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. Using the latest in digital technology, FM stations are able to produce CD-quality sound and AM stations to broadcast with FM quality for a better listening experience.

CBS RADIO introduced its first HD Radio station, New York's WNEW-FM, in 1999. Currently there are more than 75 CBS RADIO stations broadcasting in HD with more being launched every week.

What are some of the other benefits of HD Radio? HD Radio offers advanced new services, including scrolling text on receiver display screens (e.g. artist name and song titles, scores, and stock info); delivery of real-time traffic updates; and multicasting - a feature that allows FM stations to broadcast multiple channels on the same frequency.

Can you further explain how multicasting works? Multicasting let's you hear entirely different stations that aren't on the AM or FM dial. Broader song lists with more music diversity, undiscovered artists and music, new blends and mixes of formats, more talk, more comedy and more news are all possible with this new technology.

CBS RADIO is now multicasting more than 55 secondary formats, including KROQ-FM Xtreme Active Rock in Los Angeles, WBCN-FM Indie & Ultra New Rock in Boston, and KITS-FM Nothing But New Music in San Francisco. WUSN-FM in Chicago was among the first stations in the nation to launch a continuously programmed HD Radio multicast channel. WUSN-FM 99.5 HD-2 features a comprehensive playlist of new music from country's favorite artists and brightest rising stars.

How much does HD Radio cost? Once you own an HD Radio receiver you can receive all of its benefits without having to pay additional fees. Which means that as HD Radio expands, you'll be able to hear two or three times as many radio stations for FREE, just like today's analog AM and FM radio.

Will HD Radio change how I hear my already favorite stations? No. Even without an HD Radio receiver, you'll still be able to listen to your preferred music, news, sports and personality formatted stations.

How can I purchase an HD Radio Receiver? Several manufacturers are producing HD Radio receivers, including Radiosophy, Polk and Boston Acoustics. CLICK HERE to learn about some of the HD Radios that are on the market today.

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