Digital radio is still quite a new concept to many people. I have owned portable digital radios for some time now, so I do know at least a little bit about them. The Sony XDR S55DAB was priced at around £35 when I bought it earlier in the year, and to be honest this is really good value. Digital radios are pretty expensive, but they have come down a lot in price over the past couple of years. This particular model is available in a number of colours, though I own a plain black one that fits in well with more interiors.

The first thing I noticed after purchase was just how sleek and stylish the design was. The design is quite plain, but I prefer the unfussy look and the lines flow well. The slim body of the radio was a pleasant surprise, and weighing in at under 1lb it is certainly one of the more portable digital radios around. When I first started using the digital radio i realised how robust it was and I havn't noticed any damage on it after almost daily use.

There are a choice of power supply - it has a power cord and also takes batteries, so it is flexible in that regard. This radio would make a good back-up in case your main sound system is playing up. I use this digital radio on mornings before work and find it simple to operate, so it is quick to power up and turn off whilst I am having my breakfast.

There are a list of stations which you can scroll through for easy use and operation overall couldn't be simpler. You may be pleased to know that there are some stations available on digital radio that isn't available on FM radio, though it works both ways I am afraid. I prefer listening to the type of 'non-stop hits' stations which are full of pop music and regular news updates.

The ability to tune the radio easily is a big plus point for me when I am in a rush on a morning. I don't need to tune it in as it returns to the preset channel, but changing channel is also quite simple. The price is probably so affordable due to the limited screen graphic. There are just two lines of text on the digital display, so it doe have its limitations.

The sound quality is something that I do wish to pay particular attention to. The sound is clear and punchy, though it does have its limits as this is a compact unit. It won't replace your surround sound system, but it will hold its own against the more expensive portable digital radios around.

Ultimately this is an affordable digital radio with some limitations, but overall I am happy with the purchase as you are making compromises for a lower price. Buy the Sony XDR S55DAB and you won't be left disappointed as long as you realise this is a budget product.