We all know about digital TV. A little while ago, the USA made the transition to digital only signals. Thus, all the old analog TVs became non-functional unless one connected a digital converter box.
Little did I know until recently there is a transition to digital radio taking place.
For the moment, analog signals will continue to be transmitted with the digital signals.
This process is also occurring in many other countries with each region adopting their own technology standard.
I have bought one of these gadgets to hear the new technology in action.
Pros:
The sound quality is indeed excellent.
The text information on the display can be informative.
The parallel channels are fun to pick up.
Cons:
The device is somewhat expensive though I would imagine audiophiles with nice stereo setups would enjoy the options available.
Though the number of stations broadcasting with digital signals is expanding, in practice there are only of handful of stations I like to listen to. Some of them haven't gone digital or if they have, the signal strength is insufficient such that the reception defaults to analog.
Outlook:
Radio devices are quite durable, I wonder how often does the average person buy a new radio?
When one does enter the market for a new radio, unless one is an audiophile wanting top notch sound or someone interested in new tech gadgets (like me), the price differential is a barrier to buying a digital capable unit.
Given that much radio listening is done while doing housework, working in the garage, or puttering around the yard, the quality of sound a digital signal could generate may not be worth the extra expense.
Thus, digital radio will remain niche until the price comes down substantially.
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