There’s a thrill in tuning into a faraway station and hearing voices, music, or signals from across the globe. That thrill is at the heart of DXing — the art and hobby of listening to distant radio stations. For decades, the WRTH (World Radio TV Handbook) has been the trusted companion for both seasoned and beginner DXers. If you’re curious about how to start DXing, this guide from the WRTH community will walk you through the basics, tools, tips, and spirit of this timeless hobby.
What is DXing?
DXing stands for “distance reception,” and it refers to the practice of listening to radio signals from faraway locations. These could be shortwave, medium wave (AM), longwave, or even FM and utility signals. Some DXers enjoy collecting QSL cards as proof of their reception; others love the challenge of tuning into hard-to-reach broadcasts.
What makes DXing unique is the joy of the hunt—tuning through static to catch a voice from halfway around the world.
What You Need to Start DXing
Basic Equipment:
Radio receiver: A portable shortwave radio, desktop receiver, or an SDR (software-defined radio).
Antenna: A simple wire antenna or built-in telescopic antenna works to begin with.
Headphones: Useful for hearing weak signals more clearly.
Useful Resources:
WRTH E-book or Printed Book: Provides updated global station listings.
WRTH Web App: Searchable, daily-updated schedules with real-time filtering.
Logbook or notebook: For recording what you hear.
Setting Up Your First DXing Session
Find a quiet space away from electronic interference—near a window, outdoors, or in a rural location if possible. Tune in during early mornings or late evenings when propagation conditions are better. Start by scanning popular shortwave bands and experiment with slow, deliberate tuning. You might be surprised by what you catch.
Logging and Confirming What You Hear
Logging your listening sessions is an essential part of DXing. Record:
Frequency
Time (UTC)
Date
Language and content
Signal strength and clarity
Many listeners send reception reports to stations and receive QSL cards in return. These confirmations are a cherished part of the hobby.
Join the Community
You don’t have to go it alone. The WRTH Facebook Group has over 14,000 members ready to answer your questions, share discoveries, and offer advice. There are also many local and international DX clubs that offer newsletters, meetups, and support for new listeners.
Joining a community brings connection, encouragement, and even a little competition to keep things exciting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving up too soon: DXing takes patience.
Ignoring time zones: Know when international broadcasts are most active.
Forgetting to log: Every log helps you learn and compare future sessions.
Overlooking antenna setup: Even small adjustments can improve reception.
Where to Go from Here
Once you’ve found your rhythm, the world of DXing opens up. Try utility DXing, explore FM and DRM bands, or dig into historic stations. Tools like the WRTH Web App and E-book are designed to grow with you—whether you’re logging your first station or your thousandth.
Conclusion
DXing is more than a hobby—it’s a global tradition built on curiosity, patience, and a love for radio. No matter where you are, there’s a frequency out there waiting for you to discover. With WRTH at your side and a global community behind you, your journey into the airwaves has everything it needs to begin.
Ready to start? Explore the WRTH E-book, check out the Web App, and join the conversation in our community group today.
Planning your next listening session? Now’s the time to explore the full potential of your WRTH E-book.
