Retevis RA89 Review (Plus bonus antenna & unlock content)

My review of the Retevis RA89 radio. This video also includes bonus aftermarket antenna and expanded transmit unlock content. NOTE: This radio was purchased by me and this review WAS NOT done at the request of Retevis. I have no connection with that company.

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Product links:

Retevis RA89 Ham Radio

Specter Gear Retevis RA89 MOLLE Radio Pouch

Specter Gear Retevis RA89 Belt Mounted Radio Pouch

Diamond SRH77CA Antenna

Diamond SRH701A Antenna

Wouxun USB Programming Cable (PCO-001 / PCO-009)

[racerveza]

One of the unique features of this radio that I really like is the "priority transmit" function, which is item 02 in the menu (TX.SEL). When you have dual monitor enabled, the priority transmit function lets you TX on whichever frequency you last received a signal on. This is handy when you're carrying the radio in a pouch (such as those made by Specter Gear) and operating it via a speaker mic. And speaking of speaker mics - i can confirm that the speaker mic that Retevis offers for the RA89 does have a rubber gasket to prevent water intrusion. It is held in place by two thumbscrews. 73 de W9DNE

[Krispin]

Thank you for this great review. I always enjoy your videos since they are very thorough and informative. The o ring in the antenna connection is an awesome idea.

[johnmossy]

I have 3 of these radios. Pretty decent especially the IP rating plus the mic gain on this radio is really 👍

[SK-rjti]

Thank you for the review! I got two of these. It's interesting that you find this radio's RX audio to be a bit "muffled". Both of my radios sound a bit high-pitched and even slightly "buzzy" to my ears. I find it to be an advantage in noisy environments, eg in a moving car. At home, I just put my thumb on the speaker to make it sound more natural. I got my second RA89 because I think this radio has excellent RX sensitivity, perhaps even on par with the Wouxun UV9 series. I use the same Wouxun antennas as the UV9.