The Raddy RF886 is a radio that has been flying under the radar for most of 2024. I saw this radio on Amazon a few weeks ago, it was released early this year. It does not seem to be very well-known, even though it seems to be quite the performer.
This year seems to be my year of pocket radios. The XHDATA D-220 and the Clooblut RD218 are both surprisingly good performers. So when I saw the Raddy RF886 I wanted to test it. It turns out that the $25 I paid for the Raddy (on Amazon) was money well-spent.
This radio has five bands (FM, Medium Wave or AM as it is called in the USA, shortwave, WB, and VHF), Bluetooth, a signal-strength indicator, a torch, and a unique power switch that mutes the radio on first press and switches the radio off when you press and hold. In power-off mode the screen remains dark to save power, but if you press the power button once only, it shows the time. A very clever touch that will certainly help save battery power.
The VHF band uses NFM modulation (that is narrow band FM), which means that you will not be able to hear air band signals from airports (they use AM modulation). Walkie talkies and some military signals use NFM.
At only $25, the Raddy RF886 is very good value. I think it is perfect for emergencies, travel, or just listening to your favourite music or news. You get a lot for your money. And it does actually pick up shortwave signals, quite well.
Here are some of the key features of the Raddy RF886:
Five bands: FM, MW, SW, WB, and VHF
Bluetooth
Signal-strength indicator
Free clip-on wire antenna
Torch
Mute switch
Dark screen to save power
Time display
All this at only $25
If you're looking for a powerful, versatile, and affordable radio for some travel DXing, or for your emergency bag, the Raddy RF886 could be a good choice.
#radio #pocketradio #emergencyradio #travelradio #radioreview #radiolover #gadgets #shortwave
00:00 A pocket radio that does a lot!
00:55 A look at the box
01:36 Frequency coverage (FM, MW. SW, WB and VHF)
02:30 Size and a closer look at the radio
03:31 Free clip-on wire antenna
04:08 Easy to operate
05:35 Multi-function power button
07:55 Six equaliser settings
09:51 MW band scan
12:58 FM band scan
14:58 SW band scan
21:26 WWVH from Hawaii 10000 kHz
26:26 RFI and REE compared on Raddy and Qodosen DX-286
27:16 My verdict