Lijiani RD239 Review: The Most Unique Budget Shortwave, AM, FM, WB, VHF, Air Band Radio

The Lijiani RD239 is one of the most unique radios I’ve tested so far. Unlike the more well-known Tecsun and XHDATA portables, this radio offers a completely different design and feature set - making it an exciting option for DXers, shortwave enthusiasts, and AM (MW) radio listeners.

🔹 Key Features of the Lijiani RD239:
✔ Multi-Band Coverage – FM, MW (AM), SW, VHF, Air Band & NOAA Weather Band
✔ Bluetooth & Micro SD Card Playback – Stream audio or play music directly
✔ Recording Function – Save radio broadcasts or voice notes
✔ Customizable Memory Banks – 99 presets per band for quick access
✔ Adjustable Bandwidth for FM – For better clarity
✔ Dual Power Options – Uses AA batteries or a rechargeable BL-5C battery
✔ Flashlight & Reading Light – Perfect for emergencies and travel
✔ Upgradable Firmware – A rare feature in portable radios

One of the standout features of the Lijiani RD239 is its AKC6958 DSP chip, the same chip found in the HRD919 (Raddy RF919), which retails for about $220. Yet, the RD239 costs only $55, making it an incredible value for those who want an all-in-one radio without breaking the bank.

📡 Performance Review: How Does It Stack Up?
I put the Lijiani RD239 through a detailed shortwave and MW scan to see how well it receives signals. The FM performance is excellent, and it works well with a long wire antenna. SW and MW reception are solid, though there is some noise at times. However, it does overload on active antennas like the MLA30+.

Pros & Cons

✅ What I Like:
🔹 Covers multiple bands (including VHF & Air Band)
🔹 Bluetooth, SD card playback, and recording
🔹 Quick preset buttons & good memory options
🔹 Great reception on FM & decent performance on MW/SW
🔹 Dual power source & good sound quality for the size

❌ What Could Be Better:
🔹 Overloads with active antennas (e.g., MLA30+)
🔹 Front sticker (though removable)
🔹 SW reception can be a bit noisy
🔹 Volume buttons instead of a wheel

Final Verdict: Is the Lijiani RD239 Worth It?

For $55, the Lijiani RD239 is an impressive, feature-packed radio that fills a unique gap in the market. While it lacks SSB, it’s an excellent choice for radio hobbyists, DXers, and anyone looking for a versatile portable radio.

📺 Watch the full review to see it in action, including live MW and SW band scans!

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You can buy it here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Shortwave-Tran...

#radio #shortwave #review #lijiani #rd239

00:00 A most unusual radio
00:31 Why it is so different
02:07 The AKC6958 DSP chip
02:44 Some comparisons
03:18 Some initial opinions
05:03 The box and band coverage
06:28 Functions on the RD239
10:29 Micro SD card and sound test
12:09 FM bandwidth settings
13:04 FM demonstration
13:29 External antennas
13:47 FM stations
16:31 SW scan
32:19 MW scan
35:51 My verdict