HD Radio Boston Acoustics Receptor Radio HD Review

HD Radio Background:  HD radio is as unnecessary as it is cool.  HD radio is supposed to have better sound quality relative to non-HD radios, though I can't quite pick up the difference.  HD radio's key benefit is that it provides users with MORE access to their favorite local stations.  "Huh?," you may say.  Well, most of your local favorites also have other stations that are only available in HD (for example, 93.1 AND 93.12, etc.).  While these 'extra' HD stations may thematically align with their terrestrial brethren, these other 'only available in HD' stations do not carry advertising and are a little less 'commercial' in what they broadcast.  As with all radio, HD is regulated by government and currently ads are not allowed on HD stations.  In this sense, HD is a bit like satellite (although not nearly as content robust).

Boston Acoustics HD Radio:  The Boston Acoustics HD radio is very nice looking.  It is quite portable, although does not run on batteries.  It would make a nice alarm clock for a couple as it has two alarms that can be set for different times.  Moreover, there is an AUX option for easy ipod connection. 

HD radio by Boston Acoustics is one of those unnecessary luxuries.  I rarely use it, but it looks nice in our guest room.  However, with a price tag of $300, one might find something more appealing.