BEST AM/FM/USB/LSB DX RADIO IN THE UK (2026 GUIDE)
Choosing the right long distance radio matters far more than most buyers realise. Range, antenna compatibility, modulation quality and real-world reliability vary massively between models. This guide compares the best options available in the UK right now based on performance, ease of setup and long-term reliability.
🏆 Best Overall Choice
CRT SS6900 (Model number: PNI-CRTS6900v)
✔ Best balance of power, clarity and reliability
✔ Suitable for beginners and experienced users
✔ Excellent price & can talk around the world
How to Choose the Right DX Radio
Before looking at specific models, it’s important to understand what actually affects radio performance.
- Output power and modulation quality
- Antenna compatibility
- Ease of installation
- Build quality and long-term reliability
- Legal UK channel support
1. CRT SS6900
Best for: Truckers / beginners / base station / long-range DX
Bang for buck, this radio is hands down the best performing radio and has all of the features of a radio costing three times as much. They cover everything you need them to, they have plenty of power and sound great on air. It's a no-brainer
✔ Pros
- Excellent transmit modulation
- All band coverage on all modes
- Variable power output
- Reliable build quality
- Simple installation
✖ Cons
- A little big if you want to use in your car, it won't fit in a din slot.
- Display can be hard to see in direct sunlight
⚠️ Important: Your Antenna Matters More Than Your Radio
Many buyers upgrade radios expecting more range, but real communication distance is usually determined by antenna quality, mounting position and SWR tuning.
Even the best radio will perform poorly with a badly installed antenna.
Antenna Recommendation
If you want the safest choice overall, the PNI ML100 is by far the best balance of reliability, usability and performance for the money. It's an exact replica of the Sirio ML145 and performs exactly the same for much less money. It also comes with the mag mount included.
However, if your setup is fixed base station, choosing the right antenna will have a bigger impact. Home base set-ups need a bigger antenna. They don't need to be expensive, a half-wave 18ft "silver rod" works as well as any other antenna.
