Start here: A microphone feels “hot” when unintended RF current reaches its metalwork, cable, radio chassis, or the operator. Stop transmitting until the cause is corrected.
Why this changes a real station
Common causes include antenna imbalance, poor return path, feed-line common-mode current, cable routing through a strong field, or inadequate bonding and choking.
What it looks like in practice
The microphone is rarely the real source; it is often the place where station current finally finds a path through the operator.
What to do next
Reduce power, verify the antenna and counterpoise, choke the feed and affected cables appropriately, reroute them, and retest without touching energized metal.
Evidence boundary
Keep frequency, reference plane, antenna geometry, losses, measurement method, and safety conditions attached to the conclusion. A match, a DC check, or one field symptom does not prove efficiency or identify the complete RF path.
