BMW continues to expand its pioneering position in providing high-quality audio systems by offering a factory-installed digital HD Radio receiver with FM multicasting capability as an option in its innovative new 3 Series Hardtop Convertible. HD Radio technology is one of the most significant advances in radio broadcasting history, providing listeners with enhanced digital audio quality and clear, noise-free reception, as well as multicasting and on-screen text information. The HD Radio multicasting feature allows FM stations to broadcast multiple channels of digital programming simultaneously on a single frequency.
Of the more than 1,000 stations across the country broadcasting with HD Radio technology, more than 500 FM stations are offering a second (HD2) and, in many cases, a third (HD3) multicast channel. For example, WAMU in Washington, DC, offers three channels: 88.5-1, a simulcast of its news/talk analog channel; 88.5-2, a simulcast of an innovative Baltimore music station not available in DC; and 88.5-3, bluegrass music. These channels are free but can only be found on HD Radio receivers. As with all HD Radio programming, there are no fees or additional costs associated with multicast channels.
The number of HD Radio stations is growing daily and expected to exceed 3,000 within the next few years. A current list of HD Radio stations and multicast stations can be found at: www.hdradio.com.
Today's announcement continues BMW's history of groundbreaking premium audio offerings. In August 2005, the company announced the first OEM availability of HD Radio technology in its 2006 7 Series models. BMW then followed up in November 2005 by extending the HD Radio option to drivers of its 2006 6 Series vehicles. This past June, the company announced that HD Radio would be offered in its 2007 5 Series models.
The HD Radio option on the all-new 2007 BMW 3 Series Convertible will have a Suggested Retail Price of $500.
