Schleswig-Holstein: The big switch to digital radio DAB+ begins!

Schleswig-Holstein: The big switch to digital radio DAB+ begins!

Something is happening in the radio sector in Schleswig-Holstein! The Hamburg/Schleswig-Holstein media authority recently announced that both private and public broadcasters will gradually reduce their analogue VHF coverage. Klassik Radio has already switched off the FM frequency at the Güby location and program distribution via FM was also stopped in the Itzehoe region on July 1, 2025. This is happening as part of a comprehensive digitization offensive that is intended to shape the future of radio in the region. The analogue broadcast of Deutschlandfunk and Deutschlandfunk Kultur will also be discontinued at nine locations, while two locations will continue to operate temporarily.

This process is not just a technical change, but rather a crucial opportunity for the further development and strengthening of media diversity in the country. There are now over 55 radio stations in Schleswig-Holstein that can be received digitally via DAB+ - and therefore more than via traditional FM technology. This realignment is no coincidence, as the Schleswig-Holstein location offers ideal conditions for the digitalization of radio due to its geographical and topographical conditions. The media authority and the state government have drawn up a joint roadmap that provides for the final switch to DAB+ by 2031.

The roadmap to digitalization

A look into the future shows: By 2025, RADIO BOB!, delta radio and Antenne Sylt will switch completely to DAB+ and IP web radio. NDR also has big plans: in 2025 and 2026 it will improve the DAB+ supply with new stations and at the same time reduce the power consumption of the remaining FM stations. N-JOY also plans to broadcast purely digitally in Niebüll in 2025, in Garding and Husum in 2027, and in Heligoland in 2026. In 2025, Deutschlandradio will also convert its 16 FM stations to DAB+, with the aim of having this process completely completed by 2031.

In addition, those interested will soon be able to receive the Schleswig-Holstein open channel in a simulcast, which is scheduled to launch later this year. The broadcasters are well prepared and are informing their listeners about the switch to different communication channels. For example, it is a good idea to get advice when buying a DAB+ radio from an electronics store, as these devices have been permanently installed in 41% of new cars since the end of 2020.

Advantages of DAB+

What exactly does the switch mean? DAB+ not only offers crystal clear sound quality, but also additional information via color displays. This change is also a question of security, as digital radio can transmit quick warning messages in the event of a crisis. More and more households, now 35%, have access to DAB+, while radio stations are constantly working to attract and educate even more users. The Digital Radio Office Germany is committed to promoting the DAB+ establishment in Germany in order to further advance the digital future of radio.

For everyone who wants to enjoy DAB+: DAB+ radios are available in stores from around 30 euros. The market offering is growing and this switch will soon become normal for many. So if you want to continue to experience good listening pleasure, you should definitely look for a digital radio.

Schleswig-Holstein is leading the way: A courageous step into the digital future of radio! The switch to DAB+ will revolutionize the listening experience and significantly increase the variety of offerings for people in the region.

There is more about this [here](https://www.digital Fernsehen.de/news/empfang/radio/weitere-programme-in-schleswig-holstein-reducen-ukw-standorte-1151276/) and here and here.