The Bose has the option for external antenna, but uses the AC cord as the antenna, so first try stretching your AC cord to its fullest extent in a straight line, then in different directions to see if that improves the situation. This is for FM only. The AM uses an internal ferrite rod antenna, and this is sensitive to direction, so try rotating the radio in different directions to see if signal improves on AM, and place unit as near a window as possible.

If none of this helps, you will be able to use an external antenna, and no it is not mandatory that they be mounted outside ... as long as you have room indoors. In fact, several manufacturers market indoor antennas for apartment dwellers and others under restrictions against mounting antennas outdoors.

But, logically, the best way to improve reception is the largest antenna mounted as high up and as far away from obstructions between the antenna and transmitter as possible.

Good luck.

Don Miller, CET
CET Services
Bose Wave Radio Repairs
[email protected]