About HD Radio
WUNC News in Chapel Hill and WRQM in Rocky Mount both transmit with digital signals that can be received with HD Radios. Signals from these transmitters can be heard on both older analog receivers and newer digital HD Radios.
In addition to clearer digital signals, HD allows stations the option to broadcast a discrete, second set of programs on what is called HD2. These radio broadcasts can only be received with an HD Radio. WUNC News offers 24/7 programming from the BBC World Service on its WUNC-HD2 service, which is transmitted from Chatham County. The BBC World Service is also available on our website and the WUNC News app.
- WUNC.org: Click “All Streams” in the media player at the top of each page and select “BBC World Service.”
- WUNC News app: Scroll down the main page. You’ll find the BBC World Service stream midway between the news headlines.
Frequently Asked Questions About High Definition "HD" Radio
Q: Will I need a new radio to listen to HD stations?
A: You will need a new radio to pick up digital broadcasts. However, older radios will continue to receive the main "analog" signal.
Q: What is the cost of a HD radio?
A: HD radios have become more affordable in recent years, with many in the $100-$150 range, and many new cars come with HD radios installed.
Q: Will HD Radio stations carry different programming?
A: In most cases, the main HD signal will be a higher-quality digital version of the programming heard on the analog service. However, WUNC News and all HD Radio stations have the option to add secondary HD2 services. WUNC News provides the BBC World Service on WUNC HD2.
Q: Why do I get dropouts or silences on the HD2 Services?
A: Listeners on the fringe of the transmission area may experience dropouts if the signal falls below a critical level. Unlike analog signals that fade out or become full of static at long distances, HD signals go silent when the signal becomes too weak.