Improving FM Radio Reception

We receive many questions about how people can improve the reception of their FM radios and stereo systems, especially at home. These are general recommendations only, and we are not endorsing the companies and products listed below. Please feel free to copy and share this information with other listeners!

Digital Tuners

Generally speaking, most newer radios with digital tuners have a little better sensitivity. Because of their precise tuning, they are usually a little more "selective" when trying to tune stations that are are close together on the FM dial.

Active Antennas

There are several new styles of indoor antennas that have "active" electronics or amplifiers built in, to help improve reception. They are available for both the FM and AM radio bands, and they have different price ranges. Available from:

• Terk Technologies

Indoor Dipole Antenna

This is the least expensive type of antenna available. It will usually give good results and can be easily hidden indoors or in a closet.

If your radio or stereo system has two screw terminals or connectors labeled "external FM antenna", then connect this antenna to these terminals. Before you fasten the antenna down, you will need to first try holding it in different positions to obtain the best reception. Available from:

• Radio Shack / part # 42-2385
• Fouraker Electronics / part # 30-270 / phone 1-800-554-4347 or 1-912-746-4326
• Home Depot

Outdoor Antennas

For fringe area reception or in areas where there is moderate terrain, an outdoor antenna may be necessary. Sometimes, they can be mounted inside an attic and still give excellent results. If you have an old outdoor TV antenna, try connecting it to your FM receiver.

The "high-gain" antenna will give better results in weak signal areas, but it generally receives FM signals only from the direction it is pointed. Available from:

• Radio Shack
• Fouraker Electronics / phone 1-800-554-4347 or 1-478-746-4326

Best Buy for a Radio with Good Reception

The GE Super Radio 3 is an excellent portable radio which retails for $65.00. It is available for purchase for $39.99 from Etronics at 1-800-541-1490 (FAX 212-475-3904). This radio WILL NOT give you stereo reception, but it has a large speaker, a simple tuning dial and a sensitive AM and FM tuner that rivals most expensive systems. It even has external antenna connections. We have tried the radio and it has the best reception of any radio in this price range. If you have difficulty ordering let us know and we may be able to help.

GNN  Home  ©1998-2004,   June 8, 2004

Good News Network PO Box 510 Appling, GA 30802 1-800-926-4669 FAX: 706-309-9669    ctbarinowski@comcast.net