rshapiro@bbn.com (Richard Shapiro) (09/22/89)
I would like to propose a new group with the tentative name "rec.swl". Purpose: to discuss issues of interest to short wave listeners, i.e. those who are interested in listening to programs on the shortwave broadcast bands; also to discuss issues of interest to dx'ers working other broadcast bands (vhf, mw, tv). Topics might include (but would not be limited to): announcements of programs of interest program schedule listings time & frequency changes magazine & journal recommendations receiver and antenna reviews and recommendations dx'ing tips news of pirate and clandestine stations The obvious question is: why not use rec.ham-radio for this? The answer (or an answer): rec.ham-radio is *heavily* dominated by topics of exclusive interest to hams (i.e. amateur radio broadcasters), and while many hams are also swl's, relatively few swl's are hams. For this reason, rec.ham-radio holds little appeal for typical swl's. They don't read rec.ham-radio, and in consequence they don't post there either. This lack of participation by swl's in rec.ham-radio should NOT be construed as proving that there isn't interest in this subject. After considerable discussion with other swl's, I've come to the conclusion that rec.ham-radio is not the appropriate forum, and that another, separate group should be created. While there would be some overlap between the two groups (and thus cross-posting) I believe it would be minimal. Since may swl's are also interested in non-shortwave broadcast bands (specifically medium wave, vhf-fm, and television), I would also like this group to include articles about dx'ing these bands (articles about programs on these bands should go elsewhere, however). For this reason, the name 'rec.swl' might not be the best one. Other suggestions are welcome. Possibly "rec.broadcast-dx"? Comments?
benk@inmet (09/27/89)
I second the motion for the proposed new news group, "rec.swl".
I basically agree with the proposal for the new group, as it more-or-less
suits *my* interests and needs. My only quibble is that I'm not sure if the
new group will or will not be open to discussion of non-broadcast dx, e.g.
"utes" (utility stations), and I think that it should be.
In regard to the question of the best name for the group, "rec.swl" is
proabably as good as any. I'd vote against "rec.broadcast-dx", as it would
(if in name only) exculde our ute-dx-ing brothers and sisters.
-- Ben Krepp
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