Dear Cuhulin,

Probably, for general shortwave listening (not concentrating on one or
two particular bands) and also for keeping expenses to a minimum, it is
my opinion that the best outdoor antenna is the random long-wire. Note
the word "long" - it has to be as long as is possible.

All you need is some heavy insulated wire, a couple of stand-off
insulators, some rope or chain to attach the antenna to your supports
on both ends (and they better be good supports), and some lead-in wire.
(And a soldering gun!) Lightning protection is also necessary and
probably you'll need a ground wire soldered to a copper stake driven
into the earth as deep as possible.

I don't think the whole setup would cost much more than $30.00 (that's
a "guestimate") and it might even cost less. You could get everything
at a local hardware store.

Just remember - if you can't run a LONG straight wire, you'll need to
try something else. 100 feet would be a bare MINIMUM.

(You do realize that all of the above applies to an antenna for a
table-top shortwave receiver, or a sophisticated lap or porta-top
radio, NOT a small portable.)

Best,

Joe