Using a computer microphone or headset works very well

[AB2EZ]

Hi

A few months ago, I decided... just for fun... to use a computer microphone for a few days. These "electret" microphones are inexpensive and pretty darn good when used in conjunction with a typical microphone input on a preamplifier or a mixer.

Attached below is the circuit I cobbled together to provide the ~5 volts (not critical) of phantam voltage needed by the electret element. The battery should last a very long time provided you open the switch when it is not in use. [Or leave out the switch, and just unplug the microphone from the interface box]

It is somewhat sobering to note that folks who generally compliment me on my audio, didn't notice anything wrong when I used the computer microphone instead of an RE27, etc.

Naturally, if you do A/B comparisons... people will notice the difference... but the computer microphone is pretty darn good.

[K1DEU]

Yes Stu you have audio, but I was sure you had a new extremely bad cold. Regards John

[AB2EZ]

I'm fine John... thanks for asking. I'll put your audio report on my list of things to consider... very far down the list.

Stu

[KF1Z]

Yup, sure....

Lots of folks using electret elements...

My mic cost me $0.39.  the processing, another $15.

Could my audio be better?  YES...

Am I working to improve it?  heck NO.

[K1DEU]

Stu; I gave you a serious audio report, your electret element needs a better housing and some EQ to not sound as though your nose is plugged up.

When you switched to your Electrovoice RE 27 your audio is not nasal and is more than excellent ! John

[N3DRB The Derb]

I use a D-104 SILVER EAGLE, therefore my audio is better than yores....cause it's a POWER mic.