Saturday, 26 October 2019

The switch to DAB+ - rescan and retune

Radio X has just made the switch from DAB to DAB+ prompting some listeners to vent their frustration saying they are having to change station as their device or car radio is incompatible.

For the uninitiated, DAB+ is essentially just upgraded technology that makes more efficient use of the available spectrum allowing more stations to broadcast. DAB+ services can transmit up to three times more data meaning higher quality audio and a more reliable signal.

DAB+ is already standard in Australia and parts of Europe but despite the roaring success of digital radio in the UK we're still behind on this front. That said, any device bought new since 2013 is compatible so a simple rescan will be sufficient in these cases.

Cars are a different kettle of fish and present a risk for stations but they would say the benefits outweigh the risk. There'll be people driving incompatible old bangers for at least another decade.

I think any retune campaign needs significant time. Frankly, normal people have more important things to worry about even if it's merely the touch of a button. There are people who still think my local Heart is 2-Ten FM for heaven's sake.

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