DIGITAL RADIO GUIDE

WHAT IS DIGITAL RADIO?

2 What is Digital Radio?

Since the early days of broadcasting, analogue systems have been used to carry programmes from the studios to the listeners. Now, due to the growing number of broadcasters and programme services, the frequency bands allocated to AM and FM radio in many regions of the world are full. The resulting congestion in the radio spectrum has led to a decline in reception quality and is a real constraint to further growth. Furthermore, in densely populated areas, FM reception on car radios and portables can be very poor. This is due to the effect of severe multipath propagation caused by signal reflections and shadowing due to high buildings.

Digital transmission technology can offer much improved coverage and availability. It is expected to replace analogue transmissions in many areas, but as digital systems are incompatible with current AM and FM broadcasting systems, new receivers will be needed.

In basic form, digital radio is an application of the technology in which sound is processed and transmitted as a stream of binary digits. The principle of using digital technology for audio transmission is not new, but early systems used for terrestrial television sound (such as NICAM 728) need considerable bandwidth and use the RF spectrum inefficiently, by comparison with today’s digital systems.

The development of digital radio has been helped by the rapid progress that has been made in digital coding techniques used in RF and audio systems. This has led to improved spectrum efficiency, more channel capacity, or a combination of these benefits. Digital compression techniques used in audio systems have improved sound quality at low bit rates to the extent that radio broadcasts can be made on location and then transmitted to the broadcaster’s production studios over telephone circuits in high quality.

Ideally, to reach the widest range of listeners, a genuinely universal digital radio system should be capable of being transmitted via terrestrial, satellite and cable systems.

There are new digital radio systems in operation. The list is set out in Table 2.1.

The table illustrates the wide spread of operational systems throughout the world.

The great strength of the present analogue transmission systems is the world-wide standardisation on just two systems (FM and AM). This enables listeners to use one radio to receive programmes at any location. But in the development of digital systems, it is now clear that similar standardisation will not be so easily achieved. Differing market requirements are driving digital systems to be more specialised and tailored to meet regional, national, or application-oriented needs. Furthermore, the complexity of digital systems compared to existing analogue techniques fosters this differentiation.

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Grundig manual What is Digital Radio?
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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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