If you need the exact manual (PDF) for button layouts, menu sequences, or troubleshooting, the original RadioShaft part number was 20-139 (DX-390). Many public archives (like ManualsLib or RadioMuseum) host it.
Radio Shack was notorious for its catalog numbers. The DX-390 carries the catalog number 20-201. The original manual was a small, saddle-stitched booklet of approximately 36 pages.
Physical description of the original:
If you are searching on eBay or Etsy for the physical copy, use the search string: "Radio Shack 20-201 manual" or "Radio Shack DX-390 original instructions."
This is the goldmine. The manual explains the six shortwave bands (SW1 to SW6).
Q: Does the DX-390 support SSB (Single Sideband)? A: No. The manual is clear: The DX-390 is an AM/FM/LW/SW receiver. It has BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) for CW (Morse code) but not true SSB. To listen to ham radio voice on SSB, you need the DX-392 or an external down-converter.
Q: How do I set the clock for Daylight Saving Time? A: Page 8. Hold the "Time Set" button for 2 seconds. Use the keypad to enter the time in 24-hour format (21:00 = 9 PM). The DX-390 does not auto-switch for DST.
Q: The manual says the battery life is 30 hours. I get 5. Why? A: You have the "Battery Save" turned off. See page 26: Press and hold "Display" for 3 seconds until "B.SAVE" appears on screen. You just gained 25 hours of life.
If you are a collector who must have the original paper manual, expect to pay a premium.
The manual provides a detailed diagram of the 21 buttons. Key revelations include:
The Radio Shack DX-390 is a museum piece that still performs admirably. But without the Radio Shack DX-390 owners manual, you are flying blind.
Keep a copy on your phone, a copy on your laptop, and a printed copy in your radio bag. The manual unlocks the memory scan functions, the timer recording features, and the RF gain sweet spot that makes this radio famous. Whether you are chasing pirates on 6.9 MHz or listening to time signals on 15 MHz, the manual is your co-pilot.
Download your PDF today, and bring your DX-390 back to life. radio shack dx-390 owners manual
Disclaimer: Radio Shack is defunct, and the DX-390 has been discontinued since 1995. This article is for educational and historical preservation purposes. All trademarks are property of their respective owners.
This post provides a quick guide and resource link for the Radio Shack DX-390 (Sangean ATS-806) Owner's Manual. The Collector’s Guide: Radio Shack DX-390 (Realistic)
If you’ve recently picked up the Radio Shack DX-390—also known by its twin, the Sangean ATS-806—you have one of the most respected portable shortwave receivers of the early '90s.
Whether you’re hunting for a digital copy or just need the essential "cheat sheet" to get started, here is everything you need to know. Quick Start & Key Functions
The Power Source: Requires 6 "C" cell batteries for main operation and 2 "AA" batteries for the clock/memory backup. Always use fresh AA batteries to avoid losing your saved presets.
Direct Frequency Entry: To tune quickly, press the [FREQ] button, enter the frequency (e.g., 6.075 for Deutsche Welle), and press [ENTER].
SSB (Single Sideband): Essential for listening to amateur radio (hams). Use the BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) thumbwheel on the side to clarify the audio once you are on the correct frequency.
Memory Banks: The DX-390 allows you to store up to 18 stations (9 on AM/LW/SW and 9 on FM). Essential Manual Links
Because Radio Shack stores are a thing of the past, digital archives are the best place to find the full technical schematics and user instructions:
The Free User Manual (PDF): A complete scan of the original booklet including the "Guide to Shortwave Listening."
The Service Manual: For those looking to perform alignments or repairs on the internal circuitry. Pro Tip for New Owners
The DX-390 is famous for its Dual Conversion circuitry, which helps eliminate "images" or ghost stations. If you find the shortwave bands are quiet, ensure the RF GAIN slider on the left side is pushed all the way up! Are you planning on using the internal whip antenna, or If you need the exact manual (PDF) for
Radio Shack DX-390 (catalog number 20-214) is a versatile, high-performance portable world band receiver that covers FM, LW, MW, and SW frequencies. Known for its sensitivity and digital tuning, it remains a favorite for shortwave enthusiasts.
Below is a draft write-up designed for a product description, archive, or enthusiast site. Radio Shack DX-390 World Band Receiver Introduction
The Radio Shack DX-390 is a sophisticated digital communications receiver designed for "DXing"—the hobby of listening to distant radio stations. Manufactured by Sangean (as a rebadge of the ATS-803A), this unit offers a seamless blend of portability and desktop-level features, making it ideal for both home use and travel. Key Features Broad Frequency Coverage
: Full coverage of the AM broadcast band, FM stereo (via headphones), Longwave (LW), and continuous Shortwave (SW) from 1.6 to 30 MHz. Dual Power Options
: Operates on six 'D' cell batteries for portable use or an AC adapter for stationary listening. Advanced Tuning Modes : Features four ways to find stations: Direct keypad entry of the frequency. Manual rotary tuning knob. Auto-scan searching. Memory recall (stores up to 18 presets). SSB (Single Side Band) Reception
: Includes a BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) control, allowing users to listen to amateur radio operators (hams), maritime signals, and aeronautical communications. Integrated Clock & Timer
: A built-in digital clock with dual time zones and a programmable sleep timer/alarm, perfect for catching international broadcasts at specific UTC times. Quick Start Guide
: Slide the power switch to the 'On' position. Ensure fresh batteries are installed or the 9V DC adapter is connected. Selecting a Band : Press the buttons to select your desired broadcast range.
: Use the keypad to type in a known frequency (e.g., 6.020 for a SW station) and press , or use the large tuning knob to scan the bands manually. Improving Reception
: For SW and FM, fully extend the telescoping whip antenna. For AM and LW, rotate the radio to utilize the internal ferrite bar antenna.
: To hear amateur radio, press the SSB button and slowly adjust the knob until the voice becomes clear and natural. Maintenance Tips Battery Care
: Always remove batteries if the radio will be stored for more than two weeks to prevent acid leakage. Antenna Safety If you are searching on eBay or Etsy
: Do not use the telescoping antenna near overhead power lines.
: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior. Avoid harsh chemicals or solvents that could damage the display or plastic casing. or a list of common SW frequency bands to this manual draft?
Radio Shack Realistic DX-390 (Catalog No. 20-214) is a PLL synthesized world-band receiver, also known as a rebadged Sangean ATS-818
. Below is a draft guide based on original operating instructions. radiojayallen 1. Power and Battery Setup
The radio requires two sets of batteries to function correctly: Main Power: 4 "D" cell batteries for standard operation. Memory/Clock Backup:
batteries to maintain saved frequencies and the dual-time clock. External Power: Can be powered via a 6V DC adapter (barrel plug). 2. Tuning Methods
The DX-390 offers several ways to find stations across FM, MW (AM), LW, and SW bands: radiojayallen Direct-Access: , enter the frequency using the numeric keypad, and press Manual Tuning: Up/Down arrow keys Rotary Tuning dial on the right side. Rotary Dial Modes: A side switch allows you to toggle the dial between (to prevent accidental changes). Scan Tuning:
Use the seek buttons to automatically find the next available station. I Can Work This Thing 3. Storing Stations in Memory The receiver can store up to 45 presets (18 for SW, 9 each for FM, MW, and LW): Tune to the desired frequency. (Memory) button.
While the "M" is flashing, enter a memory location code (1-9 or 01-09 for SW). The display will confirm the saved location. 4. Advanced Reception Features SSB/CW Reception: For amateur radio or utility signals, turn on the BFO switch and use the BFO Fine Tuning knob to clarify the signal. Bandwidth Filter: WIDE/NARROW
switch to reduce interference from adjacent stations on AM and SW. Fully extend the 50-inch telescoping whip
Uses an internal ferrite bar; rotate the entire radio for best signal. external antenna jack is available for improved SW reception. 5. Clock and Alarm Functions Dual Time: You can set a primary local time and a secondary UTC/World time switch to either to wake up at a specific time. Sleep Timer:
button to set an auto-off timer for 15, 30, 60, or 90 minutes. 6. Troubleshooting & Care dx390.htm - QSL.net