What is a Radio Band Expander?
An FM band expander is a device used on Japanese car radios which allows them to pick up New Zealand radio FM frequencies. Japanese FM radio bands are between 76-90 MHz whereas the New Zealand FM broadcast band is between 87.5-108 MHz. This explains why your Japanese car radio can pick up some radio stations
between 87.5 and 90 MHhz but not others. The FM band expander is connected inline between the radio and the antenna and shifts the frequency of the broadcast generally around 10-14 MHz so that it is compatible with New Zealand FM radio stations.
Until recently, most international and New Zealand frequencies have been between 89 – 100 MHz however with the number of radio stations increasing so are the amount of frequency’s which have increased to 108 with more likely increases in the future. Without an expander or a whole radio replacement, these frequencies are all out of reach for a Japanese radio that can only assess the few lower frequency stations.
For example, the radio station Free Fm (89) and ZM (89.8) are the only radio stations accessible with a Japenese FM radio. The 18 stations above 90 are all unreachable however, with an expander band, the range is increased to allow the car to access to these higher frequencies.
For a list of common Waikato / Hamilton radio stations click here:
List of Waikato FM Radio Stations
| Frequency | Radio Station Names |
| 89 | Free FM |
| 89.8 | ZM |
| 90.6 | Raukawa FM |
| 91.4 | RNZ Concert |
| 92.2 | |
| 93 | The Rock |
| 93.8 | |
| 94.6 | Life FM |
| 95.4 | Radio Tainui |
| 96.2 | Radio Hauraki |
| 97 | Newstalk ZB |
| 97.8 | The Edge |
| 98.1 | |
| 98.6 | The Hits |
| 99.4 | The Breeze |
| 100.2 | Radio Live |
| 101 | RNZ National |
| 103.4 | Niu FM |
| 105 | Coast |
| 105.8 | Mai FM |
Installation of new audio systems in Hamilton
If your car’s factory audio system is restricting the channels you can listen to, you may also want to consider upgrading to an aftermarket head unit. This simple upgrade can provide a major improvement to your in-car listening experience and help you enjoy your music, podcasts, and other audio content like never before, while also increasing your car’s radio bands to allow for all common NZ stations.
FM Radio Band Expander installation services in Hamilton
Is your car in need of an FM band expander? If so, then contact us today! Our experienced and talented mechanics can install the band expander and get you tuned to New Zealand and Waikato radio stations in no time.
We can also install an aftermarket head unit which allows for more FM bands and advanced functions such as Bluetooth, AUX input and improved sound quality and customisation.
For quality FM Radio and expander installation and price estimates in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!
Live/work in any of the following areas? Grimmer Motors could be extra convenient for you.