Check the RF GAIN control on the left side. If it is turned all the way down, the radio will appear deaf. Ensure it is set to maximum for distant shortwave stations.
Essential for shortwave. "Wide" delivers high-fidelity audio, while "Narrow" cuts out adjacent channel interference.
Tune to the frequency you want. Press the M (Memory) button, then enter a number slot (e.g., 01 to 45 ), and press ENTER .
The DX-390 is often criticized for "muting" while tuning (a brief silence between frequency steps). Enthusiasts frequently perform these "easy" community-sourced modifications: Disable Muting: By snipping or disconnecting the green wire at Pin #10 of the CNT 1 connector radio shack dx-390 owners manual
Tune to the desired frequency, press the M (Memory) key, and then press a number key (1–9) within five seconds.
Ultimate Guide to the RadioShack DX-390 Owner's Manual The RadioShack DX-390 (Catalog Number 20-214) remains a legendary portable shortwave receiver among amateur radio enthusiasts. Released in the early 1990s, this synthesized world band receiver was manufactured by Sangean (cloned from the popular Sangean ATS-818). It offers excellent sensitivity across AM, FM, and shortwave bands, complete with Single Sideband (SSB) reception.
Enter the desired frequency using the number pad (e.g., for 6.115 MHz, press 6 . 1 1 5 ). Press the button. 2. Manual Rotary Tuning Turn the large tuning knob on the right side of the radio. Check the RF GAIN control on the left side
Single Sideband (SSB) reception with fine-tuning, dual-time clock, RF gain control, and a wide/narrow bandwidth switch. Setting Up Your DX-390 1. Battery Installation
Direct keypad entry, rotary dial, auto-scan, and memory recall.
Enter the frequency digits using the numeric keypad (e.g., for 6.165 MHz shortwave, press 6 . 1 6 5 ). Press the key. Method 2: Manual Tuning Wheel Use the large rotary dial on the right side of the radio. Flip the FAST/SLOW/LOCK switch to change the step sizes. Essential for shortwave
To get started with your DX-390, proper power sequencing is critical to avoid losing saved memory channels. Installing the Batteries Locate the battery compartment on the back of the radio.
While RadioShack stores are largely gone, finding a PDF copy of the manual is quite straightforward. The most reliable source online is a website dedicated to hosting vintage manuals, .