TheBuzz Erika Engle

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Jazz returns to Hawaii commercial radio, now in high definition

JAZZ is back on Hawaii commercial radio. Any first-adopter with a high-definition radio can catch the digital audio action at 2.3-2, where a jazz format called "The Lounge" launched on Tuesday. It is a digital companion channel to KSSK-FM 92.3.

HD radio is the next generation of terrestrial radio, delivered digitally, versus the analog signal of traditional broadcast FM and AM stations.

Unlike satellite radio, which requires a subscription, HD radio is free. However, similar to satellite radio, HD radio requires a special receiver. Tabletop models by Boston Acoustics, Radio Shack and as of this week, Sony, can cost around $200, or less, with manufacturer's or retailer's specials and rebates. HD car radios are also available, for about half the price.

Hawaii stations owned by Texas-based Clear Channel Communications Inc. were the first in the state to roll out HD radio, but Georgia-based Cox Radio Inc. will also be rolling out HD broadcasts this year.

Since KUCD-FM 101.9 changed from smooth jazz to modern rock several years ago, Hawaii Public Radio's KIPO-FM 89.3 has been one of the few local radio sources providing a jazz-fix for aficionados. A great deal of that, your columnist might add, has been hosted for many years by the Star-Bulletin's own Seth Markow, during his show, "The Real Deal" from 8 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

UNUSUAL RADIO MOVE

A huge California-based radio company has asked the Federal Communications Commission to relocate two neighbor island stations' designated channels.

The request by Educational Media Foundation, licensee of KHAI-FM 103.5 in Wahiawa, would require frequency changes for KSHK-FM 103.3 in Kekaha and KNUQ-FM 103.7, Kahului, owned by Maui-based Visionary Related Entertainment LLC.

"We have seen the filing," said VRE President John Detz. "We need to study the application and respond on its merits as (to) how it may impact our operations."

Each radio frequency has a channel assignment, Detz explained.

"The FM dial is divided into channel 201 ( 88.1) to 220 (91.9) for noncommercial and 221(92.1) to 300 (107.9) for commercial stations."

"EMF purchased the commercial channel ... and has asked the FCC also to let it operate as a non-com so they do not have to have a local studio here in Hawaii."

EMF's hundreds of stations around the country stream two different Christian music formats, known as K-Love and Air 1. KHAI carries the latter.