80s80s Radio Bids Farewell to UKW in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern as Germany Embraces DAB+
In a significant shift in German radio broadcasts, 80s80s Radio is bidding farewell to its UKW frequencies in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The ARD institution, Regiocast, will oversee the reauctioning of these frequencies, marking the end of an era for analog radio in the region. Meanwhile, several other areas across Germany are embracing digital terrestrial radio via DAB+.
From April 2026, 80s80s Radio will cease using its UKW frequencies in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, with Regiocast focusing on DAB+ and IP radio instead. The Wendelstein transmitter in Bavaria is also adapting, changing radio reception for several cities due to the shutdown of UKW transmitters in Bad Reichenhall and Berchtesgaden/Schoenau. The switch to DAB+ is mandatory for these regions to ensure the best terrestrial quality.
This transition is part of a broader trend across Germany. Several regions are switching terrestrial radio broadcasts from analog to digital via DAB+. In Lower Saxony, private DAB+ ensembles have received additional transmitter locations to enhance coverage and enable new broadcasts. ARD has also discontinued simulcast broadcasts via UKW in favor of DAB+ in numerous other regions in Bavaria. Germany's national radio station has ended UKW broadcasts in Bad Reichenhall, Kaufbeuren, Passau, Oberstorf, and Freiberg, with programs continuing via DAB+.
The shift towards DAB+ is accelerating across Germany, with 80s80s Radio's departure from UKW in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern being the latest development. This change promises improved sound quality and greater capacity for diverse programming, but it also signals the end of an era for analog radio broadcasts.
