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It’s not only TVs that are going digital, but radios, too. While there is no deadline for converting radio stations to digital, most existing analog radios will become obsolete and all radio transmissions will be in high definition only — requiring HD radios exclusively.

Car manufacturers such as Mercedes, Ford, Volvo, BMW and others have disclosed plans to include HD radio receivers in current or future models.

According to the HD Digital Radio Alliance, there are more than 243 million registered passenger vehicles in the U.S. today. In addition, consumers purchase more than 70 million radios each year and there are currently 1 billion radios in the country, most of them with analog receivers.

Many police and other emergency vehicles and personnel are equipped with analog radios and must convert to digital by 2013.

Currently, there is no assistance with coupons or rebates from the federal government for purchasing HD radios, unlike the TV conversion program. However, consumer electronic vendors might offer special pricing or rebate programs.

Conversion boxes are available only for automobiles. They are sold at retailers and online.

Most radio stations are transmitting on what is called a hybrid mode where existing analog signals co-exist with the digital HD signals on existing AM and FM radio channels. What HD transmission brings is a reduction or elimination of static and other interference resulting in a clear reception as if you were listening to a CD.

Radio stations have the discretion to convert to full digital transmission whenever they are ready. Analog radios are unable to pick up digital signals, but an HD radio will receive both analog and digital signals.

Currently, there are four HD radio stations in the La Crosse market broadcasting in HD: WLSU-HD; WIZM-HD; WRQT-HD; and KCLH-HD.

It’s important to keep in mind that like the television converter boxes, consumers can use them and HD radios as soon as they are purchased even if the stations that are listened to are still in analog. Digital radios are sold in consumer electronic stores.

For more information on HD radio technology or to find a retailer, log on to www.hdradio.com, or to the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association at www.wi-broadcasters.org.