HD radio

[kenny61]

I just put a new radio in my truck and went with a HD unit figuring if they switch radio to HD as they did TV I would be all set. I live in an area where reception has never been a problem analog signals came in good and strong. After installation I was not able to get HD stations. Later when I drove to work I was able to get em but on the drive home they went out again. Basically my HD reception stunk ( Getting about 30 -40 less miles coverage in HD) Spent a little time researching HD reception tonight and found that HD signals are being broadcast at a much lower power than analog (-20wdb ) whatever that means . One web site stated it was only 1% of the stations normal output. Just putting out a FYI for members who may be considering a switch to HD If you live more than 25-30 miles from a HD transmitter you may not be able to receive the HD signal.

 

[BHanna]

Analog also has an advantage over digital in that analog signals degrade more gracefully. You may be able to hear a game from an analog station even with quite a bit of static but a digital receiver may not be able to process the signal because of all the noise. Same applies with HDTV over the air.

 

[kenny61]

The Pioneer unit I got does both analog and digital. just kinda stinks paying extra money for something I can only use for 3 minutes of my commute. I'll see if I get my moneys worth on my next road trip