MDR switches off FM frequencies: The path to the digital future begins!

MDR switches off FM frequencies: The path to the digital future begins!

On June 24, 2025, the time has come: Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk (MDR) will begin switching off the first VHF frequencies. This step is part of the planned transition to purely digital distribution, which will take place via DAB+ (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and the Internet. The affected transmitters are mainly located in the federal states of Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia and include a total of 15 smaller stations, including two MDR SACHSEN-ANHALT frequencies. The reason for this measure is the savings requirements of the Commission for Determining Financial Requirements (KEF), which has recognized savings potential in simultaneous analogue and digital broadcasting, as Radioszene reports.

The shutdown does not affect all frequencies, but rather focuses on those stations with a short range, in regions where there is already widespread DAB+ coverage. Specific frequencies that will be switched off include:

• MDR AKTUELL: Eilenburg – 92,4 MHz; Köthen – 106,4 MHz; Stadtroda – 91,3 MHz
• MDR KULTUR: Markneukirchen – 106,4 MHz; Suhl – 89,8 MHz; Torgau – 93,0 MHz
• MDR JUMP: Bautzen – 98,8 MHz; Magdeburg Stadt – 103,0 MHz; Suhl – 91,1 MHz
• MDR SACHSEN: Markneukirchen – 104,8 MHz; Torgau – 88,9 MHz
• MDR SACHSEN-ANHALT: Berga – 91,1 MHz; Kapaunberg – 96,1 MHz
• MDR THÜRINGEN: Erfurt – 94,4 MHz; Suhl – 93,7 MHz

For all listeners who receive reception via these frequencies, the radio does not remain switched off. Reception will continue to be possible via DAB+ (channel 6B) and alternative FM frequencies such as 94.6 MHz, 88.1 MHz, 94.9 MHz and 100.8 MHz. Alternative frequencies are available in many places, but smaller devices in particular, such as kitchen radios or clock radios, may have difficulty receiving the new frequencies without interference. The MDR recommends switching to digital radio if you are confronted with the reception problem, as MDR reports.

The path to the digital future

The complete switch to digital distribution through the MDR is intended to be long-term and has no set end date. However, this step is not alone, but part of a nationwide trend. Deutschlandradio will also switch off some smaller FM stations and rely more on DAB+. With an extensive changeover by the end of 2024, Deutschlandradio plans to expand its digital station network to 170 locations. DAB+ not only offers higher sound quality and a greater variety of programs, it is also more economical in terms of power consumption, which ultimately also benefits the listeners, as Deutschlandradio emphasizes.

In many regions, specialist dealers are ready to answer any questions about DAB+ and digital radios. In addition, public events and so-called “digital radio days” are organized to facilitate the transition to digital program distribution.

All of these measures ultimately provide a clear look into the future, because digital is not only modern, but also brings many advantages. So don't be afraid to make the switch - there are many ways to stay up to date!