It's interesting to see the blogosphere's reaction to stories like this, so here's a snapshot from Technorati for the last 30 days:
The numbers speak volumes, but the powerful response from bloggers is even more compelling. Here's a few quotable quotes I think are worthy of being highlighted:
- "Rather than competing in the marketplace, they [the NAB] use political influence and shady PR tactics to try and hamstring upstarts and rivals. It's preposterous that a group like the NAB can act like it's this great consumer watchdog that wants to promote competition in the marketplace when its very actions make it clear that the last thing it wants to do itself is compete." [Techdirt]
- "...so many of the 'independent' actions look more like NAB-funded FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt) when examined more closely." [Arstechnica]
- "...it seems the very consulting firm that scoffs at the notion that satellite radio competes with regular radio, mp3's, etc. is quoted in an earlier statement saying exactly the opposite." [Hear 2.0]
As I watch the progress of this merger, I'm getting an education in politics. I can't believe how much effort and money the NAB is putting in to this campaign.
The funny part is that all the NAB's advertising may be bringing more attention to satellite radio and having the opposite effect of what the NAB intends. More people that know about satellite radio means that more people will subscribe...