89.9 FM: We did it!

Radio Boise started transmitting test programming on 89.9 FM on April 7, 2011.

Our new studio space (designed by architect Rob Thornton) is complete! This state-of-the-art, multiple studio facility is located downstairs in the Alaska Center at 1020 Main Street in downtown Boise.

New studio equipment (technology/acoustic design and installation by audio engineer/producer Jason Ringelstetter of The Tonic Room) will make us one of the best sounding radio stations in the valley. This audio IP-based system incorporates latest generation audio mixing, industry standard stereo processing for FM/Internet, first class microphones, and high fidelity monitoring speakers. The control room is a pleasant environment for DJs and their guests to produce their programming. And our spacious 24 channel live recording studio is one of the nicest spaces in the Northwest for musicians to perform a live on-air set.

Transmission equipment including a microwave transmission dish has been wired up to the roof of the Alaska Building. All cables have been pulled, terminated and tested. We are now beaming a signal out to the transmitter facility which is within line of site of the roof, in between a couple of buildings here in downtown Boise.

The transmitter site (south of Ontario) is located atop 4000′ Owyhee Ridge. We have installed our transmitter and antenna there. The transmitter is located inside a small 20′ long building at the base of a tower where the receive microwave dish and main transmission antenna are mounted.

Thanks to everyone who participated in our Kickstarter studio project to fund all of these efforts. We accomplished our goal!

We still need your help. Now we must raise $50,000 by September 1, 2011 to pay for studio production and broadcasting equipment and operations to bring you the best community programming over the long term.

Check out these historic photos of our launch from our (fan page).