[Elecraft] [K3] Preferred or Popular Mic For the K3

[Jim Brown]

On 3/3/2011 7:35 AM, Phil Hystad wrote:
> I am thinking of buying a new mic for my K3.  Is there a good quality mic that is recommended or preferred by K3 owners?

One great thing about the K3 is that almost any good dynamic mic, and 
any unbalanced electret mic, will work VERY WELL with the K3. All it 
takes is wiring the right pin from the mic to the right pin at the K3 
input, turning on bias if the mic needs it, choosing the right setting 
for gain (Hi or Lo in the setup menu), and tweaking TXEQ for the mic and 
your voice.

For a desk mic, I would strongly recommend any of the EV RE-series mics, 
including the RE10, RE11, RE15, RE16, RE18, RE20, and RE27.  The lower 
numbered mic types are less expensive, but for our purposes, all are 
equivalent. These are dynamic pro mics. They don't need bias. These mics 
do NOT have a PTT switch, nor do they come with a stand.  You'll need to 
buy a stand from an audio supply house like Sweetwater or Full Compass, 
and you'll need to use VOX or a foot switch. See the Ham Interfacing pdf 
on my website for wiring instructions (simple).  
http://audiosystemsgroup.com/publish.htm

The Shure communications-style desk mics are also excellent, and they 
cost a lot less than Heils. They have an integrated desktop stand with a 
PTT switch.

If you want a headset mic, the Yamaha CM500 is the clear winner.

73, Jim Brown K9YC