DIGITAL RADIO GUIDE

INTERNET RADIO

(6)Podcasting

Podcasting is a way to 'subscribe' to radio programmes and have them delivered to your personal computer. Podcasting stands for Personal On-Demand (narrow)casting. It combines blogging with audio files that can be played on your PC or MP3 player. It involves a “push” of specially encoded multimedia content to subscribed PCs via RSS 2.0 protocol. Podcasting allows the listener to choose not only to what to listen to, but also when and where. Users can return feedback and comments. It is not limited to radio and music (typically encoded in MP3) but can include video, films, games, etc. Is not limited to broadcasters, virtually anybody who has content can become a podcaster.

Subscribers to Radio podcasts can automatically receive the latest edition of the programme in the form of a file. This file can then be easily transferred to a portable MP3 player. To do this, users need an Internet connection and a piece of podcast software which is usually available free of charge. This software can check the radio station for content updates and automatically download them to the player as soon as they are available. As a general rule, programme files can be made available shortly after broadcast, but in some cases this may be several hours later.

There is a multitude of podcasting software available from www.podcastingnews.com. This software varies from one computer platform to another (Windows, Mackintosh, Linux, etc). The same website also provides software for publishing podcasts.

6.7Internet Radio terminals and playback devices

Internet radio terminals are user devices which can reproduce streaming content. In the beginning, streams could be played by a software application on the PC. Now we are seeing media players in mobile devices and in home entertainment products such as the set-top box. Today, a PC user may have three or more players installed to provide support for different codecs available in the market. Thankfully, PC makers have made it easy with pre-loaded music players, from Apple's ITunes and QuickTime, to Real Player and Windows Media Player.

Players can be used in three different ways: as a content portal, a stand-alone player, or a plug-in to a web browser. In the latter case, the streaming content may become an integral part of a synchronised rich media experience, combining text, graphics, audio and video (using SMIL15).

Audio-only players are still very popular, as there is huge demand from music lovers to download tracks over the Internet. They serve as a jukebox to organise music libraries and set up playlists. They can also rip CDs, store MP3 files on the hard drive and download to portable music players such as iPod. Examples include WinAmp from NullSoft, and iTunes from Apple.

Today, about 95% of all media players installed on the desktops worldwide, are Microsoft's Windows Media. RealPlayer and QuickTime follow closely by 86% and 82%, respectively. Flash players are becoming increasingly popular for multimedia, whereas MP3 are mostly used for downloadable audio files.

15Synchronised Multimedia Integration Language

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Grundig Digital Radio manual Internet Radio terminals and playback devices, Podcasting

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.