Would Cox consider a talk format in GSP?

[tylerSC]

In the past year, Cox has converted one of their FM stations in Atlanta and Orlando to a news-talk format that includes talk shows from Neal Boortz, Clark Howard, and Sean Hannity. In Atlanta, 95.5 the Beat became a simultcast of Newstalk 750-WSB. And in Orlando, they began simulcasting their AM news station on FM as well, WDBO. Would like to see them do something similar here, on either 98.1 or 107.3. Can hear WSB on 750AM in the car, but sometimes a bit of static. Would like to hear Boortz and Howard on a clear FM frequency in the Upstate. Is there a chance Cox could consider converting one of their GSP stations, or do they perform well in their current formats?

 

[carolinaradio]

Interesting question. I'd like to see somebody give 106.3 a run for their money. It's not a great talker. However, Cox is NOT going to touch 107.3 - look at the numbers, not to mention that they're the only Urban station in the market. I don't know about Hot 98.1. It's not a very good sounding station, and performance is mediocre. Chuck @ 97.7 is brand new, and if it has good response, I would not be surprised if Chuck gets an upgrade to 98.1 and we see something else go to 97.7.

The stations you mention already had a loyal following and heritage on the AM band, and were simply moved to FM - something here would have to be built from the ground up. Glenn Beck is not carried in this market, either. I don't see it happening any time soon, unless maybe they get another translator (like they did for Chuck) to put some of their syndicated fare on.