Variation in modulation between dummy load and antenna

VE7ATJ_Don

Maybe I'm doing something wrong, or ".. just don't understand...", but I've noticed what appears to be some variation in voice modulation (peaking) between my dummy load and my antenna.

To explain.. I connect my dummy load to my 6500 and set up my mic gain (without processor) to 'stay in the green' with very few peaks into the yellow on the Level meter.  I then save this as my Mic profile.

When I switch over to my main antenna -- changing nothing else -- with the processor off, my voice modulation stays the same as when I set it (mostly green with occasional peaks into the yellow).  With the processor turned ON however -- both in DX and DX+ mode -- voice peaks regularly go into the red.

No complaints from anyone about my voice quality.  In fact, a number have commented on how good the audio is (but people ALWAYS say that about the Flex stations :-))

So, am I doing something wrong?  Should I be re-setting the mic gain when I switch to antenna and/or turn on the Processor to keep from hitting the red?

Mike va3mw

I don't have the complete answer, but I think that some of this is related to CESSB being present in DX and DX+ modes.   What is that?  It is +2db more RF power.  Details are at http://www.arrl.org/files/file/QEX_Next_Issue/2014/Nov-Dec_2014/Hershberger_QEX_11_14.pdf

Mike va3mw

Jay Nation

Maybe create 3 mic profiles, Normal, DX, and DX+ and save them separately so they are each using a mic level that has been properly adjusted to just keep you just out of the red.

Both DX and DX+ processors will increase your TX audio some.

73 Jay / NO5J

VE7ATJ_Don

OK,, thanks Jay.. that's a good idea.  I'll also give them a try on the air and see if anyone can tell the difference.

Ken - NM9P

Exactly. That way you can also adjust your tx bandwidth and tx EQ for better DX or weak signal performance. One profile does not meet all operating needs. Btw. The instructions say to adjust your mic leve with the EQ the way you want it, but with PROC OFF, speaking a little louder than normal (as you will when the rare DX is on and you are trying to bust the pileup.) then turn processor on to norm, DX, or DX+, and leave the mic level alone. Be sure to. Save the profile, the you can make another one for another purpose. I have several: Rag Chew, DX, Contest, extreme punch, ESSB, AM, DigiU 5K, rtty, fm, fm narrow. Etc. Then I have others for remote with my iPad, laptop internal mic, Bluetooth headset, iPhone earbuds, cheap computer headset, etc. It sounds excessive, but it is simple to do, and there are lots of slots available. And I don't need to remember how I had it setup the last time. Try that with most other rigs!

Tim - W4TME

"Tickling" the red on voice leaks with the Mic level meter is OK.  Staying there is not.

k0eoo

Don, is the SWR a perfect 1:1 on the antenna as it is on the dummy load?  A reactive load will cause differences in the measured peak and average power levels.

VE7ATJ_Don

Not 'perfect' but 1.02 or below... I did consider that, but I'm not sure such a low SWR would create THAT much difference.  Good idea, tho...

VE7ATJ_Don

OK... as I say, it's just 'peaking' in the red on my voice peaks (P's, Q's, etc.)  And I did adjust it according to the manual, so maybe I'll just leave it alone.Thanks Tim.

VE7ATJ_Don

Yup, that's what I did -- "... adjust your mic level with the EQ the way you want it, but with PROC OFF, speaking a little louder than normal (as you will when the rare DX is on and you are trying to bust the pileup) then turn processor on to norm, DX, or DX+, and leave the mic level alone."

And that seems to be what's working well for me. I'm always grateful / surprised when I can break through the dx pileups with 100W!!! :-)
 

Jay Nation

Another idea that might help when peaking things. Give the "Newest" Flexmeter a try.

From:
http://www.denzone.com/

Download Link:
http://www.denzone.com/uploads/Flex_Meter_V1.2.zip

It's a little easier to see the actual peaks using the new Chart option, at least it seems easier to me.

 73 Jay / NO5J