Larry, I used to have the same problem, but that only happened when I was using a conventional sound system. Since switching to the Bose L1 Compact, the problem no longer exists. The Crown CM-311A is an excellent mic for both singing and speaking, but the coverage from a conventional sound system is such that speaking, even from a good, handheld, super-cardiod mic, usually isn't the quality it should be.

One think I've learned over these many years is that many of those in the audiences wear hearing aids, which are not conducive to proper amplification and clarity of low frequency sounds. I should know, I have a hearing aid. They cost a bundle, and all it really does is allow me to hear women's voices better, but does nothing for male voices when I'm in a loud crowd situation.

When you switch to the talk mode, be sure that you have the Pitch Detect settings set to Mid, Thru, and (4) Normal. This can make a big difference.

As for the three band EQ at the top of the mic setting page, I set the low EQ at 250 @C 0 db, Mid @ 315 @ -6 db and high at 1.4 @ -2 db. These settings work very well for my bull frog voice.

When I was using the Barbetta Sona 32SCs and Peavey SP5Gs, on poles, announcements always sounded muddy, regardless of which mic I used. My current handhelds include: Samson Q7 and Sennheiser E855. When I ran and posted a comparison test on the Synthzone many years ago, most everyone thought the $300 Sennheiser and Crown CM311A were the same quality and clarity.

Now, keep in mind that I spent several years as a newscaster for Radio and did voice-overs for car commercials in radio and TV. I try to utilize those same voice inflections when I make announcements at the various venues - and it really does make a huge difference as well. Listen to the voice inflections and quality of the TV guys and gals doing the evening news and try to mimic that - it's a real eye opener when you record yourself doing this and play it back. It took me years to achieve that voice quality, so it's not something that just comes naturally. But, once you get the hang of it, it will make life a lot easier while on stage.

Good luck,

Gary