At the height of the Christmas rush, when a thousands of HD radios were reportedly flying off the shelves, (right?) this from a impartial Canadian observer:
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http://members2.boardhost.com/scrapbook/msg/1167486935.html
In most stores, you won't find sales staff who know what HD radio is, or where the 1 or 2 display receivers are located. The "knowledgeable" sales staff couldn't recall anyone recently buying one of these radios. So, they're not flying off the store shelves.
I could not hear a significant quality difference between the FM station and its HD (simulcast) signal. Why would I, the speakers were tiny on these radios, and not condusive to a great concert hall experience. (though speaker size isn't always indicative of audio reproduction capabilty) Most other stores, including Radio Shack (in LA) weren't current stocking HD radio product. (even though web ads and on-air promos suggest they are) Even retailers' internet sites where consumers give their reviews of radios they've purchased, show that the existing models which they have purchased, give HD receivers failing grades mainly due to reception problems in buildings.
Link:
http://members2.boardhost.com/scrapbook/msg/1167486935.html