TWiRT 807 - Today's FM Radio Technology with William Harrison
About this episode
This episode features a conversation with William Harrison about contemporary FM radio technology and engineering practices.
William got his start in public radio in the 1990s at WAMU-FM, where computer work quickly expanded into audio and electronics. Since then, he’s worked with PBS, NPR, The Metropolitan Washington Ear, and a number of FM and TV broadcasters. He also chairs SBE Chapter 37 in D.C., serves on the Virginia SECC, sits on the board of the Association of Public Radio Engineers, and occasionally writes for Radio World. In this episode, we talk about real-world FM engineering, including Capital Concerts fireworks show coordination, HD Radio timing and “ballgame” mode, receiver metadata behavior, liquid-cooled transmitters, HLS streaming for broadcast STL use, and dynamic range control in xHE-AAC. Join us for a practical, wide-ranging conversation about broadcast engineering, public radio operations, and the listener experience on This Week in Radio Tech. Show Notes: SBE Chapter 37 - Washington, DC - ANTENNAFEST! - October 6, 2026 Graphics for HD Radio Ballgame Mode William likes the Fluke PRV240 Proving Unit William recommends a radio panel-based comedy series, The Unbelievable Truth Guest: William Harrison - Chief Engineer at WETA-FM, Washington, DC Host: Kirk Harnack…
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