About HD Radio

KCCK received a major grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for conversion
equipment that allows us to broadcast using the next generation of over-the-air radio technology,
digital HD Radio. HD Radio brings to FM and AM the same advantages that digital TV is bringing
to the television world.

It’s important to note that KCCK has not changed! You can still listen to and enjoy all of our
programming on your radio, without having to change a thing. Here are some of the most common
questions about people ask about digital radio:

What is HD Radio?

HD Radio is a new technology that enables AM and FM radio stations to broadcast their programs
digitally, a tremendous technological leap from today’s familiar analog broadcasts. These digital
broadcasts provide listeners with radically improved audio quality and reception. Signal fading,
static, hisses and pops are a thing of the past.

Best of all, the digital signal is transmitted alongside the regular analog signal, which means that
even though you’ll need an HD-capable receiver to hear KCCK’s digital broadcast, you’ll tune to
88.3, just like you always have, no new channel numbers to remember. If you travel out of the coverage
range of the digital signal (which has a tighter radius than the analog) and lose it, your radio
will automatically switch over to analog, like a roaming cell phone.

What does it cost?

Nothing! This is not a satellite subscription service. Digital radio is free to the listener, but you will have to buy a new, HD-capable radio to receive the HD transmission.

Will I still be able to get KCCK’s signal without a digital radio?

Yes! The digital signal is transmitted alongside the regular analog signal. You can still hear us in your car, your office and home on your radio as you always have. KCCK will always broadcast in both analog and digital so you will still be able to hear us on your existing radio (but once you hear HD, you’ll want to make the switch!)

Any other advantages?

Data services such as song and artist information, weather, etc. will display right on your
receiver. HD also makes available a second program channel, where we are currently testing a second program channel, dubbed KCCK Jazz2. Check it out here.

I love KCCK, but am not about to buy a new radio just for one station.

Cedar Rapids-Iowa City has several HD stations. No fewer than four area stations in addition to us (KZIA, KMRY, KSUI, WSUI) have also added digital capabilities. This means you’ll have several listening options once you invest in an HD receiver.

If you have questions about HD radio or concerns please contact KCCK at 319-398-5446 or email Dennis Green, KCCK General Manager