This week, 42 million Americans will hear Internet radio.

That’s 17% of the 12+ USA population; up from 13% last year. 61% are 25-54.
From the recent Arbitron/Edison Research conference call introducing the 17th Arbitron/Edison Internet study: “The Infinite Dial 2009: Radio’s Digital Platforms AM/FM, Online, Satellite, HD Radio and Podcasting,” these headlines:
• “Americans’ consumption of [all] media is higher than it’s every been.”
• 85% of Americans have Internet access; 82% of USA homes have broadband.
• 69 million Americans (1-in-4) listened to online radio in the last month. A year ago it was 17%, 42 million.
• Key growth demo is 35-54; 61% are 25-54; they’re “upscale, well-educated, and employed.”
• “Variety” and “control” are top reasons for listening to online radio (“audio you cannot get elsewhere”).
• Most learn about online radio from AM/FM radio (32%); 28% hear about it from friend or family member.
• “Online radio is the soundtrack to e-commerce.” 47% listen while researching products/services; 33% while shopping online.
• 1-in-3 wants online radio in-car.
• 42% own a portable MP3 player (1/3 a year ago), “growth in every demo except 65+.”
• Online radio listeners more likely to have purchased digital audio online.