DX Central was originally started as a way to allow me to share what I have learned about AM/FM DX over the years with the rest of the community. I was seeing a lot of newer folks on Twitter and Facebook asking questions about various DX topics and I knew I wanted to find a way to help.
I know I have said this before, but I have always felt like AM/FM DX is the most pure form of DX and if you can learn the skills to be successful and have fun on those bands, you can DX anything. DXing AM, for example, really teaches you to master the art of listening. When you are sitting on a graveyard frequency and have just a murmur of stations all at once, the ability to pick out an ID from the mush is the difference between logging a station and not. AM and FM DX both teach us the importance of learning propagation and how the atmosphere and sun interact to shape our listening experience.
In addition to sharing what I already knew, I also hoped I could gain new skills and knowledge along the way, learning from other DXers that interact with me through DX Central, which I could then share back into the DX community. I am happy to say that is absolutely happening. On Twitter (@DXCentral) I have had some fantastic discussions with DXers around the world, learning new skills and crafts I am able to apply to the hobby directly. In addition, I have been able to meet SDR manufacturers, software developers, antenna crafters and more, sharing feedback from the DX community to enhance and shape the future products they produce to ensure that AM and FM DXers alike continue to have the gear and tools they need to pull in elusive DX.
I am proud of what we have accomplished in a short amount of time already and we are just getting started.
My biggest regret in 2020 is the long backlog queue of projects for the Website and YouTube channel that I need to tend to. Having a day job and other responsibilities means there just aren't always enough hours in the day to shoot a review video or write up a blog post. I am setting a goal for 2021 to do better on that, setting aside dedicated time each week to devote entirely to DX Central. Getting relevant and helpful content in your hands is my biggest priority for DX Central, and I will strive to do this more frequently in 2021.
Speaking of content, I will continue to expand my offerings which right now include DX reviews, tips, techniques, etc. I want to expand the type of content while also still keeping the voice that has helped make DX Central a helpful resource for DXers around the world.
My goal has always been to speak plainly, without the veil of complicated technical terminology. I truly believe this hobby should be accessible to everyone, no matter your current skill. The old phrase “if I can do it, so can you,” absolutely applies. So, that will include how-tos and tips that aren't specific to AM/FM DX such as antenna construction techniques, etc.
As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or requests. If you have a piece of gear or technique you want us to try out, let us know! Reach out on Twitter or email: info@dxcentralonline.com
