Analog Vs. Digital FM

The government has not issued a mandatory switch over from analog to digital for radio stations, but you can still take advantage of it by getting a digital FM radio. Analog FM was invented by Edwin Armstrong in 1933. We have been using Mr. Armstrong's invention for decades. Now that we are in the digital era, digital FM is taking hold. Digital FM was introduced by Sony in 1960 with the first digital FM transmitter, and was approved for use by the FCC and first used publicly in 2002.

What is the difference betwen analog FM and digital FM?

Analog FM uses a lower frequency range in the EMF spectrum, digital uses a higher frequency with 0's and 1's to make up the signal. Digital is better quality, and can even be so high in quality that it enables some features like for instance, surround sound.

What's so great about digital FM?

Some station multi-broadcast both analog and digital, so that when you get out of range of digital, you can still receive analog. The advantage to the digital signal is increased sound quality, and song information sent to your radio so that you can see what you are listening to. Digital will be higher definition audio, and more clear sounding.

How great will this sound?

Digital radio is close to CD quality radio, no more fizz! If you are wanting the best in audio, and local channels are broadcasting this way, then it is worth it for better quality in sound, and a better listening experience.

Can I use my old antenna?

Unfortunately not, you will need to install a new type of digital antenna to receive digital signal, the reason for this is how the antenna is made only goes up to a certain frequency due to the metals used in the manufacturing process, this range is below digital signal range.

Potential

Digital FM is bound to sweep the globe, and in the future will be the main way of listening to FM radio. Now is the time to make the switch, and enjoy all the many benefits of digital FM radio. Since the end of 2008, as many as 1,500 radio stations reaching 80 percent of the United States, now use this technology.