I have my CMP at 25 which for my K3 is the max before the audio is degraded. My MIC at 28. The microphone is a Shure Dynamic with relatively low output. I get reports of "fantastic audio" and "powerful audio" and almost always break through pileups. The K3 has proven to be a great sideband rig in addition to a superb CW rig. Dennis W0JX/8