DC) which is taken from batteries or an exterior power source. This eliminates the need for antenna because they are entirely operated wirelessly.
For that reason, it's one of the best solutions in places where FM signal can't be received by other antennas. It works even in remote areas and outdoor patios.
Under cabinet radio type without an antenna has another advantage - it doesn't use batteries so you can place them anywhere. No need to limit yourself by the length of the power cord. Just hide extra cables under your cabinets and keep everything clean and tidy.
This one is similar to the previous model, except that it plays back CDs instead of receiving signals wirelessly. You need to install these speakers near your CD collection because they take up quite a lot of space (usually two CDs). But this also makes them convenient because there's no need for direct current or batteries, which means more freedom in choosing locations where you'll place them (just make sure there are power outlets nearby).
This variant is similar to the previous one, but it also has a built-in receiver for receiving radio signals from the antenna. That makes it perfect for places where there aren't any power outlets or direct current sources. Just place them under your cabinets and attach external antennas to a desired location, usually a window sill or a wall in front of a window.
There are no cables involved in this type of speakers, making installation super easy. You just have to plug in the source of audio - smartphone, media player, tablet etc. Then enjoy flawless sound quality thanks to Bluetooth 4.0 technology which is integrated into some models. Bluetooth speaker transmits signals wirelessly at a frequency range of 2.4 GHz up to 30 feet (10 meters).
This type of speakers has all the same functions as the previous one, but it also comes with an antenna for receiving radio signals and receivers for transmitting them via Bluetooth signal. That's why it offers even more freedom compared to the previous model, allowing you to play back any audio source without having to worry about cables or batteries.
This variant is similar in its construction to under cabinet radio cd player am fm, but it has an additional connector for playing MP3 music. Most models are equipped with auxiliary input, RCA jacks or USB port, which enables you to play audio from your smartphone, tablet or any other device that uses the same type of connection.
This model is similar to #5 in terms of features except for two important things: it has a built-in amplifier and speakers so you don't have to connect separate audio components, and it's capable of receiving signals wirelessly via Bluetooth protocol. This makes the installation easy while providing more freedom in choosing locations where these speakers can be placed because there are no cables involved (except for power cord). 8. Under Cabinet iPod Boombox Antenna (No AM/FM)
This type of under cabinet radio with cd player am fm is usually equipped with built-in speakers and a dock for iPod or iPhone. They have mostly analog controls but some models come with an LCD display which makes them easy to use. The only thing you need to keep in mind is that there's no transmitter installed so you can't play music from your smartphone unless it has a headphone jack.
This type of under cabinet radio cd player am fm comes pre-installed with a FM antenna and a transmitter for playing back audio files from storage devices such as USB sticks, memory cards and other types of flash media. That makes it perfect for kitchens, workshops or garages where there's no direct current supply or any power outlets nearby.
As the name suggests, this variant comes equipped with just about everything you might need in a kitchen radio - AM/FM receiver, built-in speakers, antenna for receiving radio signals and transmitter for sending them wirelessly via Bluetooth protocol. So if you have an iPod dock on your countertop, you can enjoy less clutter because these types of under cabinet cd player am fm are complete audio systems.
The downside to under cabinet radios is the lack of bass and often excessively tinny sound. So here's a step-by-step guide for adding quality, tight sounding bass with an amplifier upgrade:
Here are some other features you should keep in mind when choosing under cabinet radio with cd player am fm :
This is especially important if you plan on using your kitchen radio as an alarm clock because there aren't other appliances nearby which could be used instead. LCD displays allow for more precise control of the receiver and make them easier to use thanks to visual feedbacks, whereas many people prefer analog dials because they seem more trustworthy.
In most cases, household current supply is all you need to operate these types of kitchen radios, but even they can work without a backup battery. So, if you have a power outage in your area from time to time, it's better to choose the one with rechargeable batteries. But before you buy anything, just make sure that this type of battery is included in the package because some models come without them.
Today's under cabinet radio comes with customizable equalizers and pre-set buttons which allow users to adjust everything according to their preferences. Some of these features may use only several sliders (bass, midrange and treble), while others may include more than 10 different frequency bands for each slider. But there are also many options which come without such controls at all - do your homework and check out what they offer before making a final decision.
Some of the under cabinet radio reviews (and audio books too) indicate that when it comes to quality sound, you should look for speakers with built-in subwoofers. If you want your kitchen radio to produce rich bass sounds, then this feature is something you really need to consider. And if you don't know exactly how much power each speaker offers in watts, check out our manual on choosing the right power output for your under cabinet radio with cd player am fm.
If you've found a good model which includes everything but has no memory backup system or USB ports, consider looking at other options because they can be incredibly annoying without these features installed. Nowadays electronic devices can offer a wide range of advanced features, but the most important ones are those which allow you to keep your favorite songs, stations and settings even when power goes down.
Of course, not all kitchen radios come with remote controls so it's a must-have feature if you want greater comfort during usage. Without visiting the device every time you want to change something on it, you'll be able to do whatever you like from wherever you sit or stand in your kitchen - that's what makes these devices special and unique compared to other types of speakers.
Another thing worth mentioning is number of input options available on the receiver (and USB ports as well). If there aren't any additional jacks, you won't be able to play music from anything but a CD player - so if you want to have more pleasure during your daily cooking routine, look for a kitchen radio with auxiliary input.
Most of the time these appliances come with remote controls, battery backup systems and adjustable equalizers because they can significantly increase overall sound quality.
If you want something special from your under cabinet radio then don't be afraid to ask for it because most manufacturers are open to custom deals and deals! So go ahead and place an order only after checking out all the available options listed above - that's how you'll make sure that this appliance does everything you might need from it.
Under cabinet radios aren't as popular as some other types of speakers on the market, so most appliance manufacturers don't offer generous warranty packages. But if you want to keep your money safe and secure, look for models with at least 1 year of manufacturer's warranty and then enjoy using them until something goes wrong or stops working properly.
Although the above models are the most recommended by us because of good reception, we make this point clear. One main reason that made most of the radio stations to switch to FM during the 1970s was to enable the listeners not to feel the frustrating static. There are radio shows and niche stations that still use AM. This means they are prone to being static if used around power lines. So ensure the select model is not mounted somewhere close to any AC source.
For practicality and safety purposes, we cannot recommend a particular model having an external antenna. Keeping in mind that extended radio antennas are a safety threat within the kitchen, it is not worth considering. Never forget the truth that some models having internal antennas have issues. But they can in turn be the best fit even in places having poor reception.
From the name, under cabinet radio with external antenna, usually they are installed under a cupboard or a cabinet. The best and common place is the kitchen to help save the available counter space. During purchase it comes with its mounting hardware like the fasteners and brackets. Ensure you check the installation guidelines to you put everything in place. Always the removal is more of the reverse of its installation. The aim of buying such radios over the traditional ones is to have convenience. So enjoy this by buying what you can set up without the need for calling for technical assistance.
Venturer KLV3915 15.4-Inch Undercabinet Kitchen LCD TV/DVD Combo (No HDMI / No AV input) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
iLive Wireless Under Cabinet Bluetooth FM Radio, 9.09 X 7.32 X 2.44 Inches, Includes - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
SYLVANIA SKCR2713 Under Counter CD Player with Clock Radio and Bluetooth, Silver - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
Sony ICFCDK50 Under Cabinet Kitchen CD Clock Radio - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
iLive Bluetooth Under The Cabinet Kitchen Clock Radio with CD Player, Bluetooth Wireless - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
RCA (SPS3688B) Under Cabinet Wireless Speaker with Bluetooth and FM Radio (White) - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
iLive Wireless Under Cabinet System with 10" LCD TV/DVD/CD/FM Radio (IKTD1016S) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay
JENSEN SMPS-628 Under Cabinet Universal Bluetooth Music System - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay
Finally, this review is intended to show the best under cabinet radios. Getting an ideal pick has never been a walk into the park. While purchasing, focusing on aspects including audio quality, ease of operating, materials of design, reliability, among others is vital. The features will make your work in the kitchen space more fun and not unexciting.
Generally, the designs of these nits fit well even in little space inside the counter cabinets. You can listen to favorite shows or even play favorite music conveniently. With the above recommendations, you get to enjoy working here. The listed options above mean you have no need to keep searching anymore. Pick any one model and you will find it is evidently worth buying.
Also check out: Trending Mobile Ham Radios In The Market
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