Thanks to the advancement in digital radio technology it is now possible to receive even more WCBU programming than ever before. Perhaps you’ve heard the buzz about HD radio and the additional classical music programming you’re able to receive on WCBU-2. If that’s piqued your interest but you don’t know how to go about purchasing an HD receiver, this brief guide will help you chose a unit that’s a good fit! 

With HD Radio, your WCBU listening experience is enhanced thanks to the capabilities digital broadcasting offers. It’s essentially a way to enjoy two WCBU stations. On WCBU-1, you’ll find a 24/7 news and information service in clear digital quality. No more drop-outs or static during rainy days. Instead you’ll enjoy Morning Edition, All Things Considered, and Fresh Air every weekday and the weekend favorites like Car Talk you’ve come to rely on. Over on WCBU-2, you can enjoy the soothing sounds of classical music programs like Performance Today and Sunday Baroque, also with rich high-quality sound. But the only ways to hear these two channels is on an HD radio receiver or our web stream. Let’s take a look at what HD radio has to offer…

What Model is Right for You?

With an array of choices in today’s world it’s often tough to make a decision. But a few guidelines may help you select an HD radio that fits your needs and lifestyle. The selection of HD radios from familiar names like Sony, Polk, or Jensen is growing at a rapid pace. If you listen to WCBU primarily at home, on-the-go, or in your car, here are a few new HD radio models that may help you get the programs you enjoy!

Home Radios

  

 

1.    Insignia NS-BHDIP01                $99.99               (Available at Best Buy)

This complete entertainment system comes in a nice portable package that allows you to listen to WCBU and WCBU2 either inside or outdoors. With a HD stereo, CD player, and iPhone / iPad docking station, this is one of the most affordable and versatile ways to enjoy your favorite public radio station.

 

  

 2.    JBL OT400IHD                    $199.99          (Available at Best Buy)

A sleek, modern design lets you know this model is the latest HD radio offering from JBL, a company that’s been producing audio equipment since 1946. This is another tabletop AM/FM/HD radio with an iPod docking station that will provide hours of entertainment. Other features include DSP equalization and a large LCD screen that displays what WCBU and WCBU2 programming is currently playing.

 

 

 3.    Sangean HDT-1X               $159.99          (Available at Amazon.com)

If you already have a home stereo system but you’re missing an HD radio tuner, this component radio from Sangean is a perfect complement to your home system. With its large backlit LCD display and external antenna input it offers listeners a full HD radio experience at a modest price.

 

 

Mobile Radios

  

  

 1.    Gigaware iPod HD Tuners     $39.99 - $44.99     (Available at Radio Shack)

 These handy devices connect to your iPod or iPhone  and allow you to add HD radio tuning to your iPod’s™  FM tuner. Enjoy WCBU or WCBU2 anywhere you go in our coverage area without carrying an extra radio!

 

 

                    

 2.    Insignia NS-HD02 / NS-HD01                  $49.99 - $69.99     (Available at Best Buy)

Insignia has offered the most economical portable HD radio model under $75 in recent years. With the NS-HD02 they’re now offering two to choose from! The original ND-HD01 features a lightweight, simple FM/HD tuner with ear buds, arm band, and USB charging. The NS-HD-2 offers the same features with a larger 2.4” touch screen interface and up to 20 presets.  

 

 

Car Radios

 

 

 

1.    Dual XHD6430                     $119.99          (Available at Best Buy)

If your car stereo has seen better days and won’t pick up HD radio stations like WCBU, an upgrade to Dual’s XHD6430 may help pep up your commute! This AM/FM/HD radio also features a CD/MP3/WMA player and even a USB port to playback audio files from a flash drive. If that’s not enough, it even is Bluetooth®-ready so you can sync up mobile devices with an additional module (sold separately). Essentially this is a complete upgrade from your factory sound system for under $150.

 

2.    JVC KT HDP1          $29.99 plus adapter kit      (Available at Amazon.com)

If upgrading your entire stereo in your car isn’t an option for you, this FM/HD radio tuner from JVC offers a convenient way to enjoy WCBU or WCBU2 with just a few minutes of setup and no wiring needed. Simply select an adapter kit (antenna adapter and stereo cables) and plug & play. This JVC also features an RF modulator so you can play WCBU’s HD offerings over your existing FM car stereo without any auxiliary cables to worry about. There’s also a home adapter kit so you can take the JVC from your car to your house to enjoy HD radio wherever you go.

 

 

  

 

3.    JVC KW-HDR720         $219.99 w/ free installation kit     (Available at Crutchfield.com)

 Many newer vehicles with a 'double-DIN' sized radio opening are able to accept the JVC KW-HDR720 stereo for enhanced features like a built-in HD tuner, CD player that can read MP3 and WMA data discs, auxiliary input, and USB connectivity. Its one of the most versatile and affordable upgrades to your car that you will enjoy for many happy miles. In car entertainment and HD tuning for under $300.

 

 

For a complete list of HD radio models on the market, click here to see our HD Radio Buyer's Guide.

 

 

 

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 Questions? Need advice on hooking up your new HD radio?
No problem! WCBU is happy to help you get the most out of your new purchase. Call Daryl Scott, Operations Manager at 309-677-2762 or email dscott@bradley.edu for assistance.

 

 

 

Don’t Own an HD Radio Receiver Yet?

If you’re still shopping for the perfect HD radio and you’re interested in hearing WCBU2, simply click the links on our homepage, or below to enjoy the web stream.

CLICK TO LISTEN TO WCBU2