Listen Around the World - No Internet Required (HF & Shortwave on RTL SDR)

[@wintermetalhd]

WOW. Even without the commercial antenna, just changing those settings I'm now pulling stations that were completely invisible before! Thank you!

[@TomtheDilettante]

Glad it helped. Amazing what a simple tweak can do isn't it? I love learning this stuff.

[@jakecallinsky5170]

Was a 25q in the army and just got back into this. I love radio and should have never stopped

[@newtron9]

Thanks Tom! Most of my reception using RTL SDR has been in Quadrature sampling such as Aircraft, School Buses, fire, police etc, and did not get any Short Wave until I changed down to Direct sampling (Q branch) So, by dropping down the Cog like you did, and choosing that, Now my Waterfall is Lit Up all over the place with conversations. Time to re-explore! Thank you Thank you!

[@lambdaprog]

Thanks for this awesome video. RTL-SDR is a most welcome "anomaly" in the consumer hardware realm. It has enough performance and cheap enough to get hobbyists started. It is also a first class citizen in many SDR software, most particularly SDR# where all the advanced DSP features are available for all the supported hardware. Thanks for the video and the good work.

[@Tommy_Boy.]

Love the RTL-SDR v3. It's a big part of what pushed me to finally get my amateur radio (ham) license. The RTL-SDR v3 is amazing! It "does" have a "mirrored image effect" (for lack of the proper term) based on the 14.400 MHz (14400 kHz) local oscillator. For example: WWV (time) at 10.0 MHz (actual location) will also show up at 18.8 MHz, or WWV at 5.0 MHz also at 23.8 MHz, etc. There is currently no filtering included for this. I have to say, it's a lot of fun though. Well worth the small price for the usb-dongle and some free software to learn. 👍📻⚡

[@W8RIT1]

Yes, I can listen to WWV on 13.800 MHz as well. Other areas I can listen to 75M, but I have to use USB instead of LSB

[@CalebKennizzite]

Very insightful summary delivered via an easy to grasp video; Thank you! Further proof how military vets ROCK! :-)

[@t3ck3r]

The first video of yours I watched was on the SDR, and have enjoyed them scenes. Looking forward to the next video. Thanks

[@EagerBeagle]

Looks like a Radio Direction Finding (RDF) Loop antenna. Keep crankin' out the great vids.

[@logaandm]

Get a 48" Photographers reflector. It is made from a metal loop. You can cut and bend the loop, drill a couple of holes and insert the MA-30A instead of using the supplied loop. Makes a huge difference and you can still collapse the antenna into the bag. Not as good as a dipole, but way easier to set up.

[@FEPLabsRadio]

Tom, that's a great job. I like that antenna, pretty sweet setup for SDR use.

[@VolcanoTimeLapse]

long time shortwave nut here.

[@barnabas5688]

With this set up I would recommend using the bias tee option that is available with the RTL SDR through software, then you do not have to use the bias tee that comes with the MLA 30 loop. Not only does this remove the need for plugging in a USB power supply to the MLA 30, it may also remove some noise from the signal as the MLA 30's bias tee is quite noisy due to the IC it uses for voltage conversion. It's also very easy to overload the SDR with too much signal which can create ghosting of strong stations and excess noise. If you unscrew the lid of the pre-amp on the loop, there is a gain control which can be adjusted to reduce these issues. On mine it was set at maximum from factory - this was too much. Even with these adjustments made I still got ghosting of strong stations in the wrong places on the dial, which is due to the way that the RTL SDR samples the HF bands, but for the very reasonable price this is still a great way to get started!

[@endoplasmicreticulim]

Hi Barnabas, what antenna would you go for then? I'm just starting and trying to get wether fax for sailing offshore - frequency range 3 - 30Mhz

[@barnabas5688]

@@endoplasmicreticulim I am a beginner and not an expert so I wouldn't want to make any recommendations! But my experience is, if you don't want to spend much, the RTL and MLA30 are a good way to get started, just with the limitations I noted above. I have since bought an Airspiy Discovery HF+ with a youloop antenna and the performance is far superior - but so is the price!

[@TheSmokinApe]

👀 thanks for the shout out bro 👍

[@TomtheDilettante]

mos def. I learn a lot of shit from you and the crew :)

[@DonzLockz]

We all evolved from Apes!😄👍

[@W8RIT1]

I like it very much when I see other YT content creators who don't compete with another related creator, but rather work with and support each other. I will still like and view the videos from BOTH of your channels. ...and he seemed wise enough to hand off a part of his video that he didn't have the knowledge/experience that you did, but he still enabled his viewers to be successful in the purpose of the video. I'd like to urge both of you to continue what you've already been doing. Bravo!

[@FosterFarmsOk]

im just getting into listening to shortwave. So far I have a small portable and amazon is bring me the RTL-SDR today. The hardest thing for me is what to do about an antenna. There is So much information out there and so much of it is confusing. I like your simple approach.

[@ekiskaliburnirvana9047]

just use a long wire as an antenna.

[@Zodliness]

@Tom the Dilettante - Many years ago I owned and used an early Windows 98se compatible VHF USB dongle to watch analogue TV on my desktop PC. Recently though I took an interest in SDR dongles after watching your video and other informative videos like it. For the price they're amazing and they offer a whole new untouched aspect to computing when bored. Shame that broadcasts in the UK are generally fewer and further between anything remotely interesting, but these cheap entry level SDR dongles still provide hours of intriguing eves-dropping entertainment. And no licence required for an RX only device!

[@spycon69]

Very informative and useful. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and insights

[@kkunkel8]

The timing of this video is perfect. I bought the RTL SDR 2 weeks ago, but so far only had a rubber duck antenna to attach to it. Was doing some research for a budget antenna!

[@kensmith5694]

There are a lot of videos out there on doing antennas. You can make a hobby of finding the antenna just right for you.

[@W8RIT1]

@@kensmith5694 ...or building the antenna just right for you.

[@kensmith5694]

@@W8RIT1 Yes, building is good. Have a good whatever it is you do thing time of year.

[@robfriedrich2822]

Some grocery stores, self service department market or stores for electronic units have an online market store, where different companies offer things including electronics. It's a bit like Amazon

[@bartwis2363]

Great video. And now the question. RTL-SDR or maybe Nooelec NESDR SMArt HF Ham It Up? There was mention of NESDR in one of your videos but it wasn't much information. 😉

[@JBrown-jy1hi]

Thank you for the informative video that has spiked my interest in this hobby! 2 questions: Will RTL SDR receive the aircraft HF bands 4000 khz to 16000 khz? What would be a good antenna for these frequencies, and other frequency use? I live in a townhome association that prohibits external antennas etc. Thank you for any information!!

[@W8RIT1]

Yes, I use a RTL-SDR to listen to the ARINC HF LDOC, as well as decoding HFDL. This antenna, and many others may work well for you. It's hard to say without knowing more, like will you build? or buy? How much money do you want to spend? Can you put up a disguised antenna? like a flagpole? Can you access your attic and put wire up there with a coax feed to your radio?

[@temporarilyoffline]

Great stuff Tom!

[@thefinplayer6091]

Keep doing these sdr videos!

[@niotikk]

Valtiotako?

[@fk319fk]

I was wondering about radio astronomy. I am a data nerd and always looking for interesting and unique sources of data. I saw your SDR and was wondering if this could provide an easy solution. I live rather remote, and I do have a location that has a good sky view and is radio-quiet. I am looking at something in the 10cm to 10m range at an altitude of 1500'. I have no idea where to start pairing with someone that could use the data.

[@robfriedrich2822]

There are also TV receivers for the computer, especially for digital terrestrial.

[@antalperge1007]

Love your way! 😍👍

[@moayadhhh2172]

awesome video thanks i enjoyed liked and subbed

[@sharmashivanand]

I was specifically looking for MW and SW. I guess I'm going to have to make an antenna. The stock dipole wouldn't do.

[@JohnL1950]

Informative video. Thanks

[@TomtheDilettante]

you're welcome! Thanks for watching and taking the time to chime in!

[@KAMMEDIALLC]

Diggin the Lexus SUV…

[@VillagerTechUniversity]

4:16 I literally had 4 kids because of how much I laughed at that. And I assume that's the Voice of The Dead frequency, correct me if I'm wrong.

[@johnnycontreras6307]

Great video, I’m new to this device and have recently purchased the Ed Fong antennas. The gmrs and the triband. Would the triband antenna work on this device? And is there a link to the antenna you are using? Thanks man! This device has me intrigued!!!

[@maly87191]

OK, this antenna has sma connectors? One question, how to connect such an antenna to the Grundig Yacht Boy radio? The grundig radio has a 3.5mm mono jack antenna socket, is there an adapter from sma female to 3.5m mono jack? waiting for Your answers for me :)

[@DanFrederiksen]

Try to look for strong tones around 10-30MHz which I suspect is the main resonant tone of ET scout ships aka flying saucers in the 15meter size range. There is good indication from close encounters that the hull is EM energized and that the shape of the craft is (like an antenna or magnetic coil) due to the physics it employs. Since they run at rather high power levels I suspect that these main tones and indeed complex harmonics can be detected from thousands of kilometers away. Some software to watch that band automatically might catch something within days or less because they frequent our skies quite a bit. Pun intended. If I'm right you'll be able to recognize the stable main tone because it doesn't carry any audio or other signal yet it will have complex patterns anyway. The higher frequency harmonics well into the GHz I speculate form a pattern to match the local mass distribution near it. Because they move by negotiating the local gravity potential energy field. But the main tone will be dictated by the hull size and should be steady. But might fluctuate greatly in amplitude. From bare minimum hover to gigawatt burst climb.

[@robertallen3133]

Love your channel ! Is there any other antennas that I could get that can be better and thank you for sharing all that you do ! 1-23-23 19:54 EST

[@newtron9]

I just put up a Discone, mounts on the end of some fence pipe at the peek of my house, it is a really good all around antenna. Tram Model 1411 25-1300MHz Base Station Antenna. On Amazon. Also good on many bands to transmit.

[@HidayatAwan-q2i]

Hi, Sir good video,Sir can I ask question?Sir can I use this rtl sdr for the mobile conversation listening calls?

[@BigScreamingChicken]

How much better is that antenna than just hooking up two really long wires to a Balun? Probably a tough question to Answer. My reception sounds about the same as yours. Although it's really hard to compare with such a small demonstration. I'm new to HAM radio and so far have not been very impressed with the reception. Which is almost surely due to my my unrealistic expectations. But, I'm hoping to hear otherwise because I'd love to hear things more clearly and get into HAM more.

[@MikeRichardson-d2m]

I know very little about radios, I live in Iowa but all of my family is in California, I was wondering if this device would allow me to listen the there radios from such a range. And if they had one as well, theoretically could you talk to one another long range using the sdr to receive and a radio to transmit. I hope I worded this all properly.

[@hariranormal5584]

Can you listen to ATC tower and stuff with this?

[@newtron9]

I am 6 miles from Hopkins in CLE I have a Discone antenna extending from the peak of my roof, so fairly high up. I can pick up two way traffic from tower since I am high up. So it depends on your locale. Otherwise, you can always pick up traffic aloft pretty good.

[@valdenissilvadxing]

Gosto muito do sdr. deixa o desktop um receptor. 73!

[@oldmanjimh3165]

Would feel better and be willing to pay more to have these made in USA rather than China.

[@martonisss]

try it with the frs and gmrs radios

[@JohnKuhles1966]

RTL SDR V4 is out now

[@TomtheDilettante]

Recently ordered one and received it the other week. I still need to unbox it and test it out.

[@Lemmi1de]

How long must this pipe for the loop antenna must be? How long is the diameter of the loop?

[@Delatta1961]

Tom, I followed your instructions for using SDR on my smartphone. Do you know if there’s problems with connecting using Samsung devices?

[@mathamour]

SDR ANGEL = BEST SOFTWARE

[@W8RIT1]

Personally it's my least favorite.

[@lifeoftraderlot5647]

You mentioned listen world 🌍

[@truthreigns7]

I just did a search and found some rtl-sdr v3, is that correct?

[@TomtheDilettante]

The v3 is the correct version. I do suggest using the link from the rtl store to minimize the possibility of getting a knockoff. Shady manufacturers may simply stamp v3 on their product as a copycat.

[@radiotec76]

Yes.

[@SeasparrowDD979]

How do you notch with the rtl-sdr?? And also make sure you're getting a legit MLA 30+antenna..

[@Da_GrandiMan]

Is this SDR hardware n software, linux (RPi) OS compatible? Are the antennae whips incl. With this model on Amz, too ? If not what's the additional cost ? Thx !

[@radiotec76]

Ham radio operator here. First, to use shortwave you will need an up converter or version 3 of the silver colored RTL-SDR dongle. Second, yes the rtl-sdr dongle does work in Linux. If you want to use Linux chose a Debian disto like Ubuntu so you can just run apt-get to install the driver and software. If you run Red Hat RHEL 7/8/9 or CentOS 7/8/9 there is no rpm package in the repositories for the rtl-sdr package so you will have to git clone the source code from the Osmocom git repository and compile the code. You will need to run a dnf group install of the developer group packages before you run the compile. I left other steps out because you should not attempt installing the Osmocom software on CentOS/RHEL unless you are intimately familiar with udev rules, pathing and lsmod commands as you will have to remove the native rtl driver that these Linux distros automatically load so that the sdr driver can load. This software is also BASH command line based and must be piped into and sound program called Sound Exchange or SoX. If you are an experienced Linux user this should only be a minor inconvenience for you.

[@W8RIT1]

For a distro, I'd suggest PiSDR OS, or DragonOS. They're geared with packages for SDR radios.

[@alphabeets]

I wonder why no Mac version yet?

[@alihsas]

What is the name of the software you were using and Where can I download it?

[@danpro77]

Ham certified here. The ham aps are free.

[@photoguy73]

But does it work with a Mac??

[@TomtheDilettante]

I don’t believe so (3:09 mark in video). I’ve recently installed GQRX on my Mac to do SDR stuff. I’ve had some success but am still figuring it out so can’t speak with authority yet on its capabilities.

[@photoguy73]

@@TomtheDilettante Thanks.

[@jgstevens5169]

Could buy a cheapo used windows lap top or notebook. Save your Mac for real work. I have a couple of small Acer notebooks, they both work fine.

[@lucashenry9734]

Okay yeah I got a quick question why is your air conditioner in backwards

[@whatthefunction9140]

can multiple channel be decoded at the same time?

[@TomtheDilettante]

I'm afraid I'm not sure. I've seen videos of folks running two SDR dongles simultaneously to decode trunked systems like P25 but I don't think I've yet seen someone decode more than one signal at a time. Not saying it can't be done, I'm just not sure how. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

[@W8RIT1]

When I use SDR-Console I can listen/decode multiple frequencies, I believe up to 32. BUT they all have to be "visible" on the 2 MHz displayed on the waterfall/FFT display. So, I can listen to multiple public service frequencies/channels on VHF around 154 MHz, but I can't listen to a frequency on 154 MHz and another one on 460 MHz, not without using another SDR and opening another instance of the software program. I believe that SDR Play just (at this time) released a new version of their software that also allows multiple frequency reception.

[@robfriedrich2822]

Can the app translate Morse code into text?

[@W8RIT1]

No, some software like fldigi or multipsk does, but I've never seen one that works well due to static noise and a "fist" (operating sending style). The best decoder is between the ears.

[@dorf71]

been following a lot of your videos... i ended up with the RTL-SDR in an attempt to get shortwave, but i havent been able to receive anything or even local AM radio. already got the LNA and was about to buy the 'Spyverter' some have said i need, but you seem to be receiving just fine without any of it - maybe i just need a better antenna - have you tried the same stations with other smaller or different antennas? sadly, i'm currently connected to my home's OTA TV antenna, which is VHF/UHF, but i'm wondering if that or the splitters are impacting me. went and strung a wire to the antenna like you did in a different video and still had no luck! love to hear any thoughts.

[@imoncalier]

I guess your setup does not filter FM stations and the HF signal is buried into noise. His active antenna filters everything above 30MHz

[@newtron9]

Check out my post below from Feb. 28 2023 hope that helps.

[@Knarf14]

This rtl things rx vhf and uhf ?

[@mandamiddle0278]

i have many signals can't listen to anyting im so noob ahah i dried all cd dsb usb but noone worked why ?

[@javaman_54]

can you receive airband?

[@TomtheDilettante]

Yup

[@javaman_54]

@@TomtheDilettante thanks

[@W8RIT1]

....depends on what you consider the "airband", but I'll answer yes in either case. I'm guessing that you are using airband in the common way meaning VHF between 118 and 136 MHz, yes you can, a different antenna designed for that portion of spectrum may work better. The antenna shown in the video may be well suited for the other "airbands". These airbands are on HF High Frequency instead of VHF. For example, you may want to listen roughly from 8800 to 8950 khz for long distance, often oceanic airline routes between continents. You can also use this SDR to receive ACARS position and messaging on these airbands. HFDL Hi Freq Data Link, with free software can be "heard" on HF. You can also use this SDR for ADS-B on 1090 MHz for accurate real time positioning. I even use one with a patch antenna to get ACARS from aircraft on a geostationary Iridium satellite 10,000 miles away. So yes...lots to do with aero radio traffic.

[@qbertatx]

4:16 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@cw2gtc]

Will any of this gadgetry work with iPad platform, please???

[@TomtheDilettante]

I'm new to the Apple ecosystem myself. I've been told there are some software options to work with these and apple, but I haven't given them a fair shake yet. When I have time to figure it out I'll post here. In the meantime, I suggest searching for SDR on Mac on KZbin to get an answer quicker and from people more experienced than myself :)

[@danielgiraud2192]

73 de ZS5DG!

[@tony2wheelz408]

It's actually a frustrating way to nearly get out of the hobby. Computers and radio? never worked out for me and there's not one person to call and get help so your on a site like this. thanks for the video but non tech people beware -

[@newtron9]

There are some good videos out around to help with configuring. This is a fun hobby for me, I am still learning some of the tricks to sdradio. I am sure I will stumble across many more.

[@W8RIT1]

There sure are people out here...and other locations...that are able to help....like me. I'm not a "know it all", but I can try to help out those who are new. It may be a little challenging to learn of computer/software configuration selections, but it can be done. Sure, there are "trolls under the bridge", but not all of us are like that. What part didn't work out for you? Maybe if you describe the issue I can help.

[@Da_GrandiMan]

​@@newtron9 Pls share those links & future ones too ! I live in a Suburban/Urban setting (pop 160k+) btwn two fire houses and hospitals. The roar of police, fire n medical @ times (6-10 vhcls) is unnerving . There isn't any way in real time, to find out what's going on (on alt airport route too). This might help. Thx in advance !

[@Rcmellophotography]

@@tony2wheelz408 ok we'll let the rest of us enjoy it.

[@robertallen3133]

Which is better RTL-SDR vs. RSPduo ?

[@robertallen3133]

2/16/23 16:20 pm EST

[@robertallen3133]

Which is better and are tosdr dongle or the RSPdx or RSPduo ? Are they the same ? Thank you.

[@W8RIT1]

@@robertallen3133 I don't know exactly what you mean by better. I don't have any experience with the RSP products so can't give a pro/con between them. But I'll take a stab at it...take with a grain of salt. I believe that each will cover the same frequency spectrum between the 2 RSP SDRs and the RTL SDR. I'm guessing that the RTL SDR is cheaper. I believe that the RSP duo has 2 antenna ports. I'd have to review more about if they can be used on the same spectrum area, or if one is for HF and the other for VHF on up. I personally just use an antenna switch. You should be able to use any other software available for SDRs and other digi mode decoding software. Again, just my personal opinion, I'd just recommend the RTL-SDR since it will be the cheaper way of your entry into SDRs. I don't think you'll be disappointed because you can listen to the same things. THEN you can decide if you still want to get another type of SDR, especially when you learn of others. Maybe in time you might be interested in a Pluto (I think that's what they're called)

[@Hanesy]

Hello. How do you deal with the sdr hot temprature?

[@TomtheDilettante]

Mine gets hot, but not so hot that it's cause me troubles so far. I just ensure there's adequate airflow around the device and that has worked for me.

[@Hanesy]

@@TomtheDilettante it's really hot geez 😅 anyways i enjoyed your video. Thanks

[@newtron9]

@@Hanesy I agree, they should put in a movable vent on outside, problem solved

[@craig_g1176]

I did these settings and now I can't pick up FM stations.

[@imoncalier]

That means the MLA-30+Plus antenna works fine. As it filters everything above 30MHz, including 88-108MHz for the FM broadcast

[@newtron9]

If you have rtl sdr v3 like I have Try clicking The Cog, then under Sampling Mode change to Quadrature sampling then check your FM. Most of my reception has been under this sampling. But wow, if I choose Tom's setting, I get a ton of Short Wave. On mine you can't get the drop down choices unless AIRSPY IS STOPPED. Good luck

[@M81_WOODLAND]

Been using the RTL SDR with just the included antenna kit. Even after following the instructions on their website I can't pick up jack s--t other than FM. This thing is a dumb waste of money.

[@Tariq1058]

You either need to turn up your antenna gain, get an external antenna, and/or see if there are any repeaters in your area.

[@philphillips5306]

Had me . . . right up to the point I need a ‘subscription;’ , . . like a preacher . . . gotta put in your tigthe or no jesus . . . 😡

[@TomtheDilettante]

I'm afraid you lost me...there's no subscription required to listed to radio via this device.

[@videogames8261]

what?

[@fpvkabo]

make sure u get v.3 of rtl sdr dongle or u won't get sw bands!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it says v.3 their on the left

[@radiotec76]

You can use an upcoverter. The nooelec is the best converter on the market.

[@gergemall]

Hahahaha

[@barry7391]

Can you listen to the I.S.S.

[@TomtheDilettante]

Yes, but a different antenna other than what's shown in this video would be needed. ISS transmits using VHF at 145.80 MHz if I'm not mistaken. Tuning in to the ISS is on my "to-do" list, but timing it right has been my barrier so far. You have to catch it while it flies overhead and it's not visible for long as I understand it so it can be tricky but rewarding. Thanks for watching!

[@radiotec76]

With an “egg beater” antenna, absolutely!

[@Shaukatalimachhi]

Use mobile phones please SW band

[@ncphotos]

Great video! de W2CSI

[@kensmith5694]

On Linux, "gqrx" works best for me. There is a bit a strangeness where you have to shut it down and start it up again to change from above 26MHz to below 26MHz but once you have that figured out, it is quite nice to use. BTW: For me it is all about the "short wave listening" In the evening you can find some strange and entertaining things to listen to. Many from a long distance away.

[@MartinJDavidson]

20220921-We.1245, 😎 Excellent presentation!

[@jazziex1]

Great video '73 kb3cqm