[ARC5] Re-working T-17 mics (was: M-15 type microphone)

[Mike Everette via ARC5]

The Navy RS-38 is somewhat better than the T-17 for sensitivity and sound quality; but the PTT button has a strong spring and will kill your grip.  The T-17 is far more comfortable to use.

Best thing to do with a T-17 is to throw away the old element and sub a T-1 (or later T-3) telephone mic cartridge into it.  You will have to "mill out" the case just a little.  On the metal T-17, this can be done using a Dremel tool with a grinding tip.  Center the cartridge over the opening and carefully draw and/or scribe an outline/guide line before beginning work.  GO SLOW.  Be sure to work evenly all the way around the case.  You're looking for a tight press-fit, ideally.

Enlarge the holes in the face, and maybe add a few more -- use a drill press and get a pretty job.  You'll be impressed with the results.

I've not done this milling operation on a plastic T-17, but it should be fairly easy and go a bit faster than with a metal one (I've actually done several metal versions).

73

Mike
WA4DLF