An adaptive mode control system is provided which includes a transmitter including apparatus for inputting format information regarding the waveform structure of an AM compatible digital broadcast signal. The transmitter also includes apparatus for inputting user data such as the information to be broadcast. The transmitter selects the waveform parameters in response to the format information and produces control channel information. The transmitter uses this control channel information in combination with the user data to produce composite data. The transmitter generates an over-the-air signal waveform using the composite data and waveform parameters. Each receiver includes apparatus for detecting the over-the-air signal waveform and composite data generated by the transmitter. The receiver further includes apparatus for parsing the composite data into user data and control channel information. The receiver regenerates the waveform parameters from the control channel information and folds the waveform parameters into the receiver's detection apparatus so that the waveform parameters can reconfigure the receiver for receipt of subsequent transmissions.