[Elecraft] [K2] KSB2 with Icom HM-12?

[Don Wilhelm]

Gil,

I have not used one, but there is not a lot of difference in 
microphones.  There are basically 3 types, the Electret microphones 
(which need a bias resistor), and there are high output dynamic 
microphones (most Kenwood mics are in this class), and thirdly are the 
low output microphones such as those using the Heil HC4 and HC5 cartridges.

The first two classes of microphones work well with the K2, but the low 
output types do have problems on some bands (particularly 12 and 10 meters).

Other than the class of microphones, there is the matter of the 
microphone plug pinout.
My strong recommendation is that you change the wiring of the microphone 
plug to the Elecraft pinout even though the K2 has the mic configuration 
header which can accommodate most any microphone plug pinout.  By 
changing mic plug, you have a microphone that is dedicated to the 
Elecraft mic pinout (no longer Icom).  Icom microphones are usually of 
the Electret type and need a bias resistor.

If you need additional information on microphones and their wiring, go 
to the website of G4WPW.  He has compiled a wealth of information about 
ham microphones.  See http://homepage.ntlworld.com/rg4wpw/date.html

73,
Don W3FPR

On 10/2/2012 8:10 PM, Gil G. wrote:
> Hello,
>
> Has anyone used the K2 on SSB with an Icom HM-12 microphone, and if so, how did it work?
> Would the HM-12 be a good choice? (Since I already have one…)
>
>