Microphones
One thing hams are always known for is having a microphone that is “cool”. Today most HTs have a built in mic that is adequate. You can hear what is being said but not with great quality. One way to improve that is to use an external mic. Some are inexpensive and just meant as a way to separate your mouth from the radio. Others will actually give you a better sound. The problem is too many ways of attachment to the radio.
Years ago you could buy connectors, get the wiring schematic and wire the mic to work with the radio. It is not as easy today but still can be done. First you want to know if the mic is compatible with the radio. Next is getting a connector that will fit the radio. For HTs that is sometimes a difficult task. Search online to see if one can be had from the few Amateur Radio dealers left. Once you have parts in hand, take time to solder them on correctly. If you don’t own a soldering iron maybe now is the time to buy one. Otherwise borrow one from another ham. Check your work before trying the mic on the radio. Then do an on air test with someone. Make contact without the external mic and then plug it in to see what kind of difference you have made.
For home shacks, a lot of people will get a really good mic. The same things said above still apply. The benefits of desk mics can only be gained by the folks on the other end, but people are much more willing to chat with someone who has a GREAT signal! This has been realized by many who work contests and DX. A strong, well-modulated signal can be heard above others. So for you soft spoken folks keep this in mind when thinking about what your next purchase will be for the radio you love!
73 WA2NTW