FCC Standard-Setting with Regard to FM Stereo and AM Stereo

Abstract

A careful look at FCC records and other documents reveals the philosophy and discussions that led to approval of a stereo broadcast standard for FM radio, helping FM overtake AM by the 1970s and 1980s. But the FCC, despite much discussion, has not yet adopted a stereo standard for hardpressed AM radio, although at least 10% of AM stations now broadcast with some kind of stereo technique. The study concludes: the FCC shows a growing tendency to avoid regulation, reflecting recent trends.