Digital Radio (DAB +) Vs Internet Radio

Digital radio (DAB +) Verses Internet radio

Which is the better format?

And the winner is? Well who cares really, these formats are miles apart in what they have to offer and both would be fantastic sitting along side your current AM/FM tuner and other AV source equipment.

The best thing is that we are already seeing samples from many manufacturers that incorporate both formats on the same radio or tuner.

You will be able to listen to local stations in digital, with all the additional features that this format offers, and then tune in to Cool - FM (Jamaica) in time for your favourite programmes from half way around the world.

There is one major issue you should be aware of though, and that is the Internet radio has ongoing costs associated with it. Firstly you need a reasonable broad band connection, and then a usage rate of approximately 50KBS. This download rate is directly proportional to the transmission quality of the station in question. This is some what balanced out by the fact that you will have over 10,000+ internet radio stations to choose from.

The amount it will cost you depends on your total weekly usage and the plan you have negotiated with your Internet provider. If you have unlimited down loads it’s not a problem, but if your average listening time is two hours a day and your on a basic package it could add up rather quickly. Two hours a day equates to approximately 2.5 gigabyte of memory use per week.

Believe me two hours can disappear very quickly, especially when you get lost in your favourite music from overseas, talk back radio from the big apple or the cricket from lords. On the other hand digital radio is free to air. Once you have paid for your product there is no ongoing costs.

The expatriates will love their Internet radios and the rest of us will love what digital radio has to offer, but let’s not quibble, we can all enjoy the benefits of both for not much more than the cost of a stand alone unit.

The hardest choice will be what will we listen to next?

Digital Radios - Related Articles Worth Reading:

1. Digital Radios - Features & Formats
2. Introduction Of Digital Radio In Australia
3. Advantages of Digital (DAB+) vs FM Radio Broadcast
4. Dab + Radios Benefits Motorists Take Note

Tags: Internet Radio