How to use a long wire for improved shortwave reception

One of the easiest and very effective ways to improve your shortwave radio reception significantly is by using a simple wire antenna. You can make it yourself. It works well on some smaller radios like the Retekess V115, which has a very poor built-in antenna, but copes really well with a wire antenna. This video is aimed particularly at beginners.

I have received several requests from viewers asking me how to use a wire as an antenna. The answer is in this video! I also show you how effective it can be by comparing reception on the Retekess V115 of NHK Japan 11815 kHz, and All India Radio , with and without the wire.

Just remember one thing, NEVER use a wire outside when it is stormy, particularly if you live in an area with many electrical storms, like where I live. It is very dangerous to use the wire outside when there is a thunderstorm.

00:00 Introduction
00:57 What you need
01:35 What length of wire to use
02:14 Expose a bit wire to twist around your antenna
03:20 Make sure end of wire is insulated
04:05 NHK 11815 kHz on the Rekess V115 with and without the wire
05:34 All India Radio 15030 kHz on the Retekess V115 with and without the wire
07:23 Final words