The DAB transmitter market is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated US$ 146.02 million by 2028, up from US$ 95.88 million in 2021. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.19% from 2021 to 2028.
This market is categorized into several regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa, and South America. Digital audio broadcasting (DAB) is a modern radio service that utilizes digital technology to allow broadcasters to combine multiple radio stations into a single transmission, a process known as multiplexing. In DAB, analog audio signals are transformed into digital formats and transmitted within the amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM) bands. The quality of audio output in DAB is comparable to that of a compact disc (CD) on the FM band, while providing FM-quality sound on the AM band.
One of the key benefits of DAB is its ability to deliver audio with minimal interference and noise, enhancing the listening experience. DAB transmitters operate on the same frequency, allowing users to easily switch between channels and enjoy high-quality audio.
DAB signals are transmitted in-band and on-channel, accommodating multiple stations within the same frequency range. At the transmission site, the audio signal is compressed using Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) algorithms and modulated through coded orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (COFDM). Compared to traditional analog transmission, DAB offers numerous advantages, including superior sound quality, reduced fading, enhanced resistance to interference, and lower noise levels. DAB receivers typically feature a small display that provides information about the audio being played, and many DAB stations offer real-time updates on news, sports, and weather. Additionally, DAB systems support radio data services that transmit information relevant to each radio program, further enhancing user experience. The ability to perform band-scans across the entire frequency range is also contributing to the expansion of the DAB transmitter market.
The DAB transmitter market is further divided based on type, end user, and geography. In terms of type, the market includes low power, medium power, and high power DAB transmitters. By end user, the market is segmented into broadcasters and network operators.
The increasing popularity of digital audio advertising and podcasts is a significant driver of growth in the DAB transmitter market. Major players in the industry are reallocating their advertising budgets towards digital platforms, reflecting a shift in consumer behavior towards digital media consumption. In recent years, audiences in the US and the UK have been dedicating more time to digital media, leading to a transformation in the global advertising landscape. The emergence of music and podcast streaming services such as Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Soundcloud, and Amazon Music has further fueled the demand for digital audio content. In fact, music streaming now accounts for approximately 80% of all music consumption in the US. According to Digilant, a marketing technology firm, the number of paid music streaming subscribers in the US rose from around 7.9 million in 2014 to an estimated 72 million by the end of 2020. Additionally, about 116 million individuals utilize ad-supported versions of these platforms, which is enhancing the digital music and podcast streaming sector.
Digital audio advertising provides advertisers with access to a variety of channels, enabling them to reach engaged listeners globally. Companies can achieve national advertising coverage through news and talk radio, while also leveraging native advertising formats in podcasts. Many digital audio advertising firms are strategically targeting potential audiences based on contextual, behavioral, device type, geographic location, and genre relevance to optimize the effectiveness of their radio advertisements.
Key players in the DAB transmitter market include Electrolink S.R.L., Elenos S.R.L., Eletec Radio Broadcasting Equipment and Transmitters, Elti D.O.O., Gatesair, Inc., RFE Broadcast, Rohde And Schwarz, Screen Future S.R.L., SyES S.r.l., and Unique Broadband Systems A Dol Technologies Inc. These companies are at the forefront of the DAB transmitter market, contributing to its growth and innovation.