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What is HD radio and how it compares with satellite radio?

You've probably noticed a growing number of advertisements that are promoting this new thing you've never heard before: HD Radio. They say that the game "contents unknown" and the digital audio quality. You've probably heard the best part of all the publicity, "no subscription fee!

Let me help you learn a bit of HD Radio. I'll try to keep things simple so that gives allinformation you need as little jargon as possible.

HD is not HD

Firstly, is likely to have heard of HDTV and have not heard, I suppose you live in a cave. HD Radio is not the same as HDTV. HDTV stands for high definition. Do not confuse this even in HD HD Radio, because in this context means Hybrid Digital.

However, the radio transmission offers better than standard radio signals. Some radio HDstations transmit signals in 5.1 surround sound digital audio, allowing you to enjoy a true concert experience. You can be sure that more stations opt for this mode of transmission in the future.

Digital channels and sub-

HD Radio allows many stations to transmit digital information through the FM or AM frequencies. In addition, these digital communications may be sent to many sub-channels, allowing about three stations by frequency. Thistripling the number of stations that could listen to HD radio. What is on the screen, you ask?

In general, the standard AM / FM radios will display the following: 104.7 FM

HD radio, are as follows: 104.7 104.7 FM HD-1 HD-2 (one with HD-X indicates a sub-channel)

Since 2007, the signal quality is reported to be near CD quality audio on the FM band, which is a huge leap in the radio sector. However, it is highly unlikely thatAM frequencies to experience this improvement, which operates on the AM band much lower. Think of it as a pipe. A smaller pipe garden could not provide the quantity of water hose and fire department, unfortunately, MO is smaller than the garden hose.

Advances in digital technology

There were reports and allegations contained in the initial stages of HD Radio (2006) of static and interference when setting the HD channels. However, technology has advanced significantly inthe last two years and has improved signal quality and isolation. Do not worry about loss of quality if the strings here.

You may also have heard that the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has begun the process of making radio broadcasts and analog TV obsolete. What does this mean for you? Well, you can be sure that the improvements will not be realized. Unfortunately, this means that most of the standard AM / FM radios would become obsolete after a fewyears may be forced to buy a new HD Radio to your car or at home.

Comparison with satellite radio

Price

Satellite requires a monthly subscription ($ 10 - $ 15 / month), activation fee and a cancellation fee if you cancel before your contract is over (if you subscribe to the "reduction of signing the contract.") To receive the satellite radio signal (either Sirius or XM), you need a special antenna and a satellite radio or a satellite has been builtsatellite tuner or a tuner simply not ready (tuner is always required and sold separately). Expect to spend between $ 150 - $ 300 in equipment alone, according to what you need (additional tuner or antenna, etc.) *

HD Radio is free. Just spend the money on the receiver itself. Instar of satellite radio, you might get an HD tuner in the receiver on the shelf, or you could get separately (if you already haveHead of Unit HD Ready). They are much more affordable in any case, it costs between $ 100 - $ 200 *. Total

* Please note that these are generalizations of the minimum and do not include additional features as you can with your radio (eg Bluetooth, USB, 3.5 mm auxiliary input, navigation, etc..) They do not mind parts and labor, each vehicle varies.

The quality and coverage

The advantage of satellite radio is a cover. Youcould lead Los Angeles to New York listening to the station exactly the same throughout the length of the trip. Satellite Radio also tend to specialize in their season of high definition stations. For example, there are specific channels for comedy or sports. Satellite radio is commercial free, because after all they pay for it.

HD Radio is locally focused. You tune in metropolitan and local stations would not have satellite coverage as shown above.While the HD channels are much like any traditional radio stations are not qualified, they may be able to do something similar to satellite radio in the future.

Both HD and satellite radio to broadcast the digital quality audio. At this point, you do not have a significant advantage over others because, as with radio transmission and reception rate is sensitive to interference and static. Do not be fooled by the word "satellite" because of this fact.

If youtry to keep up with current technology, but also want to save money, then go to HD radio is not so bad. Most of the better known brands out there like JVC, Eclipse, Kenwood HD Radio Ready produce dash receivers, which makes it necessary to obtain additional accessories. Only a handful of companies like JVC Double (new) Marketing is HD Radio tuner.

If you are strict with the selection available, and not too concerned about the costs associated with satelliteRadio, then maybe you should opt for Sirius or XM radio. Many popular brands such as Sony, Alpine and Pioneer sell both sat ready and built in tuner satellite receivers, so it should not be a problem in their research.

The choice is yours, of course. One thing is certain, however. Digital technology is changing rapidly and becoming the standard for video and audio entertainment. Analog (or non-digital) technology will be obsolete. Youmust upgrade to digital technology over time. Find out what you like and test them both. Sometimes the best on the market can not be the best for you. Good luck in your digital revolution!

Thanks To - Pioneer Elite VSX-01TXH Receiver Sherwood RX-4105 Stereo

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