There’s one question I hear surprisingly often.
“Can I just use the same processing chain for FM, DAB+ and my online stream?”
Technically? Absolutely.
Should you? Never.
Each distribution platform has its own strengths, limitations and listening environment. Yet many broadcasters still feed every platform from a single processor preset. It’s easy, but it’s rarely the best choice.
FM is still its own beast
FM broadcasting has been around for decades, and the processing philosophy has evolved alongside it. You’re dealing with pre-emphasis, modulation limits, multipath reception and receivers ranging from €20 clock radios to high-end car stereos. FM processing needs to sound exciting while staying within strict technical boundaries.
It’s a balancing act.
DAB+ gives you more freedom… and new challenges
Unlike FM, DAB+ doesn’t have modulation limits in the same way. Instead, you’re dealing with perceptual audio codecs. If your processing is overly aggressive, the codec has a much harder time doing its job. Heavy clipping, excessive high frequencies and dense audio can actually introduce more audible artifacts after encoding. Sometimes, less processing results in better sounding DAB+ audio.
That still surprises people.
Streaming changes everything
Online streaming is the least predictable platform of them all.
Your listener could be using:
- AirPods
- A Bluetooth speaker
- A smartphone
- Smart TV speakers
- A connected car
- Studio headphones
Every device colors your audio differently. Unlike FM, you don’t know what the playback system will look like. That’s why many successful online stations use slightly more open processing with fewer clipped peaks and more natural dynamics. The stream simply breathes more.
One station. Three signatures.
Your station should sound recognizable everywhere. That doesn’t mean it should sound identical everywhere. Think of it like photography. The same picture might need different editing for print, Instagram and a billboard. The image stays the same. The presentation changes.
Audio works exactly the same way.
Don’t forget your listeners
Many broadcasters optimize processing while sitting in front of expensive studio monitors. That’s important. But your listeners aren’t.
They’re driving to work. Cooking dinner. Walking the dog. Listening through €30 earbuds.
Test your station where your audience actually listens. You’ll discover far more than any spectrum analyzer can tell you.
Final thoughts
Processing isn’t about creating one perfect preset. It’s about creating the best experience for every platform. FM. DAB+. Streaming. They each deserve their own personality while still sounding unmistakably like your station.
Looking to optimize your station for every platform? Whether you’re broadcasting on FM, DAB+ or online, I’d be happy to help you create processing that gets the very best out of each distribution channel.
