First of all, I want to say thanks to everyone for all the great
feedback I've been getting on the speaker. Here's are some requested
features:
1. One stereo channel to speaker driver and another channel to output
jack (already in first prototype)
2. 12V input (planned is 9-15V, like the KX3)
3. Separate powered (active) and unpowered (passive) speakers
The reasons I've gotten for this is that it would save on the weight of
and inconvenience of charging a second battery
4. Separate volume controls for the internal speaker driver and the
output jack
The reason I've gotten for this is that a computer will need the volume
set separately from the speaker.
Some have stated the computer's software can adjust the gain on the
input, and that there only needs to be one volume control for the
speaker driver. I'll need consensus on this from the digital mode folks.
5. USB power output
This would be convenient for those who wish to use their speakers as
phone chargers.
Things to consider:
A. Making two different speakers substantially increases manufacturing
costs for the most expensive part; the enclosure. Since most folks will
be fine with just one speaker, then the lower production numbers of the
passive speaker would make its per unit cost much higher than the active
one. However, folks would expect a lower price on the passive one. So,
I'd have to sell them as pairs to justify manufacturing the passive
ones, which would mean a higher cost to consumers who only want the
active one. It would also increase the cost to those who want both
because of the two different enclosures instead of just one enclosure
twice.
B. The one issue which would force making both an active and a passive
speaker is the need stated by some respondents that the active one would
require a second volume control for the output to the computer for
digital modes. It would be expensive and time consuming for me to try
every digital mode software on every operating system, so I need
confirmation whether this is truly necessary.
C. If a second volume control is not truly necessary, then that
simplifies things tremendously. I'll wait for consensus on this before
going into why.
D. A USB power output port is beyond the scope of the speaker's intended
utility. Also, it would draw down the battery at the cost of
significantly limiting how long the speaker could be used before needing
a recharge. Furthermore, the extra hole and port would increase the cost
while reducing ingress protection. Lastly, there's not much room in the
small enclosure to accomodate nonessential items.
Thanks and 73,
Robert (AG6ZZ)
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