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Introduction to Shortwave Radio

Shortwave radio listening is an interesting “off the grid” hobby. It is possible to listen radio transmissions from different parts of our planet without internet connection. There are many things to hear: Music, talk, news, etc. Shortwave radio is a good addition to your emergency kit.

Shortwave radios are relatively cheap and widely available. However, some key features (like SSB) aren’t generally available in radios under 100€/$.

When choosing your first SW radio, please note:

• The bigger frequency coverage, the better. Please check all the frequencies you would like to listen before you buy a radio.
• Consider getting one with USB/LSB (SSB, single upper/lower sideband) feature. It opens more possibilities: Ham radio, etc.
• Fast scanning method is essential. Knob is fast, buttons are slow (generally speaking, you don’t want to hit same button 1000x each night).
• Antenna: can you use external antenna or is it just built-in? Antenna means everything.
• Multiple charging methods: Battery, USB, AC

You may want to keep a log about stations you have head. Some radio stations may accept “reception reports” (letters or postcards) from listeners and stations reply to them with a postcard/letter.

Note: Shortwave bands are not politics-free area. For example, China Radio International (CRI) is the state-owned international radio broadcaster of China (PRC). Its overseas reporting involves 65 languages. It upholds the PRC's official policies, including on controversial issues such as the political status of Taiwan and the Dalai Lama.

Additional reading

Worldwide Shortwave Frequency Guide

Short-wave.info (Clearnet)

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Last updated: 26.9.2021

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