We’ve all been there — sitting on the couch, phone in hand, scrolling endlessly on our phones. What starts out as a quick check of FB turns into 40 minutes lost with nothing to show for it. Social media is designed to keep both kids and adults glued to the screen. But what’s the real […]
On 1 August 2025, China’s National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA) announced the release of its new official industry standard, GY/T 423-2025: Technical Specifications for Medium and Short-Wave Digital Sound Broadcasting, which had been issued a few days earlier on 29 July 2025.
This move marks the formal adoption of the international Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) standard as the technical basis for digital broadcasting on the AM bands for China’s domestic radio services.
Who is the NRTA?
The NRTA is China’s top-level broadcasting regulator, responsible for setting policies and issuing technical standards (GY/T series) to guide the nation’s broadcasting and manufacturing sectors. These standards are widely used by broadcasters, equipment suppliers, and manufacturers to ensure compatibility and consistent service delivery.
About DRM on Medium and Short Wave
Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) is a global digital broadcasting system developed by the DRM Consortium and recognised by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).
DRM offers reliable signal delivery and advanced features, including:
- xHE-AAC audio codec for excellent sound quality at low bitrates
- Emergency Warning Functionality (EWF) for rapid disaster alerts
- Journaline interactive text service for news, information, and education
- Support for multiple languages, distance learning, and emergency communications
Importantly, DRM can work with existing medium and shortwave transmitters and uses the same frequency allocations, making it cost-effective for broadcasters.
China’s Growing Institutional Backing for DRM
The NRTA’s announcement follows years of growing support from government bodies. In September 2023, three major Chinese agencies – the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the NRTA, and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) – jointly encouraged the domestic automotive industry to include DRM reception capability in AM radios. They also urged provincial transmission facilities to trial DRM broadcasting.
The result? Over 31 vehicle manufacturers and more than 70 industry partners have since been engaged in DRM-related projects.
In 2024, the MIIT and NRTA invited public comment on revising national standards for in-vehicle wireless reception. The consultation wrapped up on 25 October 2024, with the decision to draft a future mandatory national standard for DRM compatibility.
Current DRM Operations in China
Right now, China runs seven DRM-enabled shortwave transmitters for domestic coverage, mainly targeting the busy eastern regions but also capable of reaching the entire country. These transmitters can also be used internationally by China Radio International (CRI).
China National Radio (CNR) currently airs daily DRM shortwave programs for local audiences, serving multiple regions across the country.
With this latest industry standard in place, DRM in China looks set to move from trials into mainstream adoption.
Info via https://www.drm.org/
Long before smartphones and streaming services, Australians gathered around the radio—an elegant box of valves and wires that brought the world into their living rooms. This Throwback Thursday, we’re tuning into the golden age of vintage radios and the role they played in shaping Aussie culture.
When Radios Ruled the Nation
From the 1930s to the 1960s, radios were the heartbeat of Australian homes. Whether it was catching the latest cricket scores, listening to the Queen’s speech, or enjoying a live bush ballad, radio was the nation’s storyteller. In outback towns and coastal cities alike, it connected Australians across vast distances.
Stations like 3LO in Melbourne, 2BL in Sydney, and 4QG in Brisbane were pioneers of the airwaves. Families would huddle around their sets for news, drama serials, and music—often with a cuppa in hand and the dog curled up nearby.
Design That Endures
Vintage radios weren’t just functional—they were works of art. Crafted from rich timber, Bakelite, and gleaming chrome, they reflected the design trends of their time. Brands like Astor, AWA, Healing, and Kriesler became household names, and their radios are now treasured by collectors and retro lovers alike.
Some enthusiasts are even giving these beauties a modern twist—converting them into Bluetooth speakers while preserving their classic charm.
Preserving the Past
Across Australia, museums and collectors are keeping radio history alive. The National Film and Sound Archive in Canberra holds a treasure trove of broadcasting history, while local antique shops and vintage fairs often feature lovingly restored sets.
Whether you’re in Perth, Hobart, Darwin or anywhere in between, chances are you’ve seen one of these timeless pieces—or maybe even own one.