Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is HD Radio™?
HD Radio™ is a new, digital format that has been adopted by commercial
and public radio stations across the country. Unlike the traditional
analog format, HD Radio allows stations to create different channels
that are capable of broadcasting multiple programming schedules.
Listeners will a crisper, clearer digital sound that echoes what they
might hear from a CD. HD Radio units are also enabled to display
special digitally encoded information including song and artist details.
Q: Can I hear HD Radio on any radio?
No, you will need to buy a special HD Radio unit. These will allow you
to hear your favorite stations still broadcasting in an analog format
and WKSU and others as HD Radio. A variety of companies are selling HD
Radios for cars, homes, as clock radios and as units with ports that
make it easy to tag songs from the radio for future purchase that will
load to an iPod or Microsoft Zune. There are also units that adapt the
radio you have now to receive HD Radio signals. WKSU has established
affiliate relationships with Amazon, J&R Electronics and the NPR Shop
for your convenience. These respected stores offer a variety of units
and sales originating from WKSU will benefit the station. Many car
makers are also offering HD Radio as a standard option (see below).
Q: What is WKSU offering as HD Radio?
WKSU is currently broadcasting four HD Radio channels across all five of our "full-power" towers (on WKSU, in Kent;
on WKRW, in Wooster; on WKRJ, in New Philadelphia; on WKSV, in Thompson; and in WNRK, in Norwalk): WKSU HD-1
(your favorite public radio programming as you hear it on your radio
now), WKSU HD-2 (the popular music stream from FolkAlley.com), WKSU
HD-3 (an all-classical channel that is currently streamed online at
WKSU.org), and WKSU HD-4 (an all-news channel also found on WKSU.org.)
Additionally, WKSU Classical can also be heard at 107.3 on WNWV-HD 3 in Elyria.
The additional channels can be accessed an HD receiver with
one or two clicks from the station's primary frequency.
Q: Can everyone in WKSU's listening area hear the three HD Radio
channels?
Unfortunately, no. In order to maximize the sound quality for both
analog and digital listeners, the HD Radio signals are broadcast at a
limited power level. The further away the HD Radio is from
one of our towers, the more likely the HD Radio
may drop out. Adjusting you antennae to its most-optimal position will
also increase your ability to connect with a strong signal. Drop-outs
primarily affect people listening to WKSU HD-2, HD-3, and HD-4;
WKSU's primary signal will automatically
switch to an analog signal in an area where the digital signal is
unavailable.
Q: Are WKSU's HD Radio channels available on satellite radio?
Typically, no. Unlike Satellite Radio, which requires a monthly
subscription fee, HD Radio channels are free (like WKSU's traditional
analog signal). Satellite radio offer its own collection of
programming. WKSU is produced locally in Northeast Ohio, bringing news,
classical and folk music and other public radio programming that is
responsive to people living in the region. However, Sirius XM satellite radio
subscibers can tune in to two hours of Folk Alley twice a week.
Q: Which car companies are offering HD Radio as a receiver option?
At this time, HD Radio is a factory installed option in select models
produced by BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Mercury, Mini,
Scion and Volvo. HD Radio can be installed by a dealer in vehicles
produced by Acura, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Honda and
Hummer. Check with your dealer for more information.
Q: What does the "HD" in HD Radio stand for?
The "HD" in HD Radio is part if iBiquity Digital's brand name for its
digital AM and FM radio technology. It does not mean either hybrid
digital or high definition, it is simply the branding language for this
new technology.
Q: Is WKSU planning on discontinuing its analog broadcasts?
Unlike the television industry, analog radios will continue to work past
February. Because many, many more people currently listen to WKSU on
traditional analog radios, you should not have to worry about a mandated
switch of radio technology for years to come.
Q: Where can I get more information about HD Radio?
Up-to-the-minute information on advances in HD Radio technology and
equipment is available online at HDRadio.com.
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