In 2018, Ofcom announced plans for small-scale DAB (ssDAB) — designed specifically to make digital radio accessible to smaller and community-focused stations. Traditionally, carriage on large regional multiplexes was often prohibitively expensive, preventing many services from making the switch from AM and FM.
ssDAB solves this by providing:
Small-scale DAB uses advances in software and low-cost computer technology to provide a flexible, inexpensive way to broadcast digital radio to relatively small geographic areas.
Multiple stations are broadcast together on the same frequency using a system known as a multiplex. This means broadcasters can share infrastructure while still reaching their audience with high-quality DAB digital audio.
To organise coverage across the UK, Ofcom has divided the country into licensed “polygons”—defined geographic areas where ssDAB multiplexes may operate.
We currently manage carriage and operations on several active multiplexes across the UK, with more launching soon:
We are dedicated to managing and supporting small-scale DAB multiplexes across the UK, creating opportunities for broadcasters of all sizes to join the digital landscape.
If you operate a local multiplex and would like to be featured, or if you’re a broadcaster seeking carriage, please contact us at info@dabbroadcast.com.