RE: [Elecraft] Heil Goldline too weak - Mic recommendation?

[Don Wilhelm]

Ken,

It appears that the Elecraft MD2 mics are no longer available, but yes, most
mics for ICOM SHOULD work fine with the K2 - from what I know, the ICOM mics
use electret elements similar to the 'used-to-be' Elecraft mics.

If you want to retain the Goldline, I would suggest a preamp would be the
best way to go - a few folks have installed a pre-amp behind the K2 front
panel, and I have successfully used an external pre-amp with the Heil HC4
and HC5 elements.

It is a well known fact that the Heil HC4 and HC5 mic elements have an
output level 6 to 10 dB below that of most other ham mics.  Transceivers
with a mic gain control can usually handle the lower output, but those
without the control (notably Elecraft and ICOM) have difficulty with Heil
mics.

73,
Don W3FPR

> -----Original Message-----
>
> My Heil Goldline doesn't have enough output to drive the KSB2 no matter
> what the SSBA and SSBC settings, so I am looking for a different boom-
> mountable desk mike solution.
>
> I looked through the list archives and couldn't decide which way to go.
>
> I would prefer not to change resistors on the KSB2 board itself, but
> I DON'T mind changing P1 jumpers and putting a resistor on the
> mic jack or plug.
>
> Would a Heil ICM mike be a solution if I wired P1 for an Icom HM-7?
>
> Or should I just put in a pre-amp and stick with the Goldline?
>
> I don't use or plan to use "up" and "down" functions if that
> makes a difference.
>
> Thanks very much for any suggestions from the group.
>
> Puzzled,
> 72
> Ken Rice  K3VV
>
>