Analogue radio broadcasting originated in the 1920's with the higher quality Frequency Modulated (FM) being introduced in the 1960's. Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) is the latest progression in sound quality and radio variety and listeners will need to purchase a digital radio to hear DAB broadcasts.
Advantages of a Digital Radio
There are a number of advantages in owning a digital radio rather than an analogue receiver.
- Increase in number of available stations in addition to those being broadcast on analogue
- Screen showing name of station being listened to and information on the programme being broadcast
- No background noise and clearer station reception
- The ability to pause and rewind live radio as well as recording capability
Features to Look For in a Digital Radio
When choosing a Digital Radio there are characteristics to look for when the buyer is making their decision to purchase.
- Relevant buttons for selection of station and volume controls should be smooth and easy to operate
- Display should be of reasonable size and clear to view
- On more expensive models an Electronic Programme Guide is often available. This lists stations and some show a programme guide for the next seven days
- Pause and rewind option allows live broadcast to be halted and resumed by the pressing of a single control
- Recording option is available in higher end of Digital Radio market and operated by the single press of a control button. Recording of future programmes possible by using the Electronic Programme Guide
- Radio clock alarm. The majority of Digital Radios have a built in clock with some having option of one or more alarm settings
- Size and weight of radio to be considered if portability is important to the buyer
Performance Features in a Digital Radio
Regardless of the features of any given Digital Radio, performance is the most important factor of any purchase.
- Quality of digital reception can be affected by the area in which the buyer lives. Postcode checkers are available to ascertain the strength of signal in any given area
- Analogue reception of FM option important in Digital Radio if area reception is poor or some locally based stations are not broadcast on digital
- Buyer should check quality of performance of both speech and music based programming before purchase
- More power is consumed by Digital Radio than analogue due to additional available features. If the buyer wishes to listen in a variety of settings take into account length of battery life
Choosing A Digital Radio
Digital Radio is an exciting addition to radio broadcasting. Time spent investigating features, performance and appropriate cost will enable the buyer to choose a model best suited for their enjoyment of this pleasurable media outlet.
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