For radio listeners across the globe, the name WRTH evokes more than just a book. It represents eight decades of dedication to the world of broadcasting. A symbol of accuracy, reliability, and global community, the World Radio TV Handbook (WRTH) has become the go-to source for DXers, shortwave enthusiasts, broadcasters, and curious radio hobbyists alike.
But how did it all begin? And what makes WRTH the most trusted radio guide in the world? Let’s take a look back.
A Legacy That Began in 1947
In the aftermath of World War II, a new hunger for global connection emerged. People wanted to tune into voices from across borders — to hear what the world sounded like. WRTH first appeared in 1947, stepping in to meet that very need.
What started as a compact reference book quickly grew into a globally respected directory. Year after year, WRTH compiled verified, detailed listings of AM, FM, and shortwave broadcasters — offering radio listeners a structured and reliable way to explore the airwaves.
The Gold Standard for Radio Accuracy
What sets WRTH apart is its commitment to accuracy and detail. Every edition is the result of extensive correspondence with radio stations, official agencies, and regional experts. Each listing is vetted and verified — a painstaking process that has built the brand’s credibility.
From frequency charts to transmitter sites, language schedules to contact details — WRTH delivers with precision. And it’s this consistency that has earned the trust of generations.
For decades, hobbyists would reach for their copy of WRTH before turning the dial. And even as technology evolved, WRTH adapted without compromising its standard of trust.
Adding Digital to Print: Always Evolving
In recent years, WRTH has embraced digital transformation while staying true to its roots. Alongside the classic printed book, WRTH now offers a searchable E-book and a Web App that updates in real time.
This shift has allowed WRTH to serve both traditional collectors and new-age DXers who rely on mobile tools and real-time data. The Web App, for instance, brings daily updates, filtering tools, and instant access to broadcaster profiles — all while preserving the trusted data format WRTH is known for.
No matter the format, WRTH remains the same in what matters most: accurate, verified, and globally respected radio information.
A Community-Built Institution
In an era of algorithms and fast-changing tech, WRTH stands out for its editorial integrity. It doesn’t just scrape data; it curates and confirms. For listeners serious about understanding the broadcasting world — whether it’s a low-power community FM in rural Canada or a high-power SW broadcaster in Africa — WRTH is still the one source they trust.
And with the upcoming 80th edition, that trust carries even more weight. This is not just a book — it’s a testament to radio history and a legacy of global listening.
Conclusion: Eight Decades Strong — and Still Tuned In
WRTH has always been more than a guide. It’s a reflection of how radio brings people together — across frequencies, languages, and generations. As we celebrate 80 years of WRTH, we’re not just looking back. We’re honoring a living legacy that continues to evolve with its community.
Here’s to the listeners, the DXers, the broadcasters, and every reader who’s ever cracked open a WRTH to discover the world on the dial.
