The age of digital technology is coming to mid-Essex.
The Radio Authority is about to invite bids from radio stations to take on a new "digital multiplex licence" for the Southend and Chelmsford area.
Whoever wins the licence would be able to permanently broadcast high quality digital radio.
Kerry Curtis, spokeswoman for the authority, said: "Digital radio is like digital television. It offers more choice and enhanced sound quality - the sound is like that of a CD."
"This is the next big thing in radio but only people with a digital radio will be able to listen to it.
"It is an open competition with anyone welcome to apply for the licence."
There is already one national digital station, called Digital 1, and 18 local stations scattered across the country.
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