Audio Systems: extending antenna, long wire antenna, home stereo system

Question
Hi-

I recently upgraded my home stereo system and moved my old receiver (Mitsubishi M-VR400) to my garage. I am no longer able to pick up my favorite radio station and I think part of the problem is that I have white metal liner on the walls and ceiling. The antenna looks like speaker wire (it worked in the house and came with the receiver) and I would like to extend it up through the walls and into the garage attic to see if that helps with reception. Is this antenna wire a special type of wire? Or can I just take thin speaker wire and extend the antenna?

Thanks,
Jim

Answer
Yes, you can use just about any insulated speaker wire.  A long wire antenna usually works very well in cases like this for AM reception.  Less well for FM but try it anyway.  You may have to experiment a little to get best results.

For FM an inexpensive antenna can usually be picked up at Radio Shack or some dollar stores, but based on your description it seems you are receiving AM radio.

Best Wishes.