Commercial radio goes digital in Canberra

Commercial radio will officially switch on DAB+ digital radio broadcasts in Canberra tomorrow (Friday, July 19), providing digital quality sound and more station choice for listeners in the capital.

All four commercial radio stations, 2CA, 2CC, Mix 106.3 and Hit 104.7 will broadcast in digital, alongside several commercial digital-only stations, with more new stations to launch in coming months.

The DAB+ stations on air include:
· Snow Digital – featuring popular shows including Kate, Tim & Marty and updates on ski conditions
· Coles Radio – a contemporary music mix with some great favourites
· KIX Country – for everyone who loves country music
· My Canberra Digital – a smooth selection of favourites from the 70s to today
· Buddha Hits – chill out music that makes you feel good.

Joan Warner, the chief executive officer of industry body Commercial Radio Australia, said the move from trial to permanent services means listeners will have access to the full benefits of digital radio and improved coverage, particularly in the south of Canberra and along the Federal and Barton Highways.

“Commercial radio has been broadcasting on the AM band in Canberra since 1931 and on FM since 1988. Now with the official move to digital broadcasting, radio can keep innovating and offering better services to listeners,” she said.

Craig Wagstaff, the general manager of Canberra FM, said: “We’re excited to introduce new stations to Canberra and be part of the growing digital radio landscape.”

Michael Jones, general manager of Radio Canberra, said: “Listeners will notice a significant upgrade in sound quality on DAB+ radios compared to AM, along with other benefits such as easy tuning and on-screen information such as song titles, news and weather.”

DAB+ is available in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth, and has been available in Canberra on a low-powered trial since 2010. It officially launched in Hobart and Darwin earlier this year.

Listeners can purchase a DAB+ radio to enjoy the services, with receivers available in a wide range of prices. Consumers who already have a DAB+ radio should rescan their radios from 10.30am on July 19 to pick up the new services.

Nearly 70% of all new cars sold in Australia now come with digital radio factory fitted.

The move to permanent DAB+ services in Canberra will result in improved reception, including the areas of Conder, Chisholm, Kamba and Jerrabomberra, as well as along the Federal and Barton Highways, including the township of Murrumbateman.

Commercial radio stations will mark the start of permanent DAB+ services with on-air giveaways of digital radios.

Consumers can also stream DAB+ stations online and listen on their mobile phones via RadioApp.

For more information on digital radio visit www.digitalradioplus.com.au.

-Brad