After all the discussion, a compromis has been reached to increase the digital sideband power by 6dB. There’s still a chance an additional 4dB will agreed to. Now it’s up to the FCC to allow it.

I have heard the IBOC opponents call this the end of analog radio. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Yes, the digital carriers can cause some interference to the analog neighbors, but when is radio going to either commit to HD Radio or give it up? The little guys say it’s being pushed down their throats against their will. The big guys see HD Radio as the way to stay current with the evolution of consumer media.

We have a partial answer on the digital power level. Unfortunately, it’s still not a final decision. A few stations may be able to move ahead and purchase equipment for the full 10dB power increase, but I think many stations will still be on hold until a final resolution is offered.

This is not quite a full step forward for HD Radio.