NooElec NESDR SMArTee XTR RTL-SDR 65–2300MHz Receiver

The NooElec NESDR SMArTee XTR is a premium RTL-SDR receiver with an extended 65–2300MHz tuning range, integrated 4.5V bias-tee, and an ultra-stable 0.5PPM TCXO in a brushed aluminum case.

Designed and manufactured by NooElec in the USA and Canada, the NESDR SMArTee XTR packs a long list of practical upgrades into a compact, rugged package. Its E4000 tuner plus RTL2832U interface provide improved sensitivity below 500MHz and above 1500MHz, the always-on bias-tee supplies power for active antennas and preamps without software tweaks, and the low-phase-noise TCXO gives reliable frequency stability for demanding reception tasks.

What frequency bands and signals can this SDR receive?

The NESDR SMArTee XTR covers roughly 65MHz to 2300MHz with excellent performance under 500MHz and above 1500MHz, though there is a small gap near 1100MHz. It is versatile for many VHF/UHF and HF-adjacent uses when paired with the appropriate antenna or upconverter.

• Approximate native range: 65–2300MHz (small gap near 1100MHz)
• Stronger sensitivity <500MHz and >1500MHz thanks to E4000 tuner
• Extend lower frequencies with an upconverter such as Ham It Up
• Not recommended for ADS-B; consider a dedicated ADS-B model

How does the built-in bias-tee simplify setups?

This model includes a regulated, always-on 4.5V 250mA bias-tee that powers active antennas, low-noise amplifiers, and other RF accessories directly through the antenna input. No hardware or software modification is needed to enable it, and an auto-resetting fuse protects against accidental shorts.

• Integrated 4.5V, 250mA bias-tee ready out of the box
• Auto-resetting fuse for short-circuit protection
• No extra wiring or driver changes required to use power over coax
• Convenient for active antennas and inline amplifiers

What hardware features improve stability and durability?

The unit is housed in a brushed aluminum enclosure with a custom heatsink and shielding designed for stable operation in varied environments. Internally, it uses two RF-grade voltage regulators, a shielded primary inductor, and a high-stability TCXO to reduce drift and phase noise.

• Silver brushed aluminum enclosure for heat dissipation and shielding
• 0.5PPM TCXO with ultra-low phase noise for frequency accuracy
• Two RF-suitable voltage regulators and shielded inductor
• Integrated custom heatsink and silicone pads to protect surfaces

How does this SDR fit into a multi-device or Raspberry Pi setup?

NooElec designed the SMArTee XTR to reduce USB port occlusion, so multiple units can sit side-by-side even on tightly spaced USB hubs and embedded devices like the Raspberry Pi. The female SMA input and compact footprint make it easy to integrate into portable or rack-mounted stations.

• Reduced USB blocking profile for adjacent-port use
• Compatible with common SDR software via RTL2832U interface
• Female SMA antenna input for standard RF cables and adapters
• Ideal for Raspberry Pi and compact SDR clusters

Who is this for: The NESDR SMArTee XTR is aimed at hobbyists, experimenters, and professionals who want a rugged, feature-rich RTL-SDR with enhanced sensitivity and built-in power for accessories. If you need improved stability, an always-on bias-tee, and a wide tuning range for general-purpose monitoring, this model is a strong choice. For specific ADS-B reception needs, choose a model optimized for that purpose.