DAB Radios - Things You Need to Know Before You Buy

Owning a radio that will accept the signal becomes a necessity to fully appreciate the benefits of this preferred technology. Improved sound quality and the ability to view song choices and receive other information such as news headlines with “radiotext” are some of the advantages of choosing a DAB radio over other types. A wide variety of portable or built in models is available and the list includes all the required features for DAB reception.

What is DAB Technology?

The UK launched DAB technology in 1995 and engineers within the region continue to improve the capabilities and service of this type of broadcasting. Known as digital audio broadcasting, the concept eliminates the difference between AM and FM signals and instead compresses and converts audio streams into a unified signal. The technology allows more stations to broadcast with a spectrum of channels referred to as a DAB ensemble.

The benefit that a listener receives from digital audio broadcasting is an improved sound quality and less interference from noise and static. One of the fun features that evolved from this technology is the ability to broadcast digital “radiotext”. Song titles are listed as they are played over the air as is other information such as news headlines, weather and traffic updates. All DAB radios are equipped with a digital readout screen that can be monitored for text messages as well as numeric channel information.

Are DAB Radios Adaptable to all Broadcasting Systems?

The answer is yes, DAB radios may also receive signals from non digital broadcasting but the reverse is not true. In order to receive and fully utilize a DAB signal, a radio must be manufactured to include specific features that accept those signals. One of the advantages of the new models of digital radios is their ability to remain tuned into a station even if the radio is moved. Radio stations in the UK prefer the DAB technology because of the lower broadcasting cost.

Types and Styles of DAB radios

Because digital broadcasting is becoming the preferred method in the UK, a wide line of DAB ready radios continually appear on the market. Portable or hand held DAB digital radios, many in retro styles or flashy colours, include built in speakers and offer flexibility to be taken along on a trip. For home use, DAB radios with built in clocks and alarms now replace the older analog models. Contemporary radios with full sets of high grade detached speakers and CD players take full advantage of the DAB quality sound system. Most models offer programmable features that allow the user to quickly turn to their favourite station.