Why do FM, DAB and Internet Radio broadcasts sound slightly different

This answer applies to:

• R1 Mk4
• R1S
• R2 Mk4
• R3S
• R410
• R610
• R810
• R5 Mk1

FM, DAB, and Internet Radio sound different primarily due to their transmission methods, compression, and available bandwidth. FM uses analogue signals with high fidelity sound but is prone to noise, so for best results, a good quality aerial (external if possible) is required to provide good signal strength. DAB also requires a good quality aerial (usually telescopic), but uses efficient digital compression, providing noise-free sound, but low bitrate transmissions on some stations can produce a low quality "metallic" sound. Internet radio offers the highest potential quality, often using high-bitrate streams unconstrained by broadcast bandwidth and for many customers is the best option as a telescopic or external aerial is not required.

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