I have tried in our kitchen some favorable kitchen radios - but always with the same result: either poor reception and / or poor sound. The UCR-100 was too expensive really for this purpose. Unless otherwise acceptable solution but I have tried it: Super reception and good sound! The clock is radio-controlled, you can program the radio, alarm function is also available (but I do not use) Meanwhile, we have the UCR 100 for 2 months in use and are thrilled! High quality radio that ultimately is worth its price!