The ArtSound R99 is a high-quality internet radio tuner that also supports DAB+, FM radio, and Bluetooth connectivity, offering a versatile audio experience. It is designed to connect to external powered speakers, as it does not have a built-in amplifier or speaker drivers.
Function Description
The R99 serves as a comprehensive audio hub, allowing users to access a vast array of internet radio stations, digital audio broadcasts (DAB+), traditional FM radio, and stream music via Bluetooth or USB. Its core function is to tune into and play various audio sources, with a focus on network-based streaming.
Usage Features
Internet Radio:
The R99 provides access to thousands of worldwide radio stations through Skytune. Users can browse stations by region, music genre, or talks. A "Local Radio" feature quickly accesses stations available in the user's local area via internet connection, which can be configured in the settings. For quick navigation through long lists, users can input index numbers directly using the remote control. The device also keeps a "History" of up to 99 previously listened stations.
To find specific stations, a "Search" function allows users to input keywords to filter the station list. When playing internet radio, the display shows various information such as streaming bit rate, song name, artist name, a large clock, and the radio station's logo (if available). Users can cycle through these display options using the INFO button.
Favorite Stations and Presets:
The R99 allows users to save up to 150 favorite stations to a "My Favorite" list. Stations can be added to this list by pressing and holding the FAV button on the tuner or the heart icon on the remote control. The device also features four dedicated preset buttons (1-4) on the tuner for quick access to frequently played stations. These dedicated presets are independent of the "My Favorite" list. Users can create custom categories within their "My Favorite" list (e.g., "Morning mix," "My Jazz") to better organize their stations. Stations can be moved between categories or deleted.
The R99 supports UPnP and DLNA, enabling music streaming from compatible devices on the user's network, such as network hard drives or PCs. After configuring a server to share media files, the radio can browse and play these files. Users can create custom playlists from UPnP music files by adding songs to "My Playlist."
USB Playback:
Music can be played directly from a USB thumb drive inserted into the USB port. The device supports FAT16 and FAT32 file systems and compatible audio formats like MP3, AAC, and AAC+. Playback controls include skipping tracks and play/pause functionality.
DAB+/DAB Radio:
For areas with Digital Audio Broadcasting, the R99 can pick up DAB+ and DAB stations without an internet connection. It requires a wire antenna for optimal reception. A "DAB full scan" function discovers available channels, which are then listed for selection. Station information, including radio frequency and rolling texts, can be viewed using the INFO button.
FM Radio:
The tuner also receives ordinary FM radio stations, requiring a wire antenna for best reception. An "FM full scan" discovers available channels. Similar to DAB, the INFO button displays station frequency and a large clock.
Bluetooth Playback:
The R99 acts as a Bluetooth receiver, allowing users to stream audio from other Bluetooth-enabled devices after pairing. The device's name (ArtSoundR99-XXXX) will appear on the Bluetooth device for selection.
Alarm and Sleep Timer:
Two independent alarms can be set, with options to wake to a tone, a favorite internet radio station, FM radio, or DAB radio. Alarm volume and duration are adjustable. A sleep timer allows users to set the radio to go into standby after a selected period (15 to 180 minutes).
Configuration and Settings:
The R99 offers extensive configuration options to personalize the user experience.
- Network Setup: Supports both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) connections. For Wi-Fi, it can scan for networks, connect via WPS, and allows manual input of security codes. Users can view network signal strength, IP address, and DNS settings.
- Date & Time: Automatically sets local time via internet connection. Manual settings for time zone, 12/24-hour format, clock style (digital or analog), date format, and Daylight Saving Time are available. NTP (Network Time Protocol) ensures accurate time synchronization.
- Language: Multiple language options are available for the user interface.
- Playback Setup: Configures streaming modes for UPnP/DLNA (Repeat All, Repeat Once, Shuffle).
- Power-on Options: Determines the radio's state after a power reset or power up from standby (Go to Standby, Resume once ready, Ready to use).
- Resume Play Options: Sets whether the device returns to the last operating mode or the Home screen on power-on.
- Dimmer: Adjusts the backlight level of the display for normal and power-saving modes, as well as in standby.
- EQ (Equaliser): Provides various music genre presets for audio equalization.
- Buffer Time: Allows adjustment of the buffer time (2 or 5 seconds) to mitigate uneven internet radio playback due to slow or congested networks.
- Line/Digital Out Volume Control: The headphone volume is controlled by the dial. An option allows the dial to also control the volume for external speakers connected via line/digital out.
Web Browser Control:
The R99 can be controlled via a PC or smartphone web browser (Internet Explorer or Chrome) by visiting www.skytune.net. This allows users to tune internet radio channels, manage favorite lists, and add stations by entering the radio's IP address.
Maintenance Features
Software Update:
The device supports software updates to enhance features and functions.
Reset to Default:
Users can perform a factory reset to clear all settings, station presets, and configurations, returning the device to its default state.
Troubleshooting:
The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues such as:
- Network Connectivity: Solutions for inability to connect to Wi-Fi (e.g., checking router, firewall, signal strength, encryption method).
- Station Playback: Addresses issues where the radio connects to the network but cannot play specific stations (e.g., station broadcasting status, server capacity, outdated links).
- DAB/FM Reception: Advice on improving reception (e.g., extending aerial, adjusting direction, checking for interference).
- No Sound: Checks for muted volume or isolated station issues.
Helpful Tips:
- Buffering Issues: Explains buffering and advises checking broadband connection quality and speed if internet radio keeps re-buffering.
- Station Playback Problems: Details reasons why some stations might not play (e.g., station no longer broadcasting, server limits, changed stream arrangements, broadcast schedule, slow internet connection).
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