How good is the FT817's MH-31 stock standard microphone? (Part 1)

I've had many good reports from the MH-31 which came with my Yaesu FT-817. But we know that punchy transmit audio is critical for successful QRP DX and attention to this is one of the most cost-effective things you can do to improve performance. Is the standard MH-31 the best there is, or are easy improvements possible?

Others reported improved results by substituting an electret insert. It seemed too simple not to try. With two MH-31s available I could modify one and do quick comparisons with the stock standard.

Was the mod worth it? Watch the video and find out. Also check out the Part 2 video.

PS: If you liked this video please consider supporting Amateur Radio VK3YE by:
* Subscribing on YouTube,
* Checking my books page at https://books.vk3ye.com​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ to see if any appeal,
* Shopping on Amazon via: https://amzn.to/3iiDQXv​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ , or
* Shopping on eBay via: https://ebay.us/i9DuWP
(then if you buy something I'll get a small commission at no cost to you)

Видео How good is the FT817's MH-31 stock standard microphone? (Part 1) канала Amateur Radio VK3YE