Phil Allison wrote:

"Richard Freeman" ..
"Arny Krueger"
"Chris Breitner"

I have a ribbon mic I'd like to gig with, and the PA systems we use
normally plug into have an all-channels-on/off for the phantom power.
Our vocalist uses a condenser mic, so she needs it on. If the phantom
power hits my ribbon mic, it might permanently damage the ribbon
element.

Does anyone know of a DIY homebrew solution?

Measure the resistance from pin 2 and 3 to pin 1 using an ohm meter with
limited current, such as a good DVM.. If it is infinity, you don't have
a
problem, and then stop worrying.

Of course it could have a Transformer isolated output in which case he
could
read a near short and still not have to worry ....


** You better **re-read** what Arny posted - ie test from pins " 2 and
3 to pin 1 " !!!!!!!

Never heard of a centre-tapped transformer as often used in what would now be
vintage gear ? Nice DC R connecting all the pins.

Had a real problem once ( thankfully a long time ago ) when given some gear to
set up for a 'society event' with CT balanced outputs that had to be connected
to unbalanced inputs. I'll leave you to guess which way the cables were wired.

Thankfully I was able to troubleshoot it on the spot. The hired DJ ( a well
known radio celebrity ) had kittens quietly while I fixed it.

Needless to say, I wasn't best pleased. Thank goodness these days for floating
balanced outputs.


Graham