RTL-SDR Blog V3 R860 RTL2832U 1PPM TCXO SMA Software Defined Radio (Dongle Only) (Black)

I bought this to replace a generic RTL2832U SDR dongle that only cost a few pounds; immediately I noticed how much better it performed; even connected to a basic end-fed antenna, the RTL seemed a lot more sensitive and responsive; coupled with good software ( I have been using SDR++, replacing the Cubic SDR I used with the cheaper dongle) I have had excellent results. Another unexpected bonus was finding the way to use the SDR software with the I/Q output on y Xiegu G90 HF rig, turning the combination into a panadaptor, although the advice is that this is going to be unstable at best. Overall, a genuine RTL-SDR ( and their website shows you how to spot and avoid fakes) performers excellently across a huge range of frequencies, and is useable right down to some at the lower end of the amateur radio HF bands, making it an absolute necessity in any amateur radio kit.

I bought this after testing a friends SDR dongle for a few days. These things are very good although could use a bit more info on the actual setup but once this has been done it works flawlessly (Google is your friend here).The RTL-SDR Blog can cover all the way from 500KHz to 1.76GHz. Unlike some other SDR dongles, to listen between 500KHz and 24MHz (HF) you don't need a converter for this - with this dongle just set direct sampling in the options and away you go (don't forget to reset this back when tuning to the higher bands).Antennas can make or break any receiver. I have a simple VHF/UHF antenna that I used on an old scanner many years ago and this works perfectly for aircraft, the higher HAM bands and the FM broadcast bands etc. There's many antennas available for purchase that would be more than suitable. I've also run a long wire (about 10 meters) to the end of my garden for listening to the HF frequencies and have easily managed to hear stations from around the globe on a number of occasions. I've also managed to decode the NOAA weather satellite images directly from the satellites as they pass overhead but there's a learning curve to this which I'm still on!There's a swathe of free SDR software available but I have currently settled on HDSDR (on my Windows PC) and, after a bit of a learning curve, is a very nice piece of software. If you are completely new to these things I'd probably recommend trying SDR# first - it's easier to get up and running and will give you near instant results.I've even taken this thing portable using my Android tablet and an app called SDR++ that has, so far, worked flawlessly. Very handy for getting away from the "noisy" towns and on to higher ground for some real long range reception.All in all, if you are in to radio, this is a really nice piece of technology that should provide many many hours of entertainment.As a note: The item I purchased from this seller certainly does appear to be a true genuine RTL-SDR V3. There are many poor quality "copies" out there that really don't work as well (I know as I've tried a couple) so be careful where you purchase from.

The media could not be loaded. It works fine. Loaded the software and driver from the airspy site. (Sdr studio). A bit tricky but plenty of info on Youtube. Not sure this is the best package as I don't find it that intuitive. so far so good.

The RTL-SDR Blog V3 is a high-performance USB software-defined radio (SDR) dongle built for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It supports a wide range of frequencies and provides excellent versatility for radio signal exploration, decoding, and analysis. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its performance, features, and value.---### Key Features1. **Wide Frequency Coverage**:- Operates from **500 kHz to 1.75 GHz**, covering HF, VHF, and UHF bands. This makes it suitable for applications like shortwave listening, FM/AM radio, ADS-B, weather satellite decoding, and more.2. **1PPM TCXO**:- The inclusion of a **temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO)** ensures frequency stability within ±1 PPM, minimizing drift over time and temperature changes.3. **Bias-T Option**:- The built-in **bias-tee** can power external active antennas and amplifiers, a useful feature for improving signal reception in specific applications.4. **Direct Sampling Mode**:- Supports **direct sampling for HF bands** down to 500 kHz without additional hardware modifications.5. **SMA Connector**:- The high-quality SMA connector allows for robust connections with a wide range of external antennas.6. **Aluminium Enclosure**:- A sturdy, shielded enclosure reduces RF interference and provides durability.---### Performance1. **Signal Reception**:- Performs excellently in receiving and decoding signals from various sources. It’s especially effective for:- **ADS-B signals** from aircraft.- **NOAA weather satellite images**.- **Ham radio and HF monitoring** using direct sampling.- Paired with a good antenna, the reception quality rivals higher-priced SDR solutions.2. **Software Compatibility**:- Works seamlessly with popular SDR software such as SDR# (SDRSharp), HDSDR, and GQRX.- Extends into specialized decoding software like Virtual Radar Server for ADS-B and WXtoIMG for satellite imagery.3. **Frequency Stability**:- The TCXO ensures minimal frequency drift, even during extended sessions or in varying temperature conditions.4. **Noise and Interference**:- The aluminium enclosure helps reduce noise compared to plastic alternatives. However, some RF shielding improvements might still be needed for very high-sensitivity applications in noisy environments.---### Pros- **Affordable**: Offers significant value for its price point, making it an excellent entry-level or intermediate SDR.- **Compact and Portable**: Ideal for field operations or mobile setups.- **Bias-T Functionality**: Eliminates the need for external bias-tee injectors.- **Wide Frequency Range**: Covers a vast spectrum with minimal compromises.---### Cons- **Limited Dynamic Range**: As an RTL-based SDR, it lacks the dynamic range and performance of pricier SDRs like the Airspy or SDRplay.- **No Built-In RF Filter**: External band-pass or notch filters may be required in environments with strong nearby signals.- **Direct Sampling Limitation**: While functional, the HF direct sampling mode can introduce noise and spurs, requiring additional effort to optimize performance.---### Recommended Applications- **Amateur Radio**: Excellent for ham radio monitoring, decoding digital modes (FT8, SSTV, RTTY), and even CW.- **ADS-B Tracking**: Easily tracks aircraft using software like Virtual Radar Server.- **Satellite Reception**: Decodes NOAA weather satellite images with a suitable antenna.- **Spectrum Analysis**: Provides an affordable way to visualize and explore RF signals.---### Bottom LineThe **RTL-SDR Blog V3** is a versatile and reliable SDR for hobbyists and professionals who need a cost-effective yet capable device. While it’s not a substitute for higher-end SDRs in demanding applications, it punches well above its price class with features like TCXO, bias-tee, and HF direct sampling. Whether you’re new to SDR or an experienced user looking for a portable, affordable option, the Blog V3 delivers an impressive performance.

Think I had a problem with my old silver one this one picks up from a greater range so highly recommended…. Support from the website was non existent but no problem from elsewhere

So I purchased this as a complete novice not really knowing what it does. It is easy to use and the recommended software works well with it. In fact after buying this I got the branded version skyspy1 for a lot more money but that doesnt do anything this one doesnt. So yes this is good.

Whilst the product does work it was tricky to install programme and then very difficult to operate unless you are very computer literate.