[cma-l] Internet radio

[Tony Bailey]

Looked at from a numerical point of view, 950 UK internet radios on the 
Reciva database (including around half also on FM/AM) against a 
theoretical maximum of 50 on FM it's obvious, the question is not really 
about the delivery platforms but rather how do people listen in?  There 
is no plan or potential system that could deliver 950 services on FM. 
Many FM services are simulcasting online mainly to avoid fragmentation 
of their audience.  There will always be a separate vehicle audience, 
but probably mostly "wallpaper and jam" radio services.

There's nothing wrong with promoting broadcast services, but there is 
little appetite for expansion of the channel base, so given the level of 
demand from programmers and the fact that most homes are already wired 
up, telecoms cable based systems offer a viable alternative.

If a fraction of the effort expended on DAB had gone into online 
services we could have had a huge increase in listener choice already, 
instead of wasting money on broadcasting developments that are designed 
to protect the established media.

Tony Bailey


Ian Hickling wrote:
> 
> 
> Sorry Tony - I very strongly disagree.
> 
> Digital propagation in some form will certainly take over for the
> major national and regional services - eventually - with FM remaining
> available with almost blanket coverage within the required areas for
> any kind of receiving device - portable radio, vehicle radio - iPod
> or phone.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 


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