TBS Radio & Communications Inc. will create a new radio channel focusing on classical music broadcasts next spring using digital technology that offers high-quality sound transmission, the company president said Wednesday.
Yoji Shimizu told a news conference the new service will target urban 'adults as its main listener base, while using the digital radio broadcast technology it is testing in Tokyo.
At present, NHK, Tokyo FM Broadcasting Co., known as FM Tokyo, and other broadcasters are testing the high-sound quality digital radio technology in Tokyo and Osaka.
FM Tokyo earlier said it is preparing to create its own digital radio channel next spring.
The would-be broadcasters of digital programs are planning to triple the output power of radio transmitters shortly. Multiple electronics manufacturers are to release receivers compatible with the digital technology shortly.
TBS Radio has judged that a necessary infrastructure is being put in place to enable a broad base of listeners to enjoy the planned classical music broadcasts.
The new channel will be the first in Japan that will concentrate on classical music.
TBS Radio said it will simultaneously transmit such data as the name of composers of pieces being aired as well as the names of the performers, using the digital technology, while enabling listeners to download music on the spot.
TBS Radio is also considering beaming the same radio programs as those it airs via its AM radio channel, using the digital radio technology, it added.