KCBX

KCBX (90.1 FM) is a public radio station based in San Luis Obispo, California. Its network of broadcast translators enable the station to be heard throughout the Central Coast.

KCBX airs various programs from NPR, such as All Things Considered. It also airs jazz, classical music, and specialty shows such as Democracy Now.

Station repeaters

KCBX operates a satellite station in Santa Barbara operating as KSBX on 89.5 MHz, one in Monterey County operating as KNBX on 91.7 MHz, and several broadcast translators scattered throughout the Central Coast.

KPBS-FM interference problem in Santa Barbara

In parts of the Santa Barbara area sometimes during atmospheric ducting co-channel KPBS-FM in San Diego can override or interfere with the KSBX signal. At one time KSBX was a 9 watt translator on 89.9 MHz. Another station is now using that translator. A deal was worked out that would vacate that frequency. In 2006 KCBX filed an application for a U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) construction permit to move back to 89.9 MHz and increase the effective radiated power from 50 watts to 350 watts. Part of the application were copies of numerous letters and emails from listeners complaining about the signal override or interference from KPBS. In support of the frequency change a consulting broadcast engineer was hired to analyze the situation, make signal strength measurements during ducting and fully explain the technical causes of the problem to the FCC. The KPBS signal travels completely over water, which makes the problem worse.