RSL - FAQ

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Should I broadcast in mono or stereo?

This is the 64 milliion dollar question and one that is often overlooked by broadcasters. Most music is in a stereo format (different information being delivered to the left and right channels). For a station that is mainly speech based mono transmission will be absolutely fine. For stations that are heavily focused on music then there is a good and understandable argument to broadcast in stereo. If you were an aspiring applicant for a full time licence and plan to test your market with a series of RSL's then we would agree that stereo would be better. However, most stations would probably also desire to maximise their coverage radius, and in terms of miles per watt of transmitter power, a mono transmitter will, without question, deliver more in terms of potential coverage.

But what about the compromise in audio quality I hear you cry? Well, the common misconception is that a transmission in mono is significantly degraded compared to stereo. Not true! The one and only difference is that the same information is delivered to the two speakers at the same time i.e. the left channel is identical to the right. There is absolutely no difference in audio quality. When this small difference between mono and stereo transmissions is compared to the distance a mono transmission will travel compared to a stereo broadcast of the same power from the same location then there really is no contest. So, if coverage and quality are your priorities then generally a mono transmission will be your best bet. However, as always, the choice is yours.

Where do I apply for an RSL licence?

Ofcom's notes of guidance for RSL broadcasts and the relevant application forms can be downloaded directly from their website by following this link:

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/radio/ifi/rbl/rsls/strsl/

Do I need RDS?

Again, the choice is yours. RDS systems enable suitably equipped radios to display various station information. This facility can add increased brand reinforcement for your station. Before you make your decision to include it in your specification take a moment to think about who your target audience is and on what sort of radio are they likely to tune in on. Only the more modern domestic portable radios will receive RDS but they are virtually standard issue in most cars.

How far will my transmission go?

Another good question and one that does not have a simple and repeatable answer. We do advise that the key to maximising your allocated transmitter power is to site your transmit antenna as high as possible and to keep it free from other obstructions. Current Ofcom regulations restrict RSL broadcast antennae to 20m above ground level. The key to minimising the impact of this restriction is to find a transmitter site that is as high above sea level as possible. A suitable hill or other high point within, or overlooking, your coverage area would be an ideal candidate. You can use a suitable link system to get your signal from the studio to the site.

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