WHAT YOU NEED TO LISTEN TO SHORTWAVE RADIO

A good Shortwave radio-receiver is necessary, but you need not acquire an expensive one.
While a digital display model will help you scan the frequencies, cross-referencing them with a list to identify stations with ease, it is not essential. A good analog model will usually serve the purpose.
Technically speaking, there is no receiver that can be considered "a powerful one".

A good set is one that has:
Higher Sensitivity (the ability to receive weaker signals better).
Good Selectivity (the ability to separate interfering signals better).

A few good brand-names of SW receivers are: Sony, Grundig, Sangean and Realistic (Radio Shack). You can find them at major retail stores and Radio Shack.

The whip antenna that comes with the receiver will usually suffice to catch stronger signals and nearby stations, but a Longwire Antenna that can be easily built and attached to the whip, or a Half-Wave Dipole, are needed to catch weaker signals.

WARNING!!!

Never install these antennas near electrical wires, poles and trees!!! Disconnect the set upon approaching storms. Use batteries instead.

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