Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Jack Brindle via Elecraft]

As contesters who wear headphones as much as 48 hours straight on weekends, we 
find comfort to be one of the most important assets of any headphone.
There are LOTS of headphones that sound great, have outstanding performance 
both in their speakers and microphone. But, they make you feel like your
head is in a vice after just a few hours of wear. If the headphone is 
uncomfortable, then no matter what its other characteristics are, they will be 
thrown in the trash.
The CM-500 happens to be one of the most comfortable headset for long-term wear 
(many of us feel that way). Many others (some mentioned in this discussion)
don’t come close. I also have a pair of the KOSS version of this headset. It is 
back in its box - wearing it is very uncomfortable for me. Like others, I have 
tried many 
different headphones put out by many companies. This past weekend, for NAQP CW, 
the CM-500s were on my head for 10 hours. With the CM-500s out of production,
I’m not sure what I will turn to when these wear out. I do know that none of 
the computer gaming headsets I have tried fit the bill. And I had the privilege 
of trying out
many of the headsets from a major gaming device company I worked for as a 
design engineer. 

Now, before you put down others, find out what their requirements really are.  
It might not be the same thing as yours.

73,
Jack, W6FB


> On Aug 7, 2023, at 9:44 PM, JHR  wrote:
> 
> Ahem.   CM-500 headset.   Meh.   Uninspiring old school.
> 
> I was a long time microphone and headset product test and review writer for 
> the speech recognition trade - including both vendors and manufacturers, such 
> as IBM, Microsoft, Nuance, Scansoft, Lernhout & Hauspie, Dragon Systems, 
> Kurzeweil AI, and many hardware resellers.   I suppose that made me an 
> "influencer" long before that became a popular pastime for teenagers 
> broadcasting from their bedrooms on YouTube.
> 
> I tested A LOT of microphones and headsets of all kinds, including the CM-500 
> which appears to be a rebranded $29 KOSS SB-40  with an very low cost 
> electret capsule instead of the original more costly dynamic cartridge.  I 
> have repaired multiple CM-500s which broke down during service at a 
> multi-multi contest station and at friends' home stations.  The microphone is 
> nothing more than a thirty cent condenser capsule - exactly what 
> umpty-thousand other headsets have.  The stock ear pads are flat and lack 
> luster.  The earphone receivers (speakers) are mediocre at best.  The product 
> has been in production for a long time, so it is fairly long in the tooth. 
> Bottom line - there is nothing special, wonderful, or exciting about the 
> CM-500.  Really.
> 
> You can substitute any number of similar computer grade headsets for the 
> CM-500 and obtain equivalent or (likely) BETTER audio and mechanical 
> performance.  Shoot, the KOSS SB 45/49 cost around $35-$40 (street price) and 
> is as good - which makes me wonder why anyone would pay nearly $60 for the 
> Yamaha model.  And still, you could substitute most any well constructed 
> computer gaming headset and achieve similar results - and perhaps realize 
> better longevity and durability.
> 
> Hams are a funny lot.  Some spend thousands on their transceivers, before 
> spending substantial additional sums on big money audio equipment (which is 
> not needed, but I digress)  while cheaping it on other links in the audio 
> chain.  But then, the CM-500 is proof one merely needs a thirty cent electret 
> capsule to get good results on the air!  And, yet, it is far from the headset 
> I would choose.   In my opinion, Mr. X lost substantial credibility as an 
> audio consultant insisting the CM-500 is something special (practically 
> insisting it is the Holy Grail of ham headsets ...)  but then, most hams 
> always recommend what they have, as if there was no other option worth 
> considering.  Moreover, many hams just ask what other guys are using, and 
> repeat their choices (mistakes?),  without doing their own research, and 
> failing to make an independent judgment as to what looks and sounds good, and 
> hold up over time.  I believe station building is one of the most interesting 
> and engaging aspects of this fine hobby.  In contrast, other hams just ask 
> what other guys think is best and choose a popular model mentioned on the 
> reflector, as if that covers it in full.  They miss out on the myriad of 
> other options available which may be superior in multiple ways.  And yet, 
> they overlook the obvious.  If every ham on the reflector recommends a 
> different speaker, microphone, headset, code key, etc.,  - that means a large 
> number of very different products will get the job done - suggesting there is 
> a very large market, and there is no such thing as "best" mic, speaker, etc.  
> But, rather than do their own research, they ask a few guys and follow the 
> crowd.  Of course, that is NOT my course.  It is horses for courses, if you 
> look long eno

[Elecraft] Yamaha CM-500

[Douglas Hudson]

I have a near new CM-500 headset and an unused Hail Pro-Set, both of which are 
excess to my needs.  $125 takes the lot, or $50 and $75.  Contact me off list 
if interested.

Doug, K7CUU
d_hud...@outlook.com


__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Ed Cole]

Just a couple more comments on the Antion ModMic:

I plug into the rear mic jack on my K3 and the front jack of the KX3 
using an adapter cable.


The tiny boom mic has a foam cover for resisting wind-blast.  Also has 
two settings: normal mic and cardiode pattern.  On-air reports the 
normal setting has nicer sound, though both are good sounding.


I have had not much use of the boom mic so far.

One nice feature of the boom is easily detachable if you do not need a 
boom mic with the headset (uses an earth-magnet).


I also own a Bose QC headset for flying but its not as comfortable as 
the Sony headset.


73, Ed - KL7UW
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] Yamaha CM500

[Bob McGraw]

I have the Koss SB-45.  Works great and sounds good both ways although I 
don't normally use a headset.   I do find, as I recall, it has a dynamic 
mike element and does exhibit a good amount of proximity effect.  Uh, 
maybe that is the SB-40.  One is dynamic and one is electrect. ???


73

Bob, K4TAX


On 8/7/2023 6:10 PM, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

Message: 21
Date: Mon, 7 Aug 2023 16:26:07 -0600
From: David Herring
To: Elecraft Forum
Cc: Henry Pfizenmayer
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha CM500
Message-ID:<50f2d6d7-ec32-413b-98dc-1e7ddbe2c...@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain;   charset=utf-8

I have been told that the Koss SB-45 is the replacement for the Yamaha CM500.  
I have not as yet ordered a pair to try them myself, I am merely relaying what 
I have heard.  Might be worth researching if anyone?s looking for a CM500 
replacement.  I see there is a pair on Amazon for about $30 presently?

73,
Dave - N5DCH

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Jim Brown]

On 8/7/2023 4:09 PM, David Herring wrote:

I can confirm that it works (albeit poorly) with bias on and does not work at 
all when the bias is turned off.


Thanks Dave.

73, Jim K9YC

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha CM500

[Jim Rhodes]

Yes, the Koss SB45 has always been the same thing as the CM500.  I have had
a couple of Koss SB40s which is the same thing with a dynamic mike over the
years.  Have worked and soundes good with every rig I have used them on.
Hears and talks almost exactly like my Heil Proset-Plus.  With the
equalizer in my K3 & K4 you can make most any mike sound good.

On Mon, Aug 7, 2023, 17:26 David Herring  wrote:

> I have been told that the Koss SB-45 is the replacement for the Yamaha
> CM500.  I have not as yet ordered a pair to try them myself, I am merely
> relaying what I have heard.  Might be worth researching if anyone’s looking
> for a CM500 replacement.  I see there is a pair on Amazon for about $30
> presently…
>
> 73,
> Dave - N5DCH
>
>
>
>
> > On Aug 7, 2023, at 2:20 PM, Jack Brindle via Elecraft <
> elecraft@mailman.qth.net> wrote:
> >
> > The CM-500 is indicated as being discontinued by Yamaha. There are some
> available from a vendor at Amazon for $80. I suspect they bought up
> Yamaha’s inventory when they were discontinued.
> >
> > 73,
> > Jack, W6FB
> >
> >
> >> On Aug 7, 2023, at 2:57 PM, Henry Pfizenmayer via Elecraft <
> elecraft@mailman.qth.net > wrote:
> >>
> >> A few weeks ago I saw this  discussion-and could find no CM500
> anywhere- I am oin my third set now after years and years but wanted
> another -so where are they available ???
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> Hank K7HP
> >> __
> >> Elecraft mailing list
> >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> >> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> >>
> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> >> Message delivered to jackbrin...@me.com 
> >
> > __
> > Elecraft mailing list
> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft <
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft>
> > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm  >
> > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
> >
> > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net 
> > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html <
> http://www.qsl.net/donate.html>
> > Message delivered to david.n5...@gmail.com  >
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to jimk...@gmail.com
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[David Herring]

I am one of the ones who is experiencing difficulties with the CM500’s mic 
sensitivity.  Like some others with a recent model CM500, I have the preamp on 
and the mic gain pegged on my K4, the mic right up close to my lips, and I 
cannot get 5 bars without talking much louder than what should be necessary.

I can confirm that it works (albeit poorly) with bias on and does not work at 
all when the bias is turned off.

73,
Dave - N5DCH




> On Aug 7, 2023, at 3:08 PM, Alan Bloom  wrote:
> 
> Thanks Jim.  Unfortunately I'm several thousand miles away from home so I 
> can't do that test right now.  I'm pretty sure it's an electret, but I'll 
> check when I get home.
> 
> Alan N1AL
> 
> 
> On 8/7/2023 11:00 PM, Jim Brown wrote:
>> On 8/7/2023 12:44 PM, Alan Bloom wrote:
>>> I also use it for recording a radio show on a computer sound card. Again, I 
>>> have to set the gain to near maximum to get proper levels.
>> 
>> Alan,
>> 
>> The CM500 has always had an electret mic, which requires bias, although the 
>> data sheet has always called it a dynamic mic. As a test, turn off bias and 
>> see if that changes anything. If it is a dynamic, turning off bias should 
>> make it work better.
>> 
>> My WAG is that what you bought might be a counterfeit. My experience buying 
>> all sorts of things in the last 5 years (kitchen tools, shoes, etc.) has 
>> been seeing lots of what appear to be either counterfeit or cheapened 
>> versions of stuff I'd previously owned and wanted a second one.
>> 
>> 73, Jim K9YC
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> __
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>> 
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>> Message delivered to a...@elecraft.com  
> 
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft 
> 
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm 
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
> 
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net 
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html 
> 
> Message delivered to david.n5...@gmail.com 
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha CM500

[Dave (NK7Z)]

Just bought one off of Amazon...

73, and thanks,
Dave (NK7Z)
https://www.nk7z.net
ARRL Volunteer Examiner
ARRL Technical Specialist, RFI
ARRL Asst. Director, NW Division, Technical Resources

On 8/7/23 12:57, Henry Pfizenmayer via Elecraft wrote:

A few weeks ago I saw this  discussion-and could find no CM500 anywhere- I am 
oin my third set now after years and years but wanted another -so where are 
they available ???




Hank K7HP
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to d...@nk7z.net

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha CM500

[David Herring]

I have been told that the Koss SB-45 is the replacement for the Yamaha CM500.  
I have not as yet ordered a pair to try them myself, I am merely relaying what 
I have heard.  Might be worth researching if anyone’s looking for a CM500 
replacement.  I see there is a pair on Amazon for about $30 presently…

73,
Dave - N5DCH




> On Aug 7, 2023, at 2:20 PM, Jack Brindle via Elecraft 
>  wrote:
> 
> The CM-500 is indicated as being discontinued by Yamaha. There are some 
> available from a vendor at Amazon for $80. I suspect they bought up Yamaha’s 
> inventory when they were discontinued.
> 
> 73,
> Jack, W6FB
> 
> 
>> On Aug 7, 2023, at 2:57 PM, Henry Pfizenmayer via Elecraft 
>> mailto:elecraft@mailman.qth.net>> wrote:
>> 
>> A few weeks ago I saw this  discussion-and could find no CM500 anywhere- I 
>> am oin my third set now after years and years but wanted another -so where 
>> are they available ???
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> 
>> Hank K7HP
>> __
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
>> 
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>> Message delivered to jackbrin...@me.com  
> 
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft 
> 
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm 
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net 
> 
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net 
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html 
> 
> Message delivered to david.n5...@gmail.com 
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Alan Bloom]

Thanks Jim.  Unfortunately I'm several thousand miles away from home so 
I can't do that test right now.  I'm pretty sure it's an electret, but 
I'll check when I get home.


Alan N1AL


On 8/7/2023 11:00 PM, Jim Brown wrote:

On 8/7/2023 12:44 PM, Alan Bloom wrote:
I also use it for recording a radio show on a computer sound card. 
Again, I have to set the gain to near maximum to get proper levels.


Alan,

The CM500 has always had an electret mic, which requires bias, 
although the data sheet has always called it a dynamic mic. As a test, 
turn off bias and see if that changes anything. If it is a dynamic, 
turning off bias should make it work better.


My WAG is that what you bought might be a counterfeit. My experience 
buying all sorts of things in the last 5 years (kitchen tools, shoes, 
etc.) has been seeing lots of what appear to be either counterfeit or 
cheapened versions of stuff I'd previously owned and wanted a second one.


73, Jim K9YC



__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to a...@elecraft.com 


__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Jim Brown]

On 8/7/2023 12:44 PM, Alan Bloom wrote:
I also use it for recording a radio show on a computer sound card. 
Again, I have to set the gain to near maximum to get proper levels.


Alan,

The CM500 has always had an electret mic, which requires bias, although 
the data sheet has always called it a dynamic mic. As a test, turn off 
bias and see if that changes anything. If it is a dynamic, turning off 
bias should make it work better.


My WAG is that what you bought might be a counterfeit. My experience 
buying all sorts of things in the last 5 years (kitchen tools, shoes, 
etc.) has been seeing lots of what appear to be either counterfeit or 
cheapened versions of stuff I'd previously owned and wanted a second one.


73, Jim K9YC



__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] Yamaha CM500

[Jack Brindle via Elecraft]

The CM-500 is indicated as being discontinued by Yamaha. There are some 
available from a vendor at Amazon for $80. I suspect they bought up Yamaha’s 
inventory when they were discontinued.

73,
Jack, W6FB


> On Aug 7, 2023, at 2:57 PM, Henry Pfizenmayer via Elecraft 
>  wrote:
> 
> A few weeks ago I saw this  discussion-and could find no CM500 anywhere- I am 
> oin my third set now after years and years but wanted another -so where are 
> they available ???
> 
> 
> 
> 
> Hank K7HP
> __
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net
> 
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> Message delivered to jackbrin...@me.com 

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Hank via Elecraft]

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] KPA-1500 cable to use with Yaesu transceiver

[Art KZ5D]

I have an unused new elecraft cable for a Yaesu to KPA-1500 to practically
give away. I no longer own a Yaesu rig so the cable is available for a mere
$10 plus shipping.

If anyone is interested in SO2R operation and has some RF interference on
40 from another band while using the second radio, I have a like-new Array
Solutions 40m bandpass filter for sale. Only $50 plus shipping.

Contact me by email or call/text  337-789-3942.

73,
Art KZ5D
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] Yamaha CM500

[Henry Pfizenmayer via Elecraft]

A few weeks ago I saw this  discussion-and could find no CM500 anywhere- I am 
oin my third set now after years and years but wanted another -so where are 
they available ???




Hank K7HP
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Alan Bloom]

I bought a CM-500 not too long ago.  (I think it was late last year.)  I 
don't have any way to compare it to earlier production, but this one 
does seem to have low microphone sensitivity.  On the K4 I have to turn 
on the preamp and set the mic gain to maximum to get 5 on the ALC meter 
at normal speaking levels.


I also use it for recording a radio show on a computer sound card. 
Again, I have to set the gain to near maximum to get proper levels.


By the way, for the radio show I use the equalizer in Audacity to boost 
the bass.  Apparently the CM-500 is meant for communications use so 
doesn't have as good bass response as the mic I used to use.


Alan N1AL


On 8/7/2023 7:46 PM, Larry Martin wrote:

I purchased a CM-500 over 10 years ago when I first got my K3.  K3 is still 
going strong but the headset died a couple of years ago and has since been 
discarded.  I've read several comments that the current CM-500's don't have as 
good of a microphone as the earlier ones.  Does anyone have any experience on 
the latest batch of them?  I always received great audio reports on my old 
setup and need to purchase another headset.  Just wanted some feedback before 
buying another CM500.

Much appreciated



__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA100 Power Surge Advice

[Michael Carter]

Thanks, Geert Jan, for recounting the 'origin story'
of the K2 'twins', the outboard combination of the
KPA100 and KAT100.  I had not previously heard
of the origin and Lyle's (KK7P) role in that process.

I hope Larry can provide more detail about
the actual configuration of his outboard
KPA100.

73,
Mike, K8CN
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

Get a Heil AD1-K or the INRAD equivalent adapter.  That will
provide you an 1/8" jack for the mic and a 1/4" jack for a
foot switch or hand PTT from the front panel regardless of
what headset you end up selecting.

73,

   ... Joe, W4TV

On 8/7/2023 1:30 PM, Eric Fitzgerald wrote:

Wow,

Thank you everybody!  I really appreciate the time you all took to give 
such well-informed responses.


I still digesting everybody's thoughtful insights.  One thing that seems 
apparent is that my front panel requirement may well go by the wayside, 
but that is hardly a deal-breaker. I will be operating this set-up 
exclusively out of doors for POTA, drive up SOTA and grid expeditions. 
Wind will often be a factor - especially on summits.


With the Kenwood MC-60 the PTT was in the base of this desk mic. I like 
the idea of a foot switch, but maybe an inline PTT would be better in 
that is one less item to lug around.  What's everybody using there?


I'll keep you posted on my quest's results.

Thanks again for the cornucopia of information.

73 Eric KG6MZS

PS;

Here is a recent SOTA/Grid expedition with my old set-up:

https://kg6mzs.com/2023/05/22/blue-mountain-grid-dn12/




__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Jim Brown]

On 8/7/2023 10:46 AM, Larry Martin wrote:

I've read several comments that the current CM-500's don't have as good of a 
microphone as the earlier ones.


That's news to me, but the last one I bought was 4-5 years ago.

73, Jim K9YC
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA100 Power Surge Advice

[Geert Jan de Groot]

Hi,

In addition to Mike's response (always happy to read his comments!), I 
think it is useful to give some additional hints as you may need a 
better understanding of the configuration you have.


The Elecraft K2 is a 15W QRP transceiver, with the optional QRP 
antennatuner and the battary option in the top lid.


When Elecraft introduced the 100W KPA option, the basic idea was that 
the top lid could be replaced with the KPA100 to get 100W output. When 
the KAT100 antenna tuner was introduced, it would add another (lower) 
box that was supposed to sit under the K2/100 radio. Switching between 
QRP portable mode (with battary) and 100W version meant switching the 
top lid.


The KPA100 doesn't have any indicators. The KAT100 tuner does: ANT1/ANT2 
selection, LOW/HIGH power (enabling or disabling the KPA100 amplifier, 
which could be switched to be bypassed for QRP power levels) and a LED 
bar to indicate SWR.


I think it was Lyle KK6P (of KDSP2 fame) who conceived a different 
approach: the frontpanel of the KAT100 tuner was available in two 
versions, one for the low KAT100 box, but also a bigger frontpanel that 
would be the same size as a K2 radio. You would buy a "K2 empty box" and 
in this second box, one would install the KAT100 tuner (bottom) and the 
KPA100 amplifier (top).
The QRP antenna tuner / battary would be in the original top, that stays 
on the K2. Connecting the boxes together would give a 100W radio with 
PA, 100W antenna tuner; disconnecting the two would give a the K2 
portable radio with builtin battary. I built this configuration.


Since you mention "separate enclosure" I suspect this is the config you 
built too.


It seems that information about this configuration has gotten a bit lost 
over the years. The KAT100 module design was made to allow for this; for 
instance, it had a BNC connector so that the input of the KPA100 
amplifier could be connected to the K2 this way. Power to the twin boxes 
would be via the 20A powerpole connector on the KPA100 module; the 
KPA100 module has a low-power power connector that would normally supply 
the K2, but in this configuration would power the KAT100 module. The 
KAT100 module, as well as the K2 radio itself, has a 2.1mm barrel jack 
that if you would use interconnect powercables, would power the K2 (from 
the KPA100 and the KAT100 module). And the AUX connector (DE9) on K2 and 
KPA100 on the twin box would be connected via a short jumper cable. 
There are a number of options here, depending on how this was built 
(hence 'information a bit lost').


I need *three* cables between the two twin boxes: a coax jumpercable to 
interconnect the BNC antenna ports, a powercable to power the K2 from 
the twin box, and a DE9 jumpercable to bring AUXbus, 12VCNTL, ALC, 8R 
and ground between the two boxes. Please verify you connected al three 
cables; I have my suspicions about the DE9 cable.


Now,to your question. First, the KPA100 module (again / still) does not 
have a power indicator. The KAT100 module *does* have indicators. And 
they only light if the KAT100 module senses power from the K2 radio 
(that is now it "switches off" if the K2 is switched off).


So, the first question is whether the K2 and the twin box is connected 
correctly. The twin box has 2 AUX DE9 connectors (one on the KPA100, one 
on the KAT100); please verify it is connected to the right one.
(In my case, I did not place the KAT100 DE9 connector because it didn't 
serve a purpose in my my radio config, the twinbox is made to use the 
DE9 of the KPA100 module!).


Another question is whether the KIO2 module, that provides the DE9 
connector on the K2 radio, actually still supplies +12V on pin 8 of the 
DE9 connector. The voltage is only used as "sense voltage" on the 
KAT100, not to power the tuner.


The K2 senses if it has the twin box connected during powerup. You can 
do a few checks: pressing the ANT1/2 button will flip the relays in the 
KAT100 if it was found during powerup, but will flip the relays in the 
KAT2 QRP antenna tuner if not (the relays in the KAT100 are LOUD!). The 
POWER knob will go to 110 if the KPA100 is found, bit only to 15 (or 10) 
if the KPA100 is not found.
If the K2 radio has the builtin battery, then you should be able to see 
the power supply voltage if you select it using the DISPLAY knob and 
then switch the power supply on and off (the K2 doesn't handle this very 
gracefully, kindly powercycle the K2 after this test).


In short, the problem description is a bit terse but I hope this message 
gives some more background about a config that is partially forgotten in 
past years and not very well documented.


And whatever you do, NEVER CONNECT A NORMAL RS232 SERIAL CABLE IN THE 
DE9 of a K2 OR KPA100 MODULE. A "serial device" only connects pin 2, 3 
and 5, NOTHING ELSE.


73, Geert Jan PE1HZG

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: htt

[Elecraft] CM-500 Question

[Larry Martin]

I purchased a CM-500 over 10 years ago when I first got my K3.  K3 is still 
going strong but the headset died a couple of years ago and has since been 
discarded.  I've read several comments that the current CM-500's don't have as 
good of a microphone as the earlier ones.  Does anyone have any experience on 
the latest batch of them?  I always received great audio reports on my old 
setup and need to purchase another headset.  Just wanted some feedback before 
buying another CM500.  

Much appreciated  
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Eric Fitzgerald]

Wow,

Thank you everybody!  I really appreciate the time you all took to give 
such well-informed responses.


I still digesting everybody's thoughtful insights.  One thing that seems 
apparent is that my front panel requirement may well go by the wayside, 
but that is hardly a deal-breaker. I will be operating this set-up 
exclusively out of doors for POTA, drive up SOTA and grid expeditions.  
Wind will often be a factor - especially on summits.


With the Kenwood MC-60 the PTT was in the base of this desk mic. I like 
the idea of a foot switch, but maybe an inline PTT would be better in 
that is one less item to lug around.  What's everybody using there?


I'll keep you posted on my quest's results.

Thanks again for the cornucopia of information.

73 Eric KG6MZS

PS;

Here is a recent SOTA/Grid expedition with my old set-up:

https://kg6mzs.com/2023/05/22/blue-mountain-grid-dn12/

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Eric Fitzgerald]

There it is!  Thank you John.  Didn't think to go through Elecraft 
instead of Mailman.


73 Eric KG6MZS

On 8/6/23 2:11 PM, j...@kk9a.com wrote:

I do not think the mailman has a search field but you can search the
elecraft list archives here:
https://www.mail-archive.com/elecraft@mailman.qth.net/maillist.html

John KK9A


Eric Fitzgerald kg6mzs wrote:

PS; I tried to search the Mailman archives for this and couldn't find
the search field.  Did it change recently?

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KX3 battery charging (was: Pk3 battery charging)

[Geert Jan de Groot]

On 07/08/2023 17:02, elecraft-requ...@mailman.qth.net wrote:

I?m getting an error when trying to set time for charge.
It says ?d = 009, err BC3
And it?s locked!!
Any help would be appreciated.


Please check if your KX3 radio actually has the KXBC3 charger module 
installed and if the module is installed correctly.


The KX3 software spooks if it tries to communicate to the KXBC3 module 
and the module is missing. Instead of an error message, the software 
actually locks up and when it happened to me, I resorted to 
initialisation (thankfully I had a recent backup of the config).


I'd be interested to learn if there a different way to recover this. And 
perhaps the software should more robust: configuring the radio whether 
or not has the option installed, and setting a charge time, is the same 
option setting.


The issue has been reported to Elecraft: 
https://github.com/drewarnett/kx3-firmware-issues/issues


(Mind you, I love my Elecrafts to bits but I wish Elecraft engineering 
would have time to address the issues listed)


Geert Jan

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[K9ZTV]

Amen.  QC-15 here. 

73,
Kent
K9ZTV

> On Aug 7, 2023, at 10:48 AM, john  wrote:
> 
> I've tried a lot of headsets and like the Bose Quiet Comfort, noise 
> cancelling headset the best.  I'm currently using the QC35.  Would be 
> interested to hear what you choose.

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[Ed Cole]

i Normally use my Heil HM10 desk mic and ancient Sony MDR-V600 headphones.

But several years ago investigated finding a headset with boom mic.  The 
Yamaha cm500 howled in feedback when put on over my hearing aids (even 
not plugged into the K3).


I ended up attaching an Antion ModMic to my old faithful Sony headset. 
Got good on-air reports on the audio.  I added a hand PTT button in the 
mic cord.


Main use is for outdoor operation with my KX3 which is my 2m IF on 
10-GHz operations with tripod-mounted dish.


73, Ed - KL7UW
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] A Good Headset For A K3

[john]

I've tried a lot of headsets and like the Bose Quiet Comfort, noise 
cancelling headset the best.  They are fairly light, and the ear pieces 
are slanted in the outer shell, so the don't touch my earlobes. The 
noise cancelling takes care of the KPA1500 fan noise. I did NOT like the 
Bose 700 headset. I'm currently using the QC35 Gaming headset with the 
microphone. The microphone seems adequate for the little SSB I do. Not 
sure if these are currently available - maybe check eBay.


I've tried several other brands of noise cancelling earphones (including 
Sony) and found most have serious  TX noise on 10 and 15m.  BTW, 
Bluetooth has a delay problem, so completely unusable on CW.


My CM500 earphones touched my earlobes, and did NOT provide a good seal 
around the ear. Quality was questionable. Same with the similar ones by 
Koss.


I think the Radio Sport headphones are too heavy and the spring force 
was too great. I never got them to relax. They fit so tightly, my ears 
would sweat


Would be interested to hear what you choose.
  - 73, John, N0TA
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] A Good Headset for a K3

[Gmail]

The Bose QC- 25 gaming head set comes with  a
mic boom. It has cables that plug into a K3/4
Ray
W8LYJ

Sent from my iPad
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] KX2 with KXIBC2, Firmware 3.02.

[Ken]

Hi all,
Installed the subject charging board yesterday.
Page 5 in the manual says "Tap DISP and rotate vfo B until you find the "VBAT" 
display.
All I can find is BT and PS. No VBAT?

KXIO2 = Not INST. 
KXIBC2 = NOR.
BT = 11.9V now
PS = 14.1V now
LED is on.
Thanks, Ken, W2GIW

__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

Re: [Elecraft] KPA100 Power Surge Advice

[Michael Carter]

Hi Larry,

You mention in the title '...Power Surge Advice.'
I presume your KPA100 was working properly
prior to not powering up?

You also describe the connection from your power supply to
the KPA100 and then to the K2 - does this
imply a Y-connection from the power supply
to both the K2 and KPA100 since the units
use different power connectors?

Do you have an external fuse inline from the
the power supply to the KPA100 and separately
the K2?

The KPA100 has no visual indication of
power-up status unless you added some
indicator in its external enclosure - how
do you know it is not powering up?

I would disconnect the power supply from
both units, measure the open-circuit terminal
voltage, then connect only the K2 to the power
supply and your antenna (bypass the KPA100).
Verify that the base K2/10 works as before.

Check your cables from the power supply
to the KPA100 and K2 for low resistance - and
be sure that the Anderson PowerPoles are
fully seated in the KPA100 connector.

I would measure the resistance at the
KPA100 power connector - in the normal
polarity it should read a high resistance,
in the other polarity it should read a
low resistance due to the reverse polarity
protection diode.

Please let us know your findings.

73,
Mike, K8CN
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com 

[Elecraft] KPA100 Power Surge Advice

[Larry Dodson via Elecraft]

Advice would be much appreciated. I would start by saying  that I am not
very electronically skilled. The power suppy goes from the power supply to
a KPA100 in a separate enclosure which I built from a kit, then to the K2
Radio. The KPA100 does not light up, no power.
73 - Larry(G0IKE)
__
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com