DAB+DRM: the inevitable convergence of digital radio standards — voluntary or not.

Choosing both is already more efficient than choosing just one after decades

The definition of a digital radio standard in a country often resembles a “forced course” decision, almost like the adoption of a currency. The nation delves into debates, faces internal clashes, and after years decides which model of transmission and reception it will adopt — abolishing any other system. However, it is inevitable to note that, by 2025, all forecasts made by the industry in 2005 projected much higher penetration rates than those that actually materialized.

If this global dispute were compared to a “market fight” between companies selling similar products, the strongest would already have absorbed its competitors, or, in the case of balance, there would have been a strategic merger to avoid low growth and the wear and tear of war. Despite a certain degree of civility and respect among the defenders of each standard, behind the scenes the dispute is far more visceral. Still, what prevails is the relatively diplomatic way in which each model presents itself against the other.

A technological merger between standards would create a single global option, bringing together the best of each strategy and strengthening competitiveness. But the technical nature prevents this from happening: these are different technologies and approaches, which cannot simply be mixed to generate something new and superior. Convergence, therefore, takes place in another way: understanding that the market already signals a logic of complementarity. The technologies cannot be unified, but they can coexist, each serving distinct needs — urban and rural, short-range or long-range. On one side, a model prepared to handle large, walled-in cities; on the other, a technology designed to overcome distances and serve small towns. A clear complementarity, which may become the most optimized path to adoption.

Convergence through another path

Countries with large territorial extensions, densely populated metropolises, and vast remote areas would achieve more efficient coverage if they viewed DAB+ as the natural successor to FM and DRM as the equivalent of the old role of AM. This is not about overlapping frequency bands, but about complementary characteristics: DAB+, with its urban appeal and resilience amid “concrete jungles,” and DRM, with its unmatched ability to cover medium and long distances.

In this logic, HD Radio would have difficulty facing the strength of a strategic alliance between DAB+ and DRM. In their specific roles, DAB+ would be essentially urban, while DRM would extend coverage to rural areas and smaller cities, forming a balanced ecosystem.

The path of complementarity

Not by chance, some receivers are already manufactured with the ability to tune into multiple standards. This makes the coexistence of DAB+ and DRM fully viable. Australia is already showing signs of feasibility, and Brazil could begin to move in that direction. Other countries and entire regions could also adopt the DAB+DRM formula as a tailored solution, suitable both for large metropolises and small towns.

The logic is similar to that of an airline that uses different aircraft sizes for long and short routes: if it only had one aircraft model, many routes would become unfeasible. In the same way, countries that have opted for a single standard today face low penetration. They may need to recognize that complementing their “coverage shadows” and low adoption rates with another standard is an inevitable path.

DAB+ and DRM: a possible alliance

The union of DAB+ and DRM would have an explosive effect in South America. Starting from Brazil, a “super bloc” with unprecedented strength could emerge, capable of accelerating radio digitalization. The country, with its regional contrasts, offers precisely the ideal scenario: metropolises and interior regions demand distinct solutions.

With DAB+ and DRM adjustable to each situation, Brazil would be able to correctly scale the transmission model in any region — from megacities to small towns. This cooperative system would reduce technological conflicts and accelerate dual adoption in countries currently paralyzed in their decision-making processes on digital radio.

Project: Getting to Know DAB+

I am developing the project GETTING TO KNOW DAB+, whose goal is to travel to France in 2026 to meet with enthusiasts of the DAB+ model, whether from the industry itself or simply passionate listeners. I want to capture, without intermediaries, the subjective perception of what it is like to have the DAB+ system available for listening to digital radio, in addition to making indoor recordings.

My base will be in Nancy, France, and, if the fundraising surpasses the minimum goal, I intend to extend the tests along the route between Nancy and Luxembourg. The fundraising will be mainly allocated to cover airfare and the rental of a car equipped with a DAB+ receiver, which will also allow for a circuit around Nancy.

Basic food and accommodation costs will not be part of the target. Therefore, once the necessary amounts for airfare and the car are reached, the trip will already be confirmed. I am evaluating two possible travel windows: January or June 2026.

Fundraising

There will be two ways to support the project:

• PayPal: for national and international donations, in any currency and amount.

• PIX: for donations within Brazil.

As a token of gratitude, I intend to include the sponsor’s (individual or company) image in a dedicated post, along with a personal message of recognition for their support of digital radio in Brazil. In addition, I will send the list of supporters to the main radio associations so they are aware of the effort Brazil is making in favor of digital radio.

PayPal (national or international donations)

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https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=NCLVCYYN6EBYGou

If the donation amount is significant, please contact me via email at ricardocfg2025@gmail.com so that we can better arrange the most suitable form of our acknowledgment.

PIX (Brazilian system)