HD Radio Buying Guide

We've all seen the proliferation of the HDTV. Now it's time to enjoy your favorite radio stations, in high-definition audio. High Definition Digital radio (HD Radio) is one of the most significant radio advancements since the introduction of FM Radio. Now AM and FM radio stations can broadcast their programs digitally. Conventional FM radio is broadcast with CD-quality sound and AM radio sounds as good as FM.

HD radio works like a conventional radio. There is a signal origin on one end and a receiver on the other. Stations send out bundled analog and digital signals to provide audio as well as textual data like song titles, artist's names, stock information and news.

HD radios handle incoming signals differently. Normally, radio signals can bounce off objects, causing what is called multipath distortions. This is what causes the static on a regular radio receiver. With an HD Radio receiver, they are designed to sort through the signals which reduces the static, and other audible interferences. HD radio offers standard as well as High Definition. HD radio has a broader song lists with music that is more diverse including independent bands and artists, more talk radio, comedy as well as news programming.

With IBOC-based HD Radio technology, radio receivers and other consumer electronics will receive traditional analog broadcasts from stations that have yet to convert and digital broadcasts from stations that have converted.

Current analog radios will continue to receive the analog portion of the IBOC-based broadcast, allowing for a smooth transition to a digital world. In fact, specific features have been designed into HD Radio-supported receivers to improve the existing analog reception during the "Hybrid Mode."

As the market reaches maturity, broadcasters will transition out of analog broadcasts and offer "all-digital mode". As a result of HD Radio's digital architecture, enhanced services such as increased data capacity, surround sound or other multicasting solutions can be made available across this unused bandwidth.

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.

Similar to the transition from analog to a digital TV channels, you will find your favorite radio station the same way. If you are attempting to listen to 97.9 FM, tune your HD radio receiver to either 97.9-2, or 97.9-HD2. Read the product's user manual or call the manufacturer direct for specific instructions.

HD digital radio is High Definition local radio. You are able to listen to local channels or stations available in the city where the broadcasts originate.

Some radio stations have chosen to provide the HD2 channel programming in a commercial free environment for the next few years.