USB Microphone for your Station

Jay -- N0FB

Earlier in the week, I purchased a Blue Yeti USB microphone for operations when I don't want to use a headset.  The Yeti provides 4 different pickup patterns by using its triple capsule array:  Omnidirectional, Stereo, Cardioid, and Bi-Directional (Front/Back).  I have found that using cardioid pattern on the mic and the "Default PR781" macro on SmartSDR provides very good results.

I'm very satisfied with the Yeti's capability when used with the 6300.

lyndy brannen

Nice setup.
I use a Blue Thunder Snowball USB mic.
It looks goofy but does a fine job.

N7BCP

I use a Scarlet 2i2 USB interface and a Heil PR781 when remote or the PR781 plugs directly in the 6500 balanced line

Larry _ NY8T

I have two blue yeti's for remote and they work excellent for me.

Craig Williams

Have one connected to a USB port but can't figure out how to configure it.

VE7ATJ_Don

HI Craig… do you mean that you've connected the mic to the USB port on the Flex? If so, I'm afraid that won't work. The USB port on the Flex is not configured as a 'Universal' port (like it would on a laptop or PC). It is programmed to only provide specific (I think it's CAT-related) information and work with a limited number of specific devices — like amps, tuners, etc.

As noted above, you'll need to take the USB plug on the mic and adapt it to one of the mic inputs on the Flex or the Maestro OR plug the mic into your PC/laptop then make sure that PC Audio is turned on.

David Decoons, wo2x

I use the Blue Yeti X model with a MAC Mini M1 and get great uadio reports.

My primary op position is a Heil PR40 black edition into a W2IHY 8 band EQ and EQ Plus into a Maestro C (via the Y cable).

Dave wo2x

Gord-VA7GP

"works" … I was always of the opinion that just about any USB mic would "work", when connected to your PC and SmartSDR. Heck, I even found an ancient Microsoft LifeChat headset under the cat's litterbox, and it "worked". No crackles, no breakups, just smooth delivery of audio. $20 audio - which is not fantastic, but the USB-PC-SmartSDR-Flex6400 path did it's job and I got the contacts.

And that's my only USB-mic experience. The bar is very, very low but it worked OK :-)

Dan Trainor

I use Presonus Revelator Dynamic USB Microphone with built-in DSP audio interface processing and associated DAW software. Only $100.

Hammer

I picked up a Raver Kraken gaming headset at Walmart for$39. It seems to work well, and I have received a few terrific audio reports as well, which shocked me! Eventually I want a Heil but don't have the funds right now. 16 grandkids and Christmas have a grand effect on the finances!