On the FT-1000MP's I use the Symetrix voice processor driven by a Heil Goldline microphone -- a little overboard for an amateur radio station, however I really like the control it offers for on-the-air audio. I got it from the "Broadcaster's General Store" you can call them for details. This type of unit would normally be at home in a radio or TV broadcast station's control room.
Symetrix Digital Voice Processor 528E - broadcast studio model
The 528E is a complete, self-contained voice processor that performs seven separate functions:
1) microphone preamplification (with a clip warning light)
2) de-essing (sibilance removal)
3) compression/limiting (a vast improvement of the 'processor' on amateur equipment)
4) downward expansion similar to a 'noise gate' with 'soft attack' control
5) parametric EQ (overlapping audio frequency controls)
6) voice symmetry alignment (fully automatic)
7) output amplification (with VU level meters and clip warning lights)All six processors may be used simultaneously.
I started with the W2IHY units (both 2 band and 8 band) - and liked how they worked. After talking to a broadcast engineer - and looking at several commercial voice processors, I decided on the Symetrix. If one could judge by the comments I have received on the audio -- I feel my money was well spent.
Hey, some guys want a huge amplifier, I'm into good audio. You just pick your toys and go play!!
73