DIGITAL RADIO GUIDE

INTERNET RADIO

Some additional specific media-related parameters are those related to media players, quality delivered and user behaviour, as follows:

Which Media Player (Audio/Video/Graphics)?

Which speed (bandwidth) for a combination of audio and video programme?

Start-up time

Audio quality for a given bandwidth

Video quality, including video frame rate for a given bandwidth

Connect time

Redirect time

Initial buffer time

Recovered, lost and dropped packets

Number of successful buffering attempts

Duration of buffering (average)

Total playing time for each user / average playing time for each stream

Hits and Duration Chart for each stream / all streams

Number of finished Streams (who and how many have seen it to the end)

Number of linear Hits (without Stop or Pause)

Number of loops made

6.10Case studies

6.10.1VRT

The Belgian public service broadcaster, VRT Radio, started broadcasting on the Internet in 1997. VRT's radio player offers a mix of six traditional radio stations and three exclusive digital services. Of the more than 300,000 unique visitors it attracts every month, more than 80 per cent listen to live streams, while 10 to 15 per cent listen to both live and on-demand programmes. VRT has seen its bandwidth consumption double over the past year and currently uses up to 45 terabytes of bandwidth a month.

VRT automatically records and uploads all of its on-demand content. News bulletins are available on-demand roughly three minutes after the live broadcast is over. Programmes more than 60 minutes long are available about 20 minutes after the broadcast. VRT's radio player works on both Windows and Mac platforms and is a browser-embedded application that requires Flash 7 and Windows Media Player or QuickTime Player. VRT streams in two formats: MP3, at 6, 32 and 96 kbps; and WMA, at 20 and 64 kbps.

VRT has a global rights agreement with organizations including IFPI (the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry) covering both live and on-demand streaming. This is quite common in Europe and contrasts with the situation in North America, where broadcasters usually pay a fee per listener.

6.10.2Virgin Radio

Virgin Radio boasts one of the world's most successful Internet Radio networks. According to Virgin Radio, which uses the Limelight LUX tool to monitor its online traffic, it reaches 1.1 million consumers who listen for an average of 4.4 million hours a month. In 2005, Virgin won two prestigious online awards, scooping both the Webby Award and the People's Voice Webby Award for radio. (The Webby Awards is the leading international prize honouring excellence in Web design, creativity, usability and functionality.) In 2006, Virgin became the first UK station to make a daily podcast.

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Grundig Digital Radio manual Case studies, 10.1 VRT, Virgin Radio

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.