What is HD Radio
What is HD Radio?
"Like the evolution from records and cassette tapes to compact disks, HD Radio
technology brings analog radio signals into the digital age. After upgrading to
a digital broadcasting system developed exclusively by a company called Ibiquity
Digital, your favorite radio stations can transmit digital audio signals. More
stations are converting to HD Radio technology all the time and most major
cities now have a wide selection of broadcasts. For a complete list of HD Radio
broadcasters, visit hdradio.com.
What Do I Need to Tune in?
All that’s required to listen to HD Radio is a new HD Radio receiver for your
home or car, such as the Boston Acoustics Receptor
Radio HD. And don’t worry, your analog radio will work just fine with HD
Radio. The system is designed to broadcast analog signals right alongside the
digital ones.
Why is HD Radio Better?
If you do decide to upgrade to an HD Radio receiver, you’ll notice a big
difference right off the bat. When listening to FM stations in HD, you’ll
experience CD-quality sound with crystal-clear reception. The technology behind
HD Radio means that there’s no hiss, distortion, or station drop off. Meanwhile,
AM stations will offer FM-quality sound. Yes, now you can listen to your
favorite AM sports, news, and talk in full stereo.
HD radio also offers features that only a digital signal can offer, such as
real-time artist and song IDs, traffic alerts, stock tickers, sports scores, and
other valuable information.
In most cities, the radio dial is pretty crowded and there’s not much more
room for additional programming. HD Radio changes all of that by offering
multiple channels on the same frequency. For instance, KMTT, a station in
Seattle, can offer Adult Album Alternative (AAA) radio on HD1 while also
offering comedy on its HD2 channel and news on HD3. All three of these stations
are contained within the 103.7 frequency, so it’s easy to see how HD Radio makes
it possible to have much greater diversity across the dial. You’ll experience
broader song lists, undiscovered artists and music, and new blends and mixes of
formats. And of course, you’ll get lots more talk, comedy, and news.
How Much Does it Cost?
Are you interested in HD Radio now? There’s one more thing that might just
make you take the leap: It’s all totally free. Once you have an HD Radio
receiver, you’re set. There are no subscriptions or activation fees. It’s just
like the radio you’ve always enjoyed, just a lot better."