What exactly is a high-definition radio and how does it compare to satellite broadcasting?
You may have noticed that more and more ads promote new things you have never heard of before: HD Radio. They say you can hear "undiscovered content" and digital quality audio. You may even have heard the best part of the entire ad, "no subscription fees!"
Let me help you learn about HD Radio. I will try to keep it simple and provide you with all the information you need in as few technical terms as possible.
HD is not high definition
First of all, you may have heard of HDTV. If you haven't heard of it, I guess you live in a cave. HD radios are different from HDTVs. HD in HDTV stands for high definition. Don't mistake it for the same in HD Radio, because HD in this context means mixing numbers.
However, it provides better radio transmission than standard radio signals. Some HD stations transmit 5.1 surround sound digital audio signals for a true concert-like experience. You can be sure that there will be more stations in the future to choose this type of transmission.
Digital and subchannel
HD Radio allows various radio stations to broadcast digital information over FM or AM frequencies. In addition, these digital transmissions can be transmitted on many subchannels, allowing approximately three stations per frequency. This will triple the number of stations you might listen to on HD Radio. You ask, what would it look like on the display?
Typically, the standard AM / FM radio will display the following: FM 104.7
On HD radio, it will appear as: FM 104.7 HD-1 or 104.7 HD-2 [each HD-X represents a subchannel]
According to reports, as of 2007, the signal quality is close to the CD-quality audio of the FM channel, which is a huge leap in the radio industry. However, AM frequencies are highly unlikely to experience this improvement because AM operates on a much smaller frequency band. Think of it as a hose. Smaller garden hoses do not provide as much water as fire department hoses; unfortunately, AM is the smaller garden hose.
Advances in digital technology
When tuning to these HD channels, there were static and disruptive reports and complaints in the early stages of HD Radio [2006]. However, this technology has made significant progress over the past two years and has improved signal quality and isolation. Don't worry too much about quality loss unless you use the AM channel.
You may also have heard that the FCC [Federal Communications Commission] has initiated the process of making outdated analog radio and television transmissions. What does this mean for you? Ok, you can be sure that only improvements will be made. Unfortunately, this means that most standard AM/FM radios will become obsolete in the next few years and may force you to purchase new HD radios for your vehicle or home.
Comparison with satellite broadcasting
price
If you cancel before the end of the contract [if you sign up for a "reduce" contract subscription], then the Satellite requires a monthly subscription fee [$10 to $15/month], activation fee and cancellation fee. To receive satellite radio signals [whether Sirius or XM], you need a special antenna and satellite radio, whether it is a built-in satellite tuner or a regular satellite, there is no built-in tuner [the tuner still needs and sold separately]]]. Depending on your needs [additional tuner or antenna, etc.], it is expected to cost only $150 to $300 on the device.
HD radio is completely free. You only need to spend money on the receiver itself. Just like satellite radio, you can get a built-in HD tuner in the meter receiver or you can get them separately [if you already have a HD Ready host]. Either way, they are more affordable, for a total of $100 to $200*.
*Please note that these are minimal outlines and do not take into account other features that you may need to use the radio [ie Bluetooth, USB support, 3.5mm auxiliary input, navigation, etc.]. They also did not consider labor and parts due to changes in each type of vehicle.
Quality and coverage
The advantage of satellite broadcasting is coverage. You can drive from Los Angeles to New York City and listen to the same site throughout the length of your trip. Satellite radio is also more focused on their radio than HD radio. For example, there are specific channels for comedy or sports. Satellite radio is also free for business because you pay for it.
HD Radio is locally local. You can listen to it on a local metro station and don't have the same coverage as the satellites as illustrated above. Although HD stations are more like any typical non-professional radio station, they may do something similar to satellite broadcasting in the future.
Both HD and satellite broadcasts are broadcast in digital quality audio. At this point, one has no significant advantage because it is susceptible to interference and static electricity as a radio type of transmission and reception. Don't be confused by the word "satellite." Because of this fact.
If you're trying to keep up with current technology but want to save money, upgrading to HD Radio is not that bad. Most well-known brands like JVC, Eclipse and Kenwood are producing HD Radio Ready in-dash receivers, forcing you to get extra accessories. Only a handful of companies like Dual and JVC [again] are marketing built-in HD radio tuners.
If you choose to listen to the selection and are not too concerned about the costs associated with satellite broadcasting, then sometimes you should choose a Sirius or XM radio. Many famous brands such as Sony, Alpine and Pioneer sell both SAT Ready and built-in satellite tuner receivers, so you should not have problems finding these products.
Of course, you can choose. But one thing is for sure. Digital technology is rapidly evolving and becoming the standard for audio and video entertainment. Analog [or non-digital] technology will be eliminated. You must eventually upgrade to a number. Find out what you like and test them. Sometimes the best on the market may not be the best. I wish you a good luck in the digital revolution!
Orignal From: HD radio (hybrid digital) and satellite broadcast - coverage, price and technology
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