The New York Times has called Passport to World Band Radio the "TV Guide for world band radio" - and rightly so. This years 2008 edition is now available as a companion reference guide for the novice and seasoned hobbyist.
Features highlighted include Casbah Radio, an in depth focus on broadcasting from Tangiers, by hobbyist Henrik Klemetz. Global religious broadcaster Trans World Radio, continues their world mission through the mass media. Jock Elliott delves into the TWR broadcasting with a goal to advance their missionary presence.
Getting Started will guide the newcomer through the basics of world band including Time/Day, Finding Stations and The Right Radio. Ten of the Best: 2008's Top Shows may have you scurrying to the receiver to enjoy the best of the best in shortwave programming, and What‛s On Tonight features an hour-by-hour guide to programming..
Shortwave radios can vary greatly depending on your budget and space limitations. Passport updates the hobbyists in How to Choose a World Band Radio, Portables for 2008 and Professional Receivers for 2008. Reviews are presented in a clear and concise style which include pro and con observations. Whether using a portable or outside wire antenna - you needs and space restrictions are addressed in two antenna features, Wire Antennas and Compact Antennas for 2008.
Addresses Plus contains a by-country guide of station addresses, who‛s who, websites, items for sale and more, followed by Worldwide Broadcast in English-2008. Find out what shows are on, and a by-country/by-hour schedule.
Passport‛s Blue Pages covers a by-frequency guide to world band frequencies, from 2,310-21,840 kHz The Blue Pages assist the listener to narrow their search by consulting the listed country, station, broadcast hours, language and targeted areas.
Passport to World Band Radio is a very good reference aid for any Dxer. For advise in receivers, antennas, frequencies and features, this years edition will aid in your shortwave radio journey.
Passport to World Band Radio 2007 (BK-18-08) is available through Grove Enterprises http://www.grove-ent.comn/ (or) 1-800-438-8155 for $ 22.95 + 3.00 P/H.
Reviewed by Gayle Van Horn
(What's New/Monitoring Times, Jan. 2008)