I bought this network radio several months ago and I thought that I would put it through its paces yesterday to see how it performs on the ZS-Link Network. Now this is not going to be a review of the radio, just my findings as a first time user. After connecting the power lead and microphone, installing and setting up Echolink was easy and quick. The microphone does not work like a conventional microphone which is really a great pity. You need to activate the PTT function on the digital display. Now this is not a train smash as it prevents accidental PTT when mobile. How many times have microphones not been activated while being mobile. The receive audio was clear and there is enough volume to curb road noise or hearing loss when old age are creeping closer. The TX audio was very low and I had to keep the microphone close to my mouth. I suspected that the mic gain need to be set. A report from Thys ZS1TBP indicated that the audio was on the low side but clear. I did a Google search and found a article on how to increase the microphone gain on the Inrico TM-8.
Herewith the short know how:
How to increase the mic gain on the Inrico TM-8
This will improve some reports of poor microphone audio of the Inrico TM-8
Upgrade the radio with this firmware and follow these instructions. It will also remove a “waterfall” noise. Then, you can increase the gain like this:
Go the “phone” app and dial: *#*#3646633#*#*
This will enter into Engineer Menu
Then slide the top bar to “Hardware Testing”
Go to Audio, Normal Mode and change Type to “Mic”
Choose Level 4 and adjust value to 255 then click on “set”.
This has worked for me. Some audiophiles said that after replacing the microphone electret capsule the results were even better.
And you are done!
So far I am enjoying this "Glorified Cellphone Radio". Yes it is not your ordinary RF
Amateur Radio but it gives me several options which is not available in a traditional amateur radio. I will from time to time post further information about this network radio as I am discovering more and more functions about it. I am satisfied with the unit and it has found it's rightful place in my Shack. Would I recommend somebody buying the Inrico TM-8 Network Radio? It is to early to recommend the radio as I need to "play" more with the unit. I will later provide a full recommendation in this regard.
