By GLENN FLEISHMAN
The cost of receiving digital AM and FM signals will drop next week as Radiosophy releases its HD100 receiver for less than $60 with a rebate. The HD100 pulls in HD Radio signals, a digital format that is broadcast alongside standard radio by more than 1,200 stations in this country. The next least expensive digital receiver is $160 with a rebate; most start at $300.
Available at www.radiosophy.com, the HD100 is a 2.2-pound compact receiver with built-in speakers. It has a play-through auxiliary input, a headphone jack and an alarm clock. AC power is required.
The radio has an internal AM antenna and a pull-out FM antenna. Both can be replaced with external antennas. Because digital signals are limited to 1 percent of the power of a station’s analog transmission, HD receivers often need external antennas for clear sound on far-off signals.
A display screen shows station call letters, song and artist details and — depending on the station — brief updates on traffic, weather, news and sports.
With its low weight, telescoping antenna and ability to play music from devices like iPods, the HD100 might have a place on the beach — as long as there is a cord long enough to reach it.
