What Is HD Radio?

HD Radio is the most significant advancement in radio broadcasting since the introduction of FM stereo more than 50 years ago. The new technology allows AM and FM radio stations to broadcast their programs digitally — a tremendous leap from the analog broadcasts of the past.

The technology behind HD Radio allows stations to broadcast higher-quality versions of their normal programming, as well as alternate formats not available on regular radio. And like traditional analog radio, HD Radio doesn’t require any subscription fees.

How does it sound?
Ever wished you could get the same sound quality from your radio as you do from your CDs? Or that your radio signal didn’t fade out just when you wanted to listen to the game? Consider your wish granted. You'll get the kind of sound on your HD Radio that was previously reserved for your HDTV, CD system, or MP3 player. Here’s what else you can look forward to:

• FM stations with CD-quality sound and AM stations with FM-quality sound
• Crystal-clear reception with no distortion
• New music, new sounds
• New artists, genres, and songs
• New programs and formats
• New channels with more talk, news, and music
• More complete sets, full albums, and in-depth interviews

More channels? Alternate formats?
That's right; when you purchase an HD radio, you not only get all the radio stations you currently receive, like WSTW…you will also have access to numerous HD side channels, which also broadcast in CD-quality sound!

WSTW offers you Graffiti Radio, 93.7-2 HD, a modern and indie rock station geared toward 16-30 year olds. Take a listen online at www.graffitiradio.com!

How does it work?
Basically, digital radio works the same as conventional radio. There’s a signal on one end and a receiver on the other. But there are a few key differences:

1. Instead of sending out one analog signal, stations send out a bundled signal — both analog and digital.
2. Because it’s digital, textual data such as traffic, stock info, and song titles can be sent out as well.
3. The digital signal layer is compressed.
4. The combined analog and digital signals are transmitted.
5. Radio signals bounce off objects, causing what’s called multipath distortions. This is what causes the static in conventional radio receivers. HD Radio receivers are designed to sort through reflected signals, reducing static, hiss, pops, and fades. Finally, the signals reach their destination. Both broadcasts come to you without any subscription fees. To hear the digital broadcast, all you need is an HD Radio receiver.

Where do I get one?
HD Radio receivers are available wherever electronics are sold…Radio Shack, Best Buy, WalMart, and others are already selling HD radios and more stores are making them easily accessible and affordable.

So, get your HD radio…and experience the difference of listening in HD!