I think the main reason for the cost of DAB receivers is the lack of standardization around the world. Not that many countries have it, there are at least two different codecs in common use and many different frequency blocks.
As it happens, the system here in the UK uses an early MPEG codec (the predecessor to MP3), and it has lower audio bandwidth than FM or analogue TV. I doubt it makes much perceptible difference though any car audio system though. In contrast German DAB broadcasts use AAC (same as DVD quality) and a much better forward error correction scheme, making it more suited for mobile reception.
Most new DAB radios you buy will work in most countries, but it's the lack of universal standards which drives up the cost. Satellite radio was designed for mobile reception and seems to work pretty well. I think it would be cool if we could get one of the US systems set up over here.
I like the original AM only push button radio which came with my van. Just feels that bit more retro as it fades out to mush whenever I drive under a power line. You don't get that with modern kit. :-)
As it happens, the system here in the UK uses an early MPEG codec (the predecessor to MP3), and it has lower audio bandwidth than FM or analogue TV. I doubt it makes much perceptible difference though any car audio system though. In contrast German DAB broadcasts use AAC (same as DVD quality) and a much better forward error correction scheme, making it more suited for mobile reception.
Most new DAB radios you buy will work in most countries, but it's the lack of universal standards which drives up the cost. Satellite radio was designed for mobile reception and seems to work pretty well. I think it would be cool if we could get one of the US systems set up over here.
I like the original AM only push button radio which came with my van. Just feels that bit more retro as it fades out to mush whenever I drive under a power line. You don't get that with modern kit. :-)
