The rollouts mark the first wide-scale launch of HD2 multicast channels in the country, with each market airing new and unique content. The Alliance’s approach also increases the diversity of radio programming in every radio market. Through the selection process, each market is guaranteed its own mix of new programming.
Collectively, some 264 entirely new HD2 channels will carry a variety of music or talk formats.
Member broadcasters are responsible for programming each of their multicast channels and all HD2 formats are initially commercial-free. In addition, all current analog radio signals will also be available as HD digital radio broadcasts (on HD1 channels). No subscription is required to hear HD digital radio broadcasts.
Some of the totally new formats to be introduced in the first wave include: Viva La Voce (opera), Classical Alternative, Traditional Jazz & Blues, Coffee House, Female Talk, Future Country, Extreme Hip Hop and in-depth news.
Additionally, new rock formats are being developed under the initiative. A sampling of some of the rock formats that will be appearing in some of the markets: includes Deep Cuts Classic Rock, Live Rock, New Alternative, Fusion Hispanic-Anglo Rock, Chick Rock, Indie & New Rock. Details and descriptions of these and other formats will come directly from the Alliance members.
The first 28 markets are:
New York
Portland, Oregon
Los Angeles
Cincinnati
Chicago
San Jose, CA
San Francisco
Indianapolis
Dallas-Fort Worth
Memphis, TN
Philadelphia
Hartford, CT
Houstonv
Birmingham, AL
Washington, D.C.
Dayton, OH
Boston
McAllen, TX
Detroit
Tulsa, OK
Atlanta
Albuquerque, NM
Miami
El Paso, TX
Seattle
Springfield, MA
Baltimore
Wichita, KS
- Portions From a HD Digital Radio Alliance Press Release
