Like any other device, microphone technology does not stand still and is constantly evolving. New models are getting better, more technological, more practical, and more efficient. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. Everything is not so simple and not unidirectional in this belief. This is not the same story as for, say, TVs and television in general. What do I want to say? Let’s step back a bit towards and look at microphones’ history points.
History
Alexander Graham Bell made the very first microphone for the telephone in 1876. It didn’t sound great, but it was a big deal back then. Later, Thomas Edison made the first proper microphone in the 19th century. It’s a cardioid mic. Nowadays, we still use cardioid microphones a lot.
Since then, the specific market has witnessed growth, and the quality of sound has improved. New opportunities have emerged for microphones. For example, in the 1970s, the opportunity to eliminate wires on stage arose, and in the 21st century, manufacturers developed convenient microphones with a USB connection (users plug them into a computer and utilize them). All of these advancements occurred because people’s needs were escalating, and manufacturers were able to meet the demand.
Today
However, the basic technology for 150 years of history has not changed much. Today, people exploit the root ideas despite the appearance of new variations. This is an important sign. If you look closely, you’ll notice that throughout the history of the mic, manufacturers have introduced cult models to the market, models we still remember and revere. Were they worse than modern devices? I am more than sure that most decisions of the 1930s or 1950s are not worthy of the attention of the modern user. Individuals have always discovered individual pearls, cherishing them for their unique combination of technologies that create a distinctive, recognizable signature sound. There are those who have become a cult subject due to their memorable appearance and design.
Most of them are not out there. But demand remains. What to do with him? Manufacturers republish the classics or create new models based on established solutions. Whether new products are good is a subjective question, but they are worthy of attention.
So, I tried to put together in one article those old-fashioned microphones that are worth checking out if you want something really good. Plus, you won’t lose anything by giving it a try. You might even solve your microphone needs for a long time. I included only the options guaranteed to work well for a long time. Are you ready to explore these classic microphones with me?
Pyle PDMICR74GL
Pyle PDMICR70GL Review
The Pyle PDMICR70GL microphone combines affordability with quality, featuring a…
This item is definitely a classic piece from the past. Just by looking at it, you can immediately think of the old-fashioned microphones used in music videos from the 80s or 90s, which brings back memories of those times. The creators have worked hard to give it a special feel, like you’re at a concert. Without a doubt, the audience will truly impress and interest people.. It’s worth mentioning that this set includes both the microphone and the stand, and they both have that vintage look. Only with both pieces together can you really give your audience that “old school” feeling. Also, it’s important to note that the vintage style is only in the design – the technology is modern and up-to-date, but it pays tribute to the classic microphones of the past.
A lot is quite traditional: for example, cable connection, XLR connector (3-pin). But also here you can note the built-in cable management, the ability to adjust for height and a reliable metal base. The stand tightly mounts the microphone, allowing it to rotate 360 degrees. Users can conveniently adjust the mic’s location to suit their needs.
Features: microphone + stand, true retro style, flexible stand height adjustment, 360-degree microphone rotation, built-in cable adjustment
Pros:
- stunning appearance;
- manufacturability;
- ease of use on stage.
Cons:
- no cord to connect to the amplifier;
- individual plastic parts.
Neumann U87 Ai
People still use the immortal classic vocal recording studio, the Neumann U87 (1967-1986), to this day. The developer continues to release new devices with changes that do not spoil the main splendor. The latest model, the Neumann U87 Ai, serves various purposes. It excels in studio recording for acoustic guitar, piano, strings (particularly cello and double bass), wind and percussion instruments, as well as background sounds. Everyone especially loves the mic (both the new and the old version) for its unique, memorable, very high-quality sound.
It utilizes a capsule with a large double membrane, offering three distinct radiation patterns: circular, cardioid, and 8-shaped. These patterns can be alternated by means of a selector positioned beneath the protective grill.
The newest model continues to secure accolades at recent shows, thus highlighting why it demands attention. Moreover, given its considerable expense, it is primarily tailored for professional studios. Consequently, utilizing it outside such environments may result in a failure to fully leverage its features.
Features: circular, cardioid and 8-shaped patterns, for recording vocals, musical instruments and sound space, unique sounding
Pros:
- uniqueness of sound;
- versatility;
- reputation;
- manual assembly.
Cons:
- very high price.
Pyle PDMICR42SL
Another outstanding classic styling. A single glance is sufficient to identify this microphone and immediately desire ownership. Furthermore, amidst the pleasant sensations of admiration, there emerges the remarkable presence of a past personality, serenading the scene.. For example, Elvis Presley. It was he who influenced this style of microphone as one of the fundamental in design and desirability.
What else does the creator of the new model have to offer? After looking into it, I can honestly say it’s more than just a pretty face. Technically, it’s quite fascinating. For instance, they’ve built in a pop-filter that blocks out background noise and keeps the sound clear, almost as good as an external one. Plus, the sound quality itself is really good. They didn’t just copy someone else’s design; they focused on the technical aspects. The developer made sure the sound goes in the right direction, making it great for different voice and speech tasks.
The tilt angle is highly flexible; additionally, three color options are available: traditional silver, black, and red.
Features: flexible tilt adjustment, verified distinguished retro design, built-in pop filter, clear sound direction
Pros:
- high quality and purity of sound;
- stylish appearance;
- versatility.
Cons:
- plastic elements easily lose their original appearance in some places.
Neumann U47 fet
Another legend of several generations that is available on the market today. Neumann U47 fet was one of the iconic 1970s classic studio microphones that almost defined the sound of an era. This is a classic that sounds interesting and relevant even today. But the developers could not ignore the opportunity to add a number of technological innovations and updates.
Why is sound good? The fact that it is very smooth and expressive. No comparisons to anything. Enough to hear once to understand. The developer provided a unique clarity and expressiveness of sound, which made a space impression in the 1970s, I am sure of that. It was usually used for vocals and speech due to the lamp design. By the mid-1980s, trends had changed, and the model dropped out of the company’s product line. But demand remained, and over time, output was resumed with changes. Interestingly, they began to use it more actively for working with musical instruments. It turned out expressively and originally.
The design of the new version is preserved inaccuracy. The condenser capsule has a large aperture. The large output transformer is responsible for the continuity of sound. The dynamic range is very large – 119 dB. Settings are very simple and intuitive. Even a child can adjust the location of the microphone head to suit their own needs. In general, the tilt angle adjustment is very flexible, but the fixation in the given position is reliable. There is an additional output attenuation switch.
Features: an accurate and improved copy of the classics of the 1970s, a unique tube sound, additional control, and tuning tools
Pros:
- versatility;
- convenience, and ease of tuning;
- stylish vintage sound.
Cons:
- high price.
Shure 55SH Series II
I propose to look at another interesting version of the “Elvis microphone”, which allows you to feel the legend of the world of sound. But, of course, an excursion into the past is possible side by side with updated technologies.
What good is in this model? A trusted manufacturer who decided to release his own reading of a win-win classic. Shure is a guarantee of decent quality by default. Also noteworthy is the approach to the elaboration and detailing of the design, which is conveyed not in “general strokes”, but in all the details. This is the thing that a person wants to own, just own, and then everything else. It is this feeling that arises in the first place.
The sound is universal, and the user can use it to work with vocals, speech, and recording / scoring of musical instruments. However, this model was created for vocalists in the first place. A cardioid pattern ensures clear sound even in adverse conditions. Also, noise is reduced due to the shock absorption system, which suppresses vibration. The positioning adjustment is very flexible.
Features: for stage and studio, for vocals, speech and instruments, cardioid pattern, recognizable Elvis design
Pros:
- stylish appearance;
- reliability;
- flexible adjustment of the angle of inclination;
- suppression of third-party noise and vibration.
Cons:
- inconvenient switch location;
- weighs a lot.
AKG C414 XLS
AKG was the first manufacturer to come up with a mic capsule design with two fixed plates that act as an electrode. The principle of operation of any condenser microphone is unchanged: one lining of the condenser is a fixed plate, the second is a movable membrane. This is usually a thin gold-plated polymer. The innovation here is that the capsule of the AKG condenser microphone consists of two plates and two membranes. The advantages of this design are obvious – you can change the radiation pattern without losing the sensitivity of the capsule. The AKG C2 was the first in 1952, and the AKG C414 was one of the best developments in the future. It was used to record or sound the vocals of soloists and live instruments, for classical music, as an overhead mic for removing a drum kit, for recording ensembles and more.
A successful model is developing today. AKG C414 XLS is the latest stage of development. It is used to record vocals or instruments, providing in each case the perfect clear sound quality with expressive detail. There are 9 polar patterns to choose from, which determines the maximum flexibility of the device. If necessary, the user can use three attenuation switches of -6, -12, or -18 dB. Several filter settings are also available for different conditions of use. This is a technological solution of our day, which keeps the traditions of the original microphone in full.
Features: 9 selectable polar patterns, recording vocals or instruments in the studio, set of additional sound control filters
Pros:
- purity and detail of sound;
- versatility;
- a large number of settings for a unique performance.
Cons:
- very sensitive.
Monoprice Memphis Blue Classic Dynamic Microphone
Monoprice Memphis Blue Classic Review
The Monoprice Memphis Blue Classic Microphone is a budget-friendly microphone…
A fairly simple solution for undemanding users who need an affordable stage mic in a classic mid-twentieth century design. This model incorporated the best of design than the concert microphones of the 1940-1950s were famous for. Stylish finish, high-quality materials, detailed forms: this is all you can count on. And the splendor is felt at first sight, as for me.
But this mic does not just play a decorative role. The developer integrated modern elements and solutions so that the user sounds in the spirit of the present, but with a touch of the charm of the past. The mic accurately picks up sound from the front and cuts out noise on the sides. Also noteworthy is the shock-absorbing system, which blocks interference from vibrations and prevents sharp displacements of the microphone during singing on stage. The housing is made of zinc alloy, and the appearance of the microphone wears out very slowly. Many analogs in this niche cannot boast similar, unfortunately.
Features: robust zinc housing, outstanding mid-twentieth-century design, smart features for stage use
Pros:
- reliability;
- durability;
- impact resistance;
- sound capture without third-party sources;
- thought-out shock absorption system.
Cons:
- build quality is imperfect but quite acceptable.
Royer Labs R-121
The recognizedclassic microphone of the 21st century. This ribbon model of the microphone was released in 1998 and retains wide consumer interest. It provides high-quality sound at the level of the best dynamic microphones, plus a characteristic “warm tube” sound. Users can count on high accuracy and realism when transmitting vocals and speech. If necessary, they can record musical instruments in a very interesting timbre.
A special plus deserves the high build quality and consumables that were used in the manufacture of the device. This is a durable product that will last a long time. It is also compact and portable.
The developers are proud of the unique ribbon converter, where the ribbon element is located closer to the front of the microphone. This allows you to save additional space for movement along the main magnetic field; the full frequency response during recording with a high sound pressure level is maintained.
Features: high SPL, low residual noise, portable design, unique patented technology of the modernized tape converter, the absence of high-frequency phase distortion
Pros:
- stylish design;
- reliability;
- durability;
- high build quality and consumables;
- warm and expressive sound.
Cons:
- the sounding is not for everyone.
Shure Green Bullet 520DX
Another very iconic design from the past from Shure. Style and embodiment are simply mesmerizing at first sight. The manufacturer managed to achieve the ideal spirit of the antiquity of the mid-twentieth century, transferring the technological effectiveness of our time. This is a non-standard solution due to several factors, but buyers will be found in large volumes.
This is a wired model. However, it is easy to mount on a stand. The mic is ideal for concerts and studios for individual tasks. A useful design feature that I want to pay attention to right away is a convenient volume control on the case. This gives maximum flexibility to the vocalist on stage during the singing process.
The model is very sensitive (omnidirectional), and it is able to provide expressive sound at the output. The user needs to be careful with capturing third-party noise while doing so. It is possible to connect a mic to the computer with a special adapter. There is a dynamic cartridge with improved response characteristics. Overall, this is a very reliable and effective solution.
Features: Custom vintage design, an original instrument for the stage and studio, a special volume control knob for flexibility of use on the stage, an updated dynamic cartridge with an improved response
Pros:
- expressive vintage design;
- outstanding user features;
- usability.
Cons:
- captures third-party sounds periodically.
Electrovoice RE20
The iconic model of a microphone for broadcasting, which provides accurate and expressive translation of speech in any environment. Third-party sounds are cut off as much as possible. Popularity in this area is achieved due to the smooth and linear characteristics of the voice, which “save” practically in any situation. An important feature of the mic is Variable-D technology. It reduces the degree of tone shifts with the proximity effect. This means that a person who speaks into the mic may not be able to do this in the immediate vicinity and will be heard.
If necessary, the model can be used to record musical instruments in the studio, and this provides an unusual, but attractive sound. Most often, a mic is used when working with drum kits and acoustic guitars. The case is made in an all-metal format, and this is a powerful protection against any external influences. An additional system of protection against external vibrations helps to suppress external noise during operation. In sum, all this makes the model super-efficient in many tasks.
Features: model for broadcasting and recording musical instruments, soft speech reproduction, full metal case, Variable-D technology
Pros:
- high-strength case;
- expressive sound of a voice;
- high quality of assembly and materials.
Cons:
- unstable mount.
Conclusion
This top 10 models and the whole market as a result of my research showed certain trends associated with the niche of classic microphones. The demand for vintage equipment is large, but not absolute. At the same time, classic microphones can be divided into two categories: these are copies of the vintage design of the mid-20th century (often for stage use) and updated versions of old models of professional microphones for studio work, which have certain, widely recognized technical characteristics. Whatever the case, manufacturers in each case seek to create an alloy of the traditions beloved by many people and modern technologies that ensure that audio equipment meets user standards of our time. In summary, all of the above models deserve equal attention, and you can find even more cool solutions outside this article if you wish.
Classic microphones blend vintage charm with modern tech, offering users a taste of nostalgia without sacrificing quality. From stage performances to studio recordings, these timeless models provide a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re belting out tunes or broadcasting your voice, these vintage-inspired designs ensure that your sound stands out from the crowd. So, dive into the world of vintage microphones and discover the perfect blend of old-school charm and cutting-edge technology for your audio needs.