Tivoli Internet Radio Corporate Gift - how much is too expensive

Tivoli has designed a radio that can pick up stations from all over the world, no need for a computer. Tune into radio stations popular and obscure. Expect to pay for this pretty package though; pricing for the table top radio is at about $899 Australian. Cheaper products are available that have very similar functions, but with good reason Tivoli is getting a lot of attention.

So this is how it works, the Network Internet Radio replaces the need to tune in to internet broadcasts with a computer. The table top radio connects to the internet using Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable, and searches for stations by country, genre or call letters. You can also access music stored on your computer or i-pod from any room by wireless or Ethernet connection, or storage plug-ins respectively.

Once you get your radio out of the box you'll find that you can instantly tune in to a pre-selected list of stations. Tivoli claims that more stations are easily added, by emailing Tivoli and requesting a new station. Critics disagree, saying the process is slow and cumbersome. The station has to be approved and then it will be added to the list. With the press of a button, user’s can add any newly-approved stations to their unit. Most of us would hope that the pre-selected list will suffice. Tivoli also boasts automatic upgrades on its own software. One does wonder with such incredible technology why there is only a one year warranty.

This technology will allow the corporate executive to tune in to radio promotional programs or those of their corporate competitors from anywhere in the world, while not moving from their desk. For example, while in the office, or at home, hear a soccer match from Italy, financial and world news reports from America, or the symphony in Stockholm, live to air. Obviously, this little baby has stirred a lot of interest at the top end of the audio market and for those who are looking for an exceptional corporate gift; it sure beats the standard pen and key ring. Companies might see it in their best interests to make a lasting impression on their clients by giving them one of these units, available from a good corporate gifts shop.

In true Tivoli style the Network Internet Radio offers undefiled sound quality. No fuzz or crackle. Tivoli has gone to great lengths to ensure a high quality of sound; this is one of the things you are paying for. For a fatter sound you are looking at investing in additional speakers. As well as stereo speakers, it’s possible to add CD player, or subwoofer through a wireless or Ethernet connection.

The simplicity of the design ensures that not just techno-head clients or friends will appreciate the gift. The face of the radio has minimal buttons and only one big tuning dial. No more practicing your safety vault hacking skills - the radio frequencies are easy to find. Of course, Tivoli claims their radio can be used right out of the box - it seems that unwrapping the unit will take you longer than tuning in to a crystal-clear frequency. Ascetically, the radio is very funky, with a slight old-school feel. The stand-alone unit looks a little like a retro hardwood cabinet. The unit is available in Walnut/Gold, Cherry/Gold, and Wenge/Gold.

Livvy Jean has only just began reviewing for Tivoli. She is emminently qualified in both the technical and non-technical corporate gifts shop range of products through extensive experience in retailers allover Australia. More than that - she's a woman (born to shop!).