WQED

WQED is the classical voice of Pittsburgh, and it's been that way for decades. The programming strikes a fine balance - you'll hear Beethoven's Fifth as often as you'll discover a forgotten gem from the Baroque era. The afternoon block, in particular, digs into lesser-known works with enthusiasm. Streaming at 192kbps, the audio is crystal clear, which matters for the intricate textures of a Mahler symphony or the delicate pluck of a harp. It's not just for purists - the hosts occasionally introduce context that makes even the densest pieces approachable. That said, the morning shows could use…