In developing our new line of Internet Radio Tuners, we considered our many years in the FM tuner business and how we have seen distributed audio take many forms. And with the introduction of various new technologies
(Satellite Radio, DAB/DAB+, HD Radio), we have also taken a very
cautious approach. For years, we exclusively built terrestrial FM
tuners, despite the myriad of alternatives being developed. But as our
reputation for quality in FM developed, we also continued to experiment
in our design lab.
It wasn't until 2004 that we took our first step towards embracing the
various digital audio broadcasts permeating our industry. First with the
World Source Platform in the MD 109, and later with the launch of our
line of XM Satellite Radio Tuners, we developed expertise in D-to-A
technology, and were finally happy with the resultant signal (and sound)
we were able to achieve. This development lead us to experiment with
other digitally distributed audio broadcasts, and ultimately, led us to
a medium that offers the greatest potential for music lovers, the
Internet.
With the variety in signal quality distributed via Internet music
stations, not all broadcasts will produce CD quality sound. But they
are out there. And there are more than we could have imagined. With our
advances in DAC design, and a growing number of high quality broadcasts
coming on-line, we are mystified by the potential that Internet radio
offers, and we are excited about our new line of Internet Radio Receivers / Tuners.
