Free Radio Olympia 98.5 FM Direct Action Broadcasting Since 2001!

 We are offended by their very existence.

To broadcast in stereo, you need a device called a stereo encoder. The main reason why we don't use stereo is that a mono signal is easier to tune in even if its not coming in totally clear. In stereo, you have to use more power to put out a listenable signal.  A person listening from five miles away would need a stronger received stereo signal at their antenna to receive the same quality of signal they will get from us in mono. So mono gets out further and clearer than stereo would with same amount of power. Our mono signal is more accessible and has that great D.I.Y. aesthetic too!

* You may need to disable stereo lock or stereo muting on your receiver (if feature is present) to receive a mono signal.

Use the contact or "Join Us" links at the top of the page or come to our events, call the studio, ask around town. Be persistent. We are very open to new members, but the necessary secrecy of what we do can sometimes be frustrating for people trying to join. Download and fill out our New Member Intake Form and return it to FRO! (Click the link for more info. and reading matterials.)

How do I start my own free radio station?

Basic Equipment List:
Power Supply (usually 12 volts DC and must supply enough current (amps) for your power level)
DC cables for each DC component
Exciter
Amplifier
SWR meter
coaxial jumpers (50 ohms)
coaxial feedline (50 ohms)
antenna
PLUS your AUDIO source(s)and audio cables.

Handy test gear includes:
wattmeter (appropriate to your power level and frequency)
MFJ 259 or 269 SWR Analyzer and Frequency Counter
dummy load (appropriate to power and freq.)
multimeter (reads volts, amps, and ohms, and detects electrical continuity
extra coaxial jumpers
and an FM radio receiver!!!