Mic Connector

AA1SS

Who is the Rocket Scientist who came out with this ridiculous CTIA plug interface . . . There is no other ham equipment out there that uses that interface . . . What is up with that??

Now requires MORE adapters or new headsets

David Decoons, wo2x

I used an existing Y cable I had for my laptop (CTIA). One side to Presonus stereo amplified speakers. Other to my audio coming from W2IHY system. Getting excellent audio reports.

I also have the RS55SL headset which plugs directly in. I get very good audio reports.

While the connector requires changes, the Maestro A/D converter is very good.

Mike-VA3MW

Back in the 90's, when I managed a Ham Radio store, the same thing happened when the move was made from the 8 pin Round Foster connector the the RJ45.

The reason was that is was more cost effective to use an RF45 in manufacturing and it took up less space, which is true.

The move to CTIA was due to space and the availability of hundreds of headsets rather than just a few. As an example, my Koss SB45 for $40 is one of the best sound DX headsets I have used. And, that is from the reports I get on the air.

No matter what, change will happen.

Peter K1PGV

I've never had a headset and have been looking for one to use with my new Maestro. I was going to order the Radiosport. But, given the price, that's hardly an impulse buy. For just 10% of the price of the Radiosport (and overnight delivery by 8AM from Amazon) I've just ordered the Koss SB45 (just over $32). Thanks (again) Mike!

WX7Y

on the cheaper side of things you can try a Gaming Headset that should work as long as it has a CTIA 1/8" (3.5mm) connector on it, With that model of Koss you will need a adapter for it to go to a CTIA plug.

Mike-VA3MW

Oh, my Koss isn't CTIA, but I use the the Y cable. You can also order the Y cable from Amazon. We just stock it for those that want to order from one place.

Jim Moore

Actually, Mike, you don't stock it. I'm waiting for your next shipment to arrive, and although I have my Maestro 'C', I have no way to connect the FHM-3 I bought from Flex to the 'C' ... largely because I wanted to buy everything from Flex.

I'm not complaining; I ordered the Amazon components and they should arrive over the weekend.

The 'C' is a beautiful piece of gear, and I've ordered the Koss SB45. I haven't used Koss headphones since my broadcast days in the 1970s, but your recommendation nudged me to give them another try.

David Decoons, wo2x

I am using the Maestro C and when portable (or around the house but not in shack) I am using the RadioSport RS55SL headset. Not cheap but great reports and to me better, fuller audio than the KOSS with Y cable (I have both).

I will be in the hospital the end of the month for a few days (hopefully) and will have my wife bring my backpack with Maestro and RS headset. Need something to do in middle of night.

Dave wo2x

AA1SS

Purchased this headset for the maestro . . . Works great and nice audio reports.

Need to turn on mic bias for it to work

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NR2TJP9?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1