Jones Radio Networks - Satellite Formats

Satellite Formats

Jones Radio Networks, the largest independent radio network, provided many programming options for local radio stations. The company provided many satellite-driven formats to affiliate stations, mostly in small & mid-size markets and on major market HD Radio subchannels, however they can also be used on some major market stations as alternate or permanent programming. They could operate their stations virtually unmanned with nothing more than a computer and a satellite hookup offering major market talent that some radio stations could never afford. The "clock" included options for a 2-, 3-, or 5-minute newscasts at the top of the hour, followed by other holes for local spots. While the programming was live, DJ's had to avoid references to the weather or anything else that would not be appropriate in many time zones. An 800-line was eventually added, allowing the live DJ's to take phoned in requests. On June 20, 2008, Triton Radio Networks, a wholly owned subsidiary of Triton Media Group, announced the acquisition of Jones Media Group and its operating companies, Jones Media America, Jones Radio Networks and JonesTM from Jones International Ltd. Only two months prior, Triton had acquired two of Jones's three main competitors, Dial Global and Waitt Radio Networks (only Citadel Media remains not under the Triton banner). JonesTM (now renamed TM STUDIOS), a leading provider of music libraries, imaging products and jingles, will remain a separate reporting unit. As the end result, the satellite format division was slowly dismantled and has integrated into the "Dial Global Total" division of Dial Global as of January 6, 2009. Formats included: