*Pages 1--1 from Microsoft Word - 37600* Federal Communications Commission FCC 04- 99 SEPARATE STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN MICHAEL K. POWELL Re: Digital Audio Broadcasting Systems and Their Impact on Terrestrial Radio Broadcast Service Today’s item represents broadcast radio’s version of the digital migration. Like the transition from analog to digital television, the conversion to digital radio will bring exciting new services and choices to the American people. As the digital audio conversion continues, consumers will have the ability to hear surround sound, CD- quality music over the air and will have access to new radio services, such as multi- casting, data services and subscription based services. These new services and capabilities will provide more opportunities to promote localism and diversity on our nation’s airwaves and will give broadcasters a greater ability to compete with emerging satellite and Internet radio services. With nearly 300 stations in over 100 markets already licensed to broadcast in digital, today’s item demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to developing the necessary framework to ensure a successful digital audio conversion for the public and broadcasters alike. 1