I got the Boston Acoustics HD this past week, and although I think it's a good unit, I have some questions about whether or not HD Radio will be accepted by the listening public. Here are my observations:
-The one and only HD2 channel on the only HD FM station (so far) in this area signed on a day after I received the unit. Even though it's just an automated jukebox at this time, at least it's another listening choice. However, after observing the sound quality, the HD2 has as many digital artifacts as listening to an XM music station, and is not as good as Sirius (this is my observation and opinion). Is this going to be the case with all HD2 stations?
-A bulk of radio listening is done in cars. Many new models have radios in which aftermarket units are difficult or impossible to install. iBiquity will need to work hard to secure the OEM market, which may be hard since GM and Honda are major investors in XM, and the same with DaimlerChrysler's involvement in Sirius. These companies most likely would like see a return in their investment with the satellite companies, so they may be resistant to add HD to their radios.
-In order for there to be sub-$100 HD receivers for the new technology to be adopted by more people, iBiquity will need to reduce licensing fees. Is this going to be a problem for them, or do they make much of their revenue through the broadcast equipment industry?
Other than that, the sound quality on the main HD1 FM is great, while I don't think AM HD has a future. I bought the Boston based on my experience with the analog version of the Recepter, and if HD fails, then there is always a good analog tuner to fall back upon (as well as inputs for satellite). I'm trying to make a fair observation on HD, which has its fans and detractors. Any other comments are welcome.
-The one and only HD2 channel on the only HD FM station (so far) in this area signed on a day after I received the unit. Even though it's just an automated jukebox at this time, at least it's another listening choice. However, after observing the sound quality, the HD2 has as many digital artifacts as listening to an XM music station, and is not as good as Sirius (this is my observation and opinion). Is this going to be the case with all HD2 stations?
-A bulk of radio listening is done in cars. Many new models have radios in which aftermarket units are difficult or impossible to install. iBiquity will need to work hard to secure the OEM market, which may be hard since GM and Honda are major investors in XM, and the same with DaimlerChrysler's involvement in Sirius. These companies most likely would like see a return in their investment with the satellite companies, so they may be resistant to add HD to their radios.
-In order for there to be sub-$100 HD receivers for the new technology to be adopted by more people, iBiquity will need to reduce licensing fees. Is this going to be a problem for them, or do they make much of their revenue through the broadcast equipment industry?
Other than that, the sound quality on the main HD1 FM is great, while I don't think AM HD has a future. I bought the Boston based on my experience with the analog version of the Recepter, and if HD fails, then there is always a good analog tuner to fall back upon (as well as inputs for satellite). I'm trying to make a fair observation on HD, which has its fans and detractors. Any other comments are welcome.
..most people even today dont know am stereo even exists..i took a poll about hd at work the other day.guess how many co workers knew of it?? yep..none!!