Reach Communications Translator Sales and Frequency Shifts
In the dynamic landscape of Florida broadcasting, Reach Communications underwent a series of strategic divestments and technical adjustments. A translator—a low-power station that rebroadcasts the signal of a primary station to extend its reach or fill in coverage gaps—is a vital tool for expanding audience access. Between 2012 and 2014, several of these assets were sold to major media groups, leading to significant changes in formatting and frequency across the state.
The Beasley Broadcasting Acquisition
On July 2, 2012, Reach Communications announced the sale of three translators to Beasley Broadcasting for a total of $150,000. Initially, these stations were intended to serve as rebroadcasters for WWCN 770 ESPN. However, they currently function as repeaters for WRXK-FM HD2, operating under the brand "The Link." This group includes W268AH in Bonita Springs, W251AL in Fort Myers, and W286AK in Naples.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Joining these three is W243BM in Suncoast Estates, which also serves as a repeater for The Link, creating a cohesive coverage network in Southwest Florida.
Expansion and Shifts via iHeartMedia
The sale of various translators to Clear Channel (now known as iHeartMedia) sparked industry speculation that Reach FM might sell its entire remaining translator portfolio to the media giant. These acquisitions led to several high-profile format changes in major Florida markets:
Orlando Market
In Orlando, W283AN was acquired by iHeartMedia and transitioned to an urban contemporary format, rebranding as "104.5 The Beat."
Tampa Bay Market
The Tampa region saw complex frequency migrations. One translator moved from 88.3 to 99.1 FM to become an affiliate for the classic rock station "Thunder Tampa Bay," alongside W290BJ and W233AV. Another translator moved from 89.3 to 99.9 FM and launched as "ALT 99.9," an alternative format station. Due to interference complaints from WXJB, W207BU eventually shifted from 99.9 to 100.3 FM, rebranding as "ALT 100.3."
Miami Market
In Miami, W228BV shifted its frequency from 94.5 to 93.5 FM, converting into a country-formatted station known as "93.5 The Bull."
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Additional Divestments
Further consolidation occurred in November 2014, when W245BC in Lauderdale Lakes was sold to the Beasley Media Group. This translator now serves as a repeater for WSBR on 740 AM.
Key Facts
- Total Sale Price: $150,000 for the initial three translators sold to Beasley Broadcasting in 2012.
- Primary Buyers: Beasley Broadcasting/Beasley Media Group and iHeartMedia (formerly Clear Channel).
- Major Rebrands: Includes "The Link," "104.5 The Beat," "Thunder Tampa Bay," "ALT 100.3," and "93.5 The Bull."
- Technical Adjustments: Frequency shifts occurred in Tampa and Miami to resolve interference or align with new branding.
Technical Summary of Translators
| Call Sign | Frequency | City of License | ERP (W) | Class |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W268AH | 101.5 FM | Bonita Springs, FL | 10 | D |
| W251AL | 98.1 FM | Fort Myers, FL | 80 | D |
| W286AK | 105.1 FM | Naples, FL | 19 | D |
| W243BM | 96.5 FM | Suncoast Estates, FL | 26 | D |
| W283AN | 104.5 FM | Altamonte Springs, FL | 10 | D |
| W202CB | 99.1 FM | Bayonet Point, FL | 27 | D |
| W207BU | 100.3 FM | Bayonet Point, FL | 10 | D |
| W228BV | 93.5 FM | Fort Lauderdale, FL | 80 | D |
| W233AV | 94.5 FM | Gulfport, FL | 10 | D |
| W245BC | 96.9 FM | Lauderdale Lakes, FL | 67 | D |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a radio translator?
A translator is a low-power broadcasting station that receives a signal from a primary station and retransmits it on a different frequency to improve coverage in specific areas.
Who bought the translators from Reach Communications?
The translators were primarily sold to Beasley Broadcasting (and Beasley Media Group) and iHeartMedia (formerly Clear Channel).
Why did W207BU change its frequency from 99.9 to 100.3 FM?
The frequency change was made following numerous complaints from WXJB regarding signal interference.
What format does W228BV currently broadcast?
W228BV operates as a country-formatted station known as "93.5 The Bull" in the Fort Lauderdale area.
Which stations currently repeat "The Link"?
The Link is repeated by W268AH, W251AL, W286AK, and W243BM.