DAB+ uses one of the following AAC variants:

• AAC-LC (Low Complexity)
• HE-AAC(v1) (= AAC-LC + SBR)
• HE-AAC(v2) (= AAC-LC + SBR + PS)

In practice, for bitrates between 80 and 96 kbps, HE-AAC(v1) is mainly used. But we see that some radio broadcasters broadcasting at 96 kbps choose AAC-LC.

For bitrates lower than 80 kbps, it is a good idea to use HE-AAC(v2) so that the audio quality remains acceptable.

The standard sampling frequency of DAB+ is 48 kHz. But in practice, 32 kHz can also be used.

Of course, these remain recommendations. Each radio broadcaster and/or MUX transmitter operator is free to choose which AAC version is chosen.

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