Skip to content
OFF AIR
Next broadcast Fri 31 Jul · 19:30 UTC · 5970 kHz

Radio Delta AM

Dieter’s DX Adventure

My name is Dieter, and I was born near the picturesque shores of the North Sea. During my youth in the early 1980s, I found myself captivated by the world of electronics through a construction kit from Franzis. This fascination sparked my interest in my father’s beloved hobby: amateur radio. I would often sit beside him as he engaged in QSOs (conversations among amateur radio operators). I was always in awe when someone from far away responded to his calls from the north of Germany, exchanging pleasantries and expressing delight over the connection.

Curiosity piqued, I once asked my father if there was a way to listen to radio broadcasts from abroad. In a heartbeat, he repaired an old Grundig Satellit 2000 for me, ushering me into the realm of shortwave radio. With my newfound equipment, I eagerly scanned the HF bands, soaking in the diverse array of international stations. To gather information on various broadcasters and their frequencies, I had purchased a guide from Wolf Siebel. My very first confirmed reception was from the BBC in London, broadcasting on the 49-meter band. Surprisingly, my antenna was nothing fancy; I simply stretched a few meters of wire along the heating pipes in my home, which extended to the upper floors—a makeshift solution that worked wonderfully.

As the months went by, I verified reception from over 50 stations across Europe, Asia, and America. Through the “Happy Station Listeners Club” of Radio Nederland, I quickly made pen pals around the globe, each letter a tiny window into another world. However, the late 1980s brought professional changes that led to a hiatus in my listening adventures. It wasn’t until the 1990s that I set up a long wire antenna in the garden of my apartment near Hamburg, reigniting my passion for shortwave listening.

Fast forward to the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, when I rediscovered the joys of SWLing. I would tune in to stations like Radio Casanova and Radio Delta on the 49-meter band every weekend using my trusted JRC NRD 525 G. From the moment I tuned into Radio Delta, its vibe felt like a warm embrace—it was like being part of a family. Both stations boasted licenses and delivered professional-quality programming, but Radio Delta stood out for its crystal-clear sound and engaging content. The show “Aart goes DX” became a weekly highlight that I eagerly anticipated.

Inspired, I started crafting loop antennas, following advice from various forums online. I modified an MLA-30+ to use with my ATS25X and SDRplay RSP2pro, diving deep into the technical side of the hobby. It was incredible to think that 40 years ago, I had listened to my first radio station, and now, with the changing landscape of broadcasts, only a few remained that aired in German. Radio Casanova, now using the old frequencies of Radio Delta, along with Radio Delta itself, became essential weekend programming for me.

Radio Delta, under the expert leadership of Aart, has thrived, showcasing technical prowess and a dedicated team. Over the past three years, I’ve keenly followed their journey, noting how their sound quality rivals that of local stations. Yet, there’s always a tinge of disappointment knowing they only broadcast on Sundays, but those hours, filled with varied formats and a rich spectrum of music, are treasured.

I’ve also expanded my equipment collection in recent years, acquiring receivers like the Kenwood R-5000 and JRC NRD 535 DG, which I could never have afforded previously. My almost-perfect, homemade rotatable loop antenna, constructed mainly from scrap wood from the hardware store, is my pride and joy, covering frequencies from 40m to 20m.

In conclusion, I want to express my gratitude to Aart for his exceptional listener engagement and commitment to continually advancing the station’s technology and programming. The motto “Keep the shortwave alive” has never felt more appropriate. What once was the “Happy Station Show” of the 1980s and 90s at Radio Nederland has now found a worthy successor in Radio Delta.

At 58 years old, shortwave listening brings me more joy than it did 40 years ago. SWLing is a hobby that continues to forge friendships and connect people across the globe.

Best regards from Hamburg,

Dieter

 

Ich heiße Dieter und wurde nahe der malerischen Küsten der Nordsee geboren. In meiner Jugend Anfang der 1980er Jahre begeisterte ich mich für die Welt der Elektronik durch einen Bausatz von Franzis. Diese Faszination entfachte mein Interesse für das Hobby meines Vaters: den Amateurfunk. Oft saß ich neben ihm, während er QSOs (Gespräche unter Amateurfunkern) führte. Es war beeindruckend, wenn jemand aus der Ferne auf seine Rufe antwortete, die aus dem Norden Deutschlands kamen, und Freude über die Verbindung ausdrückte.

Neugierig fragte ich einmal meinen Vater, ob es eine Möglichkeit gäbe, Radiosendungen aus dem Ausland zu empfangen. In Windeseile reparierte er mir einen alten Grundig Satellit 2000, der mich in die Welt des Kurzwellenradios einführte. Mit meinem neuen Equipment begann ich, die KW-Bänder abzusuchen und die vielfältigen internationalen Stationen aufzusaugen. Um Informationen über verschiedene Sender und deren Frequenzen zu sammeln, hatte ich einen Ratgeber von Wolf Siebel gekauft. Mein allererster bestätigter Empfang war die BBC aus London, die auf dem 49-Meter-Band sendete. Überraschenderweise war meine Antenne nichts Aufwendiges; ich spannte ein paar Meter Draht entlang der Heizungsrohre in meinem Zuhause, die bis in die oberen Stockwerke verliefen — eine improvisierte Lösung, die wunderbar funktionierte.

Im Laufe der Monate überprüfte ich den Empfang von über 50 Stationen aus Europa, Asien und Amerika. Durch den „Happy Station Listeners Club“ von Radio Nederland machte ich schnell Brieffreunde auf der ganzen Welt, jeder Brief war ein kleiner Blick in eine andere Welt. Doch in den späten 1980er Jahren brachten berufliche Veränderungen eine Pause in meinen Hörabenteuern. Erst in den 1990er Jahren baute ich in dem Garten meiner Wohnung in der Nähe von Hamburg eine Langdrahtantenne auf, die meine Leidenschaft für das Kurzwellenhören neu entzündete.

Die herausfordernden Zeiten der COVID-19-Pandemie führten dazu, dass ich das SWL-Hobby erneut entdeckte. Jedes Wochenende hörte ich auf Stationen wie Radio Casanova und Radio Delta auf dem 49-Meter-Band mit meinem treuen JRC NRD 525 G. Vom ersten Moment an fühlte sich Radio Delta wie eine warme Umarmung an—es war, als wäre ich Teil einer Familie. Beide Sender hatten Lizenzen und lieferten professionelle Programme, aber Radio Delta stach durch seinen kristallklaren Sound und ansprechende Inhalte hervor. Die Sendung „Aart goes DX“ wurde zu einem wöchentlichen Höhepunkt, auf den ich freudig wartete.

Inspiriert begann ich, Loopantennen zu bauen und holte mir Ratschläge aus verschiedenen Online-Foren. Ich modifizierte eine MLA-30+ für den Einsatz mit meinem ATS25X und SDRplay RSP2pro und tauchte tief in die technische Seite des Hobbys ein. Es war unglaublich zu denken, dass ich vor 40 Jahren meine erste Radiostation gehört hatte und nun, mit der sich verändernden Landschaft der Sendungen, nur noch wenige Sender übrig waren, die in Deutsch sendeten. Radio Casanova, das nun die alten Frequenzen von Radio Delta nutzt, sowie Radio Delta selbst wurden zu unverzichtbaren Programmen am Wochenende für mich.

Radio Delta, unter der fachkundigen Leitung von Aart, hat sich prächtig entwickelt und technische Kompetenz sowie ein engagiertes Team gezeigt. In den letzten drei Jahren habe ich ihren Weg aufmerksam verfolgt und bemerkt, wie die Klangqualität mittlerweile der von lokalen Sendern entspricht. Dennoch gibt es immer einen Hauch von Enttäuschung zu wissen, dass sie nur sonntags auf Sendung sind, aber diese Stunden, gefüllt mit abwechslungsreichen Formaten und einem breiten Spektrum an Musik, sind kostbar.

In den letzten Jahren habe ich auch meine Gerätesammlung erweitert und Receiver wie den Kenwood R-5000 und JRC NRD 535 DG angeschafft, die ich mir zuvor nie hätte leisten können. Meine fast perfekte, drehbare Loopantenne, die hauptsächlich aus Restholz vom Baumarkt besteht, ist mein Stolz und Freude und deckt Frequenzen von 40 m bis 20 m ab.

Abschließend möchte ich Aart für sein außergewöhnliches Engagement gegenüber den Zuhörern und seinen unermüdlichen Einsatz zur ständigen Verbesserung der technischen Ausstattung und des Programms danken. Der Slogan „Keep the shortwave alive“ passt hier wirklich gut. Was in den 1980er und 1990er Jahren die „Happy Station Show“ bei Radio Nederland war, hat nun bei Radio Delta einen ebenbürtigen Nachfolger gefunden.

Mit mittlerweile 58 Jahren bereitet mir das Kurzwellenhören mehr Freude denn je. SWL: Ein Hobby, das viele nette Kontakte und Freundschaften mit sich bringt.

Mit besten Grüßen aus Hamburg,

Dieter

Radio Delta AM

Waves of Nostalgia: Alfonso’s Connection to The Cranberries on Shortwave Radio

Welcome to another special edition of Radio Delta, where we celebrate the art of shortwave radio listening and the unique stories that come from it. Today, we bring you an intriguing reception report from one of our esteemed listeners, Alfonso Sampedro Prada, located in the charming coastal town of Santoña, Cantabria, Spain.

On the 1st of December, 2025, at precisely 13:45 UTC, Alfonso tuned into our frequency of 12.085 kHz using the RETEKESS V115 receiver. In this age of digital broadcasting, it’s fascinating to hear from someone who embraces the traditional methods of radio listening. Alfonso utilized a basic receiver antenna, but his passion for radio shines through, proving that great reception is possible without high-end equipment.

Alfonso reported a SINPO score of 43343, indicating a clear signal with a bit of fading. But what truly made this moment memorable for him was hearing the song ‘Dreams’ by The Cranberries playing through our station. The Cranberries hold a special place in Alfonso’s heart; their music encapsulates nostalgia and emotion for him. ‘Dreams’ is more than just a song—it’s a reminder of cherished memories, perhaps of love, friendships, or even moments of solitude. The ethereal voice of Dolores O’Riordan resonates deeply with him, echoing feelings of hope and longing that we often seek through music.

He noted, ‘Very good radio station!’ Despite the limitations of technology and the inability to share audio directly, his words reflect the joy of encountering a beloved song on the air—a shared connection across distances.

He concluded his report by expressing his hope for confirmation and a QSL card from us. Such requests remind us of the community spirit of radio listening. Alfonso takes a moment to send his compliments our way, and we, in turn, thank him for reaching out. 

Radio Delta AM

Celebrate Toto: A Musical Journey with Radio Delta!

This week has been busy at Radio Delta, but we’re excited to share that our transmitter issues on 6.170 kHz have been fixed! While we might use 12.085 kHz less frequently, we’re committed to keeping you connected.

Today, we celebrate the iconic band Toto! Every hour during *The Record and Its Story*, we’ll dive into the rich history of this extraordinary pop group. Formed by talented studio musicians, Toto crafted countless hits over the years, blending a variety of music styles. Contrary to popular belief, the band’s name isn’t inspired by the dog from The Wizard of Oz. It was drummer Jeff Porcaro who, after seeing the film, labeled their demo tapes with “Toto,” referencing “In Toto” from Latin, meaning “all-encompassing.” Toto’s philosophy, as Porcaro noted in an interview, embraced all genres: “We liked all sorts of music. We don’t think there should be any barriers for what we are capable of doing or want to play.”

Alongside our Toto special, we invite you to check out new radio stories from listeners like Dieter from Hamburg, who shares his experiences with us. Have a story to share? We want to hear it!

Radio Delta AM

Connection from the Heights: Marco Hommel’s Unique Radio Experience on Radio Delta

Today, we have a remarkable reception report that truly stands out. The sender is Marco Hommel from Bretnig, Germany, and he experienced something unique while tuning into our frequency.

It was a crisp morning on January 5th, 2025, at 08:10 UTC. Marco was using an ATS25 Max Decoder, coupled with a 5.6-meter Groundplane antenna. The setup, although not the latest technology, proved to be exceptional due to the unique location.

Picture this: the snow lightly falling on the slopes of the Waaserberg, where Marco has set up his receiver. At 600 meters (1,969 feet) above sea level, this elevated position offers a perfect vantage point, allowing for superior signal reception that would otherwise be hindered in lower terrains. The breathtaking views and serene atmosphere of the Waaserberg create a wonderful backdrop for this radio adventure.

Initially, Marco received us on 6.170 kHz with a SINPO rating of 35443. He described the reception as good, providing him with a delightful mix of instrumental and Polka music, accented with the lively talks that Radio Delta is known for. Later, at 12:10 UTC, he tuned into our frequency on 12.085 kHz. This time, the signal was even stronger, boasting a SINPO of 45544, and the audio quality was exceptionally clear.

Thank you, Marco, for sharing your experience with us! Your connection from the beautiful heights of Bretnig serves as a reminder of the power of radio to connect people across distances, transcending geography and technology.

Radio Delta AM

Reception report from the heart of Lapland

We have a captivating reception report from the breathtaking landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Picture this: In the remote serenity of Inari, nestled deep within the Arctic wilderness, two AM radio enthusiasts, Jari and Timo, have dedicated their evening to the pursuit of distant radio waves. With a sense of adventure and a passion for the airwaves, they have crafted an impressive, 1,250-meter-long Beverage antenna directed toward the eastern United States.

They huddle inside their cabin, surrounded by the gentle glow of a wood stove, creating a cozy atmosphere amid the snow-laden pines outside. Equipped with their trusty Microtelecom Perseus receiver, their anticipation grows as they adjust dials, momentarily breaking the solitude with whispers of excitement. On December 29, 2024, at 15:06 UTC, the feed crackles and suddenly morphs into clarity. The unmistakable tones of Radio Delta International reach their eager ears. A moment of pure delight as they confirm the identification—it’s us! Their excitement is palpable, even in the cold, untouched expanse of Lapland.

Jari and Timo extend their warm greetings, expressing gratitude for our transmission. They share their love for AM DXing—the art of detecting and identifying distant AM stations across the globe. Their remote listening spot, free from the inescapable hum of human interference, allows them to revel in the thrill of discovery, gathering signals from the ether. With this heartfelt reception report, Jari and Timo wish us all the best. They affirm that AM DX is thriving warmly in the heart of Finland—an encouraging thought as we navigate the unseen waves of communication around the world.

Radio Delta AM

A Heartfelt Connection: Ivan’s Tribute to Music and Radio Delta International

We are thrilled to share a heartfelt letter from Ivan Lebedev, a dedicated listener hailing from the enchanting city of St. Petersburg, Russia. In his letter, Ivan expresses his gratitude for the wonderful music that fills the airwaves of our station, particularly the timeless rock ballads from the 1980s. Among his favorites is the Scorpions’ hit “Send Me an Angel,” a song that resonates deeply with him, filled with the mysteries of human existence.

Ivan lives in the city famously known as the site of the “white nights,” a poetic phenomenon that he enjoys during the warm summer evenings. Picture him, in a nearby suburb, tuning in on his vintage radio receiver—a classic device with dials and knobs that crackle to life, bringing our broadcasts to him, even across the miles. As he adjusts the frequency, Ivan is enveloped in the nostalgic sounds of our station, celebrating the music that has shaped the lives of many.

During the summer, Ivan engages in his hobby of DX-ing, where he explores long-range radio stations on shortwave frequencies. This is how he discovered Radio Delta International, connecting him not only to our music but also to a broader world beyond his own. As winter sets in, he often resorts to WEB SDR Receivers from Europe, eager for the day when he will venture outside again in search of our signal with his Degen 1103 and Sangean ATS-909 X receivers, equipped with a Long Wire antenna.

Ivan also shares the joy of listening to a local station, Retro-FM, which plays similar music from the 1970s to the 1990s, creating a nostalgic soundscape that evokes fond memories. A special shout-out comes at the end for our very own DJ Hitti, whose humor and anecdotes add an extra layer of enjoyment to the listening experience.

To Ivan and all our listeners around the world, thank you for your continued support and for sharing your stories with us. You remind us why we share these waves—bringing people together through the power of music.

Radio Delta AM

Title: “The Connection of Sound: A Greeting from Roland”

On November 17, 2024, at 08:35 UTC, Roland Schmitt from Contwig, Germany, tuned into Radio Delta International on a frequency of 6.170 kHz using his C.Crane receiver and a 25-meter wire antenna. As he listened, he was delighted by the clear signal, which had an impressive SINPO rating of 44433.

Contwig, a charming village located in the southwestern part of Germany, is nestled in the picturesque Palatinate region. Known for its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Contwig offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village’s historical roots date back to the early Middle Ages, and it boasts traditional architecture that reflects its rich heritage. With a close-knit community and beautiful surroundings, Contwig is a perfect place for those who appreciate nature and a peaceful lifestyle.

With enthusiasm, Roland reached out, expressing his appreciation for the quality transmission. In his message, he said, “Hello, today the signal on 6170 kHz is good again!” His words were a warm reminder of the connection that radio offers across distances. 

In his heartfelt greeting, Roland sent his best wishes to the team at Radio Delta International, referring to them as “the heartbeat of Elburg.” Such sentiments highlight the deep bonds formed between radio stations and their listeners, transcending borders and cultures. Roland’s message resonated with the spirit of community that radio fosters, bringing people together through shared experiences and music.

Am 17. November 2024 um 08:35 UTC hörte Roland Schmitt aus Contwig, Deutschland, auf einer Frequenz von 6.170 kHz Radio Delta International mit seinem C.Crane-Empfänger und einer 25-Meter-Drahtantenne. Während er lauschte, war er begeistert von dem klaren Signal, das eine beeindruckende SINPO-Bewertung von 44433 hatte.

Contwig, ein charmantes Dorf im Südwesten Deutschlands, liegt malerisch in der Pfalz. Bekannt für seine üppigen Landschaften und die ruhige Atmosphäre, bietet Contwig einen friedlichen Rückzugsort vom Trubel des Stadtlebens. Die historischen Wurzeln des Dorfes reichen bis ins frühe Mittelalter zurück, und es verfügt über traditionelle Architektur, die sein reiches Erbe widerspiegelt. Mit einer eng verbundenen Gemeinschaft und einer schönen Umgebung ist Contwig der perfekte Ort für diejenigen, die die Natur und einen friedlichen Lebensstil schätzen.

Mit Begeisterung wandte sich Roland an Radio Delta International und drückte seine Wertschätzung für die qualitativ hochwertige Übertragung aus. In seiner Nachricht sagte er: “Hallo, heute ist das Signal auf 6170 kHz wieder gut!” Seine Worte waren eine warmherzige Erinnerung an die Verbindung, die das Radio über Entfernungen hinweg bietet.

In seinem herzlichen Gruß sandte Roland beste Wünsche an das Team von Radio Delta International und bezeichnete sie als “das Herzstück von Elburg.” Solche Sentimente heben die tiefen Bindungen hervor, die zwischen Radiosendern und ihren Hörern entstehen, grenzüberschreitend und kulturenübergreifend. Rolands Botschaft hallte mit dem Gemeinschaftsgeist wider, den das Radio fördert, indem es Menschen durch gemeinsame Erfahrungen und Musik zusammenbringt.

Radio Delta AM

Radio Delta Celebrates The Cranberries: A Tribute to Dolores O’Riordan

Today 12 January 2025, Radio Delta is proud to dedicate our entire programming to the iconic band, The Cranberries. As we remember the legendary lead vocalist Dolores O’Riordan, who left us too soon, we delve into the rich history of this beloved Irish rock group. Listeners can tune in every hour for “The Record and Its Story,” where we explore the background of their albums and the unique sound that made them a staple in the hearts of many.

Formed in Limerick, Ireland, in 1990, The Cranberries burst onto the music scene with their distinctive blend of alternative rock and Celtic influences. They captivated audiences in the 90s with hits like “Zombie,” “Linger,” and “Dreams,” delivering powerful lyrics that often addressed social and personal themes. Their music resonated deeply with fans across the globe, particularly among our dedicated Radio Delta listeners. It’s no surprise that we frequently feature their songs in our “Five Decades of Music” program.

In recent news, we’ve faced some challenges this past week, and unfortunately, we haven’t had the chance to work on our antennas. However, we’re working diligently to ensure that our transmission remains strong and uninterrupted. 

Additionally, we invite you to join Helmut Matt in a fascinating interview with Marcel Fischer from RADIO MARABU, where they discuss his journeys around the world and his exciting new book.

https://odysee.com/@radiomarabu:2/04Januar2025:1

Tune in to Radio Delta, the Dutch lion that keeps the shortwave alive, and celebrate the enduring legacy of The Cranberries with us today!

Radio Delta AM

Radio Delta Welcomes 2025!

As we step into the New Year, everyone at Radio Delta wishes you a very happy and healthy 2025!  A heartfelt thank you to all who tuned in for our Christmas broadcast from December 24 to December 29. We received numerous wonderful and touching responses that truly made our holiday season special!

Today, we are back on air, broadcasting all day long on our regular frequencies of 6.170 kilohertz and 12.085 kilohertz. We are also excited to announce a brand new backup frequency for the 49-meter band to ensure you don’t miss a moment of our programming.

Next week, we are focusing on enhancing our antenna system, with all necessary materials now in hand. We believe these improvements will significantly enhance reception on the 49-meter band, making your listening experience even better.

In today’s program segment, Record and its Story, we dive into the incredible journey of the band Supertramp. Throughout the day, you can hear the fascinating tale of this iconic band.

Supertramp, a British symphonic rock band, known for its unique sound dominated by Wurlitzer piano and saxophone, was formed in 1969 by Rick Davies (vocals and keyboards) and lyricist Richard Palmer-James. Renowned member Roger Hodgson (vocals, guitar, and keyboards) was part of the group until 1983. Key hits include “Give a Little Bit,” “The Logical Song,” “Take the Long Way Home,” “Dreamer,” “Breakfast in America,” and “It’s Raining Again,” many of which were written by Hodgson, while Davies penned classics like “Bloody Well Right,” “Goodbye Stranger,” and “Cannonball.”

Tune in to Radio Delta – the Dutch lion that keeps the shortwave alive with all live programming! Don’t miss out!

Radio Delta AM

Radio Story from Ralf Witte: From Generation to Generation

Welcome to Radio Delta, your station for stories that touch hearts and create connections. Today, we present the poignant story of Ralf Witte, a man from Berlin who rediscovered his love for radio through the legacy of his father. This tale showcases not only the magic of radio but also the strength of family bonds and how we pass our passions on to the next generation.

Ralf Witte, born and raised in bustling Berlin, grew up in a home where the sounds of the radio played a central role. His father, an avid radio enthusiast and experienced CB radio operator, tried to share the wonders of radio with his son. However, at that time, Ralf was more interested in the rapidly evolving world of technology. Between the ages of 10 and 12, he was unyielding in his indifference. The colorful screens of mobile phones captivated him; as he eagerly anticipated his first Siemens mobile phone with a three-color display, the world of radio seemed like a relic of the past.

By the age of 18, equipped with his driver’s license, Ralf often embarked on long journeys with friends. Cars, music, and the use of simple convoy radios became the new norm. The radio transformed into merely a tool for communication on the road, while his bond with his father and passion for radio faded into the background.

Life, however, has its twists. When Ralf’s father passed away, a profound emptiness enveloped him. One day, while sifting through his father’s belongings, he stumbled upon the last CB radio his father had ever purchased. Now in his thirties, Ralf decided to give this old friend a new lease on life. With a mix of curiosity and emotion, he installed the device in his car and began to explore what had captivated his father about communicating through the airwaves.

As the months went by, Ralf rediscovered the magic of radio. Now 37 years old, he spends nearly every free minute in front of his shortwave receiver. The evenings became enchanting and tranquil, filled with the soft excitement of what he would uncover. Secretly, he would extend his homemade wire antenna out the window, stretching the wire across his yard. What began as a simple wire soon evolved into a small two-meter mast with a balcony antenna. His creativity and determination to improve the aesthetics of his setup ultimately led to the construction of an impressive 5/8 CB Black Pirate antenna towering 5 meters high.

Interestingly, Ralf has built this antenna structure in complete silence. To this day, he has not received a single complaint from his neighbors. As evening falls, it’s as if he steps into another world. With a cup of tea in hand and the gentle crackling of the radio, he feels a connection to a past that can never be severed. It’s an homage to his father, who paved the way into the ether through his love of radio.

Now, a new generation is involved. Ralf’s son, just 8 years old, is genuinely interested in the world of radio. He watches in wide-eyed wonder as his father adjusts the knobs and tunes into different frequencies. The child’s curiosity, combined with the father’s nostalgia, creates a beautiful dynamic. Ralf can’t help but smile as his son asks questions about the various sounds and voices they hear together. Rediscovering this passion has not only changed Ralf’s life but also that of his son. Together, they explore the treasures of the airwaves, and each evening becomes an adventure.

Ralf’s story is a beautiful example of how the love of radio can live on, even through generations. It reminds us that things often become truly valuable only when we experience the fragility of life—the connection with our loved ones can inspire us to pass down what we cherish most. Thanks to his father, Ralf now enjoys a new dimension of connection with his own son, and together they honor the magic of radio.

Ralf Witte, geboren und aufgewachsen im pulsierenden Berlin, wuchs in einem Zuhause auf, in dem die Klänge des Radios eine zentrale Rolle spielten. Sein Vater, ein begeisterter Radioenthusiast und erfahrener CB-Funker, versuchte, die Wunder des Radios mit seinem Sohn zu teilen. Zu dieser Zeit war Ralf jedoch mehr an der sich schnell entwickelnden Welt der Technologie interessiert. Zwischen seinem 10. und 12. Lebensjahr war er in seiner Gleichgültigkeit unnachgiebig. Die bunten Bildschirme der Mobiltelefone fesselten ihn; während er voller Vorfreude auf sein erstes Siemens-Mobiltelefon mit einem Dreifarbendisplay blickte, schien die Welt des Radios wie ein Relikt aus der Vergangenheit.

Mit 18 Jahren, ausgestattet mit seinem Führerschein, fuhr Ralf oft mit Freunden auf langen Reisen. Autos, Musik und die Benutzung einfacher Convoy-Radios wurden zur neuen Norm. Das Radio verwandelte sich in ein bloßes Kommunikationsmittel auf der Straße, während seine Bindung zu seinem Vater und die Leidenschaft für das Radio in den Hintergrund traten.

Das Leben hat jedoch seine Wendungen. Als Ralfs Vater starb, umhüllte ihn eine tiefe Leere. Eines Tages, während er durch die Besitztümer seines Vaters stöberte, stieß er auf das letzte CB-Radio, das sein Vater je gekauft hatte. Nun in seinen Dreißigern, beschloss Ralf, diesem alten Freund eine neue Chance zu geben. Mit einer Mischung aus Neugier und Emotion baute er das Gerät in sein Auto ein und begann zu erkunden, was seinen Vater so fesselte an der Kommunikation über die Luftwellen.

Monate vergingen und Ralf entdeckte die Magie des Radios erneut. Mit 37 Jahren verbringt er beinahe jede freie Minute vor seinem Kurzwellenempfänger. Die Abende wurden magisch und ruhig, gefüllt mit der sanften Aufregung dessen, was er entdecken würde. Heimlich streckte er seine selbstgemachte Drahtantenne aus dem Fenster und spannte den Draht über seinen Garten. Was als einfacher Draht begann, wandelte sich bald zu einer kleinen zwei-Meter-Mast mit einer Balkonantenne. Seine Kreativität und Entschlossenheit, das Aussehen seines Aufbaus zu verbessern, führten schließlich zur Konstruktion einer beeindruckenden 5/8 CB Black Pirate Antenne, die fünf Meter hoch war.

Es ist interessant zu erwähnen, dass Ralf diese Antennenstruktur in völliger Stille errichtet hat. Bis heute hat er keine einzige Beschwerde von seinen Nachbarn erhalten. Wenn der Abend fällt, ist es, als würde er in eine andere Welt eintauchen. Mit einer Tasse Tee in der Hand und dem sanften Knistern des Radios fühlt er eine Verbindung zu einer Vergangenheit, die niemals getrennt werden kann. Es ist eine Hommage an seinen Vater, der durch seine Liebe zum Radio den Weg in die Ether geebnet hat.

Jetzt ist eine neue Generation am Werk. Ralfs Sohn, erst 8 Jahre alt, interessiert sich aufrichtig für die Welt des Radios. Er beobachtet mit weit geöffneten Augen, wie sein Vater die Knöpfe dreht und verschiedene Frequenzen abtastet. Die Neugier des Kindes, gepaart mit der Nostalgie des Vaters, schafft eine wunderschöne Dynamik. Ralf kann nicht anders, als zu lächeln, wenn sein Sohn Fragen zu den verschiedenen Klängen und Stimmen stellt, die sie zusammen hören. Diese Leidenschaft wiederzuentdecken, hat nicht nur Ralfs Leben verändert, sondern auch das seines Sohnes. Gemeinsam erkunden sie die Schätze der Luftwellen, und jeder Abend wird zu einem Abenteuer.

Ralf’s Geschichte ist ein wunderbares Beispiel dafür, wie die Liebe zum Radio weiterleben kann, selbst durch Generationen hindurch. Sie erinnert uns daran, dass Dinge oft erst dann wirklich wertvoll werden, wenn wir die Zerbrechlichkeit des Lebens erfahren – die Verbindung zu unseren Lieben kann uns dazu inspirieren, das, was wir am meisten schätzen, weiterzugeben. Dank seines Vaters hat Ralf nun eine neue Dimension der Verbindung zu seinem eigenen Sohn, und gemeinsam ehren sie die Magie des Radios.