Microphone

Based on the picture, I would say that the Sony ECM-MSD1 is a camera accessory, based on the cam-mount attachment on the bottom.

I also expect it is a MID/SIDE STEREO microphone, based on the "MS" in the model number, which makes it special. Also, it clearly has a stereo mini-plug.

The mic probably needs power supplied through the cable, 5-Volts typical, but just how the power is distributed on the left/right is uncertain.

OR, if it has a battery, the power question is answered.

A mid/side microphone is really two microphones.

The MID microphone is cardioid, and should point straight toward the sound field, be it voice or orchestra.

The SIDE microphone is a figure-8 pattern microphone which has diaphrams facing both sides.

The manner in which the two mics are mixed is the trick to obtaining stereophonic sound, and that is achieved by a "matrix" that is built into the microphone.

The mic can be used in mono by simply using the left connection on the mini plug and speaking straight into the front of the mic.

It is a great buy, valued well above $100, probably closer to $200.

I have a slightly higher cost version of the same series, an ECM-MS857, which is wonderful and I fondly keep it close.

Thanks Carl.  I didn't know if it would work for broadcasting or not.  For 2 bucks I knew I'd find some use for it.  Got to get a mixer and build a proper antenna for the AM1.  Right now I'm doing fall clean up in the yard, even though I'd rather tinker with my transmitters 🙂

cmw

The only three things you need to work out are...

1. How does it get its power... batteries we hope;

2. Get the right adapter plug to the mic input of your mixer;

3. Find a way of mounting it... chances are a photo shop might have an adapter from what is called a "camera shoe" to mount on a microphone stand. I have one I got somewhere.

That mic should be a wonderful broadcast mic.

I use mine for voice when my usual mic is out of service, and it's good.

If you can get it to work, that would be

fun for a Part 15 station.  It sure looks

cool, and I think looks are part of what

makes a station great. 

By the way, I started out with a Ramsey FM-10

and an AM-1.  I know you were talking about that

before.  Do you know what thread you were on?

I'll just mention that I modified my AM-1 for

crystal control, and got it working with range to about

3/4 mile out on the car radio.  It blew away

the radios in the house.  Definitely not as good as

most of the AM transmitters that are used here -

but still a great surprise, and I used it for a

couple of years.  It was fun!

Bruce

http://elektrotanya.com/sony_ecm-msd1_ver1.0.pdf/download.html

So ............ it has a battery on the back side of the microphone. And it has a 2 step switching for 90 or 120 degrees pick up.
And yes, this "thing" will work for broadcasting!

Rob Veld

Bruce, I've read a few times in a couple threads about your struggles/ wins with the AM1.  I don't think I'll mind because I like tinkering and when I learn more maybe upgrade to another kit.  My AM1 was donated by a guy I know so the price was right, as funds for my various hobbies get expensive and then I get THE LOOK from the boss lady.  As married men we all know THE LOOK.

Anyhow, I enjoying yardcasting for now and when time and extra cash comes I'll make improvements, perhaps crystal control, etc.

Thanks Carl, Bruce, and Rob for you're comments and insight.

cmw

The AM1 is a great way to start out with radio broadcasting, while learning and experiencing.

It is similar to the oldtimers here (me old) who started with Knight AM transmitter kits in the 1950s and 60s. They had tubes and no crystals.

I think the term for a non-crystal circuit, consisting only of coils and capacitors, is "VFO" (Variable Frequency Control).

One thing about VFO is that it varies all by itself. Temperature, humidity, time, all contribute to frequency drift.

I'd set mine at 1630 kHz before the AM band was extended, because most old AM radios could just barely get 1630, and soon it drifted too high and went off the dial, or too low and got to close to the local 1600 kHz station.

Tuning it was part of daily duties.