SWL - Radio Delta AM

I was born in 1959 in a little village outside the town of Umeå in Northern Sweden. My mother and I lived on a small widow’s pension. We didn’t have a car, so I was at home when not in school. Around 1970 I began to listen to foreign radio stations; Radio Luxembourg was a favorite. Little did I know then that this was the beginning of a lifelong journey on the radio waves. Little did I know that about thirty-five years later I would be live on the Voice of America or that Radio Taiwan would broadcast a ten-minute-long interview with me.

My sister gave me a book that would teach me a lot about listening to foreign radio stations as a hobby it was Arne Skoog “Kortvågslyssning som hobby”. (Shortwave listening as a hobby.) This book teached me all about reception reports, QSL-cards etc).

In the 70s there was a lot of radio stations to listen to, many of them had even transmissions in Swedish like: HCJB in Ecuador, Deutschland funk in Cologne, Western Germany, the Vatican Radio, Radio Moscow etc. But of course, the English language was the real key to the world. Without hesitation I would say that BBC World Service was my first university. (And I would add: the way BBC World Service was then, not the diluted politically correct stuff that they have today).

Pop music stations were favorites like: Radio Veronica, Radio Northsea International, Radio Luxembourg, Radio Caroline, but I made a mistake. I thought that they were going to last forever. Of the mentioned stations only Radio Caroline is left, of the mentioned above. More about that later.

A full-time job, wife, and five children took a big toll. For a couple of decades, I didn’t listen much. Another blow was when a whole lot of shortwave stations did close down for good, like Radio Australia.

But the children are big now, and one of them is cooking dinner at home, so my available listening time has increased. Although my wife hates hearing my radios sounding. And there is now a difference. In the beginning I could listen to just any radio station and sending reports. Now I would never suffer listening to radio stations from the “axis of evil”, as President George W Bush put it. Instead, I prefer radio stations with which I can have a personal relationship. Radio Caroline is one of the few. But since I first discovered Radio Delta in the summer of 2022, Radio Delta International is my absolute favorite radio station. A station that plays good music, has a very friendly owner and DJ, with whom I can interact with in real time, during transmissions. What can possibly beat that!?

This weekend, you can tune in to Radio Delta on February 18, 2024, on 6110 kHz from approximately 6 UTC to 9 UTC, and also on 12.030 kHz from 9 UTC to 11:30 UTC.

Over the past week, extensive testing has been conducted with the new antennas. The results have not shown improvement compared to the existing antennas. Not every change leads to enhancement. However, a promising discovery was made that the new antenna provides excellent results on the 31-meter shortwave band. Further testing will be carried out to explore this success. Initial plans to utilize the 19-meter shortwave band in the future have been reassessed due to test outcomes indicating it may not offer optimal coverage across Europe. Continuous testing is underway to achieve the best possible outcome.

We express our gratitude to Harri from Oulu for the consistent and enjoyable musical contribution to the ‘Finnish Request’ program, airing from 6 UTC to 7 UTC.

In other news, Radio Monique has recently launched the 1332 kHz mediumwave frequency. Progress has been made with the installation of a new antenna last Saturday, February 17th. Further enhancements, including raising the antenna height and adjustments, are planned in the upcoming months. Visit our website to view new videos showcasing the developments at Radio Monique.

At Radio Delta, our team has been conducting a series of experiments to understand and compare the performance of shortwave radio transmissions. In this blog, we will share with you our findings and the insightful discoveries we’ve made along the way.

We have put together a series of videos that showcase the comparison between the 25-meter shortwave and the 49-meter shortwave. Through these demonstrations, we aim to illustrate the differences in transmission quality and reach between the two bands.

Transmission Details:

– **Radio Delta**: Frequency – 12.030 kHz, Power – 1000 watts (PEP)

– **Radio Mike**: Frequency – 5980 kHz, Power – 1600 watts (PEP)

– **Radio Continental**: Frequency – 5810 kHz, Power – 400 watts (PEP)

One of the key insights we’ve gained during our experiments is the impact of power on transmission strength. We observed that a doubling of power results in only a 3dB increase in strength. For example, if Radio Continental were to use 800 watts, it would be 3dB stronger.

In one of our videos, we demonstrate the significant difference in reception quality within a distance of 750km from Elburg, France. This highlights the impact of frequency and power on the reach and reception of our transmissions.

Interestingly, we found that during the daytime, the 25-meter band often provides clearer reception even at a distance of 500 kilometers. This unexpected observation has sparked further exploration into the specific conditions under which each shortwave band excels.

The entire journey of conducting these experiments has been a learning experience for us at Radio Delta. Our enthusiasm for testing and our commitment to self-built solutions have driven us to understand the nuances of shortwave transmissions, and the outcomes have exceeded our expectations.

As we continue our journey, we are excited about more experiments and experiences that lie ahead for our team at Radio Delta. Our dedication to self-improvement and learning is what motivates us to push the boundaries of our understanding of shortwave transmissions.

We are delighted to have shared this experiment with you, and we look forward to your continued support as we embark on further adventures in the world of shortwave radio.

Stay tuned for more updates, more experiments, and more exciting discoveries from Radio Delta!

In the fast-evolving digital era, where music streaming services dominate the airwaves, there are still passionate individuals who find joy in the art of radio reception. One such individual is Ruud Walet from Apeldoorn, who embarked on an extraordinary journey during his vacation in La Palma, Spain. Armed with his trusty ATS 20 receiver, Ruud set out to explore the possibilities of radio reception in a foreign land. Let’s delve into the captivating story of his experiences on December 2nd and 3rd, 2023.

Ruud, a devoted radio enthusiast, never misses an opportunity to send reception reports, even from his vacation destinations. Arriving in La Palma, he wasted no time in setting up his ATS 20 receiver. In the town of El Paso, he ingeniously utilized a nearby lamppost as an antenna, tuning in to Radio Delta on the 6110 kHz and 12.0frequency. Despite the distance of approximately 3300km from Elburg, the reception was surprisingly clear, allowing Ruud to enjoy his favorite radio station while soaking up the Spanish sunshine.

As Ruud continued his vacation, he took his radio reception adventures to the great outdoors. During his beautiful hikes, La Palma’s stunning landscapes captivated him. With the ATS 20 in hand and a compact dipole antenna measuring 2×5 meters, Ruud ventured into the wilderness. Even amidst the daytime bustle, he managed to receive radio signals from his beloved station, Radio Delta. The melodic tunes accompanied his walks, creating a captivating ambiance that made his vacation truly memorable.

After his eventful vacation, Ruud wanted to express his gratitude for the unforgettable experiences he had while indulging in radio reception. He shared his story, thanking everyone who had been a part of this journey, including the team behind Radio Delta and the dedicated individuals who make radio reception an art form. Ruud’s heartfelt message resonated with fellow enthusiasts, inspiring them to pursue their passions and embrace the magic of shortwave radio.

Ruud Walet’s adventure in La Palma showcased the beauty of combining a vacation with his passion for radio reception. From using a lamppost as an antenna in El Paso to exploring the wild landscapes with his trusty ATS 20 and dipole antenna, Ruud’s tale serves as a reminder of the wonders that await when we step outside our comfort zones. As he continues his radio reception journey back home with his Siemens E309B tube receiver, Ruud’s story inspires others to embrace the joys of listening to shortwave radio and the captivating experiences it offers.

This weekend, Radio Delta brings you an exciting lineup of programs and developments. Tune in on January 28, 2024, for a day filled with music, stories, and unique listening experiences.

Starting at 6:00 UTC, the Finnish Request show will kick off the morning broadcast on the frequency 6.110 kHz. Join us as we showcase the finest Finnish music and take your song requests.

At 9:00 UTC, get ready for the program “Radio Delta Goes DX.” Your host Aart will be discussing all reception reports, and this week, we have some truly remarkable ones. Stay tuned as we explore these unique reception stories.

From 10:00 UTC, tune in to 12.030 kHz for the program “5 Decades of Music.” In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to discover new music along with its fascinating background. We will also delve into the latest releases of the week, giving you insights into the stories behind the songs. This new segment will be a regular addition to the “5 Decades of Music” program on Radio Delta.

This Sunday is the perfect day to stay home and turn up the radio volume. Enjoy a variety of shows, immerse yourself in captivating stories, and explore the latest music releases.

In addition to our radio programs, we have also uploaded new videos on YouTube. Visit our website to read the accompanying stories and insights behind these videos.

We are delighted to share that a new listener from South America, Alf from Lima, Peru, has contributed to Radio Delta by recording Spanish station IDs. We have transformed Alf’s recordings into catchy jingles. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Alf (Alfredo) and hope that he continues to be an avid listener. Would you like to lend your voice to Radio Delta? Send us some beautifully recorded texts at info@radiodelta.am.

Furthermore, our testing on the 20-meter band has continued this past week. We are working towards broadcasting on this band in the future. With the help of dedicated listeners like Patrick Travers from Sheffield, we are evaluating the best frequency to ensure regular transmissions. We sincerely thank Patrick for his assistance and monitoring of the different frequencies.

On our website, you can also read a fascinating Radio Story from Rudd Wallet, a listener from the Netherlands. While on vacation in La Palma, Ruud had a short expedition and managed to receive Radio Delta. Discover his captivating tale on our website, radiodelta.am.

Join us this weekend and embark on a memorable journey with Radio Delta. Stay tuned for more captivating programs, music discoveries, and engaging stories.

Firstly, we would like to thank everyone for tuning in to our broadcasts during the Christmas period. We appreciate your support and listenership. We would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and healthy 2024.

During these days, we received over 300 messages from our listeners, and we have now responded to all of them with a QSL card. These cards have been sent out to the listeners.

We have also announced the winners of our recent contest during the broadcast. The winners will receive a stylish hoodie featuring the Radio Delta logo. Congratulations to the following individuals:

1. Patrick Travers from Sheffield, England

2. Ruud Wallet from Apeldoorn, the Netherlands

3. Harri Hatunen from Oulu, Finland

4. Patrick Robic from Austria

5. Christer Brainstorm from Halmstad, Sweden

Additionally, you can visit our website to get an impression of our listeners. They often send us photos and videos from their surroundings or of their receivers. We have uploaded some of these great photos and videos on our website.

We have made some changes to the power supply of the transmitter for 12.030 kHz, which should further improve the signal quality. We look forward to bringing you more exciting broadcasts in 2024. Stay tuned!

In the age of digital media and streaming services, there’s something truly captivating about tuning into a radio station from far away. Recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing such a magical moment with Radio Delta, a station based in Elburg. Join me as I recount my journey of reception, the equipment used, and the delightful surprises that awaited me on the airwaves.

It all started when I, Emiliano Rocchetta, an avid radio enthusiast in Northern Italy near JN54ND, decided to try my luck and explore the world of shortwave radio. Equipped with my trusty Yupiter receiver, I set out for a day of walking in the mountains, ready to capture the beauty of nature and, hopefully, the signals of distant radio stations.

As I tuned my receiver to different frequencies, hoping to catch a unique station, my attention was caught by the familiar sound of Radio Delta on the frequency 12,030 kHz. With an eager smile on my face, I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

The reception was incredible, with a strong and clear signal reaching my antenna. It was as if Radio Delta was right next door, despite the vast distance that separated us. The quality of the transmission was a testament to the station’s dedication and technological prowess.

Accompanied by the stunning landscapes of the mountains, I embarked on a journey of audio exploration. The Yupiter receiver, known for its exceptional performance and portability, proved to be the perfect companion for my adventure. Its compact design and robust features allowed me to easily navigate the airwaves while immersing myself in the scenic surroundings.

The reception quality of Radio Delta was outstanding, with a SINPO rating of 45444. This rating is a standard measure in radio listening, assessing the strength, interference, noise, and overall quality of a particular signal. With such high marks, it was clear that Radio Delta had mastered the art of transmitting their content across vast distances.

At precisely 1030 local time, I hit the record button on my Yupiter receiver, capturing a snippet of Radio Delta’s broadcast. This recording serves as a delightful memento of my encounter with their station, providing a means to relive the experience and share it with fellow radio enthusiasts.

As my time with Radio Delta came to an end, I couldn’t help but be grateful for the opportunity to connect with this remarkable station. I extend my warmest wishes to the entire Radio Delta team for a joyful new year on the shortwave, filled with captivating broadcasts and continued success in their endeavors.

Receiving Radio Delta’s signal on a frequency of 12,030 kHz was a truly extraordinary experience. From the picturesque landscapes of the mountains to the exceptional performance of the Yupiter receiver, every element of this adventure added to the magic of connecting with a far-flung radio station. As I look back on this encounter, I am reminded of the unique and enduring power of radio, transcending geographic boundaries to bring people together through the airwaves.

This is the radio news report for December 25th and 26th, 2023. We have some exciting updates for our listeners during these festive days.

Firstly, please note that there will be no DX show on these days. Instead, we have a special program called ‘5 Decades of Music’ lined up for you. Get ready to enjoy some nostalgic tunes from the past five decades.

Additionally, we have a Christmas surprise program in store for you. We will be featuring a guest DJ who will spin some merry tracks to keep the holiday spirit alive.

For those tuning in today, you can enjoy a day filled with music on the frequencies 6.110 kHz and 12.030 kHz. The 6.110 kHz frequency will continue to play in the evening as well.

During these two Christmas days, we will be playing a selection of songs every hour to honor our loyal listeners from the past year. We want to celebrate and share some memorable moments together.

As an added bonus, if you send us a music request and a reception report during these two days, you stand a chance to win an exciting surprise package from Elburg. In this package, we will delight you with various goodies from the charming fishing village of Elburg and Radio Delta.

Lastly, we encourage you to visit our guestbook and leave a message. We would love to hear from you and know your thoughts about our radio station.

This is the radio news bulletin for December 23rd and 24th, 2023. There have been no technical adjustments made to the transmitters or antennas, and we feel that we are currently able to reach all of Europe with occasional signal strength reaching far beyond Europe. Just last week, we received a message from Chris Mackerell in New Zealand.

Once the weather improves, we will make adjustments to the antennas for 12.030 kHz. You can find updates on our website, and we will also create a blog about the progress.

Over the past few weeks, we have been busy preparing for our Christmas broadcasts on the 25th and 26th of December.

These broadcasts will be filled with delightful surprises for our listeners, including beautiful music and our regular program segments. We hope that our listeners will also share their stories in the future to encourage more interaction.

Last week, the weather in the Netherlands was very poor, with a severe storm bringing strong winds and heavy rain. Fortunately, our antennas did not sustain any damage.

On December 24th, you can also tune in to Radio Telstar (see photo) on 6045 kHz from Nauen, Germany. The Radio Telstar broadcast will begin at 12:00 UTC and continue until 14:00 UTC.

In the charming town of Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, resides a passionate radio enthusiast named Phil Hayward. From a young age, Phil’s curiosity and love for radio guided him into a world of endless possibilities and diverse stations. In this blog, we will delve into Phil’s journey, reliving the nostalgia of offshore pirates, discovering new radio stations, and witnessing the ever-changing landscape of the radio bands.

Phil’s radio journey began at the age of 14 when he first tuned into the medium wave. However, it was a fortunate encounter with a friend from school that truly awakened his passion. This friend’s father, who had served in the RAF, had a dormant radio set in his garage. When the set was brought back to life, it opened Pandora’s box, revealing a whole new world of radio for Phil and his friend.

In those early days, Phil would spend countless nights listening to offshore pirate stations and local ones on the weekends. The radio bands were a tapestry of diversity, with stations from various locations that Phil had to look up in an Atlas. Each listening session provided an opportunity to collect QSL cards, a tangible memento of his fascinating encounters.

Over time, Phil witnessed the dramatic transformation of the radio landscape. Despite these changes, he found solace in the Mighty KBC, a station that transported him back to the era of Radio North Sea and Veronica. For those who remember Radio Nederland and the DX Juke Box hosted by Jim Vastenhaud, Phil recommends tuning into The Giant Juke Box presented by Eric Van Willegan. The show features a delightful DX radio segment by Peter John, reviving fond memories of those earlier programs.

In recent months, Phil has found himself tuning in to Radio Delta every weekend. The reception on the 12.030 kHz frequency has proven to be remarkably good, surpassing even the 6.110 kHz band. The immersive experience of Radio Delta has become an integral part of Phil’s weekend routine, offering a much-needed escape into the world of radio waves.

As the festive season approaches, Phil sends warm wishes to all creatures great and small, hoping they have a joyous Christmas.

Phil Hayward’s journey through the realm of radio has been one of fascination, discovery, and nostalgia. From the early days of medium wave listening to the ever-evolving radio bands of today, Phil’s passion for radio remains steadfast. As he continues to explore new stations and frequencies, his love for this timeless medium remains as strong as ever.

Lennarts passion for shortwave listening in Sweden

Week 7

Radio Delta Experiment: Shortwave Comparison

Radio Reception Adventure in La Palma: A Journey with Ruud Walet

Week 4

Week 1

Reception of Radio Delta: Exploring the Airwaves in Northern Italy

Week 52 Christmas 2023

Week 51 2023

Phil Hayward’s Radio Passion