Heard about HD Radio? Unlike satellite radio, which requires a subscription, HD (high-definition) Radio is available for free, over the public airwaves—provided you have equipment that can pick up the digital signals.
Several manufacturers sell HD Radio tuners for the car. Most require connection to a compatible “HD Radio-ready” receiver. But the JVC KD-HDR1 ($200) is one of the first in-dash receivers to bundle analog and HD capabilities—along with a CD player—in a single device.
The KD-HDR1 pumps out 200 watts (50 watts x four channels) of power. It plays CDs containing MP3 and WMA files, has a detachable face plate, and comes with a wireless remote control. Add JVC’s KD-PD100 adaptor ($50), and the receiver can control and play the contents of your connected iPod. It also has an SRS Circle Surround Automotive feature that produces a multichannel listening experience from any audio source.
If the JVC receiver doesn’t give you enough listening options on its own, you can pony up for XM or Sirius service and equipment—the KD-HDR1 also plays satellite-radio programming from those sources.
