Where can I purchase an HD radio receiver?
Click here for retail outlets. Click on the "HD Radio" graphic, above, for more background and information.

HD Radio

In November 2006, WWNO became the first radio station in the metro New Orleans marketplace to offer Multi-Channel HD Radio. HD Radio is a new technology that enables radio stations to broadcast programs digitally, a tremendous technological leap from today's familiar analog broadcasts. These digital broadcasts provide you with new programming options, radically improved audio quality and reception and new data services. Among the HD Radio features WWNO is offering: WWNO2, a second channel that offers classical music and NPR news and information programs, and WWNO3, a third channel featuring jazz full-time.

What are the benefits of HD Radio?

FM broadcasts will have CD-quality sound.

Broadcasts are static-free featuring full frequency response and crystal clear reception. Signal fades, static, hiss, and pops will be things of the past.

HD Radio receivers can also display important data, including scrolling text displayed on the radio display with song titles, artist names, traffic updates, weather forecasts, sports scores and more. (Available in the future from WWNO).

Future opportunity for advanced data and audio services such as surround sound, multiple audio sources at the same dial position, on-demand audio services, store-and-replay (so you can store a radio program that airs when you are at work and replay it on your commute home), overlaying real-time traffic information on a navigational map to help you find the shortest route, a 'buy' button for music, sports and concert tickets, along with a host of other services.

How can you get WWNO , WWNO2 and WWNO3 on HD Radio?

You will need a new HD Radio receiver tuned to WWNO-1 or WWNO-2.

Does WWNO maintain its current position on the dial?

Yes, WWNO 89.9FM will maintain its current frequency and dial position.

Will my reception problems be fixed with HD Radio?

If you've been having reception problems with WWNO, HD Radio may or may not fix them. It depends on what type of interference you're experiencing.

If I purchase an HD radio receiver, will I be able to listen to stations that are broadcasting in digital and analog signals?

Yes, HD radios will receive analog if the station isn't broadcasting HD, and automatically switch to HD when it receives a digital signal.

Who developed HD Radio technology?

iBiquity Digital Corporation is the sole developer of HD Radio technology. With input from radio broadcasters, consumer electronics and broadcast equipment manufacturers, automakers, retailers, and consumers, the company has brought to market an idea that was conceived over a decade ago by scientists and engineers at Westinghouse, CBS, Gannet and Lucent/Bell Labs.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved HD Radio technology in 2002, and the commercial rollout of the technology began in 2003 when AM and FM stations around the country began digital broadcasts and continued with the launch of HD Radio receivers at the Consumer Electronics Show in January 2004.

For more information, go to Crutchfield Advisor.