The Maestro C uses an industry-standard TRRS (CTIA) format "Headset" connector which is compatible with a vast array of easily obtainable "gaming" headsets.
However, many operators prefer using a hand mic when operating the Maestro C.
To connect the FlexRadio FHM-3 Hand Microphone to the Maestro C, you will need to use the PTT and Headset Breakout Kit (MAE-C-Adapter)
Maestro C - Y Cable Kit – FlexRadio
The kit includes two items:
1) A TRRS (tip/ring/ring/sleeve) "Y-Adapter" to connect the Mic & Headphones to the Maestro C.
2) An RCA to ⅛” TS (tip/sleeve) mono adapter to connect a footswitch or the PTT from a hand mic with an RCA connector to the 1/8 inch PTT input jack of the Maestro.
NOTE: The Y-Adapter has two jacks that are labeled with different icons.
- One looks like a microphone or is labeled "MIC." Connect this to the 1/8 inch TRS (tip/ring/sleeve) plug from the FHM-3 Microphone.
- The other looks like a pair of headphones. Connect this to a set of headphones if you have separate headphones you wish to use with the Maestro-C.
DO NOT Connect the Microphone's PTT to the Headphone side of the "Y-Adapter."
Connect the Microphone to the Maestro.
- Plug the "Y-Adapter" into the HDST jack on the back of the Maestro C.
- Connect the FHM-3 Microphone's 1/8 inch TRS plug to the "Microphone" side of the Y-Adapter.
- DO NOT plug anything into the "Headset" side of the "Y-Adapter"
Connect the Microphone PTT to the Maestro's PTT Input:
- Connect the Mic's RCA PTT plug to the RCA-to-1/8-inch mono adapter.
- Plug the Adapter into the PTT Input Jack on the back of the Maestro.
Do not plug it into the free side of the Y-Adapter cable. That is not the correct place for the PTT connection.
Adjust your Microphone Settings for the Maestro:
- Open the TX Menu for the Maestro. (opened by pressing the Mic Gain / CW Speed / RF Power Knob that is above the VFO B Knob)
- [1] Select or create a desired Mic Profile for the microphone and the Mode your radio is in.
-
[2] Select the M-HDST Mic Input selected on the Maestro C
- Be sure that the TX DAX Button is turned OFF
- Open the "MENU > Phone/CW" Tab.
- Turn ON the BIAS
- Turn OFF the +20 dB Mic boost.
- Turn ON the "Level Meter During Receive" if you wish to be able to adjust your Mic Gain without transmitting.
- Close the menu
- Now use the Mic Gain Knob to set the proper Mic Gain (so that the LEVEL Meter PEAK reading falls between -10 and -5 on voice peaks)
For more information about properly adjusting your Microphone Settings. See this article:
Adjusting your Microphone Settings for Best TX Audio – FlexRadio
If you are trying to connect a different mic to the Maestro C, please see this document: