HD Bragging Causes ASCAP Royalty Push

[Play Freebird]

How about reality, Most viable stations bill in the millions, the cost of an HD upgrade is CAPEX -spread out over a dozen or more years. If that is such a "distraction" what must he think of all those Playboy magazines in the Green room.

But what about the ongoing cost of programming the new HD channels?

I think you've pointed out the major problem here -- too many big group executives (the same guys who are running their stock prices into the ground) view this as a one-time capital expense. Just write the check to iBiquity, buy some expensive boxes, and tell the overtime-exempt engineer to work evenings and weekends hooking everything up. Then you'll be prepared for "our digital future".

However, very few owners want to spend money on compelling content to run on those multicast channels, which are supposed to be the big drawing card. Listeners apparently don't care and are in no rush to buy receivers.

For that matter, I regard Mr. Savage as a seasoned expert as well. As an in-the-trenches station GM/owner he sees this stuff up close and personal. He knows first hand how HD-R is affecting medium and small market station owners.

That reminds me, we are almost 10 months into Armageddon. 'Still waitin' on that great outcry from those trenches.

And if he says HD Radio is creating a digital divide between haves and have nots with no long term benefits for smaller markets, why should I not accept what he's saying as being true?

For starters, how about some proof that iboc has had any meaningful deleterious effect. The sad fact is that a lot of those smaller markets have already abandoned their local AM station relegating it to a subsistence of whoring out to religion, colon blow and third string wackos of the right.

As owner of a small-market upstate NY daytimer, I can assure you that listeners are still loyal to our station because we haven't "whored it out" to pay for unwise investments in equipment; we focus instead on good people and programming: local news, weather, sports and country music.

What does HD offer? Would it alleviate the need to sign the station off at 4:45 PM in November and December? No.
Will it offer reliable service to outlying communities in our 2 mV/m contour? Not likely. (If we're lucky, it might work to the 5 mV/m when we're not in critical hours.)

How about HD's ability to offer a "crystal clear signal" during summer thunderstorms? Forget about it. And the claim of "FM Quality" is also a bad joke. So far, we've escaped the first-adjacent interference problem because none of the potential troublemakers have turned it on. Needless to say, I hope it stays that way.

We've considered potential return on investment on AM IBOC and it just doesn't make sense. However, if AM broadcasters were allowed to transmit their digital signals in underused VHF spectrum, using a "cellular" approach that would replicate 2 mV/m coverage in hilly terrain, these objections would be eliminated. Combine a well-engineered digital system of this type with a meaningful effort to put factory-installed radios in cars, then I could most likely justify the expense -- and might even become -gasp- a "Cheerleader"!

 

[Carmine5]

Well, as we know there are blogs and there are blogs.

Some are by generalists who freely pontificate on any topic; global warming, what detergent to use and occasionally they may even talk about radio.

Then there are blogs by those who are seasoned experts in their field, who study it and the trends carefully. Jerry Del C. is the latter. What he says about the radio industry has weight, not only as an expert but as one who has nothing to gain by trying to impose a certain view over another.

It may surprise but I consider his views on HD radio to be the least biased and vendetta driven of all his opinions. They are just based on faulty grounds.

If Jerry thinks HD Radio is a dead skunk laying in the middle of the communications highway; run over by newer and better technology, then who am I to say it isn't true.

I think you've just voided and pretense of objectivity. Not that I'am surprised.

If he says that HD-R distracting the radio industry away from more serious matters affecting the medium's future particularly with the next generation, what is there not to believe?

How about reality, Most viable stations bill in the millions, the cost of an HD upgrade is CAPEX -spread out over a dozen or more years. If that is such a "distraction" what must he think of all those Playboy magazines in the Green room.

OK, I'll quote Jerry Del C directly and avoid elaborating, "HD Radio is dead." His words, not mine.

The "reality" is that while some stations, especially those belonging to the media giants, have the monetary resources to transition to HD-R and wait years for it to (possibly) pay off, the majority of small market and stand-alones don't.

It's the same problem that LPTV stations are confronted with in transitioning to HDTV.

As broadcast attorney David Oxenford says: "In these small markets, the revenues are naturally much lower than those available to a large market TV station...in many cases it runs several hundred thousand dollars to convert even an LPTV to digital, so it puts a strain on a local licensee to pay to make the transition at any time..."

For that reason, the FCC is not requiring LPTV stations to convert to digital by 2-09. Similarly, if the agency required all radio stations to adopt HD Radio by a set date, no doubt many small market stations would be forced to go dark.

And in the end, there is no guarantee that converting to HD-R will bring back younger audiences. This is why Jerry stresses that all stations go where young people are--online. Maybe a small market station can't afford HD-R but they can certainly afford to develop and grow a web presence.

To me this is the best use of a small station's limited resources.

C5

 

[LinoNYC]

But what about the ongoing cost of programming the new HD channels?

I think you've pointed out the major problem here -- too many big group executives (the same guys who are running their stock prices into the ground) view this as a one-time capital expense. Just write the check to iBiquity, buy some expensive boxes, and tell the overtime-exempt engineer to work evenings and weekends hooking everything up. Then you'll be prepared for "our digital future".

However, very few owners want to spend money on compelling content to run on those multicast channels, which are supposed to be the big drawing card. Listeners apparently don't care and are in no rush to buy receivers.

You could say the same for the history of FM where the majority of stations were either siml'ed or automated, even here in NYC some continued well into the 1980's. I agree that it is shortsighted but there aren't enough receivers yet. A few stations such as Z-100 have hosted HD-2 channels.

As owner of a small-market upstate NY daytimer, I can assure you that listeners are still loyal to our station because we haven't "whored it out" to pay for unwise investments in equipment; we focus instead on good people and programming: local news, weather, sports and country music.

That is commendable. All of the stations that I crudely refer-to as whoring were once viable servants of their communities as well, what happened? Their listeners went away or died-off, better sound quality would have let them compete with FM for the next generation.

What does HD offer? Would it alleviate the need to sign the station off at 4:45 PM in November and December? No.

No, and I understand your complaint here but iboc was never claimed to be some sort of great equalizer, it is just an enhancement. You did know the rules when you bought a daytimer. Internet streaming is probably the best that technology can offer in your case.

We've considered potential return on investment on AM IBOC and it just doesn't make sense. However, if AM broadcasters were allowed to transmit their digital signals in underused VHF spectrum, using a "cellular" approach that would replicate 2 mV/m coverage in hilly terrain, these objections would be eliminated. Combine a well-engineered digital system of this type with a meaningful effort to put factory-installed radios in cars, then I could most likely justify the expense -- and might even become -gasp- a "Cheerleader"!

I think you are wise enough not to hold your breath for that solution.
Out-of-band has failed nearly everywhere in the world over the last 12 years, it's prospects are even dimmer in today's media landscape.

Then there is the fact that any potential reallocation of spectrum will require the blessing of Congress which today and for the foreseeable future will be in the hands of Democrats. After two decades of AM talk radio turning tricks for the RNC and bashing the party that is now ascendant, I wouldn't blame the Dems for flipping the bird to AM talkcasters and telling them to take their tin cup and go see Limbaugh, Hannity etc.

Politics does count. The winds have changed. Too bad if some broadcasters must now accompany the king to the gallows.

Lino

 

[KB1OKL]

Jerry unlike most pro-IBOC blogs which cherry pick their posters (rah! rah! rah! OK your post's in) lets just about anyone post opinions there which is why I believe it is one of the better known and more highly respected blogs out there. He has both pro and con post there, can't say that about many other blogs.

Gee, I never really looked at it that way. I suppose rather than listening to people who actually have some qualification or knowledge about any issue or subject, like say CNN, Fox News ABC, NBC, CBS or MSNBC, I should go down to the street corner and listen to an average citizen. Or maybe watch one of those shows on MTV where everyone can text in how much they're in love with some girl or boy. Unmoderated message boards are basically worthless IMHO.

Ya know, Bob, if you had ever had even the vaguest association with radio programming, you'd understand WHY most callers never get on the air. Because they are CLUELESS uninteresting dweebs. Case in point... How often do YOU call a radio station?. (I'm assuming you are NOT a cluless uninteresting dweeb)

Lino, average citizens are the people who are supposed to be buying these radios aren't they? I certainly think that they should have their shot at getting their opinions posted on a blog. I agree there are some screwy posts here and there, but I also think that the people who really don't think much also don't usually take the time to blog. I would say 90% of the people who post on Jerry's blog care abut thte topic at hand.

I also realize soimething of what goes into a radio call in show and also realize why the boring or off base must be weeded out, but a blog isn't an entertainment show, it doesn't have to be fast paced and one doesn't have to get to his point in 15 seconds or less. I have never called into a radio talk show because I am not a fast on my feet thinker usually, I am deliberate and take my time. But then again I've never heard a talk show about IBOC, that may be the first time I call in.

 

[clouseau]

Snipped

Lino, average citizens are the people who are supposed to be buying these radios aren't they?

point of order. I'm Clouseau. The guy from Texas. Lino is the liberal from NYC. Sheesh, Texans and New Yorkers agreeing on anything? I might have to turn in my cowboy hat.

I certainly think that they should have their shot at getting their opinions posted on a blog. I agree there are some screwy posts here and there, but I also think that the people who really don't think much also don't usually take the time to blog.

I think a good case can be made against that viewpoint. My point is that those of the "Pocket-Lint" ilk add NOTHING to the conversation. On the radio neither do the vast majority of the callers. Have you ever seen the volume of postings around the net from the "HD Farse/Farce" guy? He is the classic "Never let him on the air" radio caller. I do not have figures on "Percentage of blogger readers who post". But It's pretty well accepted that 2% or less of listeners in radio ever call. IMHO, the mediums are actually fairly similar.

I would say 90% of the people who post on Jerry's blog care abut the topic at hand.

If we exclude spammers, I'd say 100% care. SO WHAT. I'm interested in Commercial Airline Piloting and read a blog about it. As a VFR pilot with only triple digit hours, I sure as heck don't have anything to contribute. But yes, I am exposed to their ads and participate in their revenue model. I'm strictly a "Listener". Does their audience want my input?

I also realize soimething of what goes into a radio call in show and also realize why the boring or off base must be weeded out, but a blog isn't an entertainment show, it doesn't have to be fast paced and one doesn't have to get to his point in 15 seconds or less.

We may have to agree to disagree here, Bob. I have about 30 choices on my radio if the programming sucks. Maybe 2 other talk stations. I suspect the number of internet choices is a LOT larger. If your site sucks, people leave. Believe it.

I have never called into a radio talk show because I am not a fast on my feet thinker usually, I am deliberate and take my time. But then again I've never heard a talk show about IBOC, that may be the first time I call in.

I don't call the radio either. But a blog which wants to be popular DOES need to realize content is king. (Sound familiar?)

This board is a great example. When it becomes too one sided either way, I'm usually out of here. That goes for many others as well. RM100 and Mike Walker come to mind. I know there are tons of others. My apologies to those I missed.

Jerry has another business plan, as he basically "Writes" about his opinion and experiences, and then the "Dunce Cap Brigade" from both sides post mindless drivel after it. Some of it even on topic. While his columnns are pretty much quality work, (Agree with them or not), The comments are more often than not, just garbage. (Sorry if you're in there.)

If you want to meet your audience, head down to Wally World and start a focus group. If you've ever CONDUCTED a focus group, you know these people are NOT who you want "On The Air".

YMMV

Clouseau

 

[KB1OKL]

Snipped

Lino, average citizens are the people who are supposed to be buying these radios aren't they?

point of order. I'm Clouseau. The guy from Texas. Lino is the liberal from NYC. Sheesh, Texans and New Yorkers agreeing on anything? I might have to turn in my cowboy hat.

Sorry Clouseau wouldn't want to mix you up with Lino who at least has good politics, although I question his taste in radio transmission methods ;D

I certainly think that they should have their shot at getting their opinions posted on a blog. I agree there are some screwy posts here and there, but I also think that the people who really don't think much also don't usually take the time to blog.

I think a good case can be made against that viewpoint. My point is that those of the "Pocket-Lint" ilk add NOTHING to the conversation. On the radio neither do the vast majority of the callers. Have you ever seen the volume of postings around the net from the "HD Farse/Farce" guy? He is the classic "Never let him on the air" radio caller. I do not have figures on "Percentage of blogger readers who post". But It's pretty well accepted that 2% or less of listeners in radio ever call. IMHO, the mediums are actually fairly similar.

You are probably right about the similarity, but if only 2% of readers write that supports my contention that only the people who really care write, it's a lot more tedious to write than it is to call a radio show and blow hot air for 1 minute. As far as HD farce I think his main thing is to post links to his blog which have many other links to other blogs etc. I'm sure he helps many people who dislike HD. He seems to always post the right links that oppose the main topic whatever it is, he counters a lot of BS or what he considers BS which I happen to usually agree with.

I would say 90% of the people who post on Jerry's blog care abut the topic at hand.

If we exclude spammers, I'd say 100% care. SO WHAT. I'm interested in Commercial Airline Piloting and read a blog about it. As a VFR pilot with only triple digit hours, I sure as heck don't have anything to contribute. But yes, I am exposed to their ads and participate in their revenue model. I'm strictly a "Listener". Does their audience want my input?

I agree, which is why I read much more than write as I'm not an engineer but do get in there when I can.

I also realize soimething of what goes into a radio call in show and also realize why the boring or off base must be weeded out, but a blog isn't an entertainment show, it doesn't have to be fast paced and one doesn't have to get to his point in 15 seconds or less.

We may have to agree to disagree here, Bob. I have about 30 choices on my radio if the programming sucks. Maybe 2 other talk stations. I suspect the number of internet choices is a LOT larger. If your site sucks, people leave. Believe it.

Only the main blog has to be interesting though, you don't have to read the posts after the blog, Jerry's blog is successful because of what he writes, not because of the posters. With radio the callers are usually an integral part of the show yes?

I have never called into a radio talk show because I am not a fast on my feet thinker usually, I am deliberate and take my time. But then again I've never heard a talk show about IBOC, that may be the first time I call in.

I don't call the radio either. But a blog which wants to be popular DOES need to realize content is king. (Sound familiar?)

Yes, but my above reply applies here too.

This board is a great example. When it becomes too one sided either way, I'm usually out of here. That goes for many others as well. RM100 and Mike Walker come to mind. I know there are tons of others. My apologies to those I missed.

Yes, all the closeminded people leave if it is too one sided. Oh well.

Jerry has another business plan, as he basically "Writes" about his opinion and experiences, and then the "Dunce Cap Brigade" from both sides post mindless drivel after it. Some of it even on topic. While his columnns are pretty much quality work, (Agree with them or not), The comments are more often than not, just garbage. (Sorry if you're in there.)

Not all posts are good of course but I wouldn't call the majority garbage

If you want to meet your audience, head down to Wally World and start a focus group. If you've ever CONDUCTED a focus group, you know these people are NOT who you want "On The Air".

Agreed

YMMV

Clouseau