Monitoring audio quality using dummy load

[TexTAC]

How do you use a separate receiver to monitor audio quality when transmitting through a dummy load attached to the transceiver? By definition, doesn’t the dummy load prevent RF transmission?

I am trying to adjust the EQ settings on a 991A with the stock mic and have been using a dummy load, the “monitor” feature, and headphones. I’ve read it is better to use a separate receiver and a dummy load, but I don’t understand that. Thanks.

 

[AK9R]

There may be enough leakage in your coax, the connectors, and the dummy load itself that your signal would still be detectable on another receiver.

 

[TexTAC]

Thank you. That is what I needed to know and will give it a shot.

 

[jwt873]

For stuff like Microphone evaluation, EQ, band width and compression settings, I just use the 'monitor' function and a set of headphones so there's no feedback. What you hear on the monitor is what's going out the radio..

The only time using an external receiver would be useful is if there were problems with the actual transmitting stages of your rig.. (Finals etc). For instance, sometimes RF can get back into a rig and cause distortions that you can't hear using the monitor function.

 

[TexTAC]

Maybe what I am doing now using the monitor feature and headphones is good enough. I adjusted everything yesterday and thought it sounded good. Then I listened again this morning and thought it sounded terrible. Trying to find a balance between good fidelity and getting my signal out effectively and clearly.

I did make some contacts to England and Czech Republic this morning after some readjustments so I suppose I am being effective. Can’t seem to get the compressor to give more Umph without sounding bad. In fact, I think I am getting less power out using the compressor. Still learning.