Airspy SpyVerter R2

The SpyVerter R2 is a precision HF upconverter built to bring low-frequency, medium-frequency and high-frequency reception to compatible SDR receivers that normally perform best at VHF and above. It builds on the original SpyVerter architecture with improved local oscillator design, tighter frequency stability and enhanced filtering, making it a strong choice for demanding HF listening and monitoring applications.

Overview

Designed to extend the Airspy R2 and Airspy Mini series down to HF and virtually DC, the SpyVerter R2 translates the entire 1 kHz to 60 MHz spectrum to the VHF range between 120 MHz and 180 MHz. Its switched-mode double balanced mixer architecture is combined with a programmable low phase-noise PLL and a 0.5 ppm VCTCXO for accurate, stable tuning. Airspy also uses an embedded microcontroller to program the PLL and control oscillator calibration, then places the controller into deep sleep mode to reduce the chance of self-generated interference during reception. The result is a compact, affordable and highly capable HF front end for serious SDR users.

Key Features

• HF upconverter covering 1 kHz to 60 MHz
• Extends compatible SDR receivers down to HF and virtually DC
• Translates HF spectrum to a 120-180 MHz IF range
• Switched-mode double balanced mixer architecture
• Programmable low phase-noise PLL
• 0.5 ppm VCTCXO for strong frequency stability
• Improved LO leakage performance versus the original SpyVerter
• Low-pass RF filtering with strong out-of-band rejection
• Band-pass IF filtering for clean translation into the target range
• Bias-tee powered operation for simple station integration
• Internal 10 MHz reference clock input
• Compatible with Airspy R2, Airspy Mini, RTL-SDR and HackRF One

Typical applications

• Shortwave listening
• AM broadcast band monitoring
• Longwave and mediumwave DXing
• HF amateur radio monitoring
• Utility station listening
• Time signal and standard frequency reception
• Spectrum analysis below 60 MHz
• Portable and fixed SDR HF stations

Specifications

Why choose the SpyVerter R2

• Adds serious HF capability to popular SDR receivers without moving to a separate standalone HF radio
• Strong dynamic range, stable frequency control and low phase noise for demanding listening conditions
• Improved filtering and LO performance help deliver cleaner real-world reception
• Simple integration with compatible receivers using bias-tee power and a practical IF translation range

What’s included – In the Box

• SpyVerter R2 HF upconverter
• Pigtail to connect Air R2

Performance notes / setup guidance

• The SpyVerter R2 is designed to shift 1 kHz to 60 MHz signals up to a 120-180 MHz IF range, so your SDR software must be configured with the correct frequency offset.
• For best results, use it with compatible receivers such as the Airspy R2 or Airspy Mini, though RTL-SDR and HackRF One are also listed as compatible by Airspy.
• Bias-tee powered operation can simplify installation and reduce cable clutter in fixed or portable setups.
• Good HF performance still depends on antenna quality, grounding and local noise conditions, so pairing the upconverter with a suitable antenna system will make a noticeable difference.
• The integrated 10 MHz reference clock input is useful for users building more precise or synchronized receiving systems.

If you want to unlock HF, MW and LW coverage on your compatible SDR without sacrificing dynamic range or tuning stability, the SpyVerter R2 is an excellent upgrade for your receiving station. Add it to your setup today and explore the world below 30 MHz with confidence.