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Step 1
Buy a shortwave radio with an AM frequency bandwidth from 540 kHz to 30 MHz. This will cover the range of frequencies you will likely be able to receive with consumer-quality equipment.
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Step 2
Choose a radio with a digital frequency readout. A digital display allows you to dial the precise number of the radio frequency you are trying to receive. Older and less expensive shortwaves have a slide rule-type dial that requires a bit of fine-tuning to catch the signal.
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Step 3
Look for models with more than one frequency mode. AM is standard. Models with SSB mode will allow you to monitor ham radio, maritime, aeronautical, and select military radio transmissions.
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Step 4
See if the radio comes with a jack for an external antenna. Most portable radios are equipped with a telescoping antenna. In remote locations you may need to boost your receiving strength, so an antenna jack is handy. However, a length of speaker wire wrapped to the telescoping antenna can also help reception.
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Step 5
Evaluate selectivity bandwidth features. This allows you to cut down on interference between stations that are close to each other on bandwidth, enabling fine tuning.
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Step 6
Pick a radio with filter, squelch and scanner options. These features allow you to locate stations quickly by filtering bandwidth outside a certain predetermined range, and to squelch (cut out static) until you can tune in the desired station. A scanner will automatically search the radio's bandwidth range for the strongest signals.
