SparkSDR: The All-in-One SDR App for Serious Radio Enthusiasts

sparkSDR

Whether you’re deep into digital modes, exploring HF bands, or just getting started with software-defined radios (SDR), SparkSDR is a game-changer you should know about.

Developed by M0NNB, SparkSDR is a cross-platform SDR application designed to work seamlessly with Hermes Lite, Red Pitaya, Apache Labs radios, and even SDRplay.

๐ŸŒ Works Across Platforms

One of SparkSDRโ€™s standout features is its flexibility. It runs smoothly on:

  • ๐ŸชŸ Windows 7 and up
  • ๐Ÿง Linux (x64 and ARM, including Raspberry Pi!)
  • ๐ŸŽ macOS

So no matter what system youโ€™re using, SparkSDR has you covered.

๐ŸŽง Why SparkSDR Rocks

Hereโ€™s why operators around the world are switching to SparkSDR:

๐Ÿง  Smart, Built-in Digital Modes

No more messing around with virtual audio cables or COM port routing! SparkSDR comes fully loaded with built-in support for popular digi modes like:

  • FT8 / FT4 / FST4 / FST4W
  • JT65 / JT9
  • WSPR
  • PSK31

You can monitor and decode multiple modes simultaneously using virtual receivers that share the available slices of your SDR.

๐ŸŽ™๏ธ Exceptional Audio and DSP

SparkSDR features low-latency audio and a cutting-edge DSP chain. Plus, it supports SSB compression using a controlled envelope clipping algorithm for crisp, punchy audio on transmit.

๐Ÿงฝ AI-Powered Noise Reduction

Tired of fighting with background static? SparkSDR includes neural network-based noise reduction, making weak signals easier to pull from the noise floor.

๐Ÿ“ฑ Touch-Friendly UI

Running SparkSDR on a tablet or touchscreen PC? No problem. The UI is designed to be intuitive and touch-friendly, perfect for portable setups or ham shack touchscreens.

๐ŸŽ›๏ธ MIDI + CW Keying

Integrate your MIDI controller to run the rig like a pro studio mixer, or hook up a low-latency CW keyer and start pounding brass with confidence.

โฑ๏ธ Built-in Time Sync

It even supports frequency correction using NTP, so your rig stays right on frequency โ€” ideal for weak-signal digital modes like WSPR or FT8.

โš ๏ธ Note on Transmit Support

Currently, transmit capability is available only with Hermes Lite devices. However, receive functions work across other OpenHPSDR-compatible radios. Some advanced features (like filter switching) may vary depending on the radio.


๐Ÿ’ฌ Join the Community

SparkSDR has an active user community. Need help? Want to share tips? Join the SparkSDR Google Group and get involved!


If you’re looking for a modern, powerful, and intelligent SDR app that simplifies your shack and boosts your digital game, SparkSDR is absolutely worth checking out.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Visit the official site to download SparkSDR and dive in!

2 comments

comments user
Lyman H. Wolfla II, K9LZJ & W9VW

I am having problems loading SparkSDR on my Hermes Lite 2. Can you provide me with a set of instructions to do this? I have very little knowledge of Linux and the Raspberry Pi, so if the instructions are step-by-step, this would be very helpful
I have been licensed since 1958, so my knowledge of linux. Thanks for your help.

comments user
Lyman H. Wolfla II, K9LZJ & W9VW

I am having problems loading SparkSDR on my Hermes Lite 2. Can you provide me with a set of instructions to do this? I have very little knowledge of Linux and the Raspberry Pi, so if the instructions are step-by-step, this would be very helpful
I have been licensed since 1958, so my knowledge of linux. Thanks for your help.

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