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This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

News

Classical Music Radio Station Tops KCRW?

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Here's a fact that surprised us: "The latest Arbitron ratings rank [KUSC] as the most listened-to public radio station in Southern California, ahead of public radio powerhouses KPCC and KCRW." So says USC themselves.

However, KCRW has extended its reach beyond the immediate Los Angeles area to include many other cities including Santa Barbara and Palm Springs. And beyond that with its aggressive internet expansion. KCRW says their non-commercial broadcast signal reaches 550,000 listeners weekly and is supported by 55,000 member/subscribers. KUSC has 33,000 members with a $6 million annual budget. In the end, nevermind about who has the bigger package, we're just glad public radio, classical or "eclectic," is doing so (relatively) well.

You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.

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