[Bulk] [Bulk] [BC] HD Radio's lack of upgrade capability

[Rich Wood]

------ At 07:58 PM 10/20/2005, Michael Bergman wrote: -------

>For example, matrix proponents point to the large number of receivers in the
>field that have matrix compatible decoders, and that a matrix signal is
>compatible with analog FM and IBOC, and that the broadcaster equipment
>requires the smallest change.  Other proponents have more discrete surround
>effects and do not increase L-R.

Those are primarily Dolby Pro Logic and DTS.

>Some consumers will be happy with this result, and some will be happy with
>stereo or won't splurge for the 5.1 system, so how much market is there for
>"broadcast surround"--and how can we all make the public aware of and want
>something like this, which is an upgrade from, say, iPod audio.

For me it's discrete or nothing. I have no personal interest in 
simulated surround. My home theatre has everything from cathedrals to 
coffee houses. I've never used any of them. Again, it's probably 
because of my recording experience. I know what music really sounds 
like. The other thing is that a lot of contemporary music uses 
effects that would probably be defeated by matrix or simulation.

In the early days of FM phasing was a big problem. Many stations used 
phase enhancers. Many songs used phasing effects that disappeared 
somewhere in the enhancer. Listeners complained that the records they 
bought didn't sound like what they heard on the radio. That's the 
same issue I have with remixing older material for 5.1. Sound and 
smell are the two senses that trigger memory. Someone mentioned the 
song Afternoon Delight. I heard the song in my head and remember 
exactly where I was when I first heard it. I was on the Riverwalk in 
San Antonio. Unfortunately for me the first place I heard most songs 
was in a radio studio as I played them.

Rich


Rich Wood
Rich Wood Multimedia
Phone: 413-303-9084
FAX: 413-480-0010