06/01/2023 19:40 Capsule Modification and Mounting

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Modifying the Capsules

The basic capsule modification involves cutting the connection between terminal 2, which is connected to
the source terminal of the capsule's internal FET, and the case of the capsule. An X-acto knife is perfect for
this. The WM-61 only has one trace to cut; the WM-55 has three. Check with an ohmmeter to make sure
the traces have been severed.

Mounting and Grounding the Capsules

Since all of these projects involve an array of mic capsules, it makes sense to make the mounting clips
also function as the ground connection. I used paper clip wire to fashion the clips because they are easy to
bend, easy to solder, and easy to find. Although the clips hold the capsules pretty securely and make a
good electrical connection, I put a bead of silver-bearing conductive epoxy over the paper-clip wire to
make a more secure mount and provide an electrical connection that prevents oxidization of the aluminum
capsule cases.

The Linkwitz Mods

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06/01/2023 19:40 Capsule Modification and Mounting

The Linkwitz mod is used to convert the electret capsule from its normal configuration where the FET is
operated in common source mode to one where the FET is operated in source follower mode. This
enables the capsule to operate at far higher SPL levels and is far more linear due to the degeneration
across the source resistor. In the 3 wire version, the source, drain, and case connections are brought out
separately. In the 2 wire version, terminal 1 (the drain of the internal FET) is connected to the case with a
drop of conductive paint. The Linkwitz mod is named after its inventor, Sigfried Linkwitz, a noted speaker
designer and co-inventor of the famed Linkwitz-Riley speaker crossover.

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Figure 8 & Blumlein Nifty Circuits Mic Links and Parts Sources
©2001 Dave Latchaw

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