Internet Radio Just Sounds Bad

I've fiddled with the various online music delivery services and something is just plain missing. I can't quite put my finger on what it is. There is a lack of energy or excitement or something.

I don't know if it's the lack of processing (what we in radio call the combination of e.q., compression and so on) or if our subconscious somehow knows that mp3s are not the full sound spectrum, but internet radio leaves me wanting. It's a good quick fix, but when you can find a radio station, or even find a station streaming, it seems to be better than the "jukebox" method of delivery from some of the other services (like AOL Radio or Pandora). Even XM/Sirius seems lifeless to me. I guess I've just always been a fan of radio. I think there is an energy that happens when you have a community of people enjoying something together, even if they aren't all in the same place.

I'm aware that some people switch to digital signals, and I'm also VERY aware that there are people now all over the world that make KFMX a big part of their day (we've been getting hits from France, what's that all about). I think it's all proof that good local radio can not only serve it's host community, it's vitality and energy can translate to guests all over the world.