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Variation in modulation between dummy load and antenna

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VE7ATJ_Don
VE7ATJ_Don Member ✭✭✭✭
edited June 2020 in SmartSDR for Windows
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?

Answers

  • Mike va3mw
    Mike va3mw Member ✭✭
    edited February 2018
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    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
    Jay Nation Member ✭✭
    edited June 2020
    Options
    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
    VE7ATJ_Don Member ✭✭✭✭
    edited July 2017
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    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
    Ken - NM9P Member ✭✭✭
    edited August 2017
    Options
    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
    Tim - W4TME Administrator, FlexRadio Employee admin
    edited July 2019
    Options
    "Tickling" the red on voice leaks with the Mic level meter is OK.  Staying there is not.
  • k0eoo
    k0eoo Member ✭✭✭
    edited July 2019
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    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
    VE7ATJ_Don Member ✭✭✭✭
    edited August 2017
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    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
    VE7ATJ_Don Member ✭✭✭✭
    edited August 2017
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    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
    VE7ATJ_Don Member ✭✭✭✭
    edited August 2017
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    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
    Jay Nation Member ✭✭
    edited August 2017
    Options
    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

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