Media Centre > News Releases > Archive > 1996 > October 27, 1996

Toronto Broadcasters Launch First North American Commercial Digital Radio Services

Edmonton, October 27, 1996 -- On October 23, 1996, a consortium of Toronto radio broadcasters notified the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) of their plans to establish full time digital radio transmitters on Toronto's CN tower. These facilities should be in place by mid-1997 and will carry the programming of 15 radio stations.

Eight of Canada's major broadcasting companies have cooperated on this project including: Rogers Broadcasting Ltd.; CHUM Limited; Shaw Communications; Telemedia; Westcom Radio Group; Standard Radio Inc.; CHIN Radio; and; CJRT-FM.

Duff Roman co-chair of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters' (CAB) Digital Radio Committee said: "Canada has been a world leader in the development of digital audio broadcasting (DAB) and this is an historical step for our industry. It reaffirms our commitment to a rapid introduction of digital radio."

The development of digital radio in Canada has been a cooperative effort involving both private and public broadcasters, along with Government, over the past six years. The launch of Canada's first digital radio service will also require a cooperative effort among local broadcasters.

DAB will be implemented as a replacement for analog AM and FM radio. Initially, it will simulcast existing programming of participating stations, offering CD audio quality. DAB will provide a range of enhanced consumer services that will clearly establish radio on the Information Highway.

This strategic move by Toronto stations anticipates the arrival of consumer digital radio receivers by Fall of 1997.

For information please contact:

Susan Tolusso
Director, Communications
(613) 233-4035 ext. 331
(stolusso@cab-acr.ca)