Audio and video players in this category include radios, micro hi-fi systems, turntables, Bluetooth speakers with a built-in player, streaming devices and other equipment for music and films at home. Our range has over 500 models, including MUSE, Blaupunkt, Denver, Panasonic and Sony.
How to choose an audio or video player
Playback sources. Decide what you will actually play: FM or DAB+ radio, CDs, vinyl records, a USB stick, music from your phone over Bluetooth or an internet stream. A turntable is of little use if your music lives on a phone, and a Bluetooth-only unit will not play discs.
Connections. A video player or streaming device needs an HDMI input on your TV. For audio equipment, optical, RCA or 3.5 mm outputs matter if you plan to add an amplifier or active speakers. When choosing a turntable, check whether it has a built-in preamp; if not, you will need an amplifier with a phono input or a separate preamp.
Sound and speakers. Built-in speakers are often enough for a kitchen or bedroom. For a living room, look for a system with separate speakers or the option to connect external ones. Watts give only a rough idea of output, and speaker size and driver count affect sound quality just as much.
Where you will use it. A portable radio or speaker needs a rechargeable battery and low weight, while a mains-powered micro system needs shelf space. For a video player, check that it supports 4K and that your TV can display it.
Product type. The category brings together different kinds of equipment, from radios to video and recording gear, so read the product title and description before ordering. That way you know you are getting a player and not an accessory.
Brands in our range
- MUSE: the brand with the most models in our range, known for radios and micro systems that often combine a CD player, Bluetooth and digital radio.
- Blaupunkt: a German brand with a long history in car audio, now also offering radios and audio systems for the home.
- Denver: a Danish consumer electronics brand known for simple radios, players and Bluetooth speakers.
- Amazon: maker of Fire TV streaming devices that open online video services on a television.
- Lenco: known for turntables and radios, many of which have extra connections for digitising music.
- Panasonic and Sony: Japanese brands known for Blu-ray players and home audio, with Sony also making portable music players.
- DJI and RØDE: DJI is known for handheld video cameras and wireless microphones, RØDE for microphones aimed at content creators.
- Dahua Technology: a maker of video surveillance equipment, known for cameras and video recorders.
Also in our range: Adler, Sharp.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DAB+ and FM radio?
FM is analogue radio and DAB+ is digital. DAB+ usually sounds free of hiss, but the stations you can receive depend on broadcasts in your area. Most radios still include an FM tuner, so a model with both is the most practical choice.
Does a turntable need a separate preamp?
It depends on the model. Many turntables have a built-in preamp and connect straight to active speakers. If yours does not, you will need an amplifier with a phono input or a separate phono preamp.
Can I play music from my phone through a player?
Yes, if the player has Bluetooth, a 3.5 mm input or a USB connection. Bluetooth is the most convenient because it needs no cable. A wired connection helps when you want to avoid delay or the player has no wireless option.
What do I need to stream video on an older TV?
You need a streaming device, a free HDMI input on the TV and a Wi-Fi connection at home. If the TV has no HDMI input, you cannot connect such a device directly. Check which resolution your TV supports before you buy.
