This post is about alternatives to the regular terrestrial AM/FM and Digital Audio Broadcasting. It is aimed to make people aware of more powerful radio systems that are already available in forward thinking countries

This article is about DAB Radio – it’s pros and cons. It gives a broader understanding of what’s what in the digital radio business and makes you aware of new systems out there.

Satellite radio is a digital radio and uses communications satellite which covers a lot grater range than terrestrial radio signals. It is strong enough not to need a satellite dish to receive but does require an antenna, which must have a clear view to the satellites (repeaters can be used in tall buildings, bridges or parking garages).

New HD Radios are capable of delivering stereo compatible surround sound formats. There are a few separate and very different surround sound technologies that are competing for adoption by radio stations converting to digital broadcasting.

Firstly HD Radio is a trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation and “HD” is simply a brand name. There is no connection to HDTV or “high definition” terms whatsoever. It does give you enhanced capabilities over the old analog format – such as 5.1 surround sound – but the name was chosen simply for marketing purposes rather than anything else.