France Musique to Exit FM Band as DAB+ Digital Radio Expands
France Musique will cease broadcasting on the FM band in certain regions starting the night of July 21-22. This change is part of Radio France's reorganization of its transmitter network due to the ongoing deployment of terrestrial digital radio, known as DAB+.
While France Musique transitions away from FM, Radio France will retain some FM frequencies. These reserved frequencies are intended for use by franceinfo, particularly in critical situations such as major crises or natural disasters, where FM broadcasting can offer a reliable communication channel.
The transition from analog FM to digital DAB+ radio represents a technological evolution aimed at improving spectrum efficiency and potentially offering enhanced audio quality and additional services. Radio France's strategic reallocation of FM frequencies, reserving some for critical information services like franceinfo, highlights a pragmatic approach to maintaining essential communication infrastructure during emergencies. This move underscores the ongoing tension between digital advancement and the need for resilient, widely accessible broadcast systems, particularly in the face of potential disruptions. The long-term implications involve assessing how this digital shift impacts audience reach and the role of public broadcasting in an increasingly fragmented media landscape.
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