A couple of weeks ago Pure launched not one, but two new DAB head units. They are single-DIN in size, so will fit nearly all cars out there. I suspect Pure will have success with these radios simply because they are a well liked brand, but does that mean they are the right choice for you?
Pure Highway H240Di
This is the most basic head unit available. It contains the basics you'd expect from a head unit, such as detachable fascia, CD player and line-in. It also has a front USB port, which is compatible with MP3 play back and can also be used for iPod/iPhone play back and charging as well as any future software updates. Power output is a modest 4x45W. It's only available at Halfords, and the head unit only is £129.99.
DAB operation
Both units sport a two line display. The top line always displays the name of the station being listened to, whilst the bottom line can be tabbed between multiplex name, programme genre, scrolling text and the time. Station selection is typically Pure, unlike many DAB car radios that allow tuning by multiplex, the Pure requires a full scan like it's other DAB radios. I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, if you only ever drive around one location this is possibly a good system as you'll be always covered by the same multiplexes. However, if you do regular journeys of any distance you may find constantly retuning your radio annoying compared to tuning by multiplex.
Run of the mill
I was first excited when I heard Pure were launching a new DAB head unit, however there is nothing that makes this radio special compared to anything else you can buy for your car for similar money. A real let-down with these units is that unlike other comparably priced car radios steering wheel control is not supported.
I haven't had the chance to have a play with either of these radios yet, this blog is simply a look at them on paper. I reckon that these radios will sell very well for Pure, but it's a shame there's nothing about them that makes them anything special like the previous two Pure Highway devices were.
Pure Highway H260DBi
The second head unit from Pure, isn't that much more expensive than the H240Di at £149.99, however it does also boast Bluetooth for hands free calling and audio streaming, as well as a better 4x50W power output. You are also able to customise the colour of the backlight too from one of twelve options.
DAB operation
Both units sport a two line display. The top line always displays the name of the station being listened to, whilst the bottom line can be tabbed between multiplex name, programme genre, scrolling text and the time. Station selection is typically Pure, unlike many DAB car radios that allow tuning by multiplex, the Pure requires a full scan like it's other DAB radios. I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, if you only ever drive around one location this is possibly a good system as you'll be always covered by the same multiplexes. However, if you do regular journeys of any distance you may find constantly retuning your radio annoying compared to tuning by multiplex.
Run of the mill
I was first excited when I heard Pure were launching a new DAB head unit, however there is nothing that makes this radio special compared to anything else you can buy for your car for similar money. A real let-down with these units is that unlike other comparably priced car radios steering wheel control is not supported.
I haven't had the chance to have a play with either of these radios yet, this blog is simply a look at them on paper. I reckon that these radios will sell very well for Pure, but it's a shame there's nothing about them that makes them anything special like the previous two Pure Highway devices were.
