Satellite Radio vs. High-Definition Radio for the Layperson

The article, “Satellite Radio vs. High-Definition Radio for the Layperson” was found at the following URL: http://stereos.about.com/od/homestereotechnologies/a/radio.htm. This article talks about the competition between satellite radio and high-definition radio for listeners and profit. It compared the two formats noting specifically the advantages of satellite radio and HD radio. The article explains that satellite radio users get higher quality sound, more variety of content and channels, and nearly commercial-free music with no restriction from the FCC. To enjoy satellite radio, however, the article notes that U.S. residents must subscribe to either XM Satellite Radio or Sirius Satellite Radio costing the consumer around $13 a month. In order to combat satellite radio, iBiquity Digital introduced high-definition radio technology to conventional radio providers. The company explained that HD radio would be a quick fix to problems like static and sound-quality. Radio stations would invest a minimum of $250,000 to use HD radio technology. HD radio is free, but consumers may have to buy add-on components. However, HD radio is not commercial free and does not provide as many channels and content as satellite radio. For this reason, the writer of the article declares satellite radio the winner in the long run.

I disagree with the writer that satellite radio would be more successful in the long run. After reading this article, I realized that the main advantage of satellite radio was its ability to provide listeners with a variety of content and channels. However, I wouldn’t pay $13 a month just to listen to it when I can listen to high-definition radio for free. Also, the variety of content can be combated with products like MP3 players that can be played over car radios. MP3 players also allow consumers to control the music and content variety. As for the sound quality of both formats, personally, I don’t think it’s too much of a problem. In my opinion, it's nice that there are options out there but there’s not a dire need for satellite radio or HD radio.

RELATIVE ADVANTAGE:

• The digital signal provides subscribers with more channels than conventional radio.
• Satellite radio is not restricted by the FCC.
• It is mainly commercial-free.
• Internet subscribers may also listen to satellite radio.
• Satellite radio serves a wide range of listeners and niche markets.

TRIABILITY:

• In order to use satellite radio, one must subscribe to at least one satellite provider.
• To use satellite radio, listeners pay $13 a month. (425)