The diversity of shortwave broadcasting has significantly declined in recent years. Compared to the past when radio stations around the world broadcasted in multiple languages about culture, politics, and music, the current shortwave bands have changed dramatically.
One of the most notable features of current shortwave bands is the extensive multi-channel broadcasting by Chinese domestic and international stations (CNR, CRI, PBS, etc.). With high output power and coverage across many frequencies, these broadcasts stand out as stations from other countries withdraw or reduce services.
Shortwave communication is also losing ground to the internet and satellite communication. The thrilling aspect of BCL—monitoring utility communications—is disappearing. Military and diplomatic transmissions are increasingly encrypted, becoming inaccessible to ordinary listeners.
If we shift our focus from simply “receiving information” to “documenting and analyzing the media landscape,” BCL/SWL remains a rewarding and meaningful field.
🌍 KiwiSDRと新しい地平 / KiwiSDR as a Global Gateway
KiwiSDRを通じて、世界中の受信機にアクセスでき、受信体験は大きく広がります。 KiwiSDR allows access to receivers worldwide, expanding the listening experience significantly.
KiwiSDRは音声放送だけでなく、FAX、SSTV、さらにはFT-8といったデジタル通信にも対応しています。 KiwiSDR supports not only voice broadcasts, but also FAX, SSTV, and even digital modes like FT-8.
🇪🇺 欧州LPAMの文化的魅力 The Cultural Value of European LPAM
In Europe, numerous low-power AM radio stations (1W–100W) serve local communities. These stations often broadcast to universities, hospitals, or immigrant communities. While some may operate without formal licenses and be classified as “pirate” broadcasters, they play a vital role in localized cultural and informational outreach.
📻 欧州短波小電力局とQSL文化 European SW Low Power Stations & QSL Cultur
10W～1kW程度の民間短波局が欧州に多数存在しています。たとえば、World Music Radio や Radio Channel 292 などが代表的な運用例で、最新の運用リストにもこれらの局が掲載されていますまた、欧州各地の地域性や番組の多様性・特色もBCL的に大きな魅力です。
There are many privately operated shortwave stations in Europe, typically ranging from 10W to 1kW. Examples of currently active stations include World Music Radio and Radio Channel 292, as listed in recent broadcast schedules. In addition, the regional characteristics and program diversity across Europe offer a rich field for BCL/SWL enthusiasts.
ヨーロッパでは小規模な短波局がQSLカードを発行し、今なお健在です。 Small shortwave broadcasters still thrive and issue QSL cards in Europe.
Shortwave pirate stations refer to radio broadcasters that operate without an official license, excluding underground propaganda or religious transmissions. They are especially active on the 49-meter and 41-meter bands, and typically broadcast music, talk shows, and hobby-oriented content.
実例：Radio Pamela の QSL カード Example: QSL Card from Radio Pamela
Radio Pamela は、ヨーロッパ発の短波海賊局のひとつで、音楽を中心に構成されています。受信報告に対して丁寧にQSLカードを発行していることからも、その文化的意識の高さがうかがえます。
Radio Pamela is a well-known shortwave pirate station based in Europe. They frequently broadcast music segments, and often send out QSL cards in response to reception reports, demonstrating a strong awareness of radio culture.
海賊局も、観察と記録の対象として文化的価値を持っています。
Pirate stations offer unique perspectives for cultural monitoring.
📝 受信報告書の工夫 / Enhancing Reception Reports
明確な記録と音声添付で、受信報告の信頼性が向上します。
Clear documentation and audio attachments enhance the reliability of reception reports.
🌐 フリーバンドとSWL文化 / Freeband and SWL Culture
📡 11メートル・フリーバンドとは？ What is the 11-Meter Freeband?
11メートル・フリーバンドとは、CB無線（市民バンド）で公式に割り当てられた周波数帯（通常27MHz帯）の 上下に位置する未認可周波数帯を指します。多くの場合、27.405 MHz～28.000 MHz付近が使用されます。 これは国や地域によっては公式に割り当てられていないため、 「フリーバンド（自由バンド）」や「OOB（Out of Band）」と呼ばれています。
The 11-meter freeband refers to frequencies just above or below the officially assigned CB radio channels, typically from 27.405 MHz to around 28.000 MHz. These frequencies are not formally allocated for CB use in many countries, and are commonly called “freeband” or “out-of-band (OOB)” segments.
Operators known as freebanders often use these frequencies to engage in long-distance (DX) communication, especially during favorable propagation conditions. While unofficial, a rich subculture has developed, including the exchange of QSL cards and the use of custom or informal callsigns, similar to amateur radio practices.
🧭 おわりに / Conclusion
BCL/SWLは、今や観察・記録・文化保存の手段でもあります。
These listening activities serve as tools for cultural archiving.
