The Realistic Electret Cardioid Microphone was a budget-friendly, unidirectional microphone sold by RadioShack under the Realistic brand, likely from the 1970s to 1990s. It used electret condenser technology, requiring a power source (typically a battery or plug-in power).
Key Features:
- Cardioid pickup pattern – reduces background noise and feedback.
- Electret condenser capsule – offers better clarity than dynamic mics.
- Battery-powered – typically required an internal battery or phantom power.
- ¼-inch (TS) or XLR connection – depending on the model.
It was commonly used for home recording, public address (PA) systems, and general speech applications. While not high-end, it provided decent sound quality for its price and remains a nostalgic, budget-friendly option for vintage audio enthusiasts.
Needs internal AA battery to function
Includes case.
Product Specs
- Item Number: 36050
- Make: Realistic
- Model: Electret Cardioid Microphone
- Condition: Very Good
- Finish: Silver
- Categories: pro-audio ⇒ microphones
- MPN: 36050