What is the Difference Between DAB and DAB+?

DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and DAB+ (Digital Audio Broadcasting Plus) are digital radio standards that transmit audio signals digitally rather than using traditional radio waves. The main differences between DAB and DAB+ are:

1. Codec: DAB+ uses an MPEG-4 audio-codec, which is considered superior to the MPEG-1 codec used by DAB radios for compressing files.
2. Data Transmission Rate: DAB has a data transmission rate of 128 kbps, while DAB+ works with 80 kbps, which is markedly lower. However, the lower data rate allows a single channel to accommodate multiple stations.
3. Audio Quality and Compression: DAB+ can provide higher audio quality and more reliable reception compared to standard DAB.
4. Efficiency: DAB+ makes more efficient use of available bandwidth, allowing up to three times the data to be sent out by DAB+ stations.
5. Compatibility: DAB+ is the successor of DAB, and most DAB radios cannot decode DAB+ signals. However, DAB+ radios can decode both DAB and DAB+ signals.

In summary, DAB+ is an upgraded version of DAB, offering improved audio quality, more efficient use of bandwidth, and better compatibility with modern digital radio standards. DAB+ has become the standard format in several European countries and is expected to replace traditional DAB in the future.

Comparative Table: DAB vs DAB+

Here is a table comparing the differences between DAB and DAB+:

DAB+ is an upgraded version of DAB, using a more efficient audio codec (AAC+) that allows for better sound quality at lower bit-rates. DAB+ also supports surround sound, which is not available in DAB. The data transmission rate is higher in DAB (128 kbps) compared to DAB+ (80 kbps), but DAB+ can accommodate a multitude of stations due to its lower data rate and more powerful MPEG-4 audio codec. Channel and station switching is faster in DAB+, providing a better user experience.