Introduction
When you think about the kind of radio that sticks with you, that makes you feel informed, entertained, and understood—KHTS delivers. From the close-knit communities of Santa Clarita to the energy-packed soundwaves in San Diego, KHTS exists in two worlds: one rooted in hyperlocal news, the other spinning chart-topping hits. This article explores how both stations—despite sharing a name—offer completely unique experiences for their listeners.
The Origin Story of KHTS in Santa Clarita
A Humble Beginning with Big Dreams
The AM 1220 frequency in Santa Clarita began its journey back in 1989 under the call sign KBET. But this wasn’t just any radio station—it was the world’s first fully digital, tapeless commercial station. That innovation set the tone for everything to come.
Rebranding to Reflect Community Values
After a few changes in ownership and format, the station re-emerged in 2003 as KHTS, short for “Your Hometown Station.” This wasn’t just branding—it was a mission. The goal was clear: to serve Santa Clarita with content that mattered locally.
Expanding to FM for Better Reach
In 2018, KHTS took another step forward by simulcasting on 98.1 FM, improving audio clarity and ensuring listeners throughout the region could enjoy high-quality broadcasts without the limitations of AM static.
What Makes Santa Clarita’s KHTS So Special?
Local First, Always
KHTS in Santa Clarita prioritizes community updates—be it school board decisions, public health announcements, or city-wide alerts. It’s the place you turn to when you need the truth without the sensationalism.
A Sports Hub for the Community
Whether it’s high school football playoffs or Dodgers coverage, this KHTS station shines a spotlight on local talent. It isn’t rare to hear local athletes get name-dropped during post-game analysis—creating moments of pride across neighborhoods.
Human Voices You Can Relate To
From early-morning traffic reports to midday interviews with local nonprofit leaders, the station features real people with genuine ties to the community. These aren’t faceless broadcasters—they’re your neighbors, friends, and fellow Santa Claritans.
San Diego’s KHTS-FM: Channel 93.3’s Rise to Fame
From Quiet Beginnings to Loud Hits
The FM side of KHTS has a different flavor. Launched in the early ’60s under a different call sign, it transitioned to KHTS-FM in 1995 and branded itself as “Channel 93.3.” Its format? Top 40 hits, pure energy, and youth-focused programming.
Leaders in HD Radio and Inclusivity
This version of KHTS was one of the pioneers of HD Radio technology in Southern California. Its HD2 subchannel, known as Pride Radio, focused on LGBTQ+ content—something bold and forward-thinking in the early 2000s.
Morning Drives and Familiar Voices
San Diego locals have tuned into iconic personalities like AJ Machado and Geena The Latina for years. With a mix of humor, music, interviews, and giveaways, Channel 93.3 has become a staple of daily commutes.
Comparing the Two: Same Call Sign, Different Vibes
Community vs. Commercial
Santa Clarita’s KHTS is deeply rooted in its local identity. It’s where listeners go for updates on everything from wildfire warnings to holiday parades. San Diego’s KHTS-FM, meanwhile, thrives on global pop culture—delivering trending music and national entertainment stories.
Independent vs. Corporate
Santa Clarita’s KHTS is independently owned, which allows for flexible programming and a personalized approach. In contrast, KHTS-FM operates under iHeartMedia, offering access to national content while still injecting local flavor into its broadcasts.
Listener Experience
Tuning into Santa Clarita’s station feels like chatting with a friend who knows the neighborhood. Channel 93.3 in San Diego, on the other hand, feels like hanging out at a high-energy party where every song is a hit.
Behind the Mic: People Who Drive the Stations
Santa Clarita’s Local Legends
Hosts here are known not just for their voices but for their involvement in local causes, fundraisers, and school programs. Some even sit on local boards or volunteer at shelters—reinforcing their hometown identity.
San Diego’s Star DJs
From morning shows to late-night countdowns, Channel 93.3 features DJs who are also social media influencers. They engage with listeners across platforms and often emcee large events, from summer concerts to street festivals.
FAQs
1. What does KHTS stand for?
In Santa Clarita, it stands for “Your Hometown Station.” In San Diego, it was branded based on its previous “K-Hits” music format—later evolving into Channel 93.3.
2. Can I listen to KHTS online?
Yes, both Santa Clarita’s and San Diego’s versions of KHTS offer live streams through their official websites or radio apps.
3. Are these two KHTS stations connected?
No. Despite sharing call letters, they operate independently. Santa Clarita’s station is community-based, while San Diego’s is part of a larger corporate network.
4. Do both stations offer news updates?
Santa Clarita’s KHTS focuses heavily on local news, while San Diego’s KHTS-FM leans toward entertainment news and pop culture updates.
5. How can I get involved with KHTS in Santa Clarita?
Locals can contribute by calling in during shows, attending public events hosted by the station, or even volunteering for causes promoted through their programs.
Conclusion
KHTS is more than just a call sign—it’s a tale of two cities. In Santa Clarita, it stands as a loyal community ally, delivering trustworthy news and heartfelt stories. In San Diego, it energizes the airwaves with pop hits and influential voices. Despite their different paths, both stations prove one thing: local or national, radio still has the power to connect, entertain, and inform in ways that matter.
