I just posted this to the VX-8 Yahoo group. I'm re-posting it here in case anyone needs a source for the proprietary VX-8 mic connector.
On 4/19/2011 12:05 PM, David Pittle wrote:
I discovered that RT Systems who make the cables and programming software would sell me a cable to fit the proprietary mic connector like the official Yaesu one for $8 + shipping;
Thanks for the tip. I received mine today in the mail today. Shipping in the US was only $4. I ordered 3 of them and it still came to less than it would have cost me for one of the Yaesu CT-M11.
They aren't on the RT Systems web site yet, but Karin at RT said would be adding them to the web site. You can order them by phone, 1-800-921-4834, ask for the "open VX-8 cable".
Note: I haven't seen the Yaesu CT-11 cable so I can't give an good comparison. The RT Systems cable just plugs in. There is no threaded nut to secure it, so I wouldn't consider it water proof. If that is important to you, you probably want to spring for the Yaesu cable. Also, the cable insulation isn't as flexible as it could be, I think it's probably PVC and I'd imagine the Yaesu cable is probably a more flexible rubber compound.
For my purposes, like building a sound card interface, and being able to occasionally use some of my other accessories, the RT Systems cable is a great deal.
Also Note, this isn't for the VX-8GR as that doesn't have the same mic connector.
--Rob