Is HD radio really any good?

The HD part of HD Radio doesn't stand for High Definition, although they're getting good mileage from that inference, and in some cases HD Radio actually clears up some stations.

The deal for broadcasters that use HD Radio technology is in providing alternate programming on the bandwidth they're already allocated. For instance, your local Top 40 station can also run an HD2 channel that consists of smooth jazz. All depends on what's available in your area.

And whether you're willing to shell out at least $175 to buy an HD Radio receiver. At least it's a one-off cost, as opposed to paying a monthly fee for satellite radio.

There is nothing wrong with HD radio. One problem is that there is no deadline for radio to switch to HD like there is for television. Another problem is that there really isn't much difference between HD radio and normal FM radio. FM is a fairly decent system with quite good quality. The HD isn't that big an improvement.

I know they haven't been selling well AT ALL. They can hardly give them away.

Terrestrial radio is dying an ugly death, and HD radio seems like a desparate last stab to retain their audience.