Current broadcast plan
The table below is leading. It shows the current planned Radio Delta AM broadcasts, UTC times and active frequencies. Our main listener-facing frequencies are 3985, 5970, 6040, 6170, 9800 and 12085 kHz.
| Day/Period | Frequency | On air (UTC) | Band | What's inside | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn / Winter / January | 3985 kHz | Announced / evening / late | 75m | Five Decades of Music | Classic low-band anchor for darker months and late evenings |
| Spring / Summer | 5970 kHz | Announced / day / evening / late | 49m | Five Decades of Music | Main 49m anchor for spring and summer |
| Spring / Summer | 6040 kHz | Announced / day / evening / late | 49m | Five Decades of Music | Practical 49m anchor for spring and summer |
| Planned / reserve | 6170 kHz | Announced / selected slots | 49m | Five Decades of Music | Additional 49m option for planned or reserve use |
| Daytime | 9800 kHz | Announced / daytime | 31m | Five Decades of Music | Daylight frequency when 31m propagation is useful |
| DX specials | 12085 kHz | Announced / daytime / specials | 25m | Five Decades of Music | Higher-band option for DX, long-distance and specials |
| Latest update | Check announcements | UTC | All bands | Five Decades of Music | Active frequency is confirmed in the latest schedule |
How we use the bands
Shortwave changes by season, time of day and interference. These notes explain the role of each band without replacing the schedule table above.
3985 kHz — late evening and winter
3985 kHz is the classic Radio Delta AM low-band frequency. It is mainly used in autumn, winter and for late-evening or night-time broadcasts when the 75 metre band gives the best result.
5970 / 6040 kHz — spring and summer workhorses
5970 kHz and 6040 kHz are the main 49 metre anchors for spring and summer. They can be used during daytime, evening and late evening, depending on propagation, QRM and the planned broadcast window.
6170 kHz — planned use and reserve
6170 kHz remains available as an additional 49 metre option. It can be used for specific slots, reserve use or technical comparisons when the channel is suitable.
9800 kHz — daylight tests
9800 kHz is used for 31 metre daytime tests and selected broadcasts when daylight propagation gives the higher band a better chance.
12085 kHz — DX and specials
12085 kHz is used for daytime broadcasts, DX specials, long-distance openings, Christmas transmissions and selected seasonal tests.
The schedule table is leading
The table above is the leading reference for the current broadcast plan. Frequencies can still change because of QRM, propagation, antenna tests or international frequency use.
Why a frequency can change
Shortwave is shared with many international broadcasters. A registered frequency can work well in one season or time slot, but become less useful when propagation changes or when another signal appears on or near the channel.
Radio Delta AM works with a small set of fixed anchor frequencies instead of constantly promoting many temporary options. This makes it easier for listeners to find us and easier for us to compare real reception reports over time.
For propagation patterns, receiver and antenna data, technical tests and background about frequency choices, see the Technology & Updates page →
Heard Radio Delta AM?
Send a reception report with SINPO, receiver, antenna and optional audio or photo. Your report helps us compare frequencies under real listening conditions. Send a reception report →