CRA launches the first part of its nationwide DAB+ network for commercial radios
CRA launched its nationwide DAB+ digital radio network, broadcasting commercial radio stations on frequencies acquired in a frequency auction organised by the Czech Telecommunications Office (CTU). Currently, they have completed 48% of the coverage of the planned multiplex and as of today, 6 commercial radio stations will start broadcasting.
The new digital radio multiplex, launched by CRA on 4 February, now comprises a total of 17 transmitters. The second phase and the launch of another 15 transmitters will follow by the end of March, reaching coverage of 80% of the Czech population.
The first to start broadcasting is Radio United Broadcasting. Specifically, listeners can look forward to the radio stations Radio Kiss, Country Radio, Radio Beat, Radio 1, Radio Spin, and Signal Radio.
‘The digitalisation of radio broadcasting has reached another milestone with the entry of commercial radio stations into this type of broadcasting’, says CRA CEO Miloš Mastník. ‘The digitalisation of radio broadcasting continues, and we are pleased that the construction of the new DAB multiplex is proceeding at the planned pace and that within a few weeks, most listeners in the Czech Republic will be able to enjoy their favourite commercial radio stations in digital broadcasting, which offers a higher quality reception and some additional services’, adds Miloš Mastník.
CRA already provides nationwide DAB+ broadcasting for Czech Radio. The new DAB+ network that CRA is launching today will allow commercial radio stations to broadcast digitally. This will significantly increase the number of radio stations that will be available to listeners across the country. The expansion of broadcasting from other CRA transmitters, which will ensure 80% of the population in the Czech Republic is covered by a digital radio signal, is expected by the end of March.