There's more than one station broadcasting in HD on FM in Jax. At the current time, there are several FM stations in Jacksonville offering an HD version of their analog main channel. 89.9 WJCT is the only local broadcaster to offer HD-1 (main channel), HD-2 Classical, and an HD-3 stream, a re-broadcast of low fidelity National weather Service radio. All the Clear Channel FM's DID have HD-2 streams, but a severe lightning strike damaged their southside antenna in May, which has resulted in their HD's being intermittent. Hopefully, they'll restore their former HD service when repairs are completed. All the Cox FM's (with the exception of lower power WOKV-FM) offer an HD version of their main analog channels. With more car manufacturers offering HD, despite HD radio still being controversial in some circles, smart broadcasters may want to consider re-thinking how they utilize their HD options. For example, instead of the rock format they offer on their HD-2 (when its on), WJGH-FM Magic 107.3 could offer a niche 50's/60's Oldies, or a Smooth Jazz format on their HD-2 channel in combination with their adult appeal Classic Hits main channel. It's my understanding that HD-2 channels can be created and operated rather inexpensively. The right choices on HD-2 could possibly give listeners a reason to utilize and consider HD. Since Jacksonville is a smaller market than Miami, Tampa-St. Pete, and Orlando, and subsequently offers local operators less revenue potential, it's not surprising that, so far, Jax has less HD stations than the other large metros in Florida, but we do already have several.
