talkRADIO and talkSPORT switching to DAB +

Wireless stations talkRADIO and talkSPORT2 are moving from DAB to DAB+.

The move is expected to free up capacity for the new News UK service Times Radio on the Sound Digital National multiplex.

talkRADIO currently has two channels – its original and a new DAB+ channel titled talkRADIO + to give listeners a chance to switch over.

talkSPORT however has made the full move already forcing listeners to return without warning. Only those listeners with DAB+ capable receivers will be able to pick up the stations going forwards.

Wireless says DAB+ will allow the stations to use stereo, although the original DAB service is also capable of stereo transmission.

Wireless Director of Strategy Jimmy Buckland told RadioToday: “talkSPORT2 has moved to DAB+ and talkRADIO is currently broadcasting across both DAB and DAB+ ahead of switching to pure DAB+ later this month. DAB+ offers better sound quality and an ability to provide output in stereo.

“talkRADIO’s strategy continues to build on its industry-leading online visualisation, backed by an upgraded new studio, as it increasingly becomes a multi-platform offer.

“Meanwhile talkSPORT2 is benefiting from the sophisticated new talkSPORT app, featuring a high-quality listening experience and in-built promotional tools like push notifications. This upgrade is well timed for the return of live football.”

talkSPORT remains unaffected.