KLPX2 Shuts Down - RadioInsight
Lotus Communications has discontinued the Deep Cuts Classic Rock extension, KLPX 2 on 96.1 KLPX-HD2 in Tucson, Arizona.
As a spin-off of the main Classic Rock station 96.1 KLPX (https://www.klpx.com/), the brand will pivot away from HD2. In 2026, the primary station plans to introduce a Deep Cuts specialty program to replace the HD2 presence and also shift the concept to a dedicated online stream.
In a message posted to the Deep Cuts Facebook page, Larry Mac, Lotus Tucson Operations Manager and KLPX Program Director, expressed gratitude to listeners: “We appreciate everyone who tuned in to KLPX-2 Deep Cuts over the years. Regrettably, escalating operating costs for a channel with no revenue mean we must shut down on December 15, 2025. Thank you for your ongoing support. A new DEEP CUTS Specialty Show is slated for 96.1 KLPX in 2026, with more details due in January. — LM”
This isn’t Lotus’s first foray into brand extensions that sit alongside core stations. Previously, the company operated a Vintage Alternative extension for Rock/Alternative 102.1 KFMA on 94.9 KMXZ-HD2. Earlier this year, that sub-channel and its stream were repurposed to launch Classic Country “93.3 Hank-FM” (K227DX) in Tucson, following the replacement of the 93.3 name with Hank branding (https://www.crankthehanktucson.com/). The Hank-FM rollout came after KFMA’s related HD2 activity was redirected to a different format.
Overall, the shift reflects a broader industry trend: multi-brand extensions and digital feeds aiming to broaden reach, while balancing costs and revenue potential. This particular Tucson transition suggests the market’s appetite for new formats on secondary digital channels, even as some niche extensions wind down.
What do you think about stubbing off HD2 sub-channels in favor of a future on-air or online Deep Cuts program? Do such extensions effectively serve listeners, or do they dilute the brand of the main station? Share your take in the comments.
