Wi-Fi radio roundup

For many people, local AM/FM radio is essentially unlistenable, but they don't feel like paying a monthly fee for a satellite radio subscription. Fortunately, there are thousands of radio stations available on the Internet that aren't lame and don't cost any money. These include Internet-only stations, radio stations from other countries, and even many AM/FM radio stations in the U.S. simulcast online. Wi-Fi radios tap into this resource by giving you access to all the content on the web via a tabletop radio you can tune into where ever you get a Wi-Fi signal.

While we love the concept of Wi-Fi radios, you can tell from the ratings that none of the manufacturers have quite "nailed it" with their product designs. Each of them has their flaws--the Asus Air and Aluratek just don't sound that great, the Grace Wireless Internet Radio lacks a remote control and audio inputs, the Sony VGF-WA1 has a few annoying limitations, and the Quattro's high price is enough to scare almost everyone off. Still, some flaws are worse than others, and anyone excited about the prospect of Wi-Fi radio would be wise to focus on the Grace Wireless Internet Radio--which offers solid sound quality and an easy-to-use design--and the Sony VGF-WA1, which only costs $200 now (down from $350) and has a built-in battery so you can carry it around your pad.

Even though each of these Wi-Fi radio has its flaws, we have to admit we enjoyed using all of them because of the freedom to delve into an awesome variety of radio stations with just a quick spin of the dial. We're really hoping for a killer, affordable Wi-Fi radio in the future, but the present still has a lot to offer for cheapskate radio fans. And remember that this comparison only includes units with built-in speakers. If you want to add Internet radio to an existing stereo system, check out our more expansive list of digital audio streamers.