I am the original owner of a TS440s and it's stock hand microphone.
There is virtually no microphone audio output on transmit regardless of the front panel MIC knob control setting as tested on 40 m LSB.
Both sides of the microphone element shows continuity to the mic plug.
NOTE: if I set the front panel MIC setting to Maximum (10 on the front panel scale) and literally scream into the mic, the S-meter needle deflects about a millimeter or two. The radio's audio circuit is apparently engaged, but shows near zero audio output.
What would be the likely culprit for me to investigate?
Thank you.
Dave