There’s a certain magic to scanning the airwaves late at night. For me, it began as a kid, huddled over a clunky old receiver my grandfather owned, twisting the dial and hearing the faint, exotic crackle of a broadcast from halfway around the world. It felt like holding a secret. In today’s hyper-connected world, that magic can feel lost. We have instant access to everything, yet the thrill of discovery—of plucking a signal from the ether—is a unique joy. For years, my hobby has meant a cluttered desk: a dedicated shortwave receiver, a separate VHF/UHF scanner, a Bluetooth speaker for music. The dream has always been a single device that could do it all without compromise. The search for that “one radio” is what leads enthusiasts, preppers, and nostalgic listeners alike to scour the market, looking for a unit that bridges the gap between classic analog feel and modern digital power. This is the precise void the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio aims to fill.
- Multi-band Reception: Explore FM, AM, SW, SSB, VHF, UHF, AIR, CB, and WB frequencies, adaptable to multi-ITU regions. Effortlessly tune in with built-in frequency range and step selection settings,...
- Masterful Tuning at Your Fingertips: Delight in dual knob tuning, providing main and fine frequency adjustments with a retro-click sound. Alternatively, opt for up and down buttons or number button...
- Effortless Information Access with Dual Screens: Stay informed with a 3.54-inch main screen displaying reception status, while a customizable seven-color backlit sets the mood. The secondary screen...
What to Consider Before Buying a Portable Shortwave Radio
A portable shortwave radio is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for communication, information, and entertainment, independent of the internet or cellular networks. For the emergency prepper, it’s a lifeline to NOAA weather alerts and global news. For the DXing hobbyist, it’s a gateway to distant cultures and amateur radio conversations. The core benefit is empowerment—the ability to listen in when other systems are down or unavailable. It’s about curiosity, preparedness, and the pure, unadulterated fun of radio exploration.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a deep curiosity about the world of radio, from standard AM/FM broadcasts to the more esoteric realms of Single Sideband (SSB), air traffic control, and Citizen’s Band. This includes seasoned ham radio operators, retired Shortwave Listeners (SWLs) rekindling a passion, and survivalists building a comprehensive emergency kit. However, it might not be suitable for those who just want a simple, foolproof FM radio for the kitchen. A feature-rich device like this can have a learning curve, as one user noted, it’s “not for beginners.” If your needs are limited to local music and news, a more straightforward, less expensive model would be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Band Coverage & Sensitivity: The heart of any world band receiver is its ability to tune into various frequencies. Look for comprehensive coverage including standard AM/FM, Shortwave (SW), and crucially, Single Sideband (SSB) for accessing amateur radio and utility broadcasts. Extras like VHF, UHF, AIR, and CB bands dramatically increase a radio’s utility, turning it into an all-in-one scanner. Sensitivity determines how well the radio can pick up weak, distant signals.
- Power & Portability: A portable radio is only as good as its power source. We look for large-capacity, rechargeable batteries, ideally user-replaceable like the 18650 cells found in many high-end models. The ability to charge via a common standard like USB-C is a massive plus for convenience and off-grid charging. Dimensions and weight are a trade-off; a larger unit might house a better speaker and battery but is less convenient to pack.
- Antenna Flexibility & Tuning: The built-in telescopic antenna is just the start. For serious listening, external antenna ports are non-negotiable. Look for dedicated inputs for SW, AM, and VHF/UHF to allow for specialized antennas that can dramatically boost reception. An integrated antenna tuner is a rare but incredibly valuable feature that helps match the radio to your antenna for optimal performance.
- User Interface & Modern Features: How you interact with the radio matters. We value a clear display, intuitive controls, and multiple tuning methods (direct entry, scanning, and a good old-fashioned knob). Modern additions like Bluetooth connectivity, a MicroSD card slot for audio playback, and even app control can transform a radio from a simple receiver into a complete entertainment hub. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to understand how these modern conveniences are integrated.
Considering these factors will guide you toward a radio that not only meets your current needs but also grows with your interest in the hobby.
While the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 【Listen All World Sound】This emergency radio pick up channels on the NOAA/AM/FM/SW bands, you can receive signals in both manual and scanning tuning modes to meet your every need. In addition,...
- New Upgraded:LCD Display with Best Reception:Equipped with a big LCD screen, you can easily and clearly to see each AM;FM;Shortwave stations when tuning the knob on this portable radio. The long...
- Large Speaker Ensures Clear Loud Sound: DreamSky portable radio comes with big high performance speaker which provides loud and great sound quality that can easily fill a room. Listening to music,...
First Impressions: Retro Charm Meets Tech-Forward Design
Unboxing the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio is an experience in itself. As one user pointed out, the unit arrives well-packaged with accessories sealed under a quality control sticker, an immediate sign of care from the manufacturer. Lifting it from the box, the first thing that struck us was its substantial, yet manageable, size and retro-inspired aesthetic. It’s not a pocket radio; it’s a portable listening station that feels solid and well-built. The design harkens back to the golden age of shortwave, but the massive dual-screen display immediately signals that this is a thoroughly modern machine.
The main 3.54-inch screen is bright and clear, displaying all the critical reception information you need at a glance. The secondary screen below it is a clever touch, showing signal strength, time, and even a rhythmic light spectrum when playing music via Bluetooth. The tuning knobs have a satisfying, tactile feel, with the main knob producing an audible “retro-click” that can be disabled if desired. This blend of old and new is compelling. It feels both nostalgic and futuristic. It’s clear that Raddy didn’t just build a radio; they designed an experience. You can explore the unique dual-screen design and other features here.
What We Like
- Astounding full-band coverage from FM to UHF, including SSB
- Three dedicated external antenna ports plus an antenna tuner
- Massive 5000mAh rechargeable and replaceable battery
- Modern features: Bluetooth, app control, MicroSD, and USB sound card functionality
- Powerful 20W speaker system with subwoofer delivers impressive audio
What We Didn’t Like
- The sheer number of features presents a steep learning curve for novices
- One user report of laggy key responsiveness suggests potential firmware inconsistencies
Deep Dive: Performance Across the Spectrum
A radio with a spec sheet this impressive demands rigorous testing. We spent weeks with the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio, putting it through its paces across all bands, at different times of day, and in various locations. Our findings confirm that this isn’t just a list of features on a box; it’s a remarkably capable and versatile piece of equipment that genuinely impressed us.
Unrivaled Band Hopping: From Shortwave to the Skies
The true heart of the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio is its incredible frequency coverage. This is where the radio graduates from a simple receiver to a comprehensive monitoring tool. We started with the familiar territory of shortwave. As one enthusiast noted, SW isn’t as bustling as it was in the 70s, but “if there is a signal out there this radio will grab it.” We found this to be absolutely true. At night, with just the long, built-in telescopic antenna, we were pulling in broadcasts from Radio Havana Cuba, China Radio International, and various religious broadcasters from the US with surprising clarity. The fine-tuning knob is essential here, allowing for precise 1Hz steps to zero in on a signal perfectly.
But the SSB (Single Sideband) capability is the real game-changer. This is what opens up the world of amateur “ham” radio operators, maritime weather nets, and long-range CB communications. We spent an evening listening to hams chat across state lines on the 40-meter band, their voices coming in sharp and intelligible. The experience echoed that of a user who recalled listening to CB from 40 miles away on SSB; the technology remains just as effective, and this radio implements it beautifully. Moving beyond the traditional bands, we explored the AIR band, listening to ground control communications from a local airport, and scanned VHF/UHF frequencies, picking up local business transmissions and weather reports from NOAA. This immense versatility is a feature that really sets it apart from nearly every other portable in its class.
The Command Center: Dual Screens, App Control, and Tuning Mastery
Interacting with the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio is a uniquely satisfying experience, thanks to its well-thought-out control scheme and innovative display. The dual-knob system—a large, clicking main tuner and a smaller, smoother fine-tuner—is a joy to use. It provides the tactile feedback of an old analog radio with the precision of modern digital signal processing (DSP). You can also directly input a frequency with the keypad, which is fast and efficient once you get the hang of it. We did note the user comment about “laggy keys” and paid close attention to this. While we didn’t experience significant lag on our unit, which came with updated firmware, it’s a reminder that complex digital devices can sometimes have quirks. For us, the response was swift and accurate.
Where the RF919 truly enters the 21st century is with its “Radio-CT” smartphone application. By connecting via Bluetooth, the app provides full remote control of the radio. We found this incredibly useful. You can sit across the room, change bands, input frequencies, and adjust volume, all from your phone’s screen. It turns a complex interface into an intuitive graphical one, which can help flatten that “not for beginners” learning curve. The dual-screen system is more than a gimmick; the main screen provides all the necessary data, while the smaller secondary screen offers a quick-glance signal meter and a clock, which is surprisingly useful. The customizable seven-color backlight is a nice touch, allowing you to tailor the radio’s look to your preference or environment.
Power, Ports, and Audio Performance
A portable radio’s utility is often defined by its antenna and power systems, and this is an area where the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio absolutely excels. First, the power. The unit is powered by a massive 5000mAh battery pack composed of two replaceable 18650 lithium-ion cells. This is a brilliant design choice. One user rightly praised this, noting it provides “days of operation.” Our testing confirms this; with moderate use, we went nearly three full days before needing a recharge via the convenient USB-C port. The ability to swap in fresh 18650 cells is a massive advantage for off-grid or emergency situations.
Second, the antenna options are a dream for any serious hobbyist. While the built-in telescopic antenna is quite long and capable, the three external antenna jacks are what unlock the radio’s full potential. We connected a longwire antenna to the 3.5mm SW port and immediately saw a dramatic improvement in weak signal reception. The SMA port for VHF/UHF is perfect for connecting a discone or J-pole antenna for scanner-like performance. What truly surprised us was the dedicated rear antenna tuner knob. This is a feature typically found on expensive base station radios, and it allows you to fine-tune the impedance match to your external SW antenna, squeezing every last drop of performance from it. Finally, the audio. With a 20W speaker and an integrated subwoofer, the sound quality is rich, full, and loud—far beyond what you’d expect from a portable receiver. It makes listening to FM music or playing audio via Bluetooth a genuinely enjoyable experience, confirming another user’s assessment of its “good sound.” It even functions as a USB sound card, adding yet another layer of surprising technical capability.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio is largely mirrored in the feedback from the user community. Many, like the user who was reminded of his dad’s ham radio, praise its ability to rekindle the excitement of the hobby. He called the radio “AMAZING,” which sums up the sentiment of many satisfied owners. Another experienced user, who used to build his own radios, stated that this one “kicks bud!” and highlighted its solid build, excellent battery, and great sound. This praise from knowledgeable hobbyists speaks volumes about the radio’s performance.
The technical capabilities also receive high marks. One reviewer was astounded by the “coverage from 100 khz to 999 mhz that only software defined radio can deliver,” even comparing it favorably to legendary models like the Grundig 700. Another technically-minded user discovered its undocumented feature as a low-latency USB sound card, a valuable find for audio producers.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. One user returned their unit due to “very laggy in responsiveness” keys, which made the radio “unenjoyable.” While our test unit with its updated firmware did not exhibit this issue, it’s a valid concern and points to potential quality control or firmware variance that prospective buyers should be aware of. This reinforces the idea that the RF919 is a sophisticated device, and its complexity can be a double-edged sword.
How Does the Raddy RF919 Compare to the Alternatives?
The Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio occupies a unique space with its blend of extreme features and retro design. To understand its value, it helps to compare it against other popular, but very different, radios.
1. Sangean WR-16SE Wooden Cabinet Radio
- Am/ Fm Analog Radio With Built-In Bluetooth Technology Version 4.1 Class Ii Wireless Audio Streaming
- Soft And Precise Vernier Tuning With Tuning And Band Indicators
- Deep Bass Compensation For Rich Bass With A 3 Inch 10 Watts Full Range Speaker
The Sangean WR-16SE is all about elegance, simplicity, and audio quality for the home. Encased in a beautiful dark walnut cabinet, it focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well: AM, FM, and Bluetooth audio. Its primary appeal is aesthetic and auditory, designed to be a centerpiece in a living room or office. Compared to the Raddy RF919, it’s a completely different class of device. The Sangean lacks shortwave, SSB, VHF/UHF, or any of the advanced reception features. A user would choose the Sangean for its superior furniture-grade appearance and warm, rich sound for casual listening, not for DXing or emergency monitoring.
2. Sangean PR-D18 Portable Digital Radio
- 10 station presets (5 FM, 5 AM) with adjustable Tuning steps, auto seek stations, adjustable sleep timer and snooze function
- 2 alarm timer, wake by radio haws (Humane wake system) or buzzer
- Easy to read LCD display with backlight
The Sangean PR-D18 represents the peak of basic portability and durability. It’s a compact, rubber-bumpered AM/FM radio designed to be tossed in a bag and taken anywhere. Its strengths are its simplicity, ruggedness, and reliable reception of standard broadcasts. It’s an excellent choice for a workshop, a camping trip where only local stations are needed, or as a simple emergency radio for someone who would be intimidated by the Raddy’s complexity. The Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio offers a universe of more listening options, but the PR-D18 wins on sheer grab-and-go simplicity and a much lower price point.
3. C. Crane CCRadio-EP PRO Portable Analog Radio
- High Performance AM/FM Portable Radio. Simple controls with superior selectivity and sensitivity. Built for ease of use and outstanding long-range AM with C. Crane’s patented Twin Coil Ferrite AM...
- Great for listening to talk radio, NPR, music and sports. Separate bass and treble adjustment for defined music and accurate voice reproduction.
- Large 5” speaker. Hi-fidelity amplifier and wide/narrow enhancement dial for extra clarity on AM programs.
The C. Crane CCRadio-EP PRO is a specialist’s tool. While it only covers AM and FM, it is renowned for its exceptional AM reception, thanks to C. Crane’s Twin-Coil Ferrite AM Antenna. This radio is for the listener who wants to pull in distant AM talk radio or sports broadcasts with unmatched clarity. It uses an analog tuning dial backed by DSP for a unique, high-performance experience. Someone would choose the CCRadio-EP PRO specifically for its mastery of the AM band. The Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio, while a jack-of-all-trades, may not outperform this specialized C. Crane on a faint AM signal, but it offers exponentially more bands and features for the user who wants to explore beyond AM radio.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio Worth It?
After extensive hands-on testing, we can confidently say that the Raddy RF919 SSB Shortwave Radio is a triumph of design and engineering. It successfully bridges the gap between nostalgic, tactile radio operation and the boundless potential of modern digital technology. This is not a radio for the casual user looking for background FM music. This is a comprehensive listening station for the serious enthusiast, the dedicated prepper, and the curious explorer of the airwaves. Its immense band coverage, outstanding antenna flexibility, and modern conveniences like app control and Bluetooth audio place it in a class of its own.
While the learning curve is real and the potential for firmware quirks exists, the reward for mastering this device is access to virtually the entire radio spectrum in one portable, powerful, and profoundly fun package. It brings back the magic of discovery that defines the radio hobby. If you are ready to dive deep into the world of radio and want a single device that can do it all, the Raddy RF919 is an exceptional choice that earns our highest recommendation. To see if this feature-packed radio is the right fit for your listening post, you can check the latest price and availability online.
Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API