Breaking: ABC Radio Perth switches to FM, old 720 frequency to be decommissioned
ABC Radio Perth has transitioned from AM to FM broadcasting after 102 years, aiming for improved audio quality and a better listening experience for its audience.
ABC Radio Perth has officially transitioned to FM broadcasting on frequency 102.5, marking the end of an era after 102 years of AM transmissions. The decision to switch was driven by ongoing transmission failures and the limitations associated with AM radio, particularly in urban areas where electrical interference is prevalent. Station manager Danielle Benda emphasized that FM technology offers a significantly enhanced listening experience, characterized by clarity and richness that AM could not provide.
The old AM frequency, 720, will be permanently decommissioned by late April, finalizing ABC Radio Perth's shift to FM. Initially established as 6WF by Westralian Farmers in June 1924, ABC Radio Perth has a long and storied history in broadcasting. The move to FM is viewed as a necessary upgrade to meet the evolving needs and preferences of radio listeners in Perth, who have been accustomed to the drawbacks of AM signals for many years.
This change reflects a broader trend in radio broadcasting where FM has become the preferred medium due to its superior sound quality and reliability. As digital technology continues to influence the media landscape, ABC Radio Perth's switch is a significant step toward modernization, allowing the station to provide a better service to its audience and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world.