If you're looking into buying a new digital radio, then you might have noticed that many of them are compatible with something called "DAB+". But what exactly is DAB+, and is it something that you actually need? Read on, and we'll explain everything you need to know about this new technology.
Related: Top 10 Best DAB Radios
What Is DAB+?
Radio manufacturers often hype up DAB as the future of radio. Until there is a digital radio switchover, that claim is technically true. However, DAB radio actually dates back to the late Nineties. Since then, the technology behind it has come a long way. DAB+ is essentially the next step along from standard digital radio.
The main benefit of DAB+ is that it makes much more efficient use of the available bandwidth used to send out radio signals. In fact, up to three times the data can be sent out by DAB+ stations. That means much higher audio quality for listeners, and space for even more stations. DAB+ also provides a more reliable reception that standard digital radio, making it less likely that the signal will cut out while you're listening.
Do I Need DAB+?
DAB+ is now the standard format in several European countries, as well as Australia. However, it's yet to fully take off here in Britain. At present, there are only a handful of UK stations that broadcast on DAB+. Most of these are spin-offs from popular stations like Heart and Virgin, playing specific genres of music all day long.
That being said, it's likely that we will start to see more stations making the switch in the next few years. Radio X became the latest station to start broadcasting on DAB+ in October, so this process is already taking place. When the digital radio switchover eventually happens, it's likely that more stations will follow suit to take full advantage of the new technology.
Is My Radio Ready to Receive DAB+?
If you have bought a new DAB radio in the last five years or so, it's highly likely that it can also receive DAB+ transmissions. Since 2013, any radio sold with the digital tick is also DAB+ compatible. That includes every DAB radio available from liGo, so you can be sure your new radio is futureproof when you shop with us!