MultiScan SDR: A Multi-Band Pseudo-Spectrum Scanner for RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy and SDRplay

Thanks to Mike for writing in and sharing his freeware program "MultiScan SDR". It's a fast, wideband scanner for Windows and macOS that sweeps several bands side by side and stops only on real transmissions. It supports the RTL-SDR, HackRF, Airspy, SDRplay RSP series, and Fobos SDR.

The main feature is what Mike calls a "pseudo-spectrum", which doesn't display raw power. Instead, MultiScan sets the noise floor of every frequency to 0 dB, so each channel shows how far it rises above its own local noise. A channel opens only when modulation appears, so unmodulated carriers and short wideband noise spikes are ignored. Other features include up to 10 VFOs, each with its own audio waterfall, band plans for 8 countries, SDR# frequency list import, lockouts with automatic receiver spur detection, and local speech-to-text using Whisper. It also includes ADS-B, AIS, 433 MHz sensor, ACARS, and APRS decoders, plus web control so you can listen from a phone or tablet on your home network.

We note that a basic version of the software is free, but does not appear to be open-source, and is restricted to 2 VFOs. Recording, the decoders, speech-to-text, and web control are unlocked with a support payment (€20 suggested, or any amount you choose). A PRO version that adds a signal classifier and support for multiple SDRs at once is listed as coming soon. Windows users will need to install the WinUSB driver via Zadig first. More information, including a user guide in English, German and French, can be found on the MultiScan SDR website.

AI Disclaimer: While not disclosed by the author, in our opinion this software may have been created with the help of AI.