For FM stations broadcasting voice material (except for incidental music) broadcasting the analog FM signal in mono with the pilot turned off is a rational choice. Not absolutely an error. It could be a wise decision.
If the station also broadcasts digital radio, it provides stereo audio for those who want to hear it.
Back in the '70s I had a tuner that would mute a station with the pilot off, if the tuner mono/stereo switch was set to stereo. That was a long time ago, and by now most of that consumer gear is probably gone from the life of civilians, i.e. not radio people or vintage gear fans.
011nerve, yes indeed if the station is intentionally broadcasting mono audio 24/7, I think they should turn off the pilot. I relate to your feelings, but consider that it might not be a mistake by an engineer or technical person. Instead of being a mistake, the reason could be time, money, working environment, vibe, available gear on hand, personal logistics, etc.
Literally, summation of two analog audio channels into one analog audio channel correctly is not attainable with nothing to work with.
If the station also broadcasts digital radio, it provides stereo audio for those who want to hear it.
Back in the '70s I had a tuner that would mute a station with the pilot off, if the tuner mono/stereo switch was set to stereo. That was a long time ago, and by now most of that consumer gear is probably gone from the life of civilians, i.e. not radio people or vintage gear fans.
011nerve, yes indeed if the station is intentionally broadcasting mono audio 24/7, I think they should turn off the pilot. I relate to your feelings, but consider that it might not be a mistake by an engineer or technical person. Instead of being a mistake, the reason could be time, money, working environment, vibe, available gear on hand, personal logistics, etc.
Literally, summation of two analog audio channels into one analog audio channel correctly is not attainable with nothing to work with.
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