Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Buffalo Radio: Entercom Ending WBEN AM/FM Simulcast

As of noon Thursday, Entercom is planning to end its current simulcast of N/T WBEN 930 AM on WLKK 107.7 FM.   The WLKK transmitter is located southeast of Buffalo and apparently is not pulling the numbers Entercom expected.

According to WBEN/WGR/WWKB Operations Manager Tim Wenger 95% of listening to WBEN is happening on the 930 AM signal, Entercom is making the change to allow for a yet-to-be announced radio option on FM 107.7.  

According to Wenger, "While I'm certainly aware many people added the FM signal to their daily routine, the vast majority of you who enjoy WBEN continue to do so on the 930 AM signal. In reality I know many are disappointed and upset about the decision as you used the FM signal when you were commuting outside of our regular 930 am coverage area.

WLKK 107.7 FM 54dBU Coverage
Wenger, in a website message to listeners, added 'I understand that concern and would encourage you to make use of our other transmission assets that may help fill any voids.  I myself use the WBEN iPhone app regularly to listen to WBEN when I'm traveling outside of the Buffalo metro area or simply am in a spot where the signal may be marginal.  The reality today is that you can hear WBEN anywhere in the world with the technology we have at our disposal.'

Although the simulcast pulled a combined 10.2 share 6+ in the spring Arbitron. Management has expressed confidence that nearly all FM listeners would migrate back to 930 AM.

WBEN’s format will continue to be supported by a simulcast on WTSS 102.5 FM HD2.

The change leaves only two N/T AM/FM simulcasts in upstate New York..WSYR Suracuse and WGY Albany.

1 comment:

  1. FIRST THEY GET RID OF "THE LAKE" FOR DOUBLE THE HATE SPEECH THEN THEY GET RID OF KB FOR MORE SPORTS TALK CRAP! THESE PEOPLE DON'T
    KNOW WHAT THERE DOING! AHH IF ONLY I WERE KING!!!

    ReplyDelete