Article Computers Technology

Consumers have consistently and rapidly adopted new digital technologies--CDs
MP3s and DVDs
to name a few--because of the improved quality
choice
convenience and interactivity they provide. And this consumer adoption trend shows no sign of slowing.

The latest development is HD Radio™ technology
which offers broadcasters and their listeners radically upgraded audio quality
along with an on-demand interactive experience and compelling
new wireless data services. HD Radio marks the most significant advancement in radio broadcasting since the introduction of FM stereo more than 50 years ago.

Consumers can continue listening to the same local AM/FM stations they love but with the added services and benefits that HD Radio offers
including:

• AM digital will have FM-like audio quality
allowing for new and innovative programming using music formats. FM digital will have CD-like audio quality.

• Static-free and crystal-clear reception.

• Multicasting for more channels of programming that includes currently unavailable genres.

• Metadata-song
artist and other information (news
weather
traffic ticker info as determined by the broadcaster) displayed on-screen.

• Wireless data services to include on-demand audio. On-demand audio allows for the streaming of content
providing more information on station programs
news
weather and traffic-all at the touch of a button.

"We're moving very rapidly to improve consumers' radio listening experience
says Peter Ferrara, president and CEO of the HD Digital Radio Alliance.
Listeners will now have even more local choices of new and diverse programming."

Some of the totally new formats to be introduced include Viva La Voce (opera)
Classical Alternative
Traditional Jazz & Blues
Coffee House
Female Talk
Future Country
Extreme Hip-Hop and in-depth news. Also of note is the wide variety of new rock formats.

One option for taking advantage of HD Radio is a new entertainment system from Polk Audio. The I-Sonic™ produces big
lifelike sound quality-and is the first to offer HD Radio technology with a DVD player and XM-ready satellite radio technology
making it a total entertainment solution. Its compact dimensions (14.5" x 9.75" x 4.75") allow for use virtually anywhere-home
office or business.

In addition
the I-Sonic was honored as the Best of Innovations audio product at the 2006 Consumer Electronics Show.