HD Radio® Farce

HD Radio: Automakers

2011-01-31T16:31:00.013-05:00

Google Trends

"HD Car Radio Investigation"

"The trial lawyers at Keefe Bartels, LLC are currently investigating the marketing and sales of HD car radios by certain car manufacturers. Consumer statutes and laws protect the purchasers of products such as HD car radios. A party may be legally liable for statements, omissions or misrepresentations of material facts that should have been known to be false or misleading and promoted the sale of the product. Such laws protect innocent consumers from unlawful and deceptive practices. The victims of questionable business practices by parties such automobile manufacturers are the consumers who purchase or lease cars with HD car radios at significantly increased costs when these devices fail to function as they are represented to work."

"The People v. HD Radio"

"It's not quite going in that direction - yet - but another law firm has opened an inquiry into 'defective' HD Radio receivers in high-end automobiles. The first firm on the scene, Keefe Bartels, is now soliciting consumer complaints about problems with HD Radio reception. Details are few, but there's always the chance - if a lawsuit is filed - that the plaintiffs could push for class-action status. Both firms appear to be working in concert. That would be a significant nail in iBiquity's coffin: receiver manufacturers, already unenthused with the product, will stay well away from the technology. There's also the possibility that lawsuits could be filed between radio stations suffering interference from other stations that have deployed HD side-channels. Since the FCC is doing nothing with at least three pending complaints, the victim-stations suffering HD-induced interference may have no recourse but the courts. Were any of these legal potentialities to be realized, 'game-changer' is not strong enough to denote the consequences."

"HD Radio Not High Definition"

"Despite iBiquity’s claims of improved sound quality and transmission, there have been numerous complaints about HD Radio not only from the radio industry, but also from consumers. These complaints have included: insufficient numbers of HD Radio stations. Automakers are aware of the complaints associated with HD Radio. For example, in 2007, BMW released a Service Information Bulletin describing the problems associated with HD Radio, but noted that there was no retrofit kit or procedure available. The attorneys at Keefe Bartels are continuing their investigation into HD Radio and whether consumers are being forced to purchase technology that does not work as claimed."

"Volvo Makes HD Radio Standard Across All Vehicles"

"With our 2010 and 2011 models, Volvo drivers can expect the best in audio quality, more music and news/talk through multicast channels, and advanced data services with scrolling text that shows artist name and title, and much more. This is a huge benefit to all Volvo owners and we’re sure they’ll be pleased, said Doug Speck, President/CEO of Volvo Cars of North America, LLC."

"TSB Titles and Recalls for 2009 and 2010 Volvos"

"TJ20784 MAR 09 Audio System - HD Radio Troubleshooting Guidelines"
"TJ20306 DEC 08 Campaign - HD Radio Software Update"

"Ford Begs Broadcasters to Install HD Radio"

September 2011 - "One thing that seems to be missing from the open letter, something mildly important called: disclosure. According to iBiquity’s own website, Ford Motor Company is an investor in the technology. I hate to keep beating a dead horse, but for as long as the iBiquity crew continues to spout disingenuous bullsh!t about their failed technology, I’ll keep posting about it."

"Sirius XM vs. HD Radio"

September 2011 - "First let’s discuss the F-150 and Ford. A quick glance notices that it is never a factory installed option. There is a system with a CD player on the FX 2 model called the “plus package” that comes with a Sony Radio system that has HD capabilities included in the AM/FM Sirius package already. It’s one radio system that allows all these functionalities. No separate option to install a straight HD Radio. Most packages and options are not standard equipment on Ford even on the high end. Nowhere on a Ford website can I see HD radio being advertised."

"Radio’s Revenue Falls Even as Audience Grows"

“HD radio is pretty much going to be nonexistent, because they can’t figure out how to get the auto guys to include that as an option, and the auto guys that do include HD don’t let the consumers know about it, Ms. Ryvicker of Wachovia Capital Markets said."

“DEAD AIR: Radio’s Great Leap Forward Stalling in the Valley”

“Nearly two years after the Valley’s four Clear Channel stations went HD, several high-end car manufacturers have promised to offer HD radios as an option on new models. But while Ford announced in September that it offers the radios as dealer-installed upgrades — as have Mini, Volvo, Jaguar and BMW — local Ford and Lincoln dealers had not heard of HD and said they don’t offer the option.”

"More car makers offer HD Radio, but can you actually buy it?"

"After reading a recent Radio World article, I wonder if at least part of the blame is due to the difficulty of actually buying the option. Writer Thomas R. Ray III, who is normally a cheerleader for HD Radio, recounts the difficulty he faced in getting an HD receiver in his brand new Ford Escape. It turns out the Ford dealership had never heard of HD Radio, and so he ended up with a factory-installed analog radio."

"Car Industry: Gaps in Digital Coverage Major Deterrent"

"The message from the car industry seems clear – why should they risk their reputations by installing DAB radios that will suffer poor reception due to lack of a robust DAB radio transmission system in the UK? The bigger question is – why would consumers pay extra for a DAB car radio that offers increasingly little additional mainstream content over a standard FM radio?"

"Dragging the DAB chain"

"Kudos to Ford for including DAB radio as standard in the new C-Max minivan line - now with a seven-seat Grand version due on sale here in the UK next month. Joining Mini which announced back in February it too would be standardising Digital Audio Broadcasting, our equivalent of HD Radio in the US. It's usually a ridiculously costly factory option - GB39.95 for a passable portable radio at Tesco; GBP300 more on the bill for your new Jaguar; GBP100-300 on other Fords, for example."

HD Radio: Traffic

2011-01-30T13:07:00.029-05:00

Google Trends

"Garmin, TomTom in Trouble From Smartphone Add-Ons"

"We have been observing personal navigation device makers for some time now and one has to admit that they are coming under increasing pressure. The portable navigation market includes arch rivals Garmin and TomTom, as well as other smaller players, such MiTAC Digital and Navigon. Since navigation products are given to commoditization, there has always been significant pressure on prices. However, the more immediate threat is Google, which intends to add free turn-by-turn directions to the Google Maps app for smartphones using its Android operating system."

"Navteq Traffic on Garmin Devices Using HD Radio"

"The state of morning gridlock just got a little more real with the introduction of Navteq's real-time traffic via HD Radio -- to be included with Garmin's Nüvi 3490LMT personal navigation device."

"Nokia To Chop 1,300 People From Its Navteq Division"

"But reducing operations in mapping and commerce—divisions that include not only the Navteq mapping business, but location-based services, social media services and mobile commerce operations—raises questions about how well it will be able to differentiate those future products from the many others that will be made on the same platform."

"Microsoft Will Shut Down MSN Direct"

"Citing reduced demand and a proliferation of other data technologies, Microsoft will discontinue its MSN Direct datacasting service at the end of 2011. MSN Direct provides location-based services — traffic reports, weather, gas prices, stock quotes — to navigation systems via FM subcarrier signals. After Jan. 1, 2012, navigation devices supporting MSN Direct will continue to be operational as navigation devices but will no longer receive MSN Direct services such as traffic, weather, fuel prices, it stated."

"Clear Channel Partners With MSN For HD Data Application"

"Clear Channel Radio and Microsoft Corp. announced on Monday at the International Consumer Electronics Show 2007 that they have partnered to build a nationwide data delivery service using HD Radio technology, providing personalized and localized content to a variety of HD Radio receivers. This initiative will be branded MSN Direct HD, an extension of Microsoft's existing MSN Direct service, which currently transmits information including traffic, weather, movie times, sports, and stocks to Smart Watches, weather stations, GPS navigation devices and small home appliances."

HD Radio: Stations

2011-01-29T14:25:00.015-05:00

"HD Radio Goes the Way of the Laserdisk Player"

"Even though Clear Channel's website claims many of its alternate HD signals remain operational, only KRQ's was functional as of Monday, Oct. 3, and the jazz signal has been down for at least a month. Elsewhere, Lotus and Citadel dabbled in HD, but abandoned their efforts rather quickly."

"HD Radio in 2011 – What happened?"

"Watching stations dump their HD channels this month, I conclude that HD radio is a failure and most radio groups know this. Just about the only worth these extra HD channels have is that of feeding a translator with a separate format. Look for an accelerated move by radio to dump HD and the increased energy bill that comes with it this year."

"A Little Feedback on HD Radio"

"Is anyone surprised to see stations shutting off their HD signals? It's a flawed technology designed only to line the pockets of iBiquity. We didn't have to pay Edison to use the incandescent light bulb...we bought the bulbs but didn't have to pay to use them. That arrangement with iBiquity is insane...a can of worms which should have been buried, not opened!"

"FCC Media Bureau Chief Peter Doyle"

"I am concerned with the rate of adoption of the technology. We are at about 16% of radio stations, now. But the rate that new ones are adopting has slowed to a trickle. I think that’s a real warning sign for the transition. I'm also concerned about the number of stations that have taken advantage of our power increase flexibility, which permits stations to increase power by 4-10 times and replicate their analog service areas. But we’ll see. Perhaps in the future we will get more stations on board with the digital technology."

"AM-HD Radio Has Stalled. Now What?"

"Group heads of engineering and other industry observers say that digital AM is more technically challenging and expensive than FM. The flat, or even decreasing, number of AM stations embracing it certainly bears this out. Only a core number of mostly big-wattage, large-market stations are broadcasting in AM digital; most of those transmit their digital signals only during the day, according to engineering observers. Many of the stations on-air with AM-HD are owned by members of the HD Digital Radio Alliance."

"Cumulus Media, Inc."

"On March 5, 2009, the Company entered into an amendment to its agreement with iBiquity to reduce the number of planned conversions, extend the build-out schedule, and increase the license fees to be paid for each converted station. In the event the Company does not fulfill the conversion requirements within the period set forth in the agreement or otherwise modify the rollout schedule, once the conversions are completed the Company will be subject to license fees higher than those currently provided for under the agreement."

HD Radio: Monopoly

2011-01-28T16:03:00.006-05:00

"iBiquity's real business plan?"

"The fact is that iBiquity doesn't care about interference because the only date in their calendar is the day the FCC approves their petition to sunset analog broadcasting. Then, interference won’t matter. Theirs is a game of delay and misdirection. They will point to conflicting reports, lack of listener complaints, and any other straw-man they can come up with to while away the time until they petition for analog FM to end. iBiquity's business plan has, all along, been to end analog broadcasting and claim all that spectrum for data bandwidth, which they would size control and sell to a lot of people paying them. There's a reason an iBiquity spokesman kept repeating the same mantra to us in 2004 when we confronted him about the mathematically inescapable limitations and flaws in their technology: We have our business plan... Also, as heavily as Cheap Channel is invested in iBiquity, it's little surprise that as the largest single radio licensee, they are all for everything iBiquity wants."

“HD Radio on the Offense”

"But after an investigation of HD Radio units, the stations playing HD, and the company that owns the technology; and some interviews with the wonks in DC, it looks like HD Radio is a high-level corporate scam, a huge carny-shill. Between the high prices, poor listening options, homogenized content, and a decade and a half of FCC dealings that went into this monopoly, critics are calling the move to digital radio a 'catastrophe' and a 'complete giveaway' to behemoths such as CBS. All the major radio players, such as Clear Channel Communications, are iBiquity investors. Which means Clear Channel is paying itself for the right to broadcast, and every mom-and-pop station that wants to go digital also has pay the big boys. Nice setup!"

"iBiquity's Royalty Will Adverstly Affect Minority-Owned Stations"

"The royalty concept proposed by iBiquity will force small minority stations out of business and their stations would eventually fall into the hands of Clear Channel, ABC/Disney, Emmis, Bonneville, Cox and Radio One. Of course, these corporations have disclosed that they have a vested interest in iBiquity. REC feels that the proposed royalty rates by the broadcaster-backed iBiquity is strictly a ploy to drive the remaining independent minority broadcasters out of business and the megacasters like Clear Channel, et al will benefit from the royalty fees paid by these minority stations. REC questions the legality of the iBiquity royalty scheme if the proprietary iBiquity system is chosen as the standard for DAB."

"District Court Dismisses Digital Radio Technology Suit"

"Kahn and his company Kahn Communications, Inc. alleged that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and non-government defendants (iBiquity Digital Corp., Lucent Technologies, Inc., Texas Instruments Inc., and Clear Channel Communications, Inc.) conspired to violate the Sherman Act through the FCC's regulation of digital radio technology, and that the non-government defendants engaged in other ‘monopolistic behavior.'"

"When More Bandwidth is Less Choice"

"The problem is that a side-effect of doubling the width of a radio station is that if your favorite radio station happens to be a weak little independent college, religious or community mom&pop radio station right next to a high-powered blow-torch of a radio on the broadcast dial you very likely will not be able to recieve your favorite station again. In other words, your favorite station's signal is jammed by the big stations digital signal! The effect is like the Nazi radio giveaway because it destroys by law our ability to receive weaker or more distant signals but does not allow local competition to replace that loss with new programming sources."

"Night of the Bees"

"Radio listeners across America are trying to hide from a monster, but there is no shelter. After spending its adolescence in technical trials during daytime hours, AM-IBOC has now come out at night. We have met the enemy and he is us! The effects of HD Radio interference may be the final death blow to struggling small local radio stations trying to compete in very difficult market situations. This noisy hash may extinguish all hope of local stations being heard in the clear ever again."

"HD Radio: Doomed from the Start"

"HD Radio was not only doomed from the start, it was such a serious blunder that it may well lead to the death of thousands of radio stations and the permanent stunting of the industry itself. Why did this happen? They didn’t want the 10-Watt student station to suddenly have an equal signal to theirs. And the money-men didn’t want dozens of new independent channels to be available to listeners. But IBOC gave the money-men the one thing they wanted most of all: It preserves the inferiority of the smaller broadcasters. In fact, amid a sea of IBOC hash from the big boys, it accentuates their inferiority. The end result of this shortsightedness will be bankruptcy for many stations, fewer and poorer choices for the listeners as conglomerates gobble up the remains."

"FCC Admits Ignorance on Digital Radio"

October 2002 - "The Commissioners seemed completely unconcerned about the documented evidence illustrating potentially disastrous interference problems with IBOC technology. But the whopper came from the mouth of Michael Copps, who admitted with incredible candor he had no idea what the hell he was unleashing. Everybody involved pretty much admitted from the outset that the digital radio initiative is all about giving the broadcast industry more avenues to make money rather than actually improving radio from the perspective of the listener. You can watch and listen to the deed being done at our special report on the IBOC vote."

"FCC: Market to Decide Fate of HD Radio"

"According to staff testimony at the meeting, the FCC appears unconcerned with HD Radio's potential pitfalls and more than willing to let the industry set the pace of radio's analog/digital transition. As for the actual vote, Democrat Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein both went along reluctantly, concurring and dissenting in part with the order itself. Said Commissioner Copps: By adopting a blanket authorization for digital radio, this decision confers a free pass on others to take their spectrum, bypass local communities and run more of the canned and nationalized programming."

"Grand Theft Digital: How the FCC is Helping Hijack Digital TV"

"The FCC is spending millions supposedly informing the public about the transition from analog to digital TV on Feb. 18, 2009. But they are deliberately concealing the fact from the public that with the transition to broadcast digital TV the number of available broadcast channels will multiply by two, or four or ten. The FCC is issuing no new TV station licenses, however --- all the new channels are to be allocated exclusively to the wealthy individuals and corporations who already have station licenses."

HD Radio: NPR

2011-01-27T09:25:00.000-05:00

"HD Radio Scam"

"Nothing has hastened the isolating of the public from 'public radio' quicker than the onset of the HD Radio media blitz. Hundreds of public stations have bought into the scam, palmed off in the main by the unholy alliance of NPR and iBiquity (aka. iNiquity)... Which raises the question, Why is NPR even in bed with a monopoly like iBiquity? Isn’t this in some way inimical to the very idea of 'public' radio?.. And this doesn’t even begin to address the question of interference with other adjacent radio signals, the degradation of the station’s analog signal, or the spotty reception of existing HD receivers pawned off on car buyers today. There’s much more to say about HD Radio, NPR, iBiquity, and the massive fraud being perpetrated against the taxpayers and consumers of this country."

"Proposed CPB De-funding Would Hurt HD Radio"

"A substantial number of HD Radio conversion projects over the past seven years or so have been funded with CPB digital technology grants. So, regardless of their political differences, or their opinions about IBOC technology, one thing all broadcasters -- public and private -- can probably agree upon is that de-funding CPB now would be bad news indeed for HD Radio."

"HD Radio: Wisconsin Public Radio"

"The WPR HD Radio stations are being upgraded with State Building Commission funds, contributions from public radio listeners, and through grant support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)."

"DEAD AIR: Radio's great leap forward stalling in the Valley"

"KMBH, the National Public Radio affiliate based in Harlingen, switched to HD this year, but the change did not boost its inconsistent analog signal in the upper Valley. Monsignor Pedro Briseño, the manager of the station and its television affiliate, did not return multiple calls and an e-mail requesting comment on the station’s shift. A fundraising campaign on the station asked local listeners to contribute to the upgrade earlier this year, touting the change as a service to listeners that would improve their experience. The station’s business manager said she could not reveal the cost of the upgrade, saying all media requests have to be routed to Briseño. A public information request faxed to the station Monday evening has not yet received a response. Organizations that receive government funding are subject to state and federal open records laws, but have seven business days to respond to information requests."

"NPR No Longer Option For Some"

"WOSU's solution to this dilemma is to advise listeners to buy a new digital HD radio (hard to find and not cheap) with which we presumably can receive both of their stations in Coshocton. This is nice, but you'd have to buy a new HD alarm clock radio for the bedroom, an HD radio for the kitchen, as well as one to integrate with your A/V receiver. You would also have to buy a new car if you want to listen to WOSU on the road."

"Classical music on hold? Dial up disgust"

"Since the switch that wasn't, some 2,000 calls and e-mails have poured in, many very unhappy in tone. Suggestions that listeners get their classical fix at WUSF 89.7-2 on HD radio or online at wsmr.org do not always placate."

"WUFT-FM officially makes switch to talk radio"

"In subsequent weeks, classical fans protested in letters, through an online petition drive and at meetings in a local home. There are a lot of upset and disappointed people, said Gainesville resident Sue Yelton, an organizer of those efforts. Yelton and others said they refuse to buy HD radios to continue to hear classical."

"NPR's war on Low Power FM"

"NPR opposes proposals to strengthen rules allowing LPFMs to obtain channel interference waivers when an encroaching full power station arrives on the scene. And the broadcaster decidedly dislikes measures that would require new full power signals to offer technical and even financial help to an LPFM that they've suddenly squatted on (or squatted next to). This is a serious issue, because over the last decade the NPR service has expanded from 635 to 800 affiliated stations. Public radio's stance on this puts it at odds with practically every media reform group in the country."

HD Radio: Phones

2011-01-26T13:37:00.009-05:00

Google Trends

"Study: Consumers want HD Radio in mobile devices"

"iBiquity Digital unveiled the results of a recent comScore study that validates consumer demand and willingness to pay a premium for HD Radio Technology as a handset feature. 68% of consumers surveyed are interested or extremely interested in mobile phones that include HD Radio Technology. 75% of those who own a mobile phone would listen to HD Radio broadcasts via their mobile phone. $42 is the value premium consumers attribute to HD Radio Technology in mobile phones."

"The Dark Secret iBiquity Doesn't Want You to Know"

"Hot in the news is a new patent application from Apple for what has been portrayed as HD Radio capability in iPods or possibly even iPhones. What's left out of the news is one important point: We're talking about an accessory here - not a core functional piece of the iPod hardware. That's abundantly clear from the title of Apple's application and completely missed by most of the radio industry trades."

"Radio: High Deception"

"Doesn't it remind you of iBiquity, the HD Radio Digital Radio Alliance, and the steady stream of misleading propaganda they attempt to flood the radio industry with?.. This past Friday the same iLounge site was pitching for comments in its latest reader’s poll, 'Which of the following next-gen add-on features most interests you?' Harmless enough – until you read the following line: 'Currently, HD Radio is leading the poll with 29% of the vote.' So we are to accept as fact that more iPhone/iPod users want HD Radio than, let’s say, a larger screen? Or, more likely, are we to believe that HD Radio proponents are manipulating the iLounge poll?"

"FM radio in mobile phones: the universal standard"

"Right now, the new broadcast standard for mobile radio reception is being decided in the corridors of power in Washington DC and in the boardrooms of the mobile phone manufacturers. That standard will be FM radio... An FM chip costs next to nothing for a mobile phone manufacturer... This week, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and FCC chairman Julius Genachowski received a cross-party letter, signed by 60 members of the House of Representatives, encouraging FM radio capability to be included in mobile phones sold in the US. The letter noted that the Warning Alert & Response Network Act of 2006 requires the mobile phone industry to create an emergency alerting system in the US... The US is not trying to argue that some new proprietary broadcast standard (such as HD Radio) be adopted in phones to further the objectives of a particular commercial US business."

"No Commissioner Commitment on FMs in Cellphones"

"On the issue of including FM chips in cellphones, saying there’s been pushback on the issue from wireless carriers. He asked whether the agency would consider approving a mandate, since radio needs a platform that’s growing. FCC Commissioner Michael Copps said, what you’re talking about is redundancy — that radio works even when cell phones fail during emergencies. Neither Copps nor two of his colleagues would commit to a mandate, however. Commissioner Meredith Baker said, it’s up to the marketplace to decide the matter of whether to include FM capability in phones."

"The new iPhone 5"

"Standard FM and AM are going into the new iPhone – not HD Radio. Satellite radio is getting equal shelf-space to terrestrial on the new iPhones."

"How to get HD Radio on your iPhone"

"Well that depends on whether you're in the business of selling audiences or the business of selling HD Radio chips. This is not about what we want, it's about what consumers want. I don't know about you, but I vote that we do NOT treat our audience – and the thoughtful folks in our industry – like fools."

"FM tuner to be in Google Nexus One smartphone"

"PC World reports the Google Nexus One Android smartphone, intended as a rival to the Apple iPhone, will include a chip for an FM tuner... RBR-TVBR observation: Again, not an HD Radio tuner, but analog FM. Guess there is still a way for radio to join the 'digital revolution' afterall."

"Windows Phone 7 Series"

"It seems the stunning Zune HD interface was something of a trial run for the new Windows Phone 7 Series software... It is also understood that Microsoft is stipulating all phones must also include an FM radio tuner."

HD Radio: Pandora

2011-01-25T12:54:00.014-05:00

Google Trends

"Struble Says Don't Be Afraid of Pandora in Fords"

"HD Radio advocate Bob Struble says Internet radio cannot and will not replace over-the-air broadcast radio. The president/CEO of iBiquity Digital writes in his latest column. He noted announcements at the recent International CES about Internet radio provider Pandora and its deals with Ford to be included in the Sync communications platform as well as with Alpine and Pioneer to be on their navigation systems. But, Struble says Pandora in Fords does not spell doom... Though a dominant theme at the show was a pervasive and converged Internet — and radio should be concerned — it can adapt, he says. Internet radio is a valuable and powerful service, but network usage requirements will not allow it to support mass-market listening."

"Does radio need to worry about IP-delivered audio?"

"Back in September, Radio World published a column titled 'The Problem Isn’t Demand, It’s Bandwidth' by veteran broadcast engineer, Frank McCoy. The title was a bit of a non sequitur, because of course if there was no demand, bandwidth wouldn’t be a problem... He arrives at this 'comforting' conclusion by comparing the bandwidth required by IP audio streams in a real-world situation vs. available bandwidth, finding that IP audio just won’t scale up enough to be a threat to radio broadcasters. The exercise is interesting, but it would be a mistake for us to draw much comfort in it – at least if your goal is to stop worrying about other platforms. Here’s why."

"How Pandora can become the New Radio"

"Pandora, on the other hand, is all value-add... Radio must to be pushed into devices which don't already contain them, while Pandora can be pulled in - by audience or consumer demand. If you make cars or electronic gadgets, which will you respond to faster, push or pull? The largest concern you should have is that Pandora's entry into the auto market - something I view as inevitable - has the potential to create a complete substitute for your (music-oriented) radio station. And this will happen much faster than you think."

"Pandora's New Revenue Strategy--Impact on Radio"

"Given Pandora's success, how might this impact the radio industry?.. Probably not immediate, but the long-term affects of Pandora's competition will be felt... Quick story--I'm a college professor in the media area. I'm teaching a management course this term, and recently I asked my class how many had heard of HD radio. One student raised their hand out of 24. When I asked how many had heard of Pandora, all but two students raised their hand."

"CBS buys Last.fm - and what it means"

"What is Last.fm, you ask? It's a popular social network built around musical tastes... It is inevitable that radio - or aspects of radio - will become personalized. Instantly, the value of a huge 'variety' of channels or stations will be obliterated. Because ultimately nobody wants a hundred diverse channels or stations. They want THEIR one or two or three diverse channels or stations. A hundred stations is what you provide when technology limits you from doing better... Bad news for HD Radio. Bad news for Satellite Radio."

"Slacker iPhone app now available, users go wild"

"All for free, on your iPhone. The definition of 'radio' is changing right before our eyes. And listeners know this. One review on iTunes calls the Slacker iPhone app the first killer radio app... not only does the Slacker app set the bar, but it changes things completely. Another reviewer says that words cannot express how awesome this app is, while yet another states that SiriusXM is in trouble."

"Radio Industry Quandry: Dashboard Irrelevance"

"The RadioTime Tuner comes shortly after an announcement by Pandora of a deal with Ford to place an integrated voice-command Pandora-specific tuner in the Sync system. Notice how both are aimed squarely at the youth market; Mini Cooper and Sync are hot items in the under-30 crowd. Notice how Bob Struble, iBiquity's CEO and mastermind of HD Radio, outright dismisses the impact that Pandora's move has on the radio industry... Pandora and Sync. RadioTime and Mini-Cooper. HD Radio and what? Which do you think delivers the most excitment to consumers? I'll be generous, pick two."

"Internet Radio a Threat? Nah. An Opportunity"

"'Let me state it as clearly as I can: internet radio cannot and will not replace over-the-air broadcast radio.' So says iBiquity's Bob Struble, and I could not agree more. But I think Mr. Struble is making the wrong point. Because Internet radio can and will cannibalize over-the-air broadcast listening, not replace it. And it will cannibalize radio's advertising pool, not replace it. As Benjamin Franklin famously said, 'A great empire, like a great cake, is most easily diminished at the edges.' And those edges are tasty, indeed."

HD Radio: Sales

2011-01-24T10:51:00.044-05:00

Google Trends

"HD Radio spinners claim a breakthrough year"

"According to a press release from the Alliance 330,000 HD receivers were sold last year. This is a 725 per cent increase from the 40,000 sets purchased a year earlier and therefore 2007 was a breakthrough year for the technology. In 2008 they will sell a million of the things."

"Struble: Radio Is the Last Analog Medium Standing"

"Insignia HD — I think this will be a nice little interim step for jogging or working out. It proves the viability of the technology and hopefully we'll get sales; but no, this is not going to sell in the hundreds of thousands... Radio alone — the sad reality of where it is — as a standalone device, it just doesn't exist anymore as a category. Nobody goes into Best Buy and says 'Where's the radio department?'"

"Tech Q? Whither HD Radio"

"New York Times technology columnist David Pogue published a great article on HD Radio last week. He's got 100,000 Twitter followers and asked them who was using HD Radio. Sixteen people replied. Three of them worked in the radio industry. Of the latter, all were concerned for the future of the platform."

"Many Retailers Forecast ’08 HD-Radio Gain"

"Flanner’s notes, however, that returns on HD Radio for the home is higher than on other products. If you get a signal, the sound quality is spectacular, said Ernst. If you don’t get it, you don’t get it. It has a higher return rate than other products because someone can’t get a signal or maybe they live in a valley or too far away from the station."

HD Radio: Multicasting

2011-01-22T12:14:00.010-05:00

"Addressing The Long Tail: HD2s and HD3s for Profit"

"Analog AM/FM cannot address The Long Tail. HD Radio™ technology can help. Few business concepts have gained such quick and widespread acceptance as The Long Tail, put forth by Chris Anderson of Wired... You simply cannot program niche formats on analog stations and make the numbers work... RIFF2 with its edgy Detroit flavor... Clear Channel’s Pride Radio... Bonneville’s iChannel... Erockster... Our friends at Arbitron say that HD2s are beginning to show up in PPM data... Put HD2s and HD3s on air, keep them on... Bob Struble."

"Harvard Business Review: Should You Invest in the Long Tail?"

"Chris Anderson, editor of Wired magazine, argues that the sudden availability of niche offerings more closely tailored to their tastes will lure consumers away from homogenized hits. The 'tail' of the sales distribution curve, he says, will become longer, fatter, and more profitable. Elberse, a professor at Harvard Business School, set out to investigate whether Anderson's long-tail theory is actually playing out in today's markets. She focused on the music and home-video industries -- two markets that Anderson and others frequently hold up as examples of the long tail in action -- reviewing sales data from Nielsen SoundScan, Nielsen VideoScan, the online music service Rhapsody, and the Australian DVD-by-mail service Quickflix. What she found may surprise you: Blockbusters are capturing even more of the market than they used to, and consumers in the tail don't really like niche products much."

"Bonneville pulls iChannel Music"

"Bonneville has pulled the plug on its iChannel Music HD Network and streaming. For the most part, it has replaced the HD multicast with WorldBand Media content (brokered ethnic programming). iChannel allowed indie bands to upload their music online for consideration... We commend Bonneville for giving it a shot—it allowed radio to expose a lot of new, unsigned indie bands from around the world. CC Radio's eRockster HD2 format is still around at a good handful of stations and still outstanding. If that gets shuttered, a good bunch of us just might be done with HD Radio listening altoghether."

"CC Radio’s Format Lab gone?"

"So bottom line, the Format Lab is no longer available on the web and has cut some of its formats down to the most successful/desirable. The www.iHeartMusic.com website seems to only list the main audio streams of CC stations--not multicast HD formats--but does offer a few off to the side: erockster; Pride; Verizon New Music; Smooth Jazz; Real Oldies; Slow Jams and New Country. There used to be something close to 100 formats listed on the site."

"CBS Radio's Dan Mason Talks Digital At RAIN Summit"

"On HD Radio, asked if the company has seen any success with its multicast channels, Mason said he could not point to any ratings successes and 'there needs to be a lot more infiltration' of receivers before ratings successes are seen."

"HD-2/FM translator combos acting like real stations”

"Now we’re seeing the latest crop of FM stations – translators with less power and less coverage than a full-power Class A – accumulate enough of a listening base to promote concerts. These stations are typically fed from the HD-2 channel of a big sister station, since a commercial radio translator can’t originate its own programming under the FCC rules... In fact, the August PPMs for Atlanta show that WWWQ-FM HD-2 has a 1.0-share and a cume of 217,300 people. Given the small number of HD Radio receivers out there, it’s likely that what Atlantans are really listening to is the translator at 97.9."

"HD Radio milepost is actually an Internet Radio milepost"

"What Inside Radio does not say, of course, is that - for Z100's channel at least - the web stream is easily accessible on Z100's website, meaning that what advertisers for Z's HD-2 channel are really buying is web traffic - which undoubtably dwarfs any radio traffic for Z's HD-2 version."

"HD Radio and Multiple Ownership"

"Does simulcasting a commonly-owned, out-of-market signal on an HD stream violate the rules? Mt. Wilson FM Broadcasters thinks so... If adopted, Mount Wilson’s suggested prohibition would prevent an owner of multiple stations within a market from using the multicast streams of the strongest station to deliver the programming from a weaker station to a larger audience. Again, the FCC’s stated desire to encourage multicasting and adoption of HD Radio would suggest a reluctance to adopt such limits. Our best guess is that the Commission is unlikely to impose the requested limitations, at least through a declaratory ruling."

"Quadcast? HD Problems Deeper Than Suspected"

"At what point will radio industry executives realize that this doubling-up of HD signals, carrying radio stations from another market, is not a winning strategy? When will radio industry publications start doing journalism to research and report the implications of a string of dead-end radio initiatives? Nearly every one repeats this publicity release, close to verbatim. I hate to pop Struble's bubble. However, rebroadcasting radio stations from multiple markets on a local market's HD Radio signal (Washington D.C. or elsewhere) is not the way to arouse consumer interest, especially in a day when more people are tuning into the same programs on the internet."

"We Might Want to Keep an Eye on ION"

"If the commission embraces the notion that secondary digital streams really do constitute separate licenses that can be separately assigned, one could easily argue that radio stations that have opted to transmit digital streams (i.e., 'HD Radio') should also be permitted to sell those streams as separately licensed stations... For one, the number of radio stations could theoretically double or triple overnight. This might not have the cataclysmic effect of, say, the injection of nearly 700 new FM allotments through the notorious Docket No. 80-90 a quarter century ago, but you never know. At a minimum, if the law of supply and demand were to hold true, the overnight doubling/tripling of stations would likely depress each station's value. And such a rapid increase in the number of stations would logically lead to a similarly rapid increase in competition for audiences and revenues. Are we all ready for that?"

HD Radio: IPO

2011-01-21T23:18:00.036-05:00

"iBiquity Digital Corporation"

March 2001 - "If rollout targets are met, three years from product launch should find a roughly 10% digital broadcast penetration in terms of the share of radios able to receive digital broadcasts. By 2012, that share is projected to rise to 70%. Ultimately, iBiquity will likely offer an attractive equity option in itself, with the most likely ultimate liquidity event being an IPO."

"Robert Struble Channels Lee DeForest"

"iBiquity's President and CEO, Robert Struble, has taken to tweeting. In early September, he revealed he'd taken the train to Wall Street to float the notion of taking iBiquity public: 'Good NYC trip. Wall St way more upbeat than recently. IPO pipeline better, but most think [stock market] rally was too fast'... In the early 20th century, Lee DeForest, inventor of the audion tube spent a portion of his early career engaged with unscrupulous businessmen in the practice of 'pumping and dumping' stock in radio companies featuring his invention... One might say the same about Bob Struble and iBiquity. Given the wobbly future of the HD Radio protocol, it is not far-fetched to see a historical parallel between Struble and DeForest."

"HD Radio 'has reached critical mass' says iBiquity"

"iBiquity is continuing to try to pump hope into the survival of HD Radio, recently announcing that new aftermarket and auto manufacturers are offering the medium. But it's comments made by iBiquity COO Jeff Jury that really makes me wonder if the company is just hell-bent on persistent propaganda, or actually believes their own hype."

"Consumers, Wall Street not buying HD"

"Admit it. You’ve secretly wondered why the radio industry has invested so much in HD Radio. You’ve secretly wondered what the big payoff is. Here’s some advice if you still have a job in radio: keep it secret and don’t wonder out loud. In fact, you probably want to be seen gulping as much HD Kool-Aid as you possibly can, lest your name appear on one of those increasingly numerous slips that are coloring the halls of radio stations in Pepto-Bismol pink."

"Getting By: Losing the American Dream"

August 2009 - "He and his wife were living in their Crofton home with their three children. Knepp earned enough at his job as retail marketing director for HD Radio for his wife to be a stay-at-home mom. The couple lived comfortably. In August 2009, Knepp was laid off in a round of company cutbacks."

"New Money for iBiquity"

July 2009 - "According to a Securities and Exchange Form D filed earlier this week, iBiquity raised $42,477,641 through securities sales, receiving half in cash and the other half in existing shares of stock in an exchange offer. Radio groups who ponied in more money include CBS, Entercom, Radio One and Clear Channel. Other long-term investors include Grotech Ventures, FirstMark Capital, New Venture Partners and Union Square Ventures. IBiquity last raised $14,844,998 in March of 2008, according to SEC records. The Baltimore Business Journal estimates iBiquity has raised at least $172 million over the past 10 years."

"Heads Roll at iBiquity, Clear Channel"

January 2009 - "This past week iBiquity, HD Radio's proprietor, laid off 20 people. According to Radio World, these are the first bona-fide layoffs at the company since its founding in 2003. iBiquity's web site claims the company employs some 130 people; if that number is accurate, that would constitute a corporate workforce cut of an impressive 15%."

"iBiquity Digital Corp. scores $300K from DBED"

March 2008 - "iBiquity of Columbia is to receive a $300,000 conditional loan for expansion, but the funds are contingent on the company retaining its existing 38 jobs through Dec. 2013 and adding 82 positions. The loan, through the state Department of Business and Economic Development, will be used in connection with a $30,000 match from Howard County for the company to relocate and expand in Columbia."

"iBiquity Digital raises yet another round"

March 2008 - "The Columbia, Md., company is in the process of raising a $15 million fourth round of venture capital, VentureBeat has learned... It’s not clear whether this is enough to make HD Radio appealing... The company has raised an estimated $115 million in three earlier rounds... The company declined to comment."

"IBiquity sees digital radio signaling changes to come"

October 2007 - "The company has yet to turn a profit and does not expect to do so in 2007 or 2008, Struble said... Mass marketing and consumer adoption is the last hurdle, Struble said... Representatives of investment firms that have spots on iBiquity's board of directors could not be reached for comment, but Struble said they are excited about the progress the company is making."

"Intel Capital invests in iBiquity Digital Corp. of Columbia"

November 2005 - "iBiquity Digital Corp., of Columbia, the sole developer of digital AM and FM broadcast technology, said Intel Capital, the strategic investment program of California-based Intel Corp., the world's largest semiconductor maker, invested in the company. Financial terms were not disclosed, but an iBiquity official said the companies will work together to accelerate the commercialization of HD Radio, particularly in the area of portable HD Radio devices."

"IBiquity Digital's Make-or-Break Point Approaches"

February 2005 - "Barring a widespread rejection of the technology by consumers, iBiquity by this time next year will finally be drawing in some real revenue after 15 years of spending the money of investors that have pumped in more than $135 million in corporate and independent venture capital... Uhlman said his current investment horizon, from this point on, is three years. That would mean iBiquity would be bought out or go public before 2009."

"Layoffs hit radio pioneer as new tech falters"

September 2003 - "The layoffs accounted for about one-fourth of iBiquity's work force. Digital radio receivers manufactured by Kenwood were supposed to be hitting the market but the launch has been pushed back to the end of the year, CEO Robert Struble said. He downplayed the significance of the delay and said it would have no effect on the company's cash position. In recent weeks, iBiquity has changed a key part of its audio architecture, an 11th-hour shift that has drawn questions from some broadcasters and engineers."

"iBiquity Closes $45 Million Equity Financing"

April 2002 - "iBiquity Digital Corporation, the sole developer of digital AM and FM broadcast technology in the United States, announced the closing of its Series C Financing, indicating it had raised $45 million. Most of iBiquity¹s existing investors contributed additional funds, with Grotech, JP Morgan Partners, New Venture Partners and Pequot Capital leading the round."

HD Radio: Portables

2011-01-19T13:49:00.024-05:00

Google Trends

"Microsoft: Zune is not dead”

"Rumors of the Zune brand's demise are greatly exaggerated, according to Microsoft. And to prove it, the Zune HD is finally on sale in Canada."

"Zune HD - Will it work in Canada?"

"It will work just fine, with the exception of Marketplace and HD Radio (we don't have any HD Radio stations here). If you are not getting Marketplace or HD radio, why pay the premium for it?"

"iBiquity Forced to Build Player"

"Companies like iBiquity that work with OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), who product PC and consumer electronics gear nearly never get into the business of making their own branded devices because this kills the motivation for the firms they sell technology and reference design hardware to. The only reason a company gets into the business of making its own branded stuff is that they can't find a partner."

"The Letter"

"I've pretty much come to the conclusion that nobody cares... But the worst of it came from my experience playing with one of those Best Buy portable HD radios... If you don't go searching for them, you will never find an HD radio in the store. These were hanging on a forlorn pegboard all the way in the back of the store, next to the cassette and CD portables, which, sadly, is appropriate company. There were no signs."

"Insignia Buyers May Not Get The Picture"

"The new Insignia HD Radio portable, which includes images and live pause that can cache up to 15 minutes of live radio, will arrive in Best Buy stores October 24. Priced at $69, it costs $20 more than the previous model. But for buyers in some cities a key feature may be months or years away."

"Sangean Cancels Production Plans for DT600-HD"

"Sangean now says it’s not planning to introduce an HD Radio portable that was to have included analog AM in the U.S. this year. Responding to a question from Radio World, a Sangean spokesman said the company decided not to go ahead with production of the DT-600 HD; he could not say why. The spokesman also said Amazon is not accepting pre-orders for the unit, as we had reported. Sangean had not answered Radio World's query at the time that story was published. IBiquity had a prototype of the unit in its booth at CES and also at the spring NAB Show."

"Editorial: 'Tagging, You're It'"

"Among all the new ideas introduced to U.S. radio broadcasting in 2008, we believe among the most exciting is the addition of music tagging to analog FM. When the tagging concept was announced as an additional feature for HD Radio, we found it interesting, but upon learning how cumbersome the process was to actually execute by listeners, and how few devices actually supported it, we tacitly concluded it was much ado about very little, at least in the near term... Because tagging can now truly work as a 'portable impulse buy' — with the user able to complete a transaction in a few seconds, on an undocked, handheld device — we feel this could be the start of something big for radio."

"HD's Killer App Goes Poof!"

"You’ve probably heard that Apple’s new iPod Nano will have an FM tuner with iTunes tagging built in. Lost in radio’s coverage of the announcement was its impact on HD Radio... Apple’s deal with iBiquity was just a test. They wanted a system that could sell more downloads and trump Rhapsody, and HD was the perfect guinea pig. They already had tagging on the entire iPod line. With the kinks worked out, now all they had to do was add an FM tuner to the iPod. Which they did with the new Nano... Make no mistake. This move was not designed to help radio. It was designed to give iTunes a revenue boost... And HD? Apple knows how many downloads HD generated for iTunes. Maybe that’s why they didn’t bother adding an HD tuner to any of the new iPods."

HD Radio: Disclaimer

2011-01-18T12:29:00.010-05:00

"iBiquity Twists Its Tubes"

"Any simple WHOIS domain-name search turns up the obvious: iBiquity owns HDRadio.com. Administrative and technical contacts point straight back to the corporate HQ. My question is, why all the disclaimage? And are you really that clueless, iBiquity? Are you effectively denying the validity/credibility of your consumer-marketing claims?.. Hiding behind a trademark-disclaimer - that HDRadio.com is 'managed' by the HD Radio Alliance - which is, for all intents and purposes, iBiquity (though that particular domain is registered to Clear Channel) - does not cut the mustard."

"HD Radio really isn't 'HD'"

"Quite honestly, it doesn't stand for anything, said Peter Ferrera, president and CEO of the HD Digital Radio Alliance. The concept was somewhat of a steal from HD television, where viewers know it means better quality."

"Listen to KUT with an HD Radio"

"Ibiquity claims HD Radio is 'CD Quality', but this is a bit misleading. CD audio is uncompressed PCM digital audio. HD Radio uses a proprietary digital encoding and compression scheme similar to that used by MP3 or AAC. As a result, there will be some quality lost during compression. In addition, the HD Radio equipment used at KUT provides 96 kilobits per second of data bandwidth, which must be divided three ways to accommodate the three audio streams. Higher quality streams require more bandwidth, and stereo streams require more bandwidth than mono."

"Night of the Bees"

"IBOC is the acronym for in-band on-channel, a method of sending digital audio along with old-fashioned analog radio signals. It's marketed, confusingly, as HD Radio. In theory, HD Radio should be transparent to the end user listener. In reality, the system is anything but on-channel. It actually uses about five channels to convey its information."

"Big radio shoots itself in the foot (again)"

"Then they started promoting 'extra free channels', which it seems they've now decided to charge for. Which require a different special radio, which you can't even buy yet! Every day in every way, it's more and more like another 'AM stereo' fiasco. And wait until Congress notices this. Don't be surprised if they decide to re-open the questions of spectrum taxes or frequency auctions for commercial radio. Not very smart."

"Are HD radio stations serving the public interest?"

"The FCC has essentially handed over this additional spectrum to incumbent broadcasters without thinking seriously about the long-term implications of this transition, how it related to media ownership in local markets and its bearing on the Commission’s public interest obligations. FMC proposes an HD radio playlist analysis project during which a researcher would examine HD radio programming, and determine whether programming is increasing diversity, or addressing local issues or community interests."

"Have 200 HD Radio stations gone missing?"

"The HD Radio camp is advertising that there are currently over 1,500 radio stations now broadcasting in HD (from its website, to press releases as well as in various other promotions)... but yet only 1,300 have filed with the FCC."

HD Radio: AM-HD

2011-01-17T17:39:00.008-05:00

"Another Editorial Rant about HD Radio"

"AM HD Radio critics have hailed how the AM HD carriers do not fit within the NRSC-2 passband and permissible FCC emission mask. If true, this would be illegal. However, iBiquity was careful to design these carriers to fit within the NRSC-2 mask. They took advantage of a 'legal loophole,' in that the NRSC-2 mask was never designed for continuous energy to be contained within the two outer (lower and upper) sidebands of any given AM radio station... This hissing sound steps onto the station's first and second adjacent neighbors."

"Statement of Jeff Littlejohn SVP Engineering Services Clear Channel"

"The current AM allocation rules require Co-Channel stations to provide 20:1 protections to each other and first adjacent channel stations to provide 2:1 protection to each other. While this works fine in an all-analog environment, it does not seem to be sufficient in the presence of IBOC. The energy above 10 KHz from the proposed Hybrid IBOC signal significantly exceeds the energy present in the current analog AM signal. For this reason, the amount of energy provided to a first adjacent station is significantly more detrimental than our current allocation rules allow for."

"AM Broadcasters Back Away from HD Deployment"

"According to a leaked memorandum from ABC/Citadel's executive chief engineer, all AM stations in the company's stable have ceased broadcasting in digital at night, effective immediately. The memorandum does not give specifics, but follow-on reports cite interference between AM stations on adjacent channels as a major factor for the decision. Interestingly, some suggest Citadel executives knew such a problem might be in the offing, but they went ahead and turned on their digital signals at night anyway."

"Pistons Moved to CBS Due to HD Radio Interference"

"Pete Skorich, Detroit Pistons Director of Broadcasting, addressed a rumor that RBR-TVBR heard regarding a rate reduction in The Detroit Pistons contract with Clear Channel’s Sports WDFN-AM 1130 kHz over poor reception in the evenings. Details had it that 50-kW KMOX St. Louis (1120) and 50-kW WRVA Richmond (1140) were killing WDFN’s nighttime signal because of their skywave HD Radio carriers on 1130... But he did note it was because of reception complaints: That was one of the components, and we were with them for five years. They had a weak signal and we were getting a lot of people that could not hear us. It could have been because of HD Radio, but at the time we were totally unaware of it."

"Could EXB Band Be Your New Home?"

"The group says most AMs should move to the new band, where they would operate as FMs on channels of 100 kHz width, enjoy more parity with current FM stations in terms of audio fidelity and gain the ability to go all-digital. AMs could transition to 100 channels and operate in the all-digital mode. In this way, AMs 'can solve the current digital problems they are experiencing, especially at night', the group states. But while most would move, the existing band could, under their plan, also remain populated with clear-channel stations that would enjoy more elbow room. Under the proposal, filed with the FCC in its diversity proceeding (Docket 07-294), the old AM band would be 're-packed.'"

"Lightning taking out AM IBOC"

"A live demonstration of how lightning affects an AM HD Radio signal with a relatively weak thunderstorm in progress judging by the infrequent lightning."

HD Radio: FM-HD

2011-01-16T16:23:00.023-05:00

"IBOC Digital AM and FM Technology Launch"

2002 - "In terms of coverage, the answer is it replicates the existing analog coverage, and that is all it can do. Not technically, but because of a regulatory reason. We could easily boost the IBOC power, but guess what, then that steps on the station next door... Bob Struble, CEO iBiquity Digital Corp."

"More About IBOC"

"Through the performance of comprehensive channel characterizations, conducting countless simulations using real world data and logging over 75,000 hours of over-the-air tests on numerous radio stations, iBiquity Digital designed its IBOC technology to bring the benefits of digital audio broadcasting to today's radio while preventing interference to the host analog station and stations on adjacent channels."

"Rhode Island Public Radio”

"It was apparent to me that the purpose of Greater Media's and iBiquity's presence was not to promote accurate, real-world results, but instead to minimize any evidence of actual interference to the analog signal of a first adjacent station."

"Asymmetrical IBOC: Upgrading HD Radio Power"

"It’s about asymmetrical IBOC. The only real advantage IBOC transmission has had so far is its relative immunity to multipath. But that immunity is the result of the redundancy of data in the upper and lower first-adjacent channels. Without that redundancy, IBOC will be less immune to multipath than either the double-sideband suppressed carrier analog stereo difference signal or an SCA signal — whether that SCA is a conventional analog narrowband FM signal or a digital FM Extra signal. So in any additional area covered by only a single IBOC signal, there will be no multipath advantage."

"Jonathan E. Hardis"

"In the paragraphs above, I document that the Order is based on significant errors of fact and false statements, and that it was adopted without the requisite public comment on the most significant data upon which it is based. Even more remarkable is that it was adopted in clear contravention of the Commission’s rules."

"Response To HD Power Boost Disappointing"

"FCC Media Bureau Audio Division Chief Peter Doyle said at the Future of Music Coalition's Policy Summit this week in Washington, DC, that only about 150 stations have notified the FCC of their interest in increasing power for their HD Radio signals."

"Others Challenge Blanket Increase"

"Press Communications filed an Application for Review and Request for Stay, citing an unalterably biased outcome of the proceeding based on testing conducted by the parties who had a stake in the outcome, without a full technical review or independent verification. NPR had already admitted to vast amounts of new interference, wrote Press. The NAB is somewhat tainted with a majority of its Executive Board and eight to ten others on its Radio Board having invested money in the venture. Meanwhile, a member of its radio board with a heavy investment in HD equipment in its group largely conducted the tests on its own stations working directly with iBiquity."

"Oh Well, on With the Experiment..."

"The saga continues. It’s remarkable that the development of the IBOC system began well over 20 years ago, yet it still seems to be an ongoing experiment... In their 2008 report, they warned of dire consequences that would ensue from a blanket FM IBOC power increase. They had plenty of statistics to back this up, derived from studies of numerous stations, using sophisticated propagation prediction tools. According to these results, there were some significant interference problems even at the existing –20 dBc power level. But then another study is hastily done, and now we’re told: Oops, our mistake, a blanket increase of 6 dB is actually just fine, and even a 10 dB increase will be okay in most cases."

"FCC OKs Increase in HD Radio Power"

"In effect, this high bar will serve to only bolster the appearance that HD radio does not cause interference because it will be too costly to demonstrate it according to the Media Bureau’s satisfaction, not because listeners aren’t actually experiencing degraded analog radio reception... At this point it will be up to non-HD stations and affected listeners to band together if they have any hope of seeing digital power increases limited or eliminated. However, this seems pretty unlikely to occur, especially amongst listeners."

"Comments of Barry D. McLarnon, P. Eng."

"In short, these results prove little or nothing, and no further results of any consequence have been presented by iBiquity. This is typical of the subterfuge and lack of critical analysis that has been a characteristic of the IBOC system since its early days. It is worth noting that iBiquity and other IBOC proponents had an opportunity to respond to my critique of their test methodology in Reply Comments, but none of them did so."

"New Jersey Broadcasters Association"

"The Commission rejected the pleas of the more ubiquitous analog Class 'A' FMs over 20 years ago, who begged for a meager (3db) power increase to do exactly what HD Radio now prays for; that is, to increase coverage and building penetration. Absent a suspension of reality or a disingenuous application of reason, why should the IBAC stations' request now be granted at the unjustifiable expense of the remaining 80+% of analog FMs that have faithfully served their communities and proven their vitality through the immutable test of time. It is not only inequitable, it is dangerous."

"IBOC Interference"

"I’ve already had situations where a local, non-IBOC station’s signal is quite listenable, but an HD Radio-equipped radio will be taken over by a co-channel (same frequency) station that is running HD Radio from a hundred miles away! This will force listeners with HD Radios to lock them in analog mode, something some of the new radios are not even capable of, even if the clueless consumer would have any idea how to do it in the first place. The radio has no idea that the IBOC carriers are not in any way connected with the analog station the consumer is trying to listen to. This is a basic, fundamental flaw in the HD Radio system that will cause all kinds of grief in the future if IBOC power levels are increased, and the radios are in greater circulation."

"Hogan Keeps an Eye on Noise"

“The biggest challenge to radio reading services has been HD Radio, Hogan said. We made the decision to place our service on an HD channel, but there have been a lot of radio reading services eliminated as stations go HD and do multiple programming to utilize the full 200 kHz of spectrum.”

HD Radio: Deficiencies

2011-01-14T04:47:00.008-05:00

"An Interview With: Robert J. Struble"

"How was iBiquity launched? It started out essentially as a science project formed by some radio groups back in the early 90s... The core staffing of the business came out of Westinghouse’s defense business which was based in Linthicum, Md. We took some world class engineers from the defense business and formed the company... Back then to call it a science project would have been an insult to scientists... We’re making this stuff up as we go along, which is exciting."

"A Smart Choice Of HD-2 Formats"

"One of HD-2's challenges seems just to be staying on the air. At DCRTV.com, Dave Hughes gave Clear Channel's eRockster (now heard on WWDC's multicast channel) a plug only to note the next day (July 12) that it was off the air, as was WTOP's HD-3 traffic/weather channel. That's an experience I've had with many of New York's HD-2 channels as well, by the way. What's even more pathetic about the 'here-one-day-and-gone-the-next' status of local HD Radio channels is that I'm probably the only one who's noticing the absences, Hughes writes."

"DaySequerra Targets HD Radio Time Alignment Drift"

"President David Day in the announcement described the product as a solution to one of the most nagging problems facing HD Radio station engineers today — drift of time alignment between the analog and HD-1 audio... While the original algorithm can correlate audio that is already within 300 ms of alignment, the new TimeLock algorithm is capable of resolving up to 14 seconds of program diversity and is much more robust against processing differences and other artifacts.”

"HD Radio Self-Noise"

"An HD Radio station's digital sidebands may interfere with reception of its own analog signal in two ways. First, intermodulation products generated by FM detection of the sidebands may overlap the analog signal. Interference also may occur when the stereo decoder demodulates the digital sidebands along with the stereo subchannel signal. Because the digital subcarriers are numerous and their data randomized, analog detection yields noise. This article addresses this form of HD Radio self-noise."

"Best Implementation Scenario"

"Spectral regrowth can happen when HD Radio 'sidebands' mix with the primary carrier frequency and create spurious signals on second, third and fourth adjacent channels. The transmitter isolation issue involves the need to keep the analog FM signal out of the HD Radio transmitter where it can create spectral re-growth problems. Isolators can be used to increase the isolation to the HD Radio transmitter, but the initial estimates on the amount of isolation required to prevent spectral regrowth appeared to be off by an order of 10 dB or so. Additionally, finding an isolator with sufficient power handling and isolation in the time frame we needed was questionable."

"IBOC in the Canadian FM Radio Environment"

"For a variety of reasons relating to the time requirements for digital signal processing, it takes 8-10 seconds for the digital audio signals to be heard when an HD Radio receiver is first tuned to a transmission. Likewise, it can take equally long to restore digital quality when the signal fails and then returns again. A secondary consequence of this processing delay is that programming fed to the analog FM transmitter must be delayed by 8-10 seconds whenever the blending feature is being utilized. This ensures that content is not lost when the receiver switches back to analog mode during a digital signal failure. Stations using this technology may need to implement certain internal operational changes to accommodate the fact that off-air listeners will experience delays of up to 10 seconds with both the analog and digital versions of their programming. Since no analog program version exists for ancillary HD2 or HD3 programming, listeners experiencing digital failures must simply tolerate audio outages until the signal restores itself."

"HD Radio set to botch its first impression"

"It is patently stupid to tack on HD stations to existing analog frequences (as in 98.5-1, 98.5-2, 98.5-3) and then put three different things on those frequencies... Furthermore, the names are so incredibly clunky, moving newfangled digital radio strongly in the direction of even clunkier HAM radio. It's a confusing mass of digits, decimals, and dashes. We would be better off reconceptualizing the entire dial and taking this opportunity to simplify it across the board. For example (and brace yourself), how about numbering our stations 1 to 100? If this sounds like Satellite Radio, just remember HD Radio was your idea, not mine."

"I-Bust or H-Doomed"

"In these trying times, it should be pointed out that in most cases adding IBOC dramatically increases electric bills. I did three build-outs in Indianapolis and it almost doubled the power bills for the transmitter sites. Multiply this across the board and it is untold thousands of dollars a day going up in heat. If IBOC carriers were turned off, a lot of jobs could be saved with that money."

HD Radio: Retailers

2011-01-11T18:43:00.009-05:00

"Business Neophytes Share Perils"

"Three years ago in North Sioux City, South Dakota, a husband and wife launched the company Radiosophy to produce high definition radios. But after suffering setback after setback, they say their story is something of a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs. Bill Billings and Sue Nail struck out on their own with the goal of living the American dream. They thought they'd create their own business, building and selling lots of high-definition radios, and live happily ever after. But it hasn't exactly worked out that way."

"Radiosophy HD100 — HD Sounds, But At What Cost?"

"Remember those crappy $15 AM/FM/cassette radios from the 80s? The HD100 looks just like one and has the sound to match. Basically a glorified clock radio, it has a chintzy, careless interface with speakers that spew a tinny unrefined sound. And while carefully tuning the HD stations results in an audible improvement over analog alternatives, the overall quality is still poor — even for a $100 device. Frankly we’d be happier keeping our money and sitting in silence."

"Digital update"

"Radio Shack has every one of its house-brand HD Radio units on clearance, if they are still in stock. This means Radio Shack is essentially out of the HD Radio business. A shame, since the Shack was one of the early supporters."

"Why is HD Radio a colossal failure?"

"Went to Radio Shack (after all radio is, or was, in their name) the clerk was clueless….same at Fred Meyer electronics, and at Target. Finally, decided to go to the mother of all electronics stores (in fact I think an ad had mentioned them) Best Buy. Assuming with all the radio promotion there would be a cool end-aisle display with a few models and styles of HD radios to pick from. Roamed the store once with no luck, and with more intensity took a second walk through."

"Crawford Broadcasting: The Local Oscillator"

"Whatever happened to the big HD-R receiver rollout at Wal-Mart?.. This rollout has not happened in Western New York, and chances are, not in your market either. In fact, recently while Christmas shopping with my wife, I stopped in several national chain electronics retailers inquiring about HD-R receivers. Of the three I checked, Circuit City, Best Buy and Radio Shack, only one had an HD receiver in stock, and it was not even displayed along with all of the other receivers offered for sale. Someone has to pick up the ball and get the public educated and interested in HD-R, or 1,797 stations have made a very poor investment into the future of radio."

"Half Dead Radio"

"My guess is that those few viewers you may get during your HD Radio snake oil sales hour will be waiting for your pitch to end and Joan Rivers’ artificial overpriced baubles sale to begin. Peter, the phone didn’t ring. It must be all the American people interested in HD Radio. What’s the pitch? HD Radio is just like HD TV without the picture?"

"HD Radio: Stunts and symbols at your expense"

"So that means your station is advertising QVC for free so that the HD Digital Alliance can pull a promotional stunt with 30 minutes of cable prime timed to coincide with the kickoff of the NAB radio show... How does that make you feel? What does it do to the perception of radio's value when we squander it on bartered stunts like this?"

"RadioShack's Inadequate Accurian"

"One look underneath the base of an Accurian explains its $200 price tag. There, a sticker reads: 'HD Radio Technology Under License From iBiquity Digital Corporation.' Instead of developing a radio capable of superior sound quality, I'm guessing that RadioShack paid iBiquity a fortune for the license, cheaply put together a subpar product, and passed the licensing cost on to consumers."

"HD Radio: Still low in priority at stores"

"I visited a Best Buy the other day, and while I was there I stopped in the auto sound department. He took me to the display wall and showed me the one unit that had HD Radio built in. It was a model from JVC. He said that others were HD Radio ready, but they all required an expensive interface to add HD Radio."

"Are you waiting in line for your HD radio?"

"If you lower the price enough, folks will buy the radio. That's the belief about HD radio that is being stoked in our industry. And, of course, it's wrong."

HD Radio: SATRAD

2011-01-10T13:05:00.001-05:00

"FCC Inquiry on Mandate for HD Radio on Sirius"

"That last issue, the FCC statutory authority to adopt rules in this area, is a general question considered in several other recent FCC proceedings... Rules requiring that equipment manufacturers take certain actions have run into problems in the Court of Appeals in the recent past as the FCC has only limited jurisdiction over such manufacturers..."

"Statement of Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate"

"However, many commenters, particularly those in the automobile industry oppose a government mandate requiring inclusion of HD chips in all radios, and the resulting increase in cost... Without exception, the auto manufacturers I spoke with urged the Commission to forbear from imposing an HD chip requirement. Their estimate of the cost per car was, on average, two, three, or four times the cost suggested by iBiquity... Thus, I believe the proper path for the Commission to take is to review the issue, along with the price cap, in three years."

"DOJ Approves Sirius/XM Merger"

"The statement also dismisses claims by HD Radio that a merged Sirius and XM would exclude competing technology from car stereos and other equipment."

"Ford Slams HD Radio Inclusion Proposal"

"In an interesting move, Ford Motor Company has come out against a proposed rule that would require all satellite receivers to include HD radio capabilities. The position Ford is taking is interesting because Ford was one of the first major auto makers to announce a deal with HD Radio for installations of HD technology their cars."

"Association of International Automobile Manufacturers"

"AIAM opposes a mandate that HD radio features be integrated into satellite radio receivers or vice versa. Such a requirement would, among other things, impose significant new engineering burdens on vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers, as well as significant unnecessary costs on consumers and the industry... A minimum of three to four years lead-time would be required to complete all of the necessary design, testing, and approval processes, assuming that no unexpected complications were to arise that could further lengthen the estimated period."

"Ex Parte Notice of General Motors and Toyota"

"We are writing jointly on behalf of our two companies, General Motors Corporation and Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc. to express the opposition of our companies to suggestions that the Federal Communications Commission should require the incorporation of HD radio technology in any satellite radio receiver as a condition of approval of the proposed merger of XM and Sirius Satellite Radio."

"Pioneer says HD Radio succcess should be decided by open market"

"IBiquity, the company behind HD Radio, is making enemies all over the place, the latest of which is Pioneer. The Japan-based corp, which makes the popular Inno, recently told the FCC [PDF] that iBiquity's scheme to force satellite radio manufacturers to include HD Radio playback is absurd. The iBiquity conditions would limit the breadth of radio product offerings to consumers, limit which radio component suppliers’ products be designed into radios, have the effect of decreasing AM/FM tuning performance, unnecessarily increase costs to consumers uninterested in HD Radio and interfere with the useful and healthy free market mechanisms extant in radio electronics purchases."

“You don’t want HD Radio’s Bilk-o in your foxhole”

“How would you like it if one you believed to be a business partner did an about face and supported the very thing your industry is fighting against? Memo to terrestrial radio: iBiquity and the HD Radio Alliance just double-crossed you... The dynamic duo closed their dismal year by firing off a letter to the FCC on December 20 urging that if the merger between XM and Sirius satellite radio companies is approved – HD Radios must be included in all satellite receivers.”

HD Radio: Worldwide

2011-01-05T16:10:00.011-05:00

"iBiquity's International Marketing Diminished"

"This little blurb in a trade publication notes the fact that HD Radio's point-man for global sales is stepping down. He is not being replaced; the company is construing this as (yet another) cost-cutting move. Regardless of the veracity of this statement, it can't bode well for a digital radio protocol that has no real traction outside of the United States - and very little domestically to boot. One might look at this as another throe in the agonizing death that HD Radio is undergoing."

"HD Going Global?"

"There's a lot of white on the map. I didn't color in those countries which have already chosen or are actively testing non-HD Radio broadcast standards (much of Asia and Western Europe, including countries like the UK and Germany). Much of the industrialized world is simply out of play. In addition, many countries (especially in Africa, eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East) have simply not thought much about making a digital radio transition as of yet - analog works just fine for them for now, thanks."

"Digital Radio Wobbles Around the World"

"My personal mission was to warn as many other countries away from casting their fates with iBiquity's HD Radio platform, as it not only carries a plethora of technical risks, but it may decimate community radio stations as we know them. Fortunately, this was an easy job: the Europeans can see through the snake-oil that is HD Radio, and the general consensus of the workshop was that HD should be opposed at every step... However, this is not stopping iBiquity from trying to break into international markets... iBiquity sees these as ripe markets, where the 'no-pain, some-gain' mantra of HD's biggest selling-point may sway the less-informed."

"Swiss HD Radio apparently before"

"The planned introduction of HD radio technology in Switzerland faces the off according to a media report... It was said the Group of HD Radio initiators would have planned common start assuming an organizer mitziehe in Zurich. Because here no station for HD radio project was to inspire is the joint launch for this year in the water like, said the industry service according to Rouss. A common start individual or later is although possible, to opinions at the moment but anything. At the request of 'persoenlich.com', he added however that the HD chapter had been completed for him personally."

"Mexico approving HD Radio"

"COFETEL did mention the decision regarding the voluntary use of IBOC does not prevent the continued evaluation of other broadcasting technologies in other bands of frequencies assigned to broadcasting.”

"Mexico OK's HD Radio For Stations Near U.S. Border"

May 21, 2008 - "Mexico's Federal Telecommunications Commission (CoFeTel) is authorizing radio stations within 320 kilometers, or about 200 miles, of the Mexico-U.S. border to begin broadcasting in HD Radio."

"Mexico Says Hang on a Minute!"

"Mexico wants U.S. radio regulators to re-think their decision to allow AMs to go IBOC at night and FMs to operate on the extended hybrid digital carriers. Our neighbors to the south say they are not happy the FCC authorized its recent 'final' IBOC rules governing broadcast transmissions without first coordinating those through international treaties."

"Why is HD in the US not catching on?"

"However, in order to have a comprehensive analysis of the benefits of the digitalization, we should also address some business issues. Indeed, we are trying to figure out why HD Radio is not catching on with the US public. And here is where I would like to ask you for some help. I would really appreciate if I could have your opinion on that or even have some references to other sources of information. Your comments would be very important for us."

"Brazil to opt for DRM?"

"Until recently all signs indicated that they were going to opt for Ibiquity’s HD Radio, the standard used in the United States, but it now appears that Digital Radio Mondiale, or DRM, is gaining favour... iBiquity ’s buiness model in the US involves charging licence fees to broadcasters. Fees start at about $10,000 annually and rise as more features are added to the basic package. DRM is an open standard and available for free... iBiquity is taking the DRM threat very seriously and the company’s president , Robert Struble, has writen a 'carta aos amigos brasileiros' seeking to clarify some incorrect notions about his company’s technology."

"Latin America, Future of Digital Radio is Murky"

“If digital radio has not found a market in the United States, with a population of 300 million, then what chance do we have in Argentina with a population of only 40 million, wondered Juan Fernández, director of Radio Mi País, an AM station on 1170 kHz."

"Canada in Digital Radio Limbo"

"However, Canadian broadcasters are not moving to add HD Radio services, preferring instead to stick with analog AM and FM... Meanwhile, HD Radio — the iBiquity Digital in-channel, on-band (IBOC) system — has been authorized for experimental FM broadcasts in Canada since 2006. Yet, despite the willingness of the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission to fast-track licenses in this format, not one broadcaster has come to us to request one, said CRTC Vice Chair Michel Arpin."

"IBOC in the Canadian FM Radio Environment"

“Based on the evidence currently in hand, the DRCG considers that it would be risky for Canadian broadcasters to proceed at this time with an unrestricted roll-out of HD Radio services in the FM band, in the manner implemented in the US. There is no ground-swell of radio listener interest in this technology so far and the lack of inexpensive receivers, as well as unique new programming services, continues to make it difficult to market HD Radio to the public in the US. Moreover, there is no evidence that Canadian digital radio listeners are being lost to the 10% of US FM stations that have implemented HD Radio to date.”

"Digital radio in Canada"

"The only comprehensive technical comments came from the CBC. They stated that AM-IBOC would create a serious degradation in sound quality for existing AM stations (all AM stations, not just the ones adopting IBOC). They also state that due to interference concerns, IBOC transmission at night is not practical."

"Eureka: Reaching out to the World DMB Community"

"After several tests and trials on digital broadcasting technologies including DAB and IBOC in 2006, media broadcasters and the industry have seen that DAB and DVB would be the best-suited systems to be applied in Indonesia. Up to now, the largest public-radio network – RRI (RadioRepublik Indonesia), is running a successful trial broadcast on DAB in Jakarta as well as testing the DRM technology – and experiencing minimum troubles."

"Digital Car Radio Secrets Revealed"

"Commercial Radio Australia says that HD Radio will not be available in Australia as it has already been rejected by the Australian commercial radio industry and public broadcasters... Our AM spacing in Australia is 9Khz. The US HD radio technology operates on 10kHz channel spacing, so the technology would need major upgrade if it ever to be suitable for digital radio services in Australia and indeed much of Asia, she said. Currently the USA HD model switches off at 4.00 pm to allow broadcasters in the AM Band to avoid co-channel interference in markets several 100 kilometres away. HD radio was rejected by the industry as it would have disadvantaged some of the most successful radio operators in Australia, added Warner."

"World's first DRM+ broadcasts go on-air in Germany"

"It is also reported that there will be trials of the US-based HD Radio system in the FM band in Germany as well, although I've seen another German report which said that the HD Radio system failed to meet the interference criteria for transmitting in the FM band -- i.e. HD Radio stations would interfere too much with existing FM stations -- so whether HD Radio stands a chance of being used I don't know, but I would doubt it. The European receiver manufacturers certainly wouldn't be keen on supporting yet another standard if they can help it due to the additional licensing costs that would be incurred, and the fact that HD Radio is a proprietary system wouldn't help matters. Also, HD Radio only has a very limited amount of support -- just the odd radio station in a few countries -- so I can't personally see how it stands a chance of building up the momentum required to compete against DAB+, as that has a lot of support from around the world."

HD Radio: Commercials

2011-01-04T11:16:00.019-05:00

"HD Radio Alliance's Advertising On Radio Fading"

"For a few weeks now, it's become obvious that one of the most advertised products on radio for the past few years, the HD Radio Alliance, is no longer even close to that description."

“HD Radio’s New Campaign”

“In a sort of snarky approach, the campaign features a humanized radio talking to his owner about why HD Radio product is so attractive and not worth the bother. But in the process, traditional radio is repositioned as old-fashioned, repetitive, and lame… You have to hear these commercials a few times before you really get a basic understanding of what they’re trying to accomplish, while they throw AM/FM Radio under the bus.”

"HD Radio Ads Combat Perceptions"

"Research tells us that consumers think they are listening to HD Radio because the promos on the station say `broadcasting in HD Radio', a spokesperson said. The new ads will continue educating consumers that they need a new receiver to enjoy the HD experience. All ads therefore will incorporate the tag, 'If you don’t have an HD, you’re not hearing HD. It’s time to upgrade.'”

"Jean/iTunesTagging/Pirates”

"It appears the HD radio is infinite, like the stars or head lice. Can one man discover it all? Christopher Columbus, I pray to you for guidance. I will hold vigil in the backseat, listen to the show tune and await your sign. Come first light, onward."

"The radio ads for HD Radio (or 'What the ??')"

"I’m sure you’ve heard the latest round of radio spots for HD Radio. The school teacher-sounding woman who compares HD Radio to the mating cycle of an insect, or the feeding habits of a bat, or some other bizarre idea... But these ads are just strange. I mean really strange... When I am in the car with someone not in broadcasting and one of these spots is played, I ask the person with me what he or she thinks. Most of the time the reply is, 'I don’t get it', or 'What was that all about?'"

"Is HD The Answer To Radio's Youth Exodus?"

"At R&R's Keeping Radio Relevant for Tomorrow's Listeners round-table discussion held Aug. 17 in Los Angeles, participant Larry Rosin, co-founder/president of Edison Media Research, admitted, 'I did a study on HD radio, and the women were laughing. They were literally mocking the commercials.'"

"Nothing's Sexier Than Smooth Jazz on HD Radio!"

"Chocolates and roses again? Been there, gotten that! Tell her you really love her with the clear and dulcet tones of Smooth Jazz on HD Radio. It's so Romantic! WHAT: This Valentine's Day, be with the one you love: HD Radio. Listen and relax with the likes of peaceful Kenny G, silky Sade and Benson and the soulful Marvin Gaye. These multicast stations, among many others, are providing some of the best romantic smooth jazz ballads to make your special day a little sweeter: WHY: Because meeting Smooth Jazz on HD Radio was fate, becoming HD Radio's friend was a simple and easy choice, but falling in love with Smooth Jazz on HD Radio, now that's a perfect Love Story. WHEN: Right now!"

"Radio Finally Starts to Go Def"

"To the rhythm of slapping skin, a male hillbilly voice performs a new kind of music called 'rural rump slap', including the lyric 'I'm white trash and I slap you in the ass, I just slapped your momma in my GED class. Rural rump slap rap: You can't hear that on regular radio. But you can on HD.'"

"HD Radio commercial"

“Hey, its your radio talking, you know the old guy! Heard you got a new HD radio? Now you don’t even look at me! You want to hear everything crystal clear. You don’t want to hear between the stations? May be I could hit the gym and try some of those new stations you are into?... Remember those lonely nights, long drive, you and me? I would sing you non-stop, and you don’t talk, just listen… Hey, I see you got a new HD radio by my side. Here I am laying all my buttons for you, but you don’t touch my buttons anymore. Don’t you like my buttons??”

"Commercial Pick"

"So, I was driving along and this song came on the radio that I like. I push a button and my radio records my preference on my ipod, which then tells my computer and my itunes that I want to buy it. I mean, this is great, I have a ton of new songs and all, but isn’t it a little creepy, all my appliances talking about me? I mean, my shower has seen me naked. What is it telling my toaster?”

HD Radio: Alternatives

2011-01-03T11:07:00.003-05:00

"Road-Testing the FMeXtra"

"In summary, FMeXtra is an economical and quick way for an FM station to add additional programming channels and to begin digital broadcasting. The system, which caught the attention of many attendees, requires the purchase of an $8,900 encoder that can be installed in less than an hour’s time, on average. There are no licensing fees to use the FMeXtra system."

"FMeXtra: Another On-Channel Solution"

"Eventually DRE asked the NRSC to reactivate the DAB subcommittee. Early on, we saw that IBOC was going nowhere as long as there were multiple proponents, and even in the best estimates, it would be many years before there would be any return on investment. So we decided to license our patent portfolio for use in IBOC to USA Digital Radio, which eventually merged with Lucent’s IBOC group to form Ibiquity. We are an Ibiquity shareholder... There is no significant difference in spectrum occupancy between the 'extended hybrid' mode of IBOC today and these earlier systems, which were deemed by the NRSC and others to be incompatible with the host analog FM signal."

"Catholic Radio listening in Central Indiana"

"A special $20 radio, tuned to Catholic Radio Indy! The Metrosonix MS Y2K S is an FM radio that also has a setting tuned to the FM Subcarrier signal from a local classical radio station that now carries our programming, too! This same technology has been used for many years by the 'background music industry'—think Muzak —to deliver music to stores and businesses in large areas."

"AM Stereo"

"AM Stereo is still in use today all over the world. It's been discovered that many HD-Radios available now also decode C-quam AM Stereo!"

DAB: Worldwide

2011-01-02T16:21:00.026-05:00

Google Trends

"BBC chief acknowledges DAB flop"

"BBC Trust Chairman Michael Lyons has called for a review of its radio strategy - acknowledging the failure of DAB and the Corporation's neglect of internet radio. It's a call for a new direction that comes from the top - but some of his executives might need to be dragged kicking and screaming into the 21st Century."

"The Digital One DAB radio multiplex"

"Its monopoly over the DAB infrastructure is valuable in itself, even if the capacity is mostly unused. Its gatekeeper role enables it to push its own digital services to listeners, at the expense of competitors and potential competitors. High carriage fees for external users will quickly put them out of business. Listeners will lap up its own controlling shareholder’s content on the DAB platform, however little is invested in its production (one computer + 100 CDs = digital radio station). Control of a broadcast platform is alone sufficient to create a profitable monopolistic business."

"DAB radio: now you hear it, now you don't"

"This would not be the first time that the marketing of DAB radio in the UK has come under legal scrutiny for potentially misleading consumers. In 2004, Ofcom banned an advertisement broadcast on London station Jazz FM which had claimed falsely that DAB radio offers consumers CD-quality sound. In 2005, the Advertising Standards Authority upheld a complaint against DAB multiplex owner Switchdigital for a misleading radio advert which had claimed that DAB radio was distortion free and crystal clear."

"Digital radio: a European update"

"In Austria, it is understood that the private and public stakeholders in DAB held an emergency meeting on 17 July to discuss the fall-out from the German decision... Meanwhile, back in Germany, the Financial Times ran a story today headlined 'Digital radio fails in Germany'. Asked about the prospects there for DAB radio, Hans-Dieter Hillmoth, deputy head of the German private broadcasters association (VPRT) said bluntly: 'Currently there is no viable business model'. The article noted that, after ten years of DAB in Germany, only 600,000 DAB radios have been sold. In neighbouring Switzerland, it is anticipated that 300,000 DAB radios will have been sold by year-end. DAB radio receiver manufacturers, including the UK’s Pure, had expected to sell 300 million units in Germany. Asked what importance it attached to the German DAB market, global audio manufacturer Pioneer commented 'absolutely none', and it added that the death of traditional analogue radio receivers is absolutely not in sight."

"SWITZERLAND: five of eight DAB+ licences unused"

"Yesterday, five out of eight broadcast licences issued in Switzerland for DAB+ radio expired without their owners having launched the promised digital stations. According to the Klein Report, only three DAB+ stations – Open Broadcast, Radio Eviva and Swiss Mountain Holiday Radio – are now on-air, the latter having launched on yesterday’s deadline."

"Singapore broadcaster to drop DAB"

"Singapore’s digital radio stations beaming 'CD-quality' music over the airwaves will be shut down next month, when MediaCorp pulls the plug on the once highly-touted digital audio broadcasting (DAB) technology."

"Portugal: DAB digital radio switched off"

"On 1 June 2011, Rádio e Televisão de Portugal [RTP], the state broadcaster in Portugal, instructed Anacom, the national transmission provider, to switch off all DAB radio transmitters."

"YLE Closes Down DAB Radio Services"

"The Finnish Broadcasting Company-YLE is suspending its DAB digital broadcasting services as commercial operators have shown no interest in the medium."

"Norway: digital radio switchover postponed indefinitely"

"In November 2010, a daily newspaper in Denmark reported that the government’s plan for digital radio switchover had been postponed indefinitely. Now, the same is reported to have happened in Norway. The transition from analogue to digital radio began more than ten years ago. At the end of 2010, we still have no idea what is going on, said the headline in Norwegian daily newspaper Aftenposten."

"DENMARK: DAB radio: we do not use it here!"

"DAB radio: we do not use it here!, said the headline in daily newspaper Ekstra Bladet last month, noting that the proposed digital radio switchover in Denmark has been postponed indefinitely."

"Sweden Resumes DAB Interest"

"The Swedish government halted digital radio investments in 2005 due to low consumer response. However, interest in digital radio remains... Though the old DAB network is still in operation, few listeners have shown interest. Observers blame the limited range of program channels and limited coverage area."

"FRANCE: digital radio already dead?"

"After ten years of DAB radio development in the UK, precisely the same question needs to be answered here as is being asked in France this week: Why has nobody published a realistic economic model for digital terrestrial radio which demonstrates convincingly that it is financially worthwhile? Perhaps because one does not exist?"

"Austria: media regulator puts DAB radio on hold"

"ORF, Austrian state radio, technical director Peter Moosmann commented that the time was not yet 'ripe' for the introduction of digital radio and he rejected the notion of planned FM switch-off. In every Austrian household, there are four or five radio sets that would need to be replaced with one blow, he said. We do not want to force the listener to switch, but want to entice them to digital radio with the appeal of new radio formats."

"Listeners give digital radio a poor reception"

"It was billed as the future of broadcasting: pristine reception, loads of stations, and scrolling text displaying song titles and news headlines. But two years after its introduction, digital radio accounts for just 7.6 per cent of radio listening time in Australia, according to figures from Commercial Radio Australia."

"Finalist Fiascos: DAB, the digital radio"

"The estimated investment on digital radio has been of 50 million euros in Spain, an amount that got to 350 million thanks to the help of the other six European countries that believed in this technology. In Catalonia the fiasco was accomplished in November 2008, when after ten years without an audience, the Corporació Catalana de Mitjans Audiovisuals -the Public Catalan Media Corporation- brought digital radio broadcasting to a halt."

"DAB radio is no longer a replacement”

"The Canadian government has published a consultation that proposes to re-allocate radio spectrum previously used for DAB radio to fixed and mobile wireless devices. The consultation document narrates the story of the failure of DAB radio in Canada... The Canadian government’s policy that DAB radio is no longer a replacement for analogue AM and FM services follows on from US policy in debate that FM radio will be the universal radio platform to be included in all mobile phone handsets."

"Death of Digital Radio Mondiale in 2008 as well?"

"From both formal and informal discussions among participants at the HFCC, it is now clear that the proposed DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale) system, that would have converted analogue Shortwave to digital, FM like quality reception would hardly be implemented if ever on a large scale, beyond the current experimental stage."

"AM HD Radio versus DRM"

"Unfortunately DRM shares many of the same flaws as DAB and HD Radio technology: Shorter broadcast distance as compared to analog AM signal when in hybrid mode; poor reception inside vehicles and buildings; and interference with adjacent channels."