HTG Reviews the Encore: Internet Radio with Stellar Sound
Grace Digital Encore: A Comprehensive Review
The market for internet radios is quite competitive, requiring a product to possess distinct qualities to gain recognition. This review focuses on the Grace Digital Encore, a compact Wi-Fi radio notable for its impressive audio output, straightforward configuration process, and compatibility with smartphones.
Initial Impressions and Setup
Setting up the Grace Digital Encore is remarkably easy. The radio is designed for a user-friendly experience, minimizing complexity during the initial configuration. Its robust build quality is immediately apparent.
Connecting to your Wi-Fi network is a streamlined process. The radio quickly identifies available networks, allowing for a swift and uncomplicated setup. Smartphone integration further enhances the user experience.
Sound Quality and Performance
Despite its relatively small size, the Encore delivers surprisingly powerful and clear sound. The audio quality is a significant strength of this device. It provides a rich listening experience.
The radio supports a wide range of internet radio stations and music streaming services. This broad compatibility ensures access to a diverse selection of audio content. Streaming options are plentiful.
Smartphone Integration and Features
The Grace Digital Encore offers seamless integration with smartphones. Users can control the radio's functions directly from their mobile devices.
This smartphone connectivity extends to features like remote control and playlist management. It adds a layer of convenience and flexibility to the listening experience. Remote control is a key benefit.
Overall Assessment
The Grace Digital Encore is a compelling option for those seeking a high-performing internet radio. Its combination of ease of use, impressive sound quality, and smartphone support makes it a standout product.
Here's a quick summary of its key strengths:
- Simple Setup: Quick and easy to get started.
- Excellent Sound: Delivers surprisingly powerful audio.
- Smartphone Compatibility: Offers convenient remote control and management.
For anyone looking to enjoy internet radio with minimal hassle and maximum audio enjoyment, the Grace Digital Encore is certainly worth considering. It represents a solid investment in a quality Wi-Fi radio.
Introducing the Encore: A Comprehensive Overview
The Grace Encore Wi-Fi Music Player (model#: GDI-IRC7500) is a tabletop internet radio designed for both standalone use and integration with existing stereo systems. With a suggested retail price of $199, it’s commonly available for around $170. This device boasts extensive compatibility, connecting to a wide array of streaming services and file formats.
It supports streaming protocols like HTTP/S, RTSP, WSMP, and Shoutcast, alongside local and network files in formats including AIFF, AIFC, WAV, CAF, NeXT, ADTS, MP3, AAC, and WMA. Essentially, finding an incompatible audio source or file for playback is unlikely. Furthermore, the Encore provides access to over 50,000 radio stations, alongside services like Pandora, iHeartRadio, Live365, and SiriusXM Radio (subscription required).
Physical Attributes and Build Quality
The Encore exhibits a robust construction, measuring slightly over 12 inches in width, nine inches in depth, and four inches in height. Its weight is approximately 8.5 pounds. Much of this substantial weight is attributed to the integrated 12w Class D amplifier and the stereo tweeter speakers on the front, complemented by a larger woofer located underneath.
In a market trend towards lighter, more compact devices, the Encore’s weight provides a reassuring sense of quality. It offers stability, preventing accidental movement on any surface.
Display and Connectivity
A 3.5" display screen provides clear and crisp visuals, though it isn’t a high-resolution retina display, it is perfectly adequate for its intended purpose. A 32 ohm headphone jack is situated to the left of the screen, allowing for connection with standard headphones without the need for an external amplifier.
To the right of the screen, a port accommodates the IR receiver for the included remote control. The unit’s top panel features a button and dial interface, which proved surprisingly intuitive during testing.
User Interface and Controls
The dials facilitate both basic adjustments, such as volume and station selection, and precise interaction with the on-screen keyboard. The buttons offer a satisfying tactile experience, with a noticeable travel distance and distinct click upon activation.
This tactile feedback was a welcome change from the often-encountered mushy membrane buttons found on many modern devices. Beyond standard controls like power, home/back, and playback functions, the Encore includes a snooze button (for its built-in alarm), preset buttons for radio stations, Pandora, and podcasts, and additional blue-colored icons.
These blue icons activate Pandora-specific functionality when the radio is tuned to a Pandora station, transforming the stop and back buttons into thumbs up/down buttons for song ratings.
Remote Control and Mobile App Integration
The included remote largely mirrors the unit’s button layout, excluding the dials. Pandora also receives a dedicated row of custom buttons on the remote. Control of the Encore is also possible via smartphone using free Android/iOS remote applications, which will be examined in a later part of the review.
Rear Panel Connections
The rear panel houses a physical power switch, a port for the 12v transformer, a USB port supporting both flash drive playback and the Grace Digital USB-to-Ethernet adapter for wired network connectivity. Stereo RCA jacks are also present.
One set of RCA jacks serves as an auxiliary input, allowing music to be piped into the Encore, while the other set functions as a line-out, enabling connection to a larger stereo system or external speakers.
Initial Setup of the Encore Radio
Despite anticipating a complex setup process given the radio’s design, we found configuring the Encore to be surprisingly straightforward. The device offers extensive adjustability through its remote control once connected to the internet.
Prior to detailing the setup procedure, it’s important to acknowledge the quality of the included user manual. Unlike many poorly written manuals, this one provides clear, step-by-step guidance. It also thoughtfully explains the rationale behind different setup options.
For instance, the manual’s USB playback section clarifies the limitations of the FAT32 file system and the radio’s ARM processor. It suggests utilizing UPnP for large music libraries to minimize processor strain. This level of detailed explanation is consistent throughout the manual, ensuring users can effectively utilize all the radio’s features.
Connecting and Initializing the Encore
Begin by plugging in the Encore and activating the power switch located on the rear panel. Allow approximately one minute for the unit to initialize. The radio will automatically scan for available Wi-Fi networks.
If automatic scanning fails, navigate to the main menu using the large control knob. Select "Settings," confirm with a click of the knob, then choose "Wi-Fi Network and Settings" followed by "Scan for networks." Select your desired network from the list.
Password Entry and Firmware Updates
Typically, entering a Wi-Fi password on a keyboard-less device is frustrating. However, the Encore employs a clever solution. An on-screen keyboard appears, allowing password input via the large dial.
Rotating the dial selects characters, and clicking it confirms each selection. The dial’s generous rotation range makes navigation remarkably quick and user-friendly. We were pleased to find the cursor movement was efficient and didn’t require excessive button presses.
After entering your password, the unit will automatically download any necessary updates and initiate a firmware flash if required.
Getting Started with Your Internet Radio
Upon connecting the radio to the internet, immediate use is possible. Utilize the prominent dial to choose a radio station; the device will typically determine your location via your IP address. Manual location setting is also available within the Settings menu.
Before extensive use, we suggest linking the radio to the Grace Digital web portal and installing the free smartphone application. These features significantly simplify configuration and control of the device.
Registering Your Radio
Begin by pressing the home button, then navigating to Settings and selecting "Get Registration Key." Visit myradio.gracedigital.com with the displayed key to initiate registration. Create a username and password to proceed.
Registration grants access to a control panel. From here, you can search for radio stations and add them to customized hotlists on your radio. You can also rename your radio, particularly useful if you own multiple units.
Expanding Functionality
The control panel allows linking to accounts for Pandora, Rhapsody, and SiriusXM. Furthermore, streams and podcasts can be added directly to your radio unit. It’s important to note that neither the radio nor the website provides archiving of content.
To archive favorite podcasts, consider utilizing a separate tool like iTunes or Downcast alongside the radio.
Smartphone App Installation
For a comprehensive remote control experience, search for "Grace Digital" in your app store; the application is compatible with both Android and iOS. The smartphone remote replicates all functions of the physical buttons and remote, including displaying album artwork.
While the smartphone app cannot control connected media devices or fully power down the unit (requiring the manual switch on the back), it offers nearly complete control. This includes waking the unit from standby, remote menu navigation, and preset management.
Currently, browsing attached USB drives directly through the app is not supported. Playlists created for songs on the drive can be launched, but individual file selection is limited to those within playlists. This is a minor limitation that may be addressed in future updates.
Evaluating the Encore: A Comprehensive Review
Following extensive testing of the device’s functionalities and a thorough listening experience, we are prepared to deliver our assessment of the Encore.
This report will detail our findings and determine if the Encore represents a valuable enhancement for your existing home audio configuration.
Initial Impressions and Menu Navigation
The initial experience involved familiarizing ourselves with the Encore’s menu system. We explored its various options and settings to gain a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities.
A significant portion of our evaluation focused on the intuitiveness and responsiveness of the menu interface.
Listening Tests and Performance
A substantial amount of time was dedicated to critical listening sessions. These tests were designed to assess the Encore’s audio fidelity and overall performance.
We analyzed the sound reproduction across a range of frequencies and genres to identify any potential strengths or weaknesses.
Is the Encore a Suitable Upgrade?
Ultimately, our investigation aims to provide a definitive answer regarding the Encore’s value proposition. We will present our conclusions based on the data gathered during our testing phase.
The final verdict will consider whether the Encore justifies its inclusion in a typical home entertainment system.
Final Assessment
Based on our detailed analysis, we can now offer a conclusive evaluation of the Encore. The device’s performance and features will be weighed against its potential benefits to the user.
Key considerations include ease of use, sound quality, and overall value.
Positive Aspects of the Device:
Initial configuration proves surprisingly straightforward, especially considering the constraints imposed by the physical button and dial interface of the device itself.
The remote management dashboard significantly streamlines the process of discovering and adding radio stations. It also facilitates seamless integration with subscription-based audio services, such as Pandora.
Audio performance is exceptional. Any perceived deficiencies in sound quality stemmed from the source material, not from inherent limitations within the radio’s hardware.
The build quality is demonstrably high. The enclosure is robust, internal components are substantial, and the buttons provide satisfying tactile feedback.
Knobs offer smooth and precise control. Even the screen, arguably the least refined element, represents the best display quality observed on any internet radio to date, and remains perfectly legible.
Multiple control options are available and function effectively. These include the integrated physical interface, a supplied remote control, and a dedicated smartphone application.
Consistent control is assured, regardless of proximity. Whether operating the device directly or from across a room, users will find the controls responsive and reliable.
Key Strengths Summarized:
- Simplified Setup: Easier than anticipated given the hardware limitations.
- Remote Management: Effortless station discovery and premium service linking.
- Superior Sound Quality: Performance is limited only by the audio source.
- Robust Construction: Durable materials and responsive controls.
- Versatile Control Options: Physical, remote, and smartphone control are all effective.
Areas for Improvement:
Several aspects of the device’s functionality left us somewhat dissatisfied. Specifically, the lack of support for standard file sharing protocols is a notable drawback.
Network Sharing Limitations:
The unit does not accommodate basic network shares, such as those utilizing the Windows SMB protocol. Instead, it relies on UPnP for music streaming over a network.
UPnP, unfortunately, is considered a less secure and often unreliable protocol. Considering the device’s capability to access files directly from USB storage, implementing support for simple network shares doesn’t appear to present a significant technical challenge.
Smartphone App Functionality:
The accompanying smartphone application currently falls short of providing a complete user experience.
Ideally, the app should mirror all functionalities available on the main unit. A key improvement would be the inclusion of a robust file browsing feature, allowing users to easily navigate and select local files.
Currently, the app’s limited functionality hinders its potential as a comprehensive control interface. We desire the ability to properly browse local files through the app.
Final Assessment:
Having experienced the Encore, a comprehensive evaluation is warranted to determine its value proposition. While the cost is considerably higher than simply connecting a phone to a stereo system or utilizing computer-based audio, the Encore distinguishes itself through its robust construction, streamlined setup process, and versatile access to a diverse array of content.
This includes music, radio broadcasts, and podcasts, all manageable via the integrated interface, a dedicated remote, and a convenient smartphone application. For approximately $170, the Encore delivers substantial functionality.
Reasons to Consider Purchasing:
- Build Quality: The Encore is constructed with durable materials.
- Ease of Use: Setup is straightforward and intuitive.
- Content Variety: Access a wide range of audio sources.
- Control Options: Manage playback through multiple interfaces.
The primary deterrent to purchasing the Encore would be a requirement for a rack-mountable unit within a home theater environment. Even in such cases, the GDI-IRDT200, a similarly priced and physically narrower alternative, could be considered.