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SmartSDR on Windows vs. Mac - which is better?

sp8s
sp8s Member ✭✭
in FLEX-8000 Signature Series

Hi

I'm new to Flex, and seeking some feedback from experienced users.

I have both Windows and Mac and SmartSDR installed on both. I have a slight impression that they provide a little bit different RX audio quality.

I use the same headphones connected directly to 8600 (not via a computer) and it's like some signal processing is a bit different. Or it's just my delusion ;D

Windows over Mac for Flex' best quality? Any thoughts?

73 de Stan SP8S

Answers

  • KD0RC
    KD0RC Member, Super Elmer Moderator

    Hi Stan, the same audio stream comes from the radio. If there is a difference, it is due to audio differences in the two computers. SmartSDR has a very nice RX equalizer so both computers should be able to sound very nearly alike.

  • Mike Steventon
    Mike Steventon Member ✭✭✭

    I have used both, and my reply is that I prefer Mac SSdr to the windows version, despite it costing to purchase the software. Available "on-board" modes covers most of what I like to do. Also, the midi implementation facility within the Mac software is just great if you want to get fancy and control many parameters using a midi controller. Your choice, my friend!!

    73 Mike.

  • Mike-VA3MW
    Mike-VA3MW Administrator, FlexRadio Employee, Community Manager, Super Elmer, Moderator admin

    It depends who you ask. I use both, but still prefer Windows especially for contesting due to the integration into N1MM.

    MAC is nice, but I still struggle with other product integration.

    Mike

  • timhofbauer
    timhofbauer Member ✭✭
    I use both. I do struggle with the Mac version. As and example, I like to use the mouse wheel to fine tune after clicking on the waterfall but I can't seem to get it to work on the MacOS version. I have a couple other issues but it might be something I don't understand.
  • Mike Steventon
    Mike Steventon Member ✭✭✭

    In Mac SSDR go to "Tools" and click on Keyboard short cuts. Select the mapping editor and assign what you prefer on the mapping editor. I have the following, and swear by them for quick fine tune after roughly getting the signal clicked on the waterfall. I find it really precise and quick to tune onto the frequency. I have my step set to 50hz so can zero in very precisely. Much better than relying on the mouse or trackpad for fine tuning!!

    Key-Left.= Freq Down

    Key-Right.= Freq Up

    Key Down.= Band previous

    Key Up.= Band Next

    Have a go and see what you think…..

    73 Mike.

  • johnn1jm
    johnn1jm Member ✭✭✭

    If you are having trouble with the mouse wheel, go into SSDR settings and the mouse/trackpad tab and slide mouse sensitivity to max. Also make sure the Enable Mouse wheel is checked and it doesn't hurt to have the Legacy Mouse support checked, too.

    I like the Mac better for general operating. A lot of features built in like FT8, SSTV etc. I use RUmLogNg for a logging program. Unfotutely there is IMHO not a good Mac app for contesting. When I contest, I slide to the PC and use N1MM+, but the only time I use a PC with the Flex.

    73, John N1JM

    8600, 6400, Maestro-C, 2 FlexControls

  • Bill_K8BTU
    Bill_K8BTU Member ✭✭
    John,

    If you’re operating on macOS, I’d strongly encourage you to take a serious look at Software Defined Connectors (SDC). SDC is a flexible set of utilities developed by Yuri Pavlov (UT4LW) that many FlexRadio enthusiasts use for CW, SSB, and digital contesting with a Mac.

    SDC integrates with SmartSDR and provides CAT control, keying, built-in skimming, audio routing, and a dedicated Contest module that’s very capable for native macOS use. The Contest module isn’t enabled by default. It’s unlocked via a modest $20 donation, which gives you full contest functionality. Most users find that cost very reasonable given the feature set.

    While the macOS contesting ecosystem is still smaller than Windows, SDC remains one of the strongest native options available for Flex operators, and it’s definitely worth trying.

    SDC website: https://www.lw-sdc.com

    73,
    Bill, K8BTU
  • GM4WCE
    GM4WCE Member ✭✭

    I have and use both SSDR for Windows and Mac. The FlexControl integration is better on Windows as it is possible to switch the wheel to different functions with the buttons. I have the buttons set to switch the wheel from slice tuning to AF gain, CW speed and RF power. As far as I know this is not possible on Mac.

  • johnn1jm
    johnn1jm Member ✭✭✭

    GM4WCE- Is that an add on utility for SSDR on the PC or are you talking about th FlexControl knob?

  • GM4WCE
    GM4WCE Member ✭✭

    Hi John - It is the FlexControl knob.

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