One of the main reasons artists choose to record from home is simply because they don’t have the budget to book a recording studio. If they don’t even have the budget for studio time, it’s unlikely they’ll have the means to buy a brand new microphone in order to record on their own.
If you’re planning to record your music at home and considering buying a used microphone online, you should do so with caution. There’s a good chance you’ll find an amazing deal but every once in a while someone gets a dud.
To help you avoid getting stuck with a poor quality mic, we have this list of seven quick things to consider when buying used:
1. Have A Mic Tech Check It Out Before Purchasing
If a mic tech visit is not listed, ask the seller if they’ll agree to a conditional buy. Offer to buy the microphone on the condition that you have a microphone technician look it over first.
When it comes to used recording equipment, no one can advise you better than a tech. If they don’t give you a thumbs up on the quality of the microphone, you won’t get stuck in the sale.
2. Buy From Places With A Money Back Guarantee
This one seems obvious but many people overlook it when buying online goods. Microphones are complicated, and it’s nearly impossible when buying used to tell if one is broken from a photo. So, it only makes sense that they should be guaranteed.
If they offer to refund your money if the mic is bad, then you’re covered either way. If they don’t, then you could be stuck with money out of pocket and a useless microphone.
3. Make Sure a Padded Case Is Included
This is a good sign that the person you’re buying from used the microphone with care. It will ensure that there’ll be no damage to your mic during shipping.
4. Ask For High Quality Photos
Asking for high quality photos if none are provided is a great way to check that there are no scratches on the exterior of the microphone.
Is it possible that a microphone with a ton of scratches and marks will still sound good? Definitely, but it’s not very likely. Scratches usually come from the mic being dropped or mishandled in other ways and there’s only so much of this the mic can take before something comes loose.
5. Buy From A Sound Equipment Company
Actual companies charge more for used microphones than buying directly from the owner. However, there’s a reason: they actually check to make sure the microphones still work well.
With this in mind, you’re definitely more likely to get a good lasting piece of hardware if you buy from the pros.
6. Trust In Older (and Probably Pricier) Models
One of the biggest differences between cheap mics and good mics is durability. Pricy microphones last longer, take more of a beating and are a lot easier to fix. If you have to choose between a 15-year-old mic that originally sold for $2000, it’s going to be a lot better than a 6-month-old mic that sold for $150.
7. Buy A Microphone That Suits Your Needs
It’s easy to get way too pumped about good deals and make unnecessary purchases. So, make sure you know exactly what you want before you start shopping. Consider:
- Whether you need it for studio or live performances
- Which directions of pick-up you need
- Whether low end frequencies or high-end content matters most
- If you want to use an external power supply
Do your research so you end up with a mic that actually works for you!
Conclusion: Buying Used Microphones
Even the best singers in the world can be stuck with subpar tracks because their recording was done poorly. So, it’s important to take the necessary steps when buying a used microphone to find the right fit for you.
You can do this by having a mic tech look it over, buying from reputable sellers with guarantees and looking for any signs of wear ahead of time. Above all else, it’s important to invest in a good mic so you can make the music you want!
If you enjoyed the tips in this post be sure to check out the rest of the Sundown Sessions Studio Blog of more tips on home recording, mixing and songwriting.