The Real-Time Monitor Every Ham Needs de NØIDX

Thank you for your thoughtful comments. You’ve clearly done a lot of deep work on transmit audio—and I absolutely agree with much of what you’ve said. You’re right: what you hear at the audio level doesn’t fully represent what gets out on RF, especially after sideband filtering, shaping, and compression. That’s exactly why I designed TalkBack Pro the way I did—with the option to tap the TX audio from the radio’s post-processing stage, specifically from the ACC or data port where it’s been EQ’d, shaped, and filtered by the radio's own circuitry.

This isn't just a sidetone-style monitor. I'm trying to let operators hear themselves after the radio has done its work—because like you said, that's where the truth lies.

I respect your experience and wouldn’t argue that an RF sampling monitor would be the final word in quality. But for the vast majority of hams who want a clean, immediate, plug-and-play monitor that shows them what their rig is really putting out audio-wise—TalkBack Pro aims to get very close, especially for rigs that offer that post-EQ audio via ACC/DATA ports.

Your feedback helps me sharpen the vision for what TalkBack Pro could be in its next iterations. If you're ever interested in collaborating or testing on the RF side of this—I'd welcome your expertise.

Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience. It means a lot.

73,
Glenn Rollins – NØIDX
Inventor of TalkBack Pro

 

This thread had one result: I started using the monitor function on my radio. I discovered the compression turns the audio gain WAY up to the point it picks up a ton of background noise unless I go and turn the mic gain down.

 

Do you have a prototype just yet?
If so, some pictures posted here would be much appreciated.

Kindly advise. Again, thanks.

 

The whole thing could be replaced by a cheap SDR receiver, then you can monitor your actual sound with all the possible distortions that you also have to control and minimize.

 

Regarding the mention of Elecraft...

Other radios:

• Flex, Elecraft, Alinco, and many more (with appropriate cable and menu setup).
  
• Most HF rigs from the last 20–30 years with “rear panel” audio monitor or ACC/DATA port.

​

The monitor on the K3 and K4 (and maybe the small rigs but I do not have them to test) is at the final stage in the audio chain. So what you are hearing in the monitor is the way you sound like on the air.

I understand the use for radios for which this is not the case but this is not at all necessary for the Elecraft K3 and K4 (at a minimum).

Tom NY4I

 

Thanks for the comment — the SDR route is definitely one option, and I’ve experimented with that myself. But TalkBack Pro was designed to solve a very different problem in a very different way.

While SDRs can monitor TX audio, they introduce latency — often a few hundred milliseconds or more. For live SSB operation, contesting, or real-time mic adjustment, that delay makes them impractical. And that’s before adding the complexity of routing audio through software, drivers, and a PC.

TalkBack Pro offers zero-delay, inline sidetone directly from the ACC port. You hear your voice shaped by your radio's audio chain exactly as it goes out — no guesswork, no post-processing, and no delay. It's entirely self-contained, fits in your hand, and works with virtually any rig using a simple DIN or RJ-45 connection. It's also ideal for mobile and field ops where SDR setups aren’t viable.

The goal isn't to replace SDRs — it's to offer a purpose-built solution that just works. Plug it in, key up, and hear yourself live.

73,
Glenn E. Rollins, NØIDX
Inventor – TalkBack Pro

 

Thanks Tom, great point — the Elecraft K3 and K4 are exceptional in that regard. Their monitor circuits are indeed taken from the final TX audio stage, giving you an honest sidetone that reflects how you actually sound on the air. That’s not something you see in many rigs, especially across the full range of manufacturers.

TalkBack Pro is aimed at operators using radios where the monitor circuit — if it exists at all — taps off an earlier stage in the audio path, often before EQ, processing, or compression. That includes a wide swath of Yaesu, Icom, Kenwood, and even SDR-based rigs where latency makes sidetone impractical.

The goal was to build a zero-latency, plug-and-play sidetone device that works across rigs and modes, especially in portable and contest environments. But you're absolutely right — for operators running Elecraft gear with proper sidetone implementation, TalkBack Pro may not be necessary.

Appreciate your insights, and thanks for pointing that out for the benefit of others reading the thread.

73,
Glenn E. Rollins, NØIDX
Chief Bottle Washer – TalkBack Pro

 

TalkBack Pro – Official May 2025 Development Update
From the shack of Glenn Rollins, NØIDX

Fellow hams,

I wanted to share a full update on the TalkBack Pro project. There’s been a lot happening behind the scenes—component sourcing, production ramp-up, testing, and now… the push toward the finish line.

Parts Procurement – No Shortcuts
Sourcing components has been one of the biggest hurdles. We’re up against global shortages, import tariffs (that 10% hit adds up fast), and rising prices across the board. Despite all that, I’ve stuck to one thing:

I refuse to use inferior parts.

If it doesn’t meet spec, it doesn’t go into a TalkBack Pro. Simple as that.

Some components—like trimmers, specific resistors, and battery modules—have been harder to find in bulk. But I’ve made real progress. While the final 1,000-unit inventory isn’t fully in hand yet, I’m confident it will be by the time we hit production.

️ All Units Personally Assembled
Every unit from this first production run will be assembled by me, by hand. I’ll be doing the soldering, the testing, the final sign-off. These aren't rolling off a factory line—they’re being built with the same care and attention I’ve always brought to my own shack.

Full Test & Print Facility
Production is happening in a climate-controlled room built inside my garage—fully insulated, sealed, and air-conditioned. Here’s what’s powering it:

• ️ Two Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printers
  
  
• Ortur Laser Master 2 S2 for serials and logos
  
  
• Dedicated soldering and test stations
  
  
• Siglent SDS1104X-E oscilloscope and Fluke 117 multimeter
  

This is a real, purpose-built lab. I’ll share photos of the shop over the next 48–72 hours so you can see exactly how your unit is being made.

Enclosure Policy & Kit Options
From here on out, every TalkBack Pro kit will ship with an enclosure, printed in-house on my own machines. STL files will not be distributed. This is to ensure quality, consistency, and protection from unauthorized duplication.

There will be several kit variations:

• Battery-powered Field Kit
  
  
• ⚡ USB-powered Shack Kit
  
  
• Deluxe Kit with Enclosure
  
  
• ‍ Lite Kit (with reduced parts but still includes enclosure)
  

Each one built around the same tested, high-quality circuit design.

Production Schedule Estimate
If part deliveries remain on track, here’s what you can expect:

Milestone Estimated Date
All parts in hand May 15 – June 1
First units assembled June 3 – June 10
Final QA and packaging June 10 – June 14
First batch ships June 15 – June 20
Once production begins, my two X1 printers can output up to 411 enclosures per month, meaning steady, reliable fulfillment.

Limited Release & Founder’s Reserve
Of the first 1,000 TalkBack Pro kits produced:

• 950 units will be made available to the public
  
  
• 50 units will be reserved for personal builds, testing, archival, and special releases
  

When they’re gone, they’re gone.

To all of you who have been following, supporting, and believing in this: thank you. TalkBack Pro is real. It’s coming. And it’ll be worth the wait.

73,
Glenn Rollins, NØIDX
Chief Bottle Washer, TalkBack Pro
https://www.n0idx.com

 

Want One? Get on the List.
If you’re interested in TalkBack Pro, I’ve added a simple preorder form to my website:
All Founders Editions are SOLD OUT
https://www.n0idx.com
Currently there will be 200 units battery powered released. (possibly to be more as parts become available)
Just fill out the form—no payment required yet.
This helps me gauge demand, keep you informed, and reserve your place in line.
You’ll be the first to know when units are ready to ship.

 

Outstanding engineered project, Glenn beautiful vision in innovation! I know the time taken to work through projects to over 45 years. Amateur Radio opens the opportunity to invest our vision, with a joy of curiosity and mitigating objectives that is pleasing to see how one individual can spawn the passion to invoke a journey in likeness to yours... job with thorough intellectual precessing has you truly on a productive path, not only for Self, but; also, for others to enjoy our hobby, collectively to mature and simply find the joy in it...
Sincerely and most Respectfully de, Phil/ WV3K 73, es GB u es urs, embraced your gited talented developing skills-sets. We each need to never give up and be a student to each day my new friend I'm greatful to meet you here on QRZ.com and a privilege it is!!
Exemplary performance!!!
GLENN / NØIDX Thankyou for sharing graciously with much excitement, yer Awesome!

 

Phil, thank you — your words truly moved me.

Yes, you are absolutely right: NP2X, Phil, was a master-level CW operator. A mentor, a craftsman, and the kind of ham who raised the bar just by showing up on frequency. I owe a great deal of inspiration to him, and I’m proud to say this entire TalkBack Pro project carries a part of his legacy in every unit we build.

Your comment reminded me exactly why I wanted to create this in the first place — not for vanity, not for buzz, but to solve a real problem that many of us have worked around for years. It’s for the ops who still care about the quality of what we put on the air. It’s for the ones who carry a bit of the old school with them, and who never stop refining.

Thank you for your encouragement, your generosity, and your decades of dedication to this hobby we both love. It’s an honor to connect with you here — and I hope we cross paths on the air one of these days.
I nod my head to you sir.
A heartfelt chills down my back thank you.

73, and all good wishes to you and yours,
Glenn / NØIDX

 

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Hi Glen,

Thanks again for your interest in the TalkBack Pro. Just so you know—I don’t have a YouTube channel and I don’t plan to create one. This project isn’t about promotion or putting myself out there. I’ve always preferred to keep things quiet and personal.

TalkBack Pro actually started in the Ham made Gear section on QRZ, and it kind of took off before I was even fully ready. It was moved by the moderators to its current spot, which brought a lot more attention than I expected. While I appreciate the support, I’m not really the public-facing type—no YouTube, no big rollout. Just building a solid tool for hams who understand the need.

Ordering will be simple and direct when the time comes.

73,
Glenn – NØIDX

 

Hi there,

Thanks for your thoughtful input. You clearly have a deep background in audio processing, and I respect the time and care you've put into refining your RF chain.

Just to clarify, the TalkBack Pro isn’t intended to replace RF monitoring or represent what a signal sounds like over the air after IF filtering, speech processing, and final RF stages. It’s simply a tool to help operators monitor their mic input level and quality before any of that processing occurs—right at the point of injection.

It’s not an analyzer, and it doesn’t aim to replicate post-modulation or receiver conditions. It just helps you know you’ve got signal and basic tonal integrity before you hit the key. In that sense, it's more like a sanity check—especially helpful when switching mics, cables, radios, or rigs with menu-driven mic settings.

I appreciate your insights, and you're absolutely right: in the end, audio is subjective and shaped by the entire system. TalkBack Pro just helps give us a cleaner starting point.

73,

 

Hi all,

Just to clear up a few things: the prototype I’m working with right now is strictly about core function. It doesn’t have play or record buttons. It doesn’t include the amp module. It’s running on a basic IC. This isn’t the final product—it’s a validation of the signal path and design concept that has evolved over years.

This didn’t come from guesswork, but from long hours of trial, testing, listening, reworking, and refining. Anyone who’s done serious bench time knows that’s how it really works.

What you don’t see is the process behind it: the iterations, the setbacks, the breakthroughs. The goal was never to make something flashy out of the gate—it was to get the fundamentals right first. That’s where I’m focused.

Coming out first will be the basic model—solid, reliable, and ready for the shack. Later on, you’ll have the option to add features like battery power and recording. For now, I’ll be using the basic version myself—my personal one will be housed in a clean case with nothing but TalkBack built in, just the way I like it.

I may not make it to this year’s Field Day, but I’ll be back out there soon—with TalkBack Pro in full swing.

73,
Glenn – NØIDX
This isn’t a prefab gadget whipped together for clicks—it’s a purpose-built tool. I’m not rushing plastic just to impress people. The case will come when the internals are locked down—and not a moment before. If you're in a hurry to be impressed, you're probably not the operator this was built for.
"I didn’t build this for applause. I built it because it didn’t exist and it should. I didn’t post this to impress you—I posted it to prove it works. The rest is just noise."