Your videos are not too low-key. I appreciate your calm demeanor, meaningful content, and lack of theatrics. There’s room for lots of different types of people in our hobby, access to a range of personalities is a sign of a healthy community.
I'm brand new to HF. I have a 'loaner' Kenwood TS 570 D from a friend who is helping me "get my feet wet" before I spend the big bucks on a radio of my own. I've got a Vibroplex end feed long wire (135') up in the backyard here in northern NV. I've managed to get a few good contacts (Australia, Hawaii, etc) but they say my audio is horrible. This is how I found your video. With your tips here I have something to go with. Others have also suggested that turning down compression, keeping the ALC barely moving, etc, might help my bad audio reports. Thank you for an easy-to-understand video. As an aside, I used to have a D-104 mike back in the 70's in my old CB days. Great mic. Wish I still had it.
Excellent, Jim. I am brand new to amateur radio; not even licensed yet. I have a Kenwood transceiver a dear friend left me upon his passing. He was an enthusiastic ham. I have learned a great deal from you and I appreciate your seasoned perspectives and enthusiasm. Much appreciated. I am thoroughly enjoying listening to the Kenwood while I prepare for the Tech and General exams.
Welcome aboard! What a great way to achieve "social distancing"! Go gliding in Alabama to get above it all. Thanks for watching and go all the way to the Extra Class License. 73, Jim W6LG
Thank you Jim !! I operate a Drake TR-4C barefoot and a Kenwood 830S barefoot. I use an old D104 unamplified G stand on the Drake and a amplified D104 on the Knwd. Also have an older Shure 450 and an Old Midland 22-211 that I have never tried. I think I'll try it out on my Drake and see how it does. Thanks again for a great Video !!
So this was good - a clear demonstration of both bad and good practices, settings, and equipment. And loved the rant on excitable voice types - yep; that's been me too many times.
Ok, I waited until the very end and you answered my question about how to set my mike when I cannot here myself. Ya, dugh using the meter reading on db. Thanks one more time. Can hardly wait to fire up after all my changes.
Hi Jim, As a relatively new station I have to admit that I have done exactly that by saying "qsl" when not needed out of nervousness I think, however after hearing your video I will make a mental note not to ! Regards your vidoes I personally find them the most informative honest fun and easy to watch videos of all of the ones I watch and cannot thank you enough for all your information you have provided. Sadly although we do have some good British guys who are helpful but far to many who frown upon newcomers to the hobby who are just beginning which can put some people off so hats off to our Elmer freinds across the pond, Keep em coming Jim 73.👍
Thanks Paul that is very kind. I am working on several. And, trying to understand the FlexRadio that I bought. Slices, gestures, TRS and more that is new to me with respect to an HF transceiver. 73, Jim
Even better, the DX station: “Victor Alpha Papa, 5 9 QSL?” .... “Papa Sierra Tango, 5 9 QSL?” .... “x x x, 5 9 QSL?” ... “xxx, 5 9 QSL?” ... and in between 30 minutes of this non-stop is: “There was a Victor in there, can you call again?” “Ok, Victor, try again please?”.. “I got the Victor part, can you call again?” ....... “ok, got it that time, Victor Alpa Papa, I think, 5 9 QSL?” LOL
Well, on behalf of all of us inexperienced types; I recognize there's a difference between your signal clarity and *my* ability to hear a call sign. Some of you guys forget how hard it was to get the ear such that it could pick out all those letters, in proper order, especially when delivered fast and usually mumbled like an after-thought. So, yes; your signal is 5-9; but it still takes me a couple of tries to correctly hear your call.
Nice info there, I run a Turner+3 at 1/4 scale and get good reports. I will go down to my shack, and see if I can adjust my comp/alc a little better. Wish I could monitor my audio like you do..
Great demo Jim. Nice to say hello to you by radio today. I would like to try that again one of these days for a video showing using a KX3 with a random wire with a 9:1 balun in my back yard. That what I was experimenting with when I talked to you and then it was about 40 feet of wire starting at about 2 feet off the ground moving up to about 20 ft at the far end, so it was very simple just for a test to see if I could make a contact just tossing something up fast with QRP. 73
8:14 "I'm a communicator not a broadcaster" I'm gonna use that LOL - I've heard some folks that love to crank up the lows like their an AM midnight radio show.
Jim, Been a ham a long time, but mainly CW and now digital modes. I guess regarding SSB the analogy of being a communicator and not a broadcaster is correct. Due to the limited audio response of SSB, really any mic will get the job done. Recently though, I've been monitoring the AM guys on 80 meters here in the northeast. Using the AM mode, audio can range from 20 hz to 10,000 hz, some rigs are able to do better than others. Correspondingly, those that use AM want to sound as natural as possible and thus spend considerable effort in achieving that goal. Many run classic rigs from the 1960s. One trick using a handheld mic, yes, can't get away from the PTT click, but an old technique is to turn the mic 90 degrees with the corner of the mic at the corner of your mouth. That way, one speaks across the mic and not into it, reducing breath pops. You in California have to contend with ac and fan noise, here in the northeast my shack is in the basement and I have to contend with the cycling of a forced air furnace and it's associated noise. I enjoy your videos - 73 de KQ2N
Just heard you on the air recommend someone adjust their comp and how much better they sounded. Great video. Wish you didn't have to grab dinner I would have loved some feedback on how I sound on my newly acquired IC-7000. 73, Ryan N8SAN
Thank you Jim. I had no idea I could sound so bad to someone if my mic gain on my mic and the transceiver were both peaked. No one has complained yet to me but.... helpful to know and be aware of. Btw....i like the headphones. I Have the same set. 73 VY2KW
Thank you. Those were from a close friend W6FR, Marv. They work great. Thanks for watching and I hope to hear you on 20 meters when I get back on the air in a few days. 73, Jim W6LG
I only use QSL when in a contact net. Its fast paced, and it seems the quickest to say QSL to both verify that the operator copied my transmission as well as an alternative to 73. It helps me to get out of the way faster and let the NCO move down the list
Hi Jim, I still like watching your older vids. ..I want to see if you can make a vid with your new mike showing what it sounds like adjusted to different levels and past the ALC level. Since we talked last I notice all kinds of operators with the mic gain turned up to much....never noticed it before. ..thanks again my friend, I learn so much from you. 73's Jim KB8YBG
Jim, Thanks for the very informative videos. I especially liked this mic one. I have an old Astatic D-104 I bought new in 1974 or so and I would like to use it now on my Yeasu FT-991A but I've been told the input impedance was all wrong for newer radios. Do you have the original cartridge in your Astatic mic or has it been replaced?
Thanks Brian. Movers are here Saturday. After that, we will need to build a room to use for CZcams. I am hoping to do a "sound resistant" wall or party wall. One end of the room will be the green screen for chroma key. Lighting is important and so is the microphones. Those items are currently in storage. It has been really difficult to do videos with my cellphone. The quality is just not great that way. Thanks Brian & 73, Jim
Good advice, though rigs have differences and it is worth spending a little time getting used to them, I always use compression, not much, and the drive control down very low, the RF power control on my rig merely causes ALC to trigger early. So that stays fully clockwise. All very well having a 200w rig but my amplifier needs very little drive.
Bill Belichick's brother! I love your vids, Jim. What is your opinion of converting a crystal mic (Turner 33X or D104 perhaps) without changing the element (to an electret?) for a modern HF radio? I have seen other vids that cover (poorly) the construction of the preamp/impedance matching circuit but none pointing to where a finished product can be purchased. I have significant arthritis in my hands and I am no longer able to do the delicate stuff. any suggestions?
Thank you for making this video on these subjects!!!! THANK YOU!! You cover two big pet peeves!!................................................QSL?....................................................Sorry, I couldn't resist, HIHI !!
How do you deal with a rig with mic gain and also a desk mic with a grain control? I have rig gain at 15% and a desk mic at where ever I should according to ALC. Good video of a confusion setting.
My dad used to be heavy into ham radio because he was in Communications in the army. I'm thinking about getting into it very soon. Your videos are excellent. Have you ever asked anyone to adjust their settings so you can hear them better?
yes, many times. Sometimes, not completely understood by the other person. If they, he, she, sound bad, I will say so. The usual response is that no one else has ever said there was a problem. Thanks and 73, Jim
After watching another one of your videos I went out and I bought the yeasu 450d. Then one of the purchases I made was a different microphone when I plug it in it squeals when it gets too close to the radio it sounds like it's way too powerful is there some way to turn down mic gain on this radio?
Although I understand your point regarding "QSL", I am not sure your comparison about talking to a guy on the street is apples to apples to talking to someone over the air you cannot see 5,000 miles away. Great video though! Excellent comparisons and guidance.
This handheld microphone has the best sound, so full, easy to understand. It's a bit strange that the astatic SSB has a lower gain than a passive handheld microphone. Well, unless it's the base version without the preamplifier. SSB likes dynamic mics with a slight extra gain correction for 2-3Khz but it's not necessary. AM for CB likes (piezoelectric) or other microphones with strong pre-emphasis. Because the AM CB receiver has significant de-emphasis. Good health :)
I have the exact same astatic 10da with a g stand. It has no preamp and the frequency response is 300-3000hz an output level of -52db it definitely has a higher gain than some dynamic mics and chrystal microphones but it is designed specifically for ssb. Hence "super sidebander" name.
It's great that you have a passive microphone, that was beautiful. Classic microphones are the most fun to own and operate. These dynamic passive microphones should have an impedance transformer to raise the impedance to a few or tens of kiloohms, which was needed to drive tube modulators. Good health.
This is a great video. I am trying to improve my transmission audio on my kenwood 890, I am using the heil pro 7 headset. Any suggestion would be appreciated. Also, I see you can actually record and even hear your audio during the transmission. How are you monitoring your own transmission? This would be very useful to me. Thank you, Bill, KN4RYD
I use the monitor function in the K3. I can also use another transceiver or an SDR. But typically, I am using the K3's monitor function as a guide. It is not perfect but adequate. Thanks Bill & 73, Jim
I’ve just started monitoring how I sound on air and your dead on. Best advice is to get headphones, good comfortable headphones, get comfortable, turn the Tv off, if you don’t have foam on your mic talk across it not into it or you will get breathing and puffs. Check your manual for proper ALC level, compression, and mic EQ, loose the base, Get the mic into a position where your comfortable, speak don’t yell, speak slowly, e-nun-ci-ate, and did I say speak slowly?
I am wondering about rigs without compression. I am mostly running qrp with a xeigu x6100, a yaesu ft-817nd and an RCI2950 I have an outboard mfj speech processor and I have been unable to make it sound good. (Using your technique by listening with another radio). I also just got the sotabeams outboard compressor for the 817 (I'm struggling to get it sounding good). I don't yell into the mic but have a very commanding voice. It seems like with the compressors they cut out while I am talking and I lose syllables (critical information while giving a callsign) even while "eating" the microphone. On my RCI2950 I have the same microphone you have the 10da and g-stand combo but it isn't enough to drive the radio so I put the 10da on my amplified stand and it sounds much better. Is a compressor really needed to sound good or are there ways without it?
I am in a hospital bed and willl soon receive my 8th transfusion. I have not used those devices. I would set the mic ain for about half the ALC scale on the trnasceiveer. would then envoke the prcoessor. That kind of processor can be a lot of trouble. I would speak into the mic until I had about 5dD of ccompression and ALC still at about three quarter scale. You may never get that combination to work corrrectly because of the audio compprssor is full, yes full of IMD's because of clippplng in the audio pass band. 73, Jiim
@@ham-radio thank you for your suggestion. I really appreciate it. I've been a watcher of your videos for a while. I'm new to HF and a technician at this point going to take my general test this month. I will be praying for your speedy recovery and thank you for the great content you provide. KD9QLK
I tried this method on my 7600, if I dont put the alc up high with mic gain the mic is very quiet, I confirmed using the voice record feature and I can barely hear myself. If I turn the mic gain up. It brings the voice level up to 100% on the recording meter scale for voice, my alc is now s9
Question: how far were your lips from the microphone? Icom is known for its low audio gain at the mic. The ALC should not be high at at the top of the scale. When it is, the transceiver is probably causing some splatter and distortion. Also, a meter for measuring output can be slow to respond and provide an incorrect reading of the output. 73, Jim
@@ham-radio thanks for reply, I am using the 7600 in conjunction with a w2ihy eqplus and pr781, I just use the comp on the eqplus at 10 o clock, I noticed if I put the eq on 7600 to +5 bass and +0 treble it has much more output power. What would you recommend for the eq setting on the 7600 with the pr781. I do not use the w2ihy eq section it is disabled. Thanks
I hear the crappie distorted audio all the time and not just in contests far from it. Your comments and video should be part of the radio examination syllabus worldwide. Its getting more and more common to hear it. I think you were too restrained and should have let it RIP. Thank you for such an informative video that was entreating for me too.
It was very informative... what about the headsets??? All those rules applies for it?? I’m wanna use a cheap gaming headset on my mcHF but I know that I have to build a separate PTT with the wiring arrangement for that rig because the designer has the mic/ptt wired on a different way with gnd on the ring of the standard 3.5mm plug...
Okay. Have you considered RF? That is to say, have you decided what to do in an RF rich environment and using an audio cable that could produce RF feedback? Thanks & 73, Jim
Hi I'm studing for my license ..and where i live I'm not able to have a base set up..what would uou recommend for a mobile set up...i have a chance to pick up a RCI 69FFB4 and a stryker 10k anntenna..what would think..thanks for your response
I would not buy it...no question about that. Stick with name brand "amateur radio" equipment that can only be used on ham radio frequencies. Brands like Icom, Kenwood, Yaesu, Elecraft are designed to be very effective on ham radio frequencies. For example, the antenna that you mention claims it can handle 10KW. The coax is good for about 1 kilowatt max. The coax connector is good for a few kilowatts. The whip would heat up and probably fail. The corona ball could not handle the voltage and is way too small for 10KW. The coil in the housing probably could not handle the current generate by 10KW. It is that kind of claim(s) that cause me to recommend not buying equipment like that. Again, stick with name brand equipment. Buy from stores that sell to amateurs like DX Engineering. Power equals current squared time resistance. So, 10KW equals current squared times 50 ohms. A little algebra and the current is about 14 amps. I think the coax has a center conductor of #20 wire. That size wire cannot handle 14 amps. Good luck and have lots of fun on the ham radio frequencies. Regards, Jim
Hi Jim, I am a looking into purchasing a Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic mic and a MFJ 1263 mic Control center To add to my icom 7300. Do you think that Mic would be acceptable for voice communication? 73. Dan
Hi and thanks. I do have that microphone. I got it from Northcomm Technologies in Texas along with their boom arm. Nice folks! Here's the URL:northcommtechnologies.com/ You will likely need an external mic preamp. I don't know about the MFJ device. If it has a mic preamp, then that should work. Icom's seem to be made to have a high output electret mic and not a low output dynamic. Question: Why do you think that you need a very expensive microphone? With the arm, CloudLifter and Mic, you are just below $1000. You can buy the Newer 700 mic like this:Neewer NW-700 Professional Condenser Microphone & NW-35 Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand with XLR Cable and Mounting Clamp & NW-3 Pop Filter & 48V Phantom Power Supply with Adapter Kit for $50 on Amazon. I have tested both mics extensively. There is little difference. The mechanical arm in that package is not great. We are communicators and not broadcasters. Your goal is to be clearly understood around the world with good clean audio, clean signal that has lots of highs. In any case, have lots of fun and thanks for asking an excellent question. 73, Jim
@@ham-radio I am a newbie, and still trying to learn and figure everything out. I ended up getting the Heil PR-40 It seems to be more fitting for communication. I am still studying to get my Ham Ticket. Figured if I invested in my Rig now, it will push me harder to pass my test. As far as price point, the icomm 7300 is considered entry level, it was love at first sight after seeing the reviews on utube. I just didn't want to get something that I wasn't going to be truly satisfied with. A rig is like a marriage, Expensive. So imo make sure that it's truly what you desire. (Disclaimer-- im not married so price point belongs to me lol )😁 Thank you for your info. As I have so much to learn. 73's. Dan
Less is more in my opinion, to put it quite simply. Do I have to be an audio technician to make that statement? Do I have to be a ham? Is it possible to be knowledgable about radio and antenna physics without a ham ticket?
Good question! I will admit to be dyslexic. That has been a problem all of my life. Reading has always been hard for me. I struggle with which direction is which. Somehow I made it through the University and I passed many tough State exams. Thanks Mick. You have good eyes! 73, Jim
First I want to say that I find your videos informative and that I agree with your thoughts about setting gain and compression, but the part about the PTT button noise being annoying is a bit over the top.
Thanks for sharing! I am old and find it annoying to hear the click on and the click off over and over. That and phrase QSL? really bothers me when used repeatedly. Probably just old age setting in with me. 73, Jim W6LG
Correct. Except for a small number of Icom transceivers, an amplified microphone is not desirable not needed. Amplified microphones are trouble; RFfeedback, distortion, splatter, over modulation.
Although this was a very good video Jim and I really enjoyed it I kinda took offense to the comments about outboard EQ stuff. I like to experiment with stuff and isn't that a lot of what this hobby is about? Your station sounds great and your right outboard EQ stuff isn't needed, but I feel experimenting should be encouraged instead of talked down about. Just my humble opinion. Keep the videos coming from Wolf Mountain.
99% of Hams using outboard EQ systems can't leave them along.The people they are in contact with end up being their radio check friends.You can tell they are listening to themselves because of the unnatural way they talk when on the air.They stop between words or repeat words because they heard or thought they heard something that did not sound quiet right.It's pathetic that they think their overstocked shelves of EQ crap could possibly make their radio which sounds just fine WITHOUT any EQ at all.EQ on Amateur radio should be ILLEGAL.The 1% that can leave them alone once they are set will never convince the rest of the EQ must have anal bunch that their transceiver sounds like the BBC which sounds like CRAP in itself & it's NOT what an Amateur Radio should ever sound like.I use a HEIL PR-20 with my ICOM 7600 & just like the 756 PRO II & ICOM 746 PRO & 746 before them always get Awesome Audio reports & I have NEVER & will NEVER put any EQ garbage on my station so that I can listen to myself & become radio check central.I feel bad for those who get stuck in the middle of what is suppose to be a QSO when it's nothing more than a bunch of clowns who are not & never will be happy with their transmit audio.As for experimenting go do it OFF THE AIR so the rest of the world is NOT your TEST Lab.If that offends you I bet by the end of the week you are so over it & you will be off & offended by someone & something else.Give the rest of the Amateur Radio world a break & stop acting like so many of those clowns on the 11 meter band.Put the EQ stuff back in the studio where it belongs & where I use it & just properly adjust the transceiver that you have with a descent microphone & save a bunch of Cash & a bunch of friends some headaches listening to you radio check all day & night.
You have to be a real purist, to be annoyed by a microphone making a clicking sound. It's communication as you said. Only communication. I agree on other things though, I notice that especially on 11m, the American stations sound horrible sometimes, totally non-understanble. I like to watch your videos, anyhow.
A lot of bass makes it harder for others to understand what you are saying. What sounds good in your headphones with a lot of bass, is not good communications. A crisp audio is better than one with a lot of muddled bass. Does that make sense? 73, Jim
Your videos are not too low-key. I appreciate your calm demeanor, meaningful content, and lack of theatrics. There’s room for lots of different types of people in our hobby, access to a range of personalities is a sign of a healthy community.
SOOO WELL SAID!!! Thank you!
yeah but anything can be improved....
Or at least Tim The Toolman Taylor and I both believe.ARRRH ARRRH ARRRH
I am here for well thought out and organized information. Light humor is fine. Your videos are valuable to me as they are.
73, KJ7RDV
I'm brand new to HF. I have a 'loaner' Kenwood TS 570 D from a friend who is helping me "get my feet wet" before I spend the big bucks on a radio of my own. I've got a Vibroplex end feed long wire (135') up in the backyard here in northern NV. I've managed to get a few good contacts (Australia, Hawaii, etc) but they say my audio is horrible. This is how I found your video. With your tips here I have something to go with. Others have also suggested that turning down compression, keeping the ALC barely moving, etc, might help my bad audio reports. Thank you for an easy-to-understand video. As an aside, I used to have a D-104 mike back in the 70's in my old CB days. Great mic. Wish I still had it.
Excellent, Jim. I am brand new to amateur radio; not even licensed yet. I have a Kenwood transceiver a dear friend left me upon his passing. He was an enthusiastic ham. I have learned a great deal from you and I appreciate your seasoned perspectives and enthusiasm. Much appreciated. I am thoroughly enjoying listening to the Kenwood while I prepare for the Tech and General exams.
Welcome aboard! What a great way to achieve "social distancing"! Go gliding in Alabama to get above it all. Thanks for watching and go all the way to the Extra Class License. 73, Jim W6LG
Thank you Jim !! I operate a Drake TR-4C barefoot and a Kenwood 830S barefoot. I use an old D104 unamplified G stand on the Drake and a amplified D104 on the Knwd. Also have an older Shure 450 and an Old Midland 22-211 that I have never tried. I think I'll try it out on my Drake and see how it does. Thanks again for a great Video !!
thanks for your Videos. I like how you explain things.
Every time a question pops in to my Ham Head Jim has the answer. Thank you as always for this wonderful resource Jim, take care de 2E0TWD
So this was good - a clear demonstration of both bad and good practices, settings, and equipment. And loved the rant on excitable voice types - yep; that's been me too many times.
Ok, I waited until the very end and you answered my question about how to set my mike when I cannot here myself. Ya, dugh using the meter reading on db. Thanks one more time. Can hardly wait to fire up after all my changes.
Hi Jim, As a relatively new station I have to admit that I have done exactly that by saying "qsl" when not needed out of nervousness I think, however after hearing your video I will make a mental note not to ! Regards your vidoes I personally find them the most informative honest fun and easy to watch videos of all of the ones I watch and cannot thank you enough for all your information you have provided. Sadly although we do have some good British guys who are helpful but far to many who frown upon newcomers to the hobby who are just beginning which can put some people off so hats off to our Elmer freinds across the pond, Keep em coming Jim 73.👍
Thanks Paul that is very kind. I am working on several. And, trying to understand the FlexRadio that I bought. Slices, gestures, TRS and more that is new to me with respect to an HF transceiver. 73, Jim
I like the dx station that gives you a 5 9 signal report, then asks you to repeat your call 3 times
Ya, ain't that the truth! I hear something like that almost everyday. 73, Jim
Even better, the DX station: “Victor Alpha Papa, 5 9 QSL?” .... “Papa Sierra Tango, 5 9 QSL?” .... “x x x, 5 9 QSL?” ... “xxx, 5 9 QSL?” ... and in between 30 minutes of this non-stop is: “There was a Victor in there, can you call again?” “Ok, Victor, try again please?”.. “I got the Victor part, can you call again?” ....... “ok, got it that time, Victor Alpa Papa, I think, 5 9 QSL?” LOL
Well, on behalf of all of us inexperienced types; I recognize there's a difference between your signal clarity and *my* ability to hear a call sign. Some of you guys forget how hard it was to get the ear such that it could pick out all those letters, in proper order, especially when delivered fast and usually mumbled like an after-thought. So, yes; your signal is 5-9; but it still takes me a couple of tries to correctly hear your call.
Hello Jim, thanks for the videos. I’ve learned a lot.
Great video !!! I am going to use your tips to improve my audio on SSB.
Thanks Jim, this is going help me setup my Heil PR40.
i enjoyed this video and learned a lot about mic compresson and gain.
I will do that next. It has been on my list of things to do for a very long time. Thanks Nelson! 73, Jim
Nice info there, I run a Turner+3 at 1/4 scale and get good reports. I will go down to my shack, and see if I can adjust my comp/alc a little better. Wish I could monitor my audio like you do..
Great demo Jim. Nice to say hello to you by radio today. I would like to try that again one of these days for a video showing using a KX3 with a random wire with a 9:1 balun in my back yard. That what I was experimenting with when I talked to you and then it was about 40 feet of wire starting at about 2 feet off the ground moving up to about 20 ft at the far end, so it was very simple just for a test to see if I could make a contact just tossing something up fast with QRP. 73
4:32 Thanks for demonstrating the gizmos! :D
Thanks for the great video Jim. Keep up the good work. Mark, Northcomm Technologies.
Thanks again to you Mark. Happy New Year! 73, Jim
8:14 "I'm a communicator not a broadcaster" I'm gonna use that LOL - I've heard some folks that love to crank up the lows like their an AM midnight radio show.
So true Bill. Thanks. 73, Jim
youre amazing! youre the reason why i'm now a HAM
Jim, Been a ham a long time, but mainly CW and now digital modes. I guess regarding SSB the analogy of being a communicator and not a broadcaster is correct. Due to the limited audio response of SSB, really any mic will get the job done. Recently though, I've been monitoring the AM guys on 80 meters here in the northeast. Using the AM mode, audio can range from 20 hz to 10,000 hz, some rigs are able to do better than others. Correspondingly, those that use AM want to sound as natural as possible and thus spend considerable effort in achieving that goal. Many run classic rigs from the 1960s.
One trick using a handheld mic, yes, can't get away from the PTT click, but an old technique is to turn the mic 90 degrees with the corner of the mic at the corner of your mouth. That way, one speaks across the mic and not into it, reducing breath pops.
You in California have to contend with ac and fan noise, here in the northeast my shack is in the basement and I have to contend with the cycling of a forced air furnace and it's associated noise.
I enjoy your videos - 73 de KQ2N
Just heard you on the air recommend someone adjust their comp and how much better they sounded. Great video. Wish you didn't have to grab dinner I would have loved some feedback on how I sound on my newly acquired IC-7000.
73, Ryan N8SAN
Thank you Jim. I had no idea I could sound so bad to someone if my mic gain on my mic and the transceiver were both peaked. No one has complained yet to me but.... helpful to know and be aware of. Btw....i like the headphones. I Have the same set.
73
VY2KW
Thank you. Those were from a close friend W6FR, Marv. They work great. Thanks for watching and I hope to hear you on 20 meters when I get back on the air in a few days. 73, Jim W6LG
Great videos.
I only use QSL when in a contact net. Its fast paced, and it seems the quickest to say QSL to both verify that the operator copied my transmission as well as an alternative to 73. It helps me to get out of the way faster and let the NCO move down the list
Amazing I Must Sound Like Crap! ;( Another Lesson Learned! Thanks Jim!
Hi Jim, I still like watching your older vids. ..I want to see if you can make a vid with your new mike showing what it sounds like adjusted to different levels and past the ALC level. Since we talked last I notice all kinds of operators with the mic gain turned up to much....never noticed it before. ..thanks again my friend, I learn so much from you. 73's Jim KB8YBG
Jim, Thanks for the very informative videos. I especially liked this mic one. I have an old Astatic D-104 I bought new in 1974 or so and I would like to use it now on my Yeasu FT-991A but I've been told the input impedance was all wrong for newer radios. Do you have the original cartridge in your Astatic mic or has it been replaced?
Much appreciated video. Please keep ‘em coming!
Brian KB1VBF
Thanks Brian. Movers are here Saturday. After that, we will need to build a room to use for CZcams. I am hoping to do a "sound resistant" wall or party wall. One end of the room will be the green screen for chroma key. Lighting is important and so is the microphones. Those items are currently in storage. It has been really difficult to do videos with my cellphone. The quality is just not great that way. Thanks Brian & 73, Jim
Have same Old mic here! Really nice. Next time I QSL QSL QSL! Regards Jim and tnx video ;) 73's Dave F5SDD
your vids are very good,
Good advice, though rigs have differences and it is worth spending a little time getting used to them, I always use compression, not much, and the drive control down very low, the RF power control on my rig merely causes ALC to trigger early. So that stays fully clockwise. All very well having a 200w rig but my amplifier needs very little drive.
Great video! Does it indicate a problem with the transceiver if the ALC meter doesn't respond unless I'm very close to the microphone?
Bill Belichick's brother! I love your vids, Jim. What is your opinion of converting a crystal mic (Turner 33X or D104 perhaps) without changing the element (to an electret?) for a modern HF radio? I have seen other vids that cover (poorly) the construction of the preamp/impedance matching circuit but none pointing to where a finished product can be purchased. I have significant arthritis in my hands and I am no longer able to do the delicate stuff. any suggestions?
Thank you for making this video on these subjects!!!! THANK YOU!! You cover two big pet peeves!!................................................QSL?....................................................Sorry, I couldn't resist, HIHI !!
How do you deal with a rig with mic gain and also a desk mic with a grain control? I have rig gain at 15% and a desk mic at where ever I should according to ALC. Good video of a confusion setting.
My dad used to be heavy into ham radio because he was in Communications in the army. I'm thinking about getting into it very soon. Your videos are excellent. Have you ever asked anyone to adjust their settings so you can hear them better?
yes, many times. Sometimes, not completely understood by the other person. If they, he, she, sound bad, I will say so. The usual response is that no one else has ever said there was a problem. Thanks and 73, Jim
Fantastic demo of how to adjust settings to communicate. … QSL?. 😉
3 years later and still QSL. i got my general last year. i do a lot of listening and not much talk. i hear the qsl all the time. KC1JVD
After watching another one of your videos I went out and I bought the yeasu 450d. Then one of the purchases I made was a different microphone when I plug it in it squeals when it gets too close to the radio it sounds like it's way too powerful is there some way to turn down mic gain on this radio?
Although I understand your point regarding "QSL", I am not sure your comparison about talking to a guy on the street is apples to apples to talking to someone over the air you cannot see 5,000 miles away.
Great video though! Excellent comparisons and guidance.
Another great video. 73, John AA6JY
Nice vid thanks M7AJB
Ok, so I'm new. How can I hear myself while I talk so that I can make appropriate adjustments? I have a yeasu 101d....thanks
I’m not sure you have it in your settings but look for a monitor feature
This handheld microphone has the best sound, so full, easy to understand.
It's a bit strange that the astatic SSB has a lower gain than a passive handheld microphone. Well, unless it's the base version without the preamplifier.
SSB likes dynamic mics with a slight extra gain correction for 2-3Khz but it's not necessary.
AM for CB likes (piezoelectric) or other microphones with strong pre-emphasis. Because the AM CB receiver has significant de-emphasis.
Good health :)
I have the exact same astatic 10da with a g stand. It has no preamp and the frequency response is 300-3000hz an output level of -52db it definitely has a higher gain than some dynamic mics and chrystal microphones but it is designed specifically for ssb. Hence "super sidebander" name.
It's great that you have a passive microphone, that was beautiful. Classic microphones are the most fun to own and operate.
These dynamic passive microphones should have an impedance transformer to raise the impedance to a few or tens of kiloohms, which was needed to drive tube modulators.
Good health.
This is a great video. I am trying to improve my transmission audio on my kenwood 890, I am using the heil pro 7 headset. Any suggestion would be appreciated. Also, I see you can actually record and even hear your audio during the transmission. How are you monitoring your own transmission? This would be very useful to me. Thank you, Bill, KN4RYD
I use the monitor function in the K3. I can also use another transceiver or an SDR. But typically, I am using the K3's monitor function as a guide. It is not perfect but adequate. Thanks Bill & 73, Jim
I’ve just started monitoring how I sound on air and your dead on. Best advice is to get headphones, good comfortable headphones, get comfortable, turn the Tv off, if you don’t have foam on your mic talk across it not into it or you will get breathing and puffs. Check your manual for proper ALC level, compression, and mic EQ, loose the base, Get the mic into a position where your comfortable, speak don’t yell, speak slowly, e-nun-ci-ate, and did I say speak slowly?
I am wondering about rigs without compression. I am mostly running qrp with a xeigu x6100, a yaesu ft-817nd and an RCI2950 I have an outboard mfj speech processor and I have been unable to make it sound good. (Using your technique by listening with another radio). I also just got the sotabeams outboard compressor for the 817 (I'm struggling to get it sounding good). I don't yell into the mic but have a very commanding voice. It seems like with the compressors they cut out while I am talking and I lose syllables (critical information while giving a callsign) even while "eating" the microphone. On my RCI2950 I have the same microphone you have the 10da and g-stand combo but it isn't enough to drive the radio so I put the 10da on my amplified stand and it sounds much better. Is a compressor really needed to sound good or are there ways without it?
I am in a hospital bed and willl soon receive my 8th transfusion. I have not used those devices. I would set the mic ain for about half the ALC scale on the trnasceiveer. would then envoke the prcoessor. That kind of processor can be a lot of trouble. I would speak into the mic until I had about 5dD of ccompression and ALC still at about three quarter scale. You may never get that combination to work corrrectly because of the audio compprssor is full, yes full of IMD's because of clippplng in the audio pass band. 73, Jiim
@@ham-radio thank you for your suggestion. I really appreciate it. I've been a watcher of your videos for a while. I'm new to HF and a technician at this point going to take my general test this month.
I will be praying for your speedy recovery and thank you for the great content you provide.
KD9QLK
I tried this method on my 7600, if I dont put the alc up high with mic gain the mic is very quiet, I confirmed using the voice record feature and I can barely hear myself. If I turn the mic gain up. It brings the voice level up to 100% on the recording meter scale for voice, my alc is now s9
Question: how far were your lips from the microphone? Icom is known for its low audio gain at the mic. The ALC should not be high at at the top of the scale. When it is, the transceiver is probably causing some splatter and distortion. Also, a meter for measuring output can be slow to respond and provide an incorrect reading of the output. 73, Jim
@@ham-radio thanks for reply, I am using the 7600 in conjunction with a w2ihy eqplus and pr781, I just use the comp on the eqplus at 10 o clock, I noticed if I put the eq on 7600 to +5 bass and +0 treble it has much more output power. What would you recommend for the eq setting on the 7600 with the pr781. I do not use the w2ihy eq section it is disabled. Thanks
Great plain speaking in a practical manner. Not trying to be a movie star. "Sez it like you seez it". -Don KW4UP
Thanks Don! 73, Jim W6LG
I understand your point. QSL
QSL QSL, Contact, Hi Hi, QRZ the frequency
Roger, Roger, Roger QSL! QRZ!
I hear the crappie distorted audio all the time and not just in contests far from it. Your comments and video should be part of the radio examination syllabus worldwide. Its getting more and more common to hear it. I think you were too restrained and should have let it RIP. Thank you for such an informative video that was entreating for me too.
It was very informative... what about the headsets??? All those rules applies for it?? I’m wanna use a cheap gaming headset on my mcHF but I know that I have to build a separate PTT with the wiring arrangement for that rig because the designer has the mic/ptt wired on a different way with gnd on the ring of the standard 3.5mm plug...
Okay. Have you considered RF? That is to say, have you decided what to do in an RF rich environment and using an audio cable that could produce RF feedback?
Thanks & 73, Jim
It sounded like you was transmitting at 1.8k bandwidth, not very pleasant to listen to.
Hi I'm studing for my license ..and where i live I'm not able to have a base set up..what would uou recommend for a mobile set up...i have a chance to pick up a RCI 69FFB4 and a stryker 10k anntenna..what would think..thanks for your response
I would not buy it...no question about that. Stick with name brand "amateur radio" equipment that can only be used on ham radio frequencies. Brands like Icom, Kenwood, Yaesu, Elecraft are designed to be very effective on ham radio frequencies. For example, the antenna that you mention claims it can handle 10KW. The coax is good for about 1 kilowatt max. The coax connector is good for a few kilowatts. The whip would heat up and probably fail. The corona ball could not handle the voltage and is way too small for 10KW. The coil in the housing probably could not handle the current generate by 10KW. It is that kind of claim(s) that cause me to recommend not buying equipment like that. Again, stick with name brand equipment. Buy from stores that sell to amateurs like DX Engineering. Power equals current squared time resistance. So, 10KW equals current squared times 50 ohms. A little algebra and the current is about 14 amps. I think the coax has a center conductor of #20 wire. That size wire cannot handle 14 amps. Good luck and have lots of fun on the ham radio frequencies. Regards, Jim
Hi Jim,
I am a looking into purchasing a
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic mic
and a MFJ 1263 mic Control center
To add to my icom 7300. Do you think that Mic would be acceptable for voice communication? 73. Dan
Hi and thanks. I do have that microphone. I got it from Northcomm Technologies in Texas along with their boom arm. Nice folks! Here's the URL:northcommtechnologies.com/
You will likely need an external mic preamp. I don't know about the MFJ device. If it has a mic preamp, then that should work. Icom's seem to be made to have a high output electret mic and not a low output dynamic. Question: Why do you think that you need a very expensive microphone? With the arm, CloudLifter and Mic, you are just below $1000. You can buy the Newer 700 mic like this:Neewer NW-700 Professional Condenser Microphone & NW-35 Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand with XLR Cable and Mounting Clamp & NW-3 Pop Filter & 48V Phantom Power Supply with Adapter Kit for $50 on Amazon. I have tested both mics extensively. There is little difference. The mechanical arm in that package is not great. We are communicators and not broadcasters. Your goal is to be clearly understood around the world with good clean audio, clean signal that has lots of highs. In any case, have lots of fun and thanks for asking an excellent question. 73, Jim
@@ham-radio I am a newbie, and still trying to learn and figure everything out. I ended up getting the Heil PR-40
It seems to be more fitting for communication. I am still studying to get my Ham Ticket. Figured if I invested in my Rig
now, it will push me harder to pass my test.
As far as price point, the icomm 7300 is considered entry level, it was love at first sight after seeing the reviews on utube. I just didn't want to get something that I wasn't going to be truly satisfied with.
A rig is like a marriage, Expensive.
So imo make sure that it's truly what you desire. (Disclaimer-- im not married so price point belongs to me lol )😁
Thank you for your info. As I have so much to learn. 73's. Dan
Banned from my Lexicon! Beautiful.
Less is more in my opinion, to put it quite simply. Do I have to be an audio technician to make that statement? Do I have to be a ham? Is it possible to be knowledgable about radio and antenna physics without a ham ticket?
I found this video very informative. :)
But tell me why you are wearing the R/H side of the headphone on the LEFT? LOL
Good question! I will admit to be dyslexic. That has been a problem all of my life. Reading has always been hard for me. I struggle with which direction is which. Somehow I made it through the University and I passed many tough State exams. Thanks Mick. You have good eyes! 73, Jim
@@ham-radio It's okay mate. Just somethink I picked up in the video. :) Cheers!
QSL is better than HI HI ..:O)
First I want to say that I find your videos informative and that I agree with your thoughts about setting gain and compression, but the part about the PTT button noise being annoying is a bit over the top.
Thanks for sharing! I am old and find it annoying to hear the click on and the click off over and over. That and phrase QSL? really bothers me when used repeatedly. Probably just old age setting in with me. 73, Jim W6LG
Thx Jim, sage advice as always.
Theo KD7LYS
FT-991 connected to a linear amplifier
What's the question Anthony?
These are all non-amplified microphones is that correct
Correct. Except for a small number of Icom transceivers, an amplified microphone is not desirable not needed. Amplified microphones are trouble; RFfeedback, distortion, splatter, over modulation.
Sounds like cb with everything turned up. 73 W4IPC
Nice video tnx F5PZT
Thanks Denis! I do appreciate you taking the time to write a message. 73, Jim W6Lg
Low Key!! not at all Jim. Love the way you present your topics. should be a sore point at all. Keep up the "Super" videos.
I appreciate that! Thanks Sal. The next one is about how I stupidly got across about 3KV DC at about age 17. Today, I would not survive. 73, Jim
Iam new at the hobby
Although this was a very good video Jim and I really enjoyed it I kinda took offense to the comments about outboard EQ stuff. I like to experiment with stuff and isn't that a lot of what this hobby is about? Your station sounds great and your right outboard EQ stuff isn't needed, but I feel experimenting should be encouraged instead of talked down about. Just my humble opinion. Keep the videos coming from Wolf Mountain.
99% of Hams using outboard EQ systems can't leave them along.The people they are in contact with end up being their radio check friends.You can tell they are listening to themselves because of the unnatural way they talk when on the air.They stop between words or repeat words because they heard or thought they heard something that did not sound quiet right.It's pathetic that they think their overstocked shelves of EQ crap could possibly make their radio which sounds just fine WITHOUT any EQ at all.EQ on Amateur radio should be ILLEGAL.The 1% that can leave them alone once they are set will never convince the rest of the EQ must have anal bunch that their transceiver sounds like the BBC which sounds like CRAP in itself & it's NOT what an Amateur Radio should ever sound like.I use a HEIL PR-20 with my ICOM 7600 & just like the 756 PRO II & ICOM 746 PRO & 746 before them always get Awesome Audio reports & I have NEVER & will NEVER put any EQ garbage on my station so that I can listen to myself & become radio check central.I feel bad for those who get stuck in the middle of what is suppose to be a QSO when it's nothing more than a bunch of clowns who are not & never will be happy with their transmit audio.As for experimenting go do it OFF THE AIR so the rest of the world is NOT your TEST Lab.If that offends you I bet by the end of the week you are so over it & you will be off & offended by someone & something else.Give the rest of the Amateur Radio world a break & stop acting like so many of those clowns on the 11 meter band.Put the EQ stuff back in the studio where it belongs & where I use it & just properly adjust the transceiver that you have with a descent microphone & save a bunch of Cash & a bunch of friends some headaches listening to you radio check all day & night.
Good information. Alot of over driving
First adjust mic gain to 100% then Proc to 100% then go to service menu and adjust PWR to max and finaly alc to max. Thats it.
Hello Janez, how are you? 73, Jim
You have to be a real purist, to be annoyed by a microphone making a clicking sound. It's communication as you said. Only communication. I agree on other things though, I notice that especially on 11m, the American stations sound horrible sometimes, totally non-understanble. I like to watch your videos, anyhow.
Rather have some bass...rather than sound tinny.
A lot of bass makes it harder for others to understand what you are saying. What sounds good in your headphones with a lot of bass, is not good communications. A crisp audio is better than one with a lot of muddled bass. Does that make sense? 73, Jim
Thanks for posting. This is good info since I'm a new Tech. What is your opinion of a boom mic attached to headset? 73 KM4UQU
Some are very good. Make sure it has some kind of foam windscreen to avoid popping. The ones with electret cartridges are very good.
Older mobile hand mics had lots of clicks, but they are so much better now you can’t heat it. -73- W1KPS