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HD Radio goes portable

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New this week: the first portable HD radio that can be strapped to your arm or tossed into your pocket like an iPod or mp3 player. And at about $50, the Insignia NS-HD01 is the cheapest way to get HD radio, which offers far better sound than normal FM or AM.

But will anyone care? The HD radio technology, announced amid much hype in 2004, has failed to capture a mass audience, even though about 2,000 stations nationwide -- including nearly 20 in the Los Angeles area -- are equipped to broadcast the digital format.

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Maybe all that was needed to give HD a push was the introduction of a relatively inexpensive unit that can be worn to the gym or otherwise on the go. But this device from Insignia (BestBuy’s house brand) is limited in that it’s only a radio and can’t play mp3s. Also, it’s a bit bulky compared to the super-slim portable players that are available now.

But those are only first impressions. Soon to come: a full-fledged review.

-- David Colker

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