[TenTec] EV638 update for Orion

[Wade Staggs]

*I also own an EV-638 Microphone. We used an Impedance Matching Transformer
purchased from the local Music Store. It is just a small box with a 1/4
inch plug on one end and an XLR Jack at the other end. This device ((( box
type transformer ))) isn't needed for my Omni D, FT-101E Yaesu and others
but works well with my Paragon and other rigs that are looking for a low
impedance microphone.  You could also use a small transformer in the base
of the microphone. Since we still own the SB-101 Heathkit that this
microphone came with, there will be no Cartridge Conversions at this Shack.
Also, the price of these microphones is on the rise as they become more
scarce.*
*                                                           73 from
Wade/KJ4WS  *


On Fri, Aug 15, 2014 at 3:30 PM, Bill Ogden <ogden at us.ibm.com> wrote:

> I have an Orion 1 and an Electrovoice 638 Hi-Z microphone that dates to
> the original Heathkit "twins."  The Heathkits are long gone, but I still
> have the EV638 because I like the looks. I have been politely told that my
> audio is not great; it is better with the handheld mic that was part of
> the Corsair 1 package.
>
> I am considering updating the EV638 with a newer cartridge. Heil sells a
> "retro" HC5.1 cartridge that might be appropriate. It is Lo-Z, which I
> assume would make the Orion happier.
>
> Questions: After getting the EV638 apart (a real challenge) I see that the
> cartridge is fitted to a steel holder that is magnetically attached to the
> core of the internal transformer. This seems a little odd. Can anyone
> explain what is happening here?
>
> Seeing the internal transformer makes me wonder if I can change the
> existing cartridge to Lo-Z simply by bypassing the transformer? This might
> not solve other problems, but it might help.
>
> Lastly, has anyone updated an EV638 in a similar way?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bill  W2WO
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