DIGITAL RADIO GUIDE

INTERNET RADIO

to seven days before. One example is the BBC Radio Player. This on-demand service allows users to time-shift broadcasts and frees them from the constraint of adhering to station schedules. On-demand transfers control to the listeners: they can create their own schedule of programmes.

Web radio has the advantage of allowing broadcasters to measure audience directly (see Section 6.9). Broadcasters using a Windows Media Server, or other streaming media, will have detailed reports of the streams played, while those using web servers can estimate audience sizes by viewing the traffic statistics found in the web server log file, an automatically-generated list of all the files served.

IR adds a global audience which may be important for ethnic minorities scattered around the world. While terrestrial radio is generally limited to a certain geographical territory, IR's audience is effectively global and is redefined according to shared interest. IR radio introduces a concept of a multitude of niche audiences spread globally and not necessarily limited to one geographical region or country.

6.5Internet-only stations: IR Portals and Music Portals

There are a number of web radio sites that offer customizable programming using their own players or ones already loaded onto your PC. Most sites feature dozens of different musical genres from baroque to zydeco and some allow you to tune in to live broadcasts from around the globe.

There are also Internet portals which help the user find a suitable IR station. Portals such as radio-locator.com allow users to search for stations according to genre (or format), name, location (city, state or country), frequency (if the station is already on the air) or even owner. Often several thousand stations are available on such portals. Some radio portals are listed in Section 6.12.

Lists of FM and AM radio stations can be made available over the Internet to mobile devices such as a Palm OS or Windows CE handheld computer using suitable software.

6.6Streaming technology for radio services

With recent technological improvements such as rapid adoption of high-speed connectivity and ever increasing computer processing and storage power, streaming over the Internet (sometimes called webcasting) has become a mainstream media delivery platform. Universal standards for audio and video delivery have emerged to gain widespread adoption in the marketplace. In addition, user experience of watching video and listening to audio online has improved dramatically. Issues such as incompatible formats and versions or browser incompatibility are now less critical.

There are different standards for encoding and delivering audio files and streams online. Following the pioneering developments of RealNetworks, Windows Media and QuickTime, it now seems that MPEG-4 will dominate. MPEG-4 represents a major step forward in audio/video coding, as it supports new types of media objects, such as 3D and synthetic objects. It supports interactivity at the client and server side. It is highly scalable and covers video resolutions from a thumbnail size suited to mobile applications to HDTV for home cinema, and from monophonic audio at 20 kbps to multichannel audio in the MBps range.

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Grundig Digital Radio manual Internet-only stations IR Portals and Music Portals, Streaming technology for radio services
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Digital Radio specifications

The Grundig Digital Radio represents a significant advancement in radio technology, combining aesthetics, functionality, and a user-friendly interface. As a pioneer in the audio and electronics industry, Grundig has successfully integrated modern digital capabilities into its traditional radio design, appealing to both nostalgic listeners and tech-savvy users.

One of the standout features of the Grundig Digital Radio is its versatility in reception. With DAB+ (Digital Audio Broadcasting) technology, users can enjoy a wide array of radio stations with superior sound quality, free from the hiss and interference commonly associated with analog broadcasts. The inclusion of FM and AM bands ensures that listeners are not limited, providing access to local stations that may not yet have transitioned to digital.

The Grundig Digital Radio is designed with ease of use in mind. Its intuitive interface, often featuring a clear LCD display, allows users to navigate through stations and settings effortlessly. Many models also include a built-in tuner that automatically scans and presets available stations, simplifying the setup process. For those who appreciate personalization, some variants come equipped with customizable presets, allowing users to save their favorite stations for quick access.

Portability is another key characteristic of the Grundig Digital Radio. Many models are lightweight and come with built-in handles, making them ideal for on-the-go listening, whether it's in the garden, on the beach, or during a picnic. Battery options, alongside mains power, ensure that users can take advantage of their radios wherever they choose.

In terms of sound quality, Grundig utilizes advanced audio technologies to deliver rich and clear sound. Enhanced bass responses and treble controls allow users to fine-tune their listening experience to match their preferences. Furthermore, many models feature additional inputs, such as AUX and USB ports, enabling users to connect their smartphones or other devices, expanding their audio options.

Other notable characteristics include built-in alarms and timers, which make the Grundig Digital Radio a versatile companion for daily routines. Some models even support Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless streaming from a variety of devices.

In summary, the Grundig Digital Radio embodies the perfect blend of traditional radio appeal and modern digital technology, offering versatility, ease of use, superior sound quality, and portability to meet the diverse needs of today’s listeners. Its well-thought-out features and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience.
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