[Elecraft] Re. Microphone elements - was cable problem

[James Hammons]

I think the Heil microphone housing is made for 2 dynamic capsules
selectable by a slide switch on the back where they put the elecraft
label to cover the hole. =20

The characteristics of a microphone can be changed by using ports and
delay tubes.  That is how a cardioid element differs from a
omnidirectional element in simple mics.  If you notice the top capsule
has a vent and screen to the top.  I would guess they make the mic
with a single dynamic capsule and they modify this by putting the
electret in the top opening but it is too large for the hole so they
put in a bit of foam to hold it in place.  The electret is
omnidirectional because it has a sealed back so the vent in the top
does nothing.

In my mic and others who have opened the mic to see why it is so
insensitive. the electret is poorly positioned.  It is difficult to
position the capsule over the small hole and then put in the foam to
hold it but it can be done.  I held it in place with a small
screwdriver and then positioned the foam around it.  I cut a slit for
the wires to exit the foam.

These electret condenser  capsules have very flat wide frequency
response.  Far wider than needed for the purpose.  The only thing that
sets them apart from a true studio condenser omni mic is the very
small diaphragm does not result in as good a signal to noise ratio.
But for use as a ham radio mic it is more than enough.  The output is
also more than a dynamic, and also the capsules are cheap.

My only criticism of the mic is the poor quality control in the
placement of the capsule.  I hope most of them are not like mine was.

James Hammons