An Introduction to Shortwave Radio

An Introduction to Shortwave Radio
by Radiodog

Time to get back to basics! What is shortwave radio? Why should you care? In this video, I explore what SW radio is, particularly in relation to the other bands. As thoroughly non-technical and simple to understand as I can manage, I hope this video will help newcomers get a basic idea of what shortwave radio is, and why it's fun to explore.

"It's fun and magical!"

[asherdog]

When I was a kid I learned this in Scouting and listened to SW every night. Now that I am retired I want to get back into it.

[weiyuan]

Why do I feel like he should have a British accent?

[fgvixif]

Thank you sir. This was one of the very best introductions to shortwave radio and shortwave reception. Most unfortunately, I live in a part of the city we're short wave reception is almost impossible: Power grids, many concrete buildings surrounding me etc. What a fun it was back in the old days to explore the world through that medium!

[tpe]

A good winter hobby with all that darkness out there.

[MaryCasey]

In times such as this, when communication avenues are being censored or there is a possible expectation of media interruptions for several reason, many people know just enough to purchase a SW receiver, but then sit and stare at it overwhelmed by all the buttons, static and noise...so appreciate your video.

[Fritz]

I was a radio and telegraph operator in the army in the 60's. We had basic radio theory and of course Morse code training. Morse is firmly embedded in my memory bank. I am thankful however for the refresher on the basics of frequencies and wavelength etc. Yesterday I took delivery of a TECSUN R9012 from Amazon for under CDN $30. Amazing reception and great sound especially through a stereo headset. Aside from the enjoyment of SW listening during the pandemic lockdown this pocket sized radio may prove useful if (when?)the power grid or cellular service (or both) shut down. I may look into getting a Ham license and and a transceiver that fits my limited budget. Looking forward to more helpful videos from you.

[CaptainGanja]

Been an SWL here since I got my first portable shortwave radio for Christmas in 1973. Been big into it ever since. I came here to find a good channel to start learning about shortwave for my friends saying they wanted to buy shortwave radios, but needed to learn about it first. So anyway this looks like a great place to start if they want to get the best from it. I will be letting them know about you so they can check you out. Useful education for beginners here.

Take good care, my fiend & 73! 😎👍

[moniquelegarda]

Thank you for this intro. I've always been fascinated by shortwave radio and with the world such as it is, now might be a good time to pick up on this hobby.

[EletroRafaVideo]

Hi Tom! I am from Brazil and I like very much your video. You explain very well and I can understand what you say because you explain very clearly. I have an analogic radio, a Toshiba Radio model TR 949 GL (made in Brazil). Thanks for this video! (I subscribed of course).

[danielgiraud]

I was introduced to Shortwave Radio by my Uncle before the 90's and have been hooked on it ever since. I bought my 1st World and Radio in 1990, a Philips D2935. With digital readout. It is a great hobby.

[maupalo]

I found an old radio I had from when I was a kid, which reminded me that my grandpa once told me I could hear radio stations form all over the world with it. I wanted to try it but I wasn't sure how and this video as been very helpful so far!

[KimDaddyO]

Such a great video. Great pace, explanation level, tone…. Thanks Tom

[joshburns]

Thanks.... when I was young a lot of radios had short wave on the old big radios.

[Eponymity]

Well done, Tom. Looking forward to a similar beginner-level discussion of single side band.

[daved]

Very helpful! Thank you for taking the time to create this.

[bstlst]

I have been searching for information for a beginner
For about three weeks. This is the first information that I could understand.
Of course I subscribed. Thank you for your clarity.

[edtriana]

Excellent educational video! Really pulled together and cleared up a lot of gaps a had regarding the association between the different bands. Felt like I was in a class listening to a knowledgeable professor. Thanks!

[Okimyhome]

Just found your channel and I’m impressed. I’ve always enjoyed listening SW but I was confused on many levels. Your explanation cleared up many questions. Thank you for sharing 😎

[NeverGiveUp-ibxb]

You're a great teacher!
Thank you for your knowledge.
Look forward to your future vids.
"Radio magic", sounds interesting and fun.

[dylandopsovic]

Excellent video! I enjoyed how you put it into terms easy to understand especially as I'm relatively newer to the hobby. I find it to be a great thing and I can only hope that radio in all forms continues to live on in this world of ever increasing complexity. 73