Katy Melzer was in for a surprise when she returned to DeKalb after break.

Tuning into the only radio channel she could get in her residence hall, the junior math education major discovered Energy 92.7-5 WDEK-FM had become a Spanish-language station called Onda 92. Energy 92.5-7 had provided the dance beat for DeKalb, but not anymore.

Spanish Broadcasting System Inc. now owns Onda 92, which is simulcast in DeKalb (WDEK), Arlington Heights (WKIE) and Kankakee (WKIF). The company also owns LaLey 107.9 FM in Chicago and other radio stations in San Antonio, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Puerto Rico.

Onda 92 plays Spanish adult contemporary music aiming for listeners ages 18 to 49.

SBS bought the three stations. It broadcasts Onda 92 from Big City Radio, which has been selling its properties across the country. Big City Radio and SBS agreed on a $22 million selling price. The companies expect the deal be closed early this year, after regulatory approvals.

Mario Paez, general manager of SBS Chicago, said he believes Big City Radio is selling its assets because of cash-flow problems, but a representative from Big City Radio was not available for comment.

Paez said Onda began its life as a radio station on Jan. 6 with a Spanish-language Shakira song.

“We’re trying to super-serve to large, growing Hispanic market,” he said. “DeKalb and the surrounding areas have an increasing number of Hispanic people.”

Spanish Broadcasting System Inc. is the largest Hispanic-controlled radio broadcasting company in the country.

SBS is looking to expand further in all the markets where it already has a presence, Paez said.

Melzer said she is not happy about the change from Energy 92.7-5 to Onda 92, but those interested in recent Spanish music should be pleased.

Paez encouraged English speakers to tune in as well.

“This is upbeat, fun music that everyone can enjoy,” he said.