Old microphones are a classic piece of audio equipment that has stood the test of time. They have a unique sound that is often sought after by musicians and audio engineers alike. Whether you’re recording a podcast, a vocal track, or an entire band, an old microphone can add character and warmth to your recordings that modern microphones often lack.
When it comes to buying an old microphone, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the microphone is in good condition. Old microphones can be delicate and may require some maintenance to get them working properly. Additionally, you’ll want to pay attention to the type of microphone you’re buying. Some microphones are better suited for certain applications than others, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs.
One critical factor to consider when buying an old microphone is the type of connector it uses. Many older microphones use a connector known as XLR, which is still widely used today. However, some older microphones may use a different type of connector that is no longer in use. If this is the case, you may need to purchase an adapter to use the microphone with modern equipment.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best old microphones on the market. We’ll examine each microphone’s features and capabilities to help you choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re a professional musician or just getting started in audio recording, an old microphone can be a great addition to your setup.
Best Old Microphones
If you’re looking for a unique and timeless sound, old microphones are the way to go. These microphones have been used by famous artists for decades, and their vintage sound is still highly sought after today. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best old microphones on the market. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or just looking to add some character to your recordings, these microphones are sure to impress.
Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone
If you’re looking for a vintage-style microphone that offers great sound quality and is perfect for stage performances, karaoke, and recording, then the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The built-in pop filter eliminates or reduces popping sounds caused by the mechanical impact of fast-moving air, giving you a clearer audio experience.
- The unidirectional microphone features a cardioid heart-shaped pickup pattern that is most sensitive in the front and rejects sound from other directions, making it perfect for live stage performances or recording.
- The microphone’s rugged construction and steel mesh grill ensure that it can withstand heavy use and last for years.
Cons
- The microphone housing is made of molded ABS plastic, which may not be as durable as metal.
- Some users have reported that the microphone’s sensitivity is not as high as they would like, making it difficult to pick up softer sounds.
- The microphone’s frequency response range may not be wide enough for some users, particularly those who need to record or amplify high-frequency sounds.
Overall, the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a great choice for anyone who wants a vintage-style microphone that offers good sound quality and is built to last. With its built-in pop filter, unidirectional pickup pattern, and rugged construction, this microphone is sure to meet your needs whether you’re performing on stage or recording in the studio.
Keyian Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
If you’re looking for a fun and safe karaoke microphone for kids, the Keyian Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- Portable and wireless design makes it easy to use anywhere
- Two ways to connect: Bluetooth and USB cable
- Fun voice change feature with 5 different effects
Cons
- Battery life could be longer
- Bluetooth range is limited
- Sound quality could be better
This microphone is designed with kids’ safety in mind, as it meets US Official CPC toy safety standards and uses a UL certified battery. It’s easy to use with a variety of smart devices, and the multi-function buttons allow you to adjust the music, echo, and volume.
The Keyian Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone is a great gift idea for kids who love to sing and perform. It’s perfect for KTV singing, family gatherings, travel, car stereos, instrument recording, interviews, and more. While the battery life could be longer and the sound quality could be better, this microphone is still a fun and safe choice for kids.
Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone
If you’re looking for a vintage style microphone that offers quality sound performance, the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is worth considering.
Pros
- Classic and iconic retro style
- Built-in pop filter for clear audio
- Adjustable self-tensioning swivel mount
Cons
- Prone to feedback without a wind screen
- Average sound quality
- Heavy and bulky
This dynamic vocal microphone features a cardioid heart shape pickup pattern that is most sensitive in the front and rejects sound from other directions, making it perfect for live stage performances, karaoke, and in-studio recording. It also includes a 16′ ft. XLR cable and travel case for easy transport. However, it’s important to note that this microphone is prone to feedback without a wind screen and may not offer the best sound quality compared to other options on the market. Additionally, it’s heavy and bulky, which may make it difficult to use for extended periods of time.
Overall, the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a good option for those looking for a vintage style microphone that offers decent sound performance. However, if you’re looking for the highest quality sound or a more lightweight option, you may want to consider other alternatives.
CAROL Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone
If you’re looking for a stylish and durable microphone with good voice clarity, the CAROL Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone might be worth considering.
Pros
- Classic vintage style adds old-fashioned elegance to stage gigs or in-studio performances.
- Built-in dual capsules and chambers conducive to professional sound performance.
- Unidirectional mica with a Super-Cardioid heart shape pickup pattern is most sensitive in the front and rejects sound from other directions making it perfect for live stage performances, karaoke, in-studio recording.
Cons
- Heavyweight design might not be suitable for extended performances.
- Limited frequency response range might not be suitable for all genres of music.
- Lack of real-world experience with the product might make it hard to judge its overall quality.
The CAROL Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone features an all-metal construction that ensures long life and strong resistance to impact. The microphone has a high signal output, integrated low noise circuitry, and 1.2k ohms output impedance to ensure clear audio.
The built-in universal stand adapter is compatible with almost all of today’s stand in the market. So you can fully adjust your mic forward or back. The CAROL Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a great option for those looking for a stylish and durable microphone with good voice clarity, especially for live performances and in-studio recording.
Amazmic Microphone for Kids
If you’re looking for a fun toy for kids that can also be used as a karaoke machine, the Amazmic Microphone for Kids is a great choice.
Pros
- The microphone is multi-functional and can be used as a karaoke machine, high-quality speaker, voice changer, and singing recorder.
- The advanced 3-layers noise reduction technology ensures high-quality, crystal-clear sound.
- The microphone is compatible with a range of devices and can be connected via Bluetooth, TF card, or cable connection.
Cons
- The microphone is only available in pink, which may not be suitable for all kids.
- The microphone is battery-powered, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The microphone is designed for kids aged 3-14, so it may not be suitable for older users.
The Amazmic Microphone for Kids is a great choice for kids who love to sing and play. It’s a multi-functional toy that can provide hours of entertainment, and it’s easy to use and connect to a range of devices. While it may not be suitable for older users or those who prefer a different color, it’s a great option for kids who love to sing and play.
Alversun Karaoke Microphone
If you’re looking for a fun microphone for kids that is easy to use and has multiple functions, the Alversun Karaoke Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Clear sound quality with funny sound changes
- Easy to use with two ways connection
- 5 in 1 multifunctional karaoke machine for kids
Cons
- Sound quality is not great
- Battery life could be longer
- More suitable as a toy than a professional microphone
This microphone is equipped with high-quality inner-magnet loudspeakers that are loud enough and have four different voices to choose from, which is sure to bring unlimited happiness to kids. It’s easy to connect to your smartphone via wired and Bluetooth, and it can also support TF card and U disk to play music. There are five modes to choose from, including wireless microphone, Bluetooth speaker, music player, wireless radio, and recorder.
The Alversun Karaoke Microphone has a built-in 2400 mAh lithium polymer battery, which can listen to songs continuously for 12 hours, and can last for 5 hours of a single charge. The LED dynamic light in the karaoke microphone can flash with the rhythm of the music, making singing more interesting and active. It’s a great birthday gift, Christmas gift, or various holiday gifts, suitable for 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 years old toddler, girls, boys, teenagers, and adults.
In summary, if you’re looking for a fun and easy-to-use microphone for kids that has multiple functions, the Alversun Karaoke Microphone is a great choice. However, if you’re looking for a professional microphone with high-quality sound, this may not be the best option.
Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone
If you’re looking for a classic and iconic touch to add to your on-stage gig or in-studio performance, then the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The built-in pop filter eliminates or reduces the popping sound caused by fast-moving air, giving you a more clear audio.
- The high signal output, integrated low noise circuitry, 30Hz-15kHz ultra-wide frequency response, -50dB (3dB @ 1kHz) sensitivity, and 600-ohm output impedance ensure a crystal clear audio.
- The unidirectional mic features a cardioid heart-shaped pickup pattern that is most sensitive in the front and rejects sound from other directions, making it perfect for live stage performances, karaoke, and in-studio recording.
Cons
- The microphone housing construction material is made of molded ABS, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- The sensitivity of -50dB (3dB @ 1kHz) may not be suitable for all types of vocals.
- The frequency response range of 30Hz-15kHz may not be wide enough for some recording applications.
The Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone is an excellent choice for those who want to achieve quality sound performance and style. With its classic and iconic ‘old school’ style, this microphone will surely add old-fashioned elegance to your on-stage gig or in-studio performance. The microphone features dynamic moving coil elements, adjustable self-tensioning swivel mounts, and a cardiod polar pattern, creating an overall fantastic look and feel.
The Pyle Universal Microphone Stand is an excellent accompaniment to the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone. This rugged and reliable construction bass-style mic stand is built to be both durable and lightweight for long term use. The height can smoothly and quickly adjust from 27.5” to 57.5” inches high, and it comes with a quick-setting lock-tight knob to avoid unexpected slip off from standing with the microphone. The M-6 microphone holder is included as a set, which has USA standard 5/8 inch microphone adapter threading. With its solid round rugged base plate, Pyle mic stand will provide stability and precise balance to avoid it from collapsing.
Overall, the Pyle Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone and Pyle Universal Microphone Stand are a great combination for those who want to achieve quality sound performance and style.
Viposoon Wireless Karaoke Microphone
If you’re looking for a fun and affordable gift for kids who love to sing, the Viposoon Wireless Karaoke Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- The microphone has great sound quality and can be used for KTV singing, party singing, family singing, travel singing, instrument recording, interviews, speech, and car stereo.
- It offers three ways to connect: Bluetooth, cable, and micro SD, making it versatile and easy to use.
- The microphone is small and lightweight, making it easy to hold and perfect for kids.
Cons
- The microphone is a bit fragile, so it’s important to be careful not to drop it.
- The instructions on how to use it aren’t very clear and may be difficult for young children to understand.
- The microphone may not be very loud when speaking into it, even though the music playing through Bluetooth can get really loud.
The Viposoon Wireless Karaoke Microphone is a great gift for kids who love to sing and want to have fun with their friends and family. The microphone offers great sound quality and is versatile enough to be used for a variety of activities. However, it’s important to be careful not to drop it, and the instructions on how to use it may be difficult for young children to understand.
FINYIORE Microphone for Kids Karaoke Microphone Boys Girls Gifts Age 4 5 6 7 8 9 Year Old Portable Child Microphone Karaoke Kid Wireless Bluetooth Microphone Birthday Thanksgiving Gold
This microphone is perfect for kids and adults who love to sing and have fun. It is a great gift for birthdays and Christmas.
Pros
- The microphone has high volume stereo sound that makes you feel like singing in an amazing live show.
- It has a wide usage as it can be used as a speaker and a recorder and comes with 5 types of funny magic voice that brings more fun and relaxation to the entire family.
- The singing microphone can be easily connected via Bluetooth and USB cable, also supports TF cards, compatible with iPad / iPhone / Tablet / Android Smartphone, and 11-14 hours long time working allows you to enjoy singing and music fun anytime anywhere.
Cons
- The microphone is designed for kids and may not be suitable for professional use.
- The microphone may not be as durable as other microphones on the market.
- Some users have reported issues with the Bluetooth connectivity.
This microphone is perfect for kids who love to sing and have fun. It is lightweight and easy to hold, making it perfect for little hands. The microphone also has a variety of features that make it a great choice for kids and adults alike.
The high volume stereo sound is one of the best features of this microphone. It makes you feel like you are singing in an amazing live show. The two-channel stereo loudspeaker and the 3-layer mesh filter improve the sound quality and volume.
The microphone also has a wide usage. It can be used as a speaker and a recorder, and it comes with 5 types of funny magic voice that bring more fun and relaxation to the entire family. The microphone can be easily connected via Bluetooth and USB cable, and it supports TF cards. It is compatible with iPad / iPhone / Tablet / Android Smartphone, and it has 11-14 hours of long working time, allowing you to enjoy singing and music fun anytime anywhere.
The microphone is a great gift for kids. It is perfect for birthdays and Christmas. The microphone also serves as a gift for friends or family. Both kids and adults can swing with the rhythm and singing as a superstar with FINYIORE microphone.
CB GITTY 5300201 DIY TIN CAN MICROPHONE KIT
If you’re looking for a unique and fun microphone that you can build yourself, the CB Gitty DIY Tin Can Microphone Kit might be just what you need.
Pros
- Build your own real working Microphone!
- Sounds like a vintage AM radio
- Perfect for vocals and harmonica
Cons
- No metal wire mesh screen, just a stick-on decal
- Piezo pickup could be more sensitive
- Not suitable for professional use
The CB Gitty DIY Tin Can Microphone Kit is a fun and easy-to-build kit that allows you to create your own working microphone. It has a vintage AM radio sound that is perfect for vocals and harmonica, and it’s great for anyone who wants to experiment with sound and electronics.
One of the downsides of this kit is that it doesn’t come with a metal wire mesh screen, just a stick-on decal, which may not be what some users expect. Additionally, the piezo pickup could be more sensitive, and the microphone is not suitable for professional use.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and unique microphone that you can build yourself, the CB Gitty DIY Tin Can Microphone Kit is definitely worth considering. It’s easy to build, sounds great, and is a lot of fun to use.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying an old microphone, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some essential features to look at:
Type of Microphone
There are three main types of microphones: dynamic, condenser, and ribbon. Dynamic mics are rugged and versatile, making them ideal for live performances. Condenser mics are more sensitive and provide a more detailed sound, making them a great choice for studio recording. Ribbon mics are known for their warm sound and are often used for recording vocals and acoustic instruments.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the direction in which it picks up sound. There are three main types of polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight. Cardioid mics pick up sound from the front and reject sound from the sides and rear, making them ideal for recording vocals and instruments. Omnidirectional mics pick up sound from all directions, making them a great choice for recording ambient sound. Figure-eight mics pick up sound from the front and back and reject sound from the sides, making them ideal for recording two sources at once.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it can pick up. A microphone with a flat frequency response will pick up all frequencies equally, while a microphone with a tailored frequency response will emphasize certain frequencies. When choosing a microphone, consider the type of sound you want to capture and choose a microphone with a frequency response that complements it.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a microphone refers to how well it can pick up sound. A more sensitive microphone will pick up quieter sounds, while a less sensitive microphone will require louder sounds to be picked up. When choosing a microphone, consider the environment in which it will be used and choose a microphone with an appropriate sensitivity level.
Connectivity
Finally, consider the connectivity options of the microphone. Some microphones require a separate power source, while others can be powered by the device they are connected to. Additionally, some microphones require a specific type of connector, such as XLR or USB. Make sure the microphone you choose is compatible with your recording setup.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best old microphone for your needs and ensure you get the best sound possible.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
