KEDM’S DIGITAL SIGNAL IS NOW ON THE AIR!

KEDM is now broadcasting its much anticipated digital radio signal.  Listeners with HD Radio compatible receivers can now enjoy the improved, CD-quality sound of KEDM’s digital signal.  KEDM is the first radio station in Northeast Louisiana to convert to HD Radio, but there are already nearly 2,000 stations nationwide using HD Radio technology, including Louisiana stations in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Alexandria, and Hammond.

Although radio stations converting to digital broadcasting will continue to provide traditional analog transmissions in tandem with HD Radio, listeners must have new HD Radio compatible receivers to hear the increased fidelity provided by this next generation broadcast technology.  HD Radios can be purchased at a number of retailers and online outlets, and a total of 13 automotive brands (Audi, BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes, Mercury, Mini, Scion and Volvo) now offer or have announced intentions to offer HD Radio receivers as either standard or optional equipment.

In February, KEDM announced the success of a year-long fundraising campaign, the first capital campaign since KEDM went on the air.  During the campaign volunteers raised local funds to match state appropriations and a federal grant to make this project possible.   The KEDM Digital Campaign Cabinet was led by chairman Whitty Hood, of Ouachita Independent Bank.

In early April KEDM also completed a separate technology project, an increase of the station’s transmission power from 87.1 kilowatts to 100 kilowatts.  That change added approximately 21,000 new potential listeners to the KEDM coverage area.  Listeners first reported improved reception following the initial stage of this second project, the February replacement of the station’s antenna.

KEDM next plans to add two new channels of programming to its HD Radio signal, providing local listeners with access to a wider variety of music, news and information content.  These additional multicast channels, funded by a federal grant, will be introduced one at a time, with both planned to be launched before October, 2009. 

Digital HD Radio technology was developed by privately held iBiquity Digital Corporation.  For more information, please visit... http://www.hdradio.com.| More...