In New York City, most if not all the major FM stations broadcast from the same point, the Empire State Building. That makes it easier to compare their reception than in places where the stations are scattered.
About two years ago, 2 of the Clear Channel stations boosted the power of their HD signals from 1% to 4% of the main FM carrier. Most of the other stations in New York are still at the lower level.
The difference in reception has been very noticeable. Those stations with the higher power have much more solid reception all over the area, compared with the others. Though there are still some dropouts, primarily in hilly areas, overall the experience of listening to them is far more pleasant.
If HD radio is to move forward, perhaps more stations need to upgrade their power as it becomes practical for them to do so. With more cars being equipped with HD radio, perhaps there is still a chance for the technology to catch on if stronger signals become the norm.
I believe that one of the two CC HD stations in New York with the higher power is an example of HD Radio done right. That is WLTW HD2/ New York Country.
It broadcasts country music, a major format that is totally lacking within the city (except for some weak signals from outlying areas). The audio is very good, with decent stereo separation. And since it does not pay to hire personalities for an HD2, they run CC's national Country Road Station. Country Road has personable DJ's, and is quite a polished product with good production.
Maybe HD radio would gain some traction if there were more stations like this-running stronger power, aimed at major format holes in various markets, and offering personalities, even if syndicated or national.
About two years ago, 2 of the Clear Channel stations boosted the power of their HD signals from 1% to 4% of the main FM carrier. Most of the other stations in New York are still at the lower level.
The difference in reception has been very noticeable. Those stations with the higher power have much more solid reception all over the area, compared with the others. Though there are still some dropouts, primarily in hilly areas, overall the experience of listening to them is far more pleasant.
If HD radio is to move forward, perhaps more stations need to upgrade their power as it becomes practical for them to do so. With more cars being equipped with HD radio, perhaps there is still a chance for the technology to catch on if stronger signals become the norm.
I believe that one of the two CC HD stations in New York with the higher power is an example of HD Radio done right. That is WLTW HD2/ New York Country.
It broadcasts country music, a major format that is totally lacking within the city (except for some weak signals from outlying areas). The audio is very good, with decent stereo separation. And since it does not pay to hire personalities for an HD2, they run CC's national Country Road Station. Country Road has personable DJ's, and is quite a polished product with good production.
Maybe HD radio would gain some traction if there were more stations like this-running stronger power, aimed at major format holes in various markets, and offering personalities, even if syndicated or national.