Australians for the first time in history will be able to access digital radio broadcast [DAB / DAB +] through the commercial radio industry from May 2009. Many of us are also streaming high quality radio online with internet radio feeds via our computers.
Access to broadcast digital radio is promising improved quality of sound, better reception and an improved overall audio experience for Aussies listening to their favourite radio stations.
As a result it appears that the poor sound quality and lack of variety in programming, factors that have decreased radio’s appeal in recent years, have had a digital makeover and just might be what entices listeners back as the digital revolution catches up with the media airwaves.
We plan to launch a digitally enhanced radio with the latest DAB / DAB+ technology and WiFi capabilities to provide listeners with the ability to tune into any radio station from around the globe via a wireless network – just take a look at the options here.
The radio will also include a solid interface to guide listeners through the thousands of radio stations now available – something similar to an iTunes menu. Whether you want Hip Hop, Classical, break radio stations down by region, you will be able to search the local and international airwaves for the highest quality listening.
There are now - what seems to be - hundreds of digital radios on the market as manufacturers seek to cash in on demand.
Digital radios now come in all shapes, sizes and at many price points, we here at Kogan wanted to ask people about their views on digital radio and whether you plan to buy one.
I’ve been looking through catalogues on digital and internet radios and most appear to be selling for around and above the $200 mark and I think that is far too much – especially when most don’t offer WiFi, an iPod dock, or an iTunes-like function to search for the best radio stations around Australia and the world.
Our best value “spec for buck” model at this stage would look like this:
- Wi-Fi Digital Radio with iPod docking station
- Internet Radio, Podcasts, PLL FM/AM radio
- DAB / DAB+ Radio
- iPod connectivity with charger function
- USB slot to play music from USB drives
- More than 10,000 internet radio stations pre-programmed, with searches by country, state or genre
- Podcasts with 9,000 programs
- Support Real Audio ,MP3, WMA
- Streaming music directly from your PC
- Clock and Alarm function
- with Music port function (AUX-in connection for iPod or audio speaker)
- Output power: 7W RMS
- Unit Size: 250 x 135 x 130 mm
Do you think digital radio could signal a return to tuning in to the latest news, views and music with top quality audio?
We think digital radio should help revive Australian radio and think anything that adds to our nation’s arts and culture is a good thing, right?
