106.1 The Hub FAQ

ABOUT:

What is “The Hub”?

This new station is named: The Hub 106.1 FM and HD2: Arts, Culture, & Community. This station is not for traditional news, in fact, it is intentionally the opposite. While we’ll have new and exciting public radio programming from elsewhere, this is also an opportunity for WBHM to experiment with creating new local programming made for and by your neighbors, in the Heart of Alabama.

How can WBHM afford to do this?

WBHM made two critical investments in recent years that have enabled us to do this.

• In 2016, WBHM acquired the 106.1 FM signal when it became available. For many years it simulcasted the same schedule as heard on 90.3 FM.
• Following the upgrade of WBHM’s transmitter in 2023 (with thanks to the many supporters who helped make that possible!), as well as many other technical improvements, WBHM now has the ability to broadcast on HD radio, which finally enables us to provide separate programming on the 106.1 signal rather than just simulcasting.

Outside of the technical investments, the biggest cost in launching The Hub is the time and energy of the WBHM team planning and preparing behind the scenes. The majority of the programming on the schedule is either free to WBHM, or we have access to via our partnerships and programming purchases on the WBHM 90.3 FM side. Ultimately this means that WBHM is making better use of the programming resources we already have and are putting them to use to serve our community.

The additional signal will also provide additional opportunities for both local businesses to sponsor with WBHM and reach members of our community. We also believe that there are listeners who may not currently support the work of WBHM, but will feel motivated to support this other public service for the community.

TO LISTEN & TECH STUFF:

How can I listen to “The Hub”?

Locally by tuning in to 106.1 FM in the signal coverage area or WBHM’s HD-2 signal. The Hub is also accessible worldwide via WBHM’s free mobile app. You’ll want to make sure you have downloaded the latest version of the app. Click on “Listen” and you can choose between WBHM and The Hub. It’s that easy! It will also be streamable via WBHM’s website as well.

What is HD Radio?

The HD Radio sound quality delivers deeper bass, higher treble, more stereo separation, and a greater dynamic range (the difference between the loudest and quietest sounds) than FM or AM signals. At its best, HD Radio pushes FM sound quality closer to that of CDs and makes AM broadcasts resemble those of analog FM.

What is an HD2 radio station?

addition to clearer digital signals, HD allows stations the option to broadcast a discrete, second set of programs on what is called HD2. By definition the second harmonic distortion (HD2) is the ratio of second-order harmonic to the input signal (carrier). These radio broadcasts can only be received with a HD Radio.

How can I get HD2 on my car radio?

if not all automobiles are compatible with HD Radio, but older vehicles can’t listen to these signals unless they upgrade using aftermarket components. Just tune in to your favorite station and your HD Radio receiver will automatically lock in to the HD1 signal for that station. One notch over on the dial and you’re listening to entirely new content on the HD2 station. If not, use your digital display screen to navigate through the audio settings or source options to look for any mention of HD Radio. Some displays may show “HD1” or “HD2” channels. As of 2019, more than half of new cars manufactured in the United States feature HD radio. As of 2024, nearly all new models produced feature HD radio. You may have it and not even realize it!

Pro-tip: We recommend searching online or via Youtube to see if there is a video for your particular vehicle and how to access or enable HD radio. This has been helpful to many listeners already!

What are the coverage areas of 106.1?

The FM coverage map is here. HD-2 reaches a little further than the FM signal. Outside the signal area, you can listen anywhere via our mobile app.

What are your current programs?

We’re glad you asked! The schedule for The Hub will change over time. Our goal is to sustainably increase more locally produced content and options over time, but we’re launching in November of 2025 with a blend of several local shows and content from partners across the public radio network.

There are shows you’ll have heard of on other stations, and even on WBHM, but have migrated over to The Hub. We’re also proud to be partnering with several local producers to help elevate their programming by featuring it on The Hub. This includes shows from our friends at Substrate Radio in Avondale and WZAL “The Country Road” in Pelham.

Additional programs and changes will occur in the coming months and will be shared in advance via WBHM and The Hub.

How can I become a sponsor for 106.1?

Please contact [email protected] for additional information on rates and options.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

You can email [email protected] with any questions or concerns.

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