 What is HD Radio?
It’s the most significant advancement in radio broadcasting since the introduction of FM stereo more than 50 years ago. HD Radio technology enables AM and FM radio stations to broadcast their programs digitally – a tremendous technological leap from the analog broadcasts of the past.
How does it work?
Soft Rock 102.1 WDOK bundles our traditional analog and new digital audio signal together on the same frequency (102.1 FM) to serve both traditional analog radios and new HD receivers. Whichever tuner you have will automatically discern which signal to use. Basically, digital radio works the same as conventional radio. There’s a signal on one end and a receiver on the other. But there are a few key differences.
- The digital signal layer is compressed.
- The combined analog and digital signals are transmitted.
- Inevitably, radio signals bounce off objects, causing what is called multipath distortions. This is what causes the static in conventional radio receivers. HD Digital radio receivers are designed to sort through reflected signals, reducing static, hiss, pops and fades.
- Finally, the signals reach their destination. Both broadcasts are free, with no subscription fee. To hear the digital broadcast, all you need is an HD Radio receiver.
Digital also means improved reception
The digital signal is less vulnerable to reception problems. The radio tuner's digital processors eliminate the static, pops, hisses, and fades sometimes present in analog signals caused by interference. Multipath distortion, caused by the radio signal being reflected off of buildings and other surrounding obstructions, is completely removed. With HD digital radio you hear only clear, clean, rich sound.
Should you lose the digital signal for some reason (obstructing terrain, nearing the edge of the broadcast area, etc.), HD Radio technology defaults back to analog mode, similar to the way current radios switch from stereo to mono mode when receiving a weak signal.
Instead of sending out one analog signal, stations send out a bundled signal – both analog and digital. Because it is digital, textual data such as traffic, stock info and song titles can be sent out, as well.
Increased Fidelity equals near CD-quality sound
Ever wished you could get the same quality of sound from your radio as you do from your CD? Or that your radio signal didn’t fade out just when you wanted to listen to the game? Now you can. Get the kind of sound that was previously reserved for your HDTV, CD system or MP3 player. Get it on your radio. And get it for free! Digital technology allows a radio station to transmit more data in the same amount of bandwidth. Primarily, this means higher quality sound, but there are other benefits too, such as a multicast signal programming in rich, hi-fidelity sound.
How much do HD compatible receivers cost and where can I buy one?
Prices vary depending on features and between manufacturers and will come down as more manufacturers bring HD products to market. To get the latest information on tuners and costs visit http://www.hdradio.com/available_products.php
For more information visit www.hdradio.com! |