Site radios - don’t miss a beat!

So you’ve stocked your van with high spec power tools and latest labour-saving gadgets. But we all know there’s one piece of kit you can’t do without on your worksite - a decent radio.

Whether you’re mad for Magic FM or love a blast of Absolute 80s, there’s no doubt a decent tune helps set the tone for a productive day’s work. In fact, a recent survey found that British workers complete a task on average three minutes faster with music playing than they do with no background sound. According to Harley Street psychologist Dr Becky Spelman: “Music has a really powerful impact on the brain. It affects mood and mental and physical performance.”

Now we know that science is on our side, it’s time to choose the kit. On a busy jobsite, you need a heavy-duty radio that can take a bit of wear and tear. But with such a wide range of radios on the market, which is best for you?

To make things easier, we’ve picked three bestselling models offering different specs and functions. All these radios offer DAB and FM frequencies, and there are a range of extra features such as Bluetooth pairing and powerful speakers. Read on for a run-down on each of our three featured options…

Festool Sysrock BR10 DAB+ radio. Price £114.13 + VAT

This compact model is portable and lightweight - you can perch it on even the narrowest of ledges or windowsills. It might be small but it’s powerful, with impeccable sound for its size. And yes, it also boasts Bluetooth, so if you want to sync it with your phone and listen to your own playlist, that’s not a problem.

Key features include:

• AUX-IN interface
• Integrated USB port for device charging
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Colour LCD display and easy-to-use controls
• Three year warranty
• Operation with Festool battery packs or mains cable

Makita DMR112 DAB+ job site radio. Price £138.82 + VAT

What’s not to love about this radio? The rugged design is matched by the fantastic sound quality, with new improved speakers compared to previous Makita models. The unit is shock-proof and moisture-protected, with an IP64 rating that makes it ideal for use on outdoor construction sites. This model has Bluetooth connectivity, two AUX-IN connectors and a USB port for charging other devices. The radio can store up to ten pre-set stations (that’s five FM and five DAB), so it’s simple to switch between music genres to keep you and your workmates happy.

Key features include:

• Pairing Bluetooth button
• Two AUX-IN connectors for MP3 players
• USB plug to charge connected devices
• Powerful sound with 2x89mm speakers
• Foldable antenna
• Powered by Makita Li-Ion batteries or AC power

Dewalt DWST1 TSTAK Radio. Price £163.53 + VAT

OK it doesn’t look like a radio on first sight, but we promise you this durable Dewalt model offers crystal clear, dynamic sound quality. It comes with six speakers, including two sub-woofers for anyone who likes a bit of bass to help them through the day.

With shock-resistant rubber moulding and an IP54 rating, the TSTAK guarantees tough protection in even the most challenging construction environments. This radio can be tuned to AM as well as DAB and FM frequencies, and as you’d expect from a hi-spec model, there’s Bluetooth connectivity and a USB charger. If you pride yourself on a tidy van, it’s good to know that this unit stacks perfectly with other Dewalt power tools, hand tools and accessories, providing neat storage as well as easy on-site transportation.

Key features include:

• Colour screen with pre-set radio channels
• USB charging port and 3.5mm AUX port
• BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) enables connection without sacrificing battery life
• Doubles as a charger for 18v XR or FlexVolt Batteries when connected to mains power
• Incredible sound quality with four mid-range speakers and two sub-woofers

All these products can be ordered online, but if you prefer to take a look at our selection of jobsite radios ‘in the flesh’, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome at our Redhill store. Our expert staff can demo various models and talk you through the options to ensure you come away with a sound system that meets your exact requirements. Or if you’d like to chat on the phone to a team member, don’t hesitate to call us on 01293 820088.