Shortwave Radio

While the increasing availability of broad band internet access has somewhat limited the importance of shortwave radio, it is still a great source for news and cultural information from all over the world.  Many different languages can be heard on shortwave radios here in the United States and several stations broadcast in Spanish.

Some of my favorite Spanish shortwave stations are:

If you're interested in receiving these and other shortwave broadcasts please consult the book Passport to World Band Radio, 2005 Edition.  This book not only contains an exhaustive schedule of programming based on country of origin and frequency but also offers lots of basic information on how to get started listening to shortwave broadcasts.

While all of these stations can be heard online, you're not always at home or near an internet connection.  For this reason I strongly recommend purchasing a small field radio that can receive shortwave broadcasts.  I personally have two different models and will now offer my review of each.

Grundig FR200 Emergency Radio

Price: $40
Where: Radio Shack, Amazon.com
Verdict:  This was my first shortwave radio.  While it's reception leaves much to be desired and its analog dial-type tuning makes zeroing in on specific frequencies a little tedious, this radio nonetheless brought me many hours of shortwave listening and I received many Spanish broadcast with it.  I specifically remember being able to listen to Radio Marti and Radio Exterior de Espana. RECOMMENDED


Grundig S350 AM/FM Shortwave World Band Radio

Price: $100
Where: Radio Shack, Amazon.com, Brookstone
Verdict: This radio was a graduation present and it is truly one of the best I've ever received.  It also is analog tuning but has a digital display that allows you to focus in on specific frequencies.  Also, this radio seems to pick up many more signals than the radio reviewed above.  The sound quality is EXCELLENT and there is a slot in the back that allows you to plug in an external antenna, allowing even more signals to be picked up.  Like any shortwave radio, signals are stronger and more abundant during the early morning and early evening hours.  Still I am able to pick up at least one or two Spanish broadcasts 24 hours a day on this radio.  A good bit more expensive...but well worth every dime paid for it.  HIGHLY RECOMMENDED