Links

• Home
• Community
  Service
• It's Free
• Radio
  Research
• Current
  Developments
• HD Radio
• HD Stations
• HD Links
• Contact

HD Radio - How It Works, What You Need

HD Radio technology transmits digital audio and data alongside existing AM and FM analog signals. In the same manner in which digital enabled many new opportunities for CDs, DVDs, cameras and cellphones, HD Radio technology opens up new choices for local AM and FM radio listeners. Meanwhile, existing analog radio signals will continue to work for the millions of AM and FM radios already in use.

For listeners, HD radio means improved fidelity for both FM and AM broadcasts and more channels from your local broadcasters. Many stations are already broadcasting additional or alternative channels in addition to their main channels that listeners already know.

Who is making HD Radio recievers?
Many manufacturers are developing HD Radio products, including: table radios from Boston Acoustics, Polk Audio and Radiosophy, home receivers from Audio Design Associates, DaySequerra, Rotel and Yamaha; and, car radios from Alpine, Delphi, Eclipse, JVC, Kenwood, Panasonic, Visteon and Sanyo.

Do I Need a Subscription? Will I have to pay?
You will need a car or home radio capable of receiving HD Radio signals, but there's no monthly subscription fee. Programming from your favorite local broadcaster has always been free, and it's going to stay that way. Home receivers which work as a stand-alone radio or connect to a home stereo will soon be available in the $200-$300 range, although that price will drop as manufacturers increase their capacity. Auto units are already available at major electronics retailers.

Are there different kinds of digital radio technology for AM and FM?
HD Radio technology is the only digital technology approved for AM and FM broadcasting in the United States. In addition, all major radio broadcasters have commited to the technology and are in the process of converting their stations.

Are all stations broadcasting in HD Radio?
By early 2006, there were nearly 500 HD Radio stations on the air, with an additional 200 stations expected to begin digital broadcasting by mid-year. By the end of 2006, that figure will rise to nearly 1,200 stations, meaning 9 out of 10 people throughout the country will be within range of an HD Radio station. To see which stations in your area are broadcasting in digital HD Radio, please visit http://www.ibiquity.com/hdradio/hdradio_hdstations.htm