What is DX'ing?
DX'ing is the hobby of listening for distant radio or TV transmissions. You can "DX" AM, FM, TV, shortwave, scanner frequencies, longwave, amateur radio bands, and more. "DX" has a more specific meaning to amateur (ham) radio operators. To them, DX literally refers to amateur radio transmissions from foreign countries.
Why do people DX?
There are MANY reasons to DX!
What is the difference between MW, AM, and BCB DX'ing?
AM, BCB, and MW DX'ing are the same thing. MW stands for Medium Wave, and refers to frequencies between about 500 KHz and 2000 KHz. The term "medium wave" makes sense when thought of in context with Short Wave and Long Wave. Literally, MW has wavelengths considered to be of medium length (160+ Meters).
The term AM, however, is actually less precise of a definition of the band than MW. AM is actually the type of modulation used by most radio stations in the MW frequency range. For this reason, people refer to the band as the AM band. Of course, AM (amplitude modulation) could be used in ANY frequency range, including within the "FM" band (88-108 MHz in North America).
BCB stands for "broadcast band". This term is a little more antiquated, having it's start back before FM radio existed. At that time, only one broadcast band existed - the AM or MW band.
So, usually people referring to "AM", "MW", or BCB DX'ing are referring to DX'ing the same band - 530-1710 KHz in North America.
What equipment do I need to DX?
Great DX enjoyment can be achieved with very modest equipment. One can DX the AM or FM bands with car radios and simple portable radios to some degree of success. Many older inexpensive FM tuners and TV's outperform the models of today, as well. You might also consider trying out your VCR's tuner for TV DX. It's not uncommon for many VCR's to outperform TV's when it comes to DX - especially if you can disable the low signal "blue screen" function.
While great enjoyment can be had with inexpensive radios and TV's, many DX'ers buy high end communications receivers to help receive more exotic DX. These types of receivers are virtually required for shortwave and longwave DX, but can also aid the AM/MW DX'er. There are many competitors in this market, so check out your local amateur radio store. As a starting point, look for Icom, Kenwood, Drake, NRD, and other brands. Specifically, todays most popular DX receivers include the Drake R8B, Kenwood R-1000 and R-5000, Icom R-71A and the Icom R-70, among others.
And any DX'er can improve their setups with better, and usually bigger, antennas. Antenna design and size vary greatly depending on the band you're interested in. Here are some antenna types to look for:
UHF: Parabolic dishes are the best; large "yagi" antennas also work well. These require a rotator.
FM/VHF: Yagi antennas dominate. They are relatively small and directional, so will require a rotator.
HF/SW: A simple dipole can achieve great results, as can a tuned random length wire. Yagi's also exist, but are very large.
AM/MW: Loop antennas are great - small, directional, and indoors. "Beverage" wire antennas are the ultimate, but require 800+ feet of level/straight terrain.
LW: Wire antennae and loops also work in this range.
If you really have a lot of time, space, and money, elaborate antenna arrays can be assembled. These often consist of multiple conventional antennae connected to an electronic phasing unit. These phasing units allow you to literally phase the received radio waves in a manner that either amplify potential DX or "null" interfering stations.
How do I know what I'm listening to?
Several guidebooks and reference books exist, as do many online resources. Check the AM DX Reference and FM DX Reference for many. Also look into joining a club relevant to the band that interests you. A good overview book including AM, shortwave, and more radio station listings is the annual "Worldwide Radio and TV Handbook", or WRTH for short. Check amazon.com for details.
DX clubs are very helpful for several reasons. Many have reference publications, technical guides, and general tip sheets to help optimize your DX experience. Several clubs have web sites and mailling lists for distribution of real-time information. Most clubs have periodic publications (weekly and monthly) and also sponsor club conventions to allow DX'ers to share ideas, experiences, and knowledge.
