Skinny MP3 players have replaced old cassette Walkmans and LCDs have done for older, plumper televisions.

Analogue radio sets have also been replaced by shiny new DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) ones.

While they look and sound good, some people might feel that the digital era has well and truly killed the soul and style of their iconic radios, which is where the Vita Audio R2 DAB/FM radio comes in.

Priced at £249 the Vita Audio R2 looks somehow of both the 1950s and the 21st century. It comes in a beige case with an optional mahogany top. At this top sits the company’s trademark Rotodial, for navigating around the radio’s features.

There's a large volume scroll wheel, five presets, a button for switching between FM and digital, and two arrow keys. There is also an alarm which can be set to a radio station, and an all-important snooze button.

On the front of the radio, nestled between two large round speakers, sits a clear blue screen. Pressing the Info button located at the top displays information such as signal strength and programme details. The power button, underneath this, was slightly flimsy and a bit too sensitive – it took three attempts to switch it on at one point. There is also an input for an MP3 player and a socket for headphones.

When the radio is turned on for the first time it automatically begins scanning for available DAB stations. We managed to pick up more than 50 in under a minute, including most of the popular stations.

Although physically small, the R2 submits volume worthy of complaints from the neighbours, and even at full volume there was hardly any distortion. There is also a handy remote control which can be used for most features. The R2’s light and portable nature means this retro gem can be taken anywhere around the house, but unfortunately there is no battery-power option.

Vista compatible: N/A