OnAirBroadcast radio · Experimental
Decode HD Radio with an SDR
OnAir receives HD Radio. HD Radio (NRSC-5) digital sidebands of FM and AM stations (USA).
What HD Radio is
HD Radio (IBOC) adds digital sidebands to FM and AM broadcasts, mainly in the United States.
Frequencies and where it is used
USA, FM and AM.
In OnAir the tuning shortcut is USA, FM and AM; you can enter any frequency your radio reaches.
What OnAir shows for HD Radio
HD Radio (NRSC-5) digital sidebands of FM and AM stations (USA).
This receiver is built from the published specification and checked end to end on simulated signals. It has had little or no testing on real transmissions yet, so reports and recordings on Discord are welcome.
Which radio you need
Any radio that tunes this range works. An RTL-SDR covers roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz, and every other radio in the radio guide reaches it too. Antenna height and a clear view of the transmitter matter most.
Questions about HD Radio
Can I decode HD Radio with an RTL-SDR?
Usually yes for narrowband signals, as an RTL-SDR tunes roughly 24 MHz to 1.7 GHz at up to about 2.4 Msps. Wide signals such as TV channels need a faster radio, and OnAir says next to the source what the selected radio can do.
Is it legal to receive HD Radio?
Receiving broadcast radio is legal in most countries. OnAir cannot decode encrypted services.
Can I try HD Radio in OnAir without a radio?
Yes. Most modes include a built-in synthetic test signal, so you can open the screen and try the controls before you own a radio.
Try it without a radio
OnAir includes built-in synthetic test signals for most modes, so you can open this screen, see the layout and try the controls before you own a radio. The Tour button walks you through the app.