What to check before buying a used microphone

Ever picked up a mic that looked fine but sounded thin or crackled under pressure? That surprise ruins a session fast.

What’s going on

Buying used mics can save you a lot. But mics are tools that age with use. Cables, capsules, switches, and mounts wear out. You need quick checks so you don’t pay for problems you can’t see.

Why it matters

A bad mic can hide problems until the first take. Then you lose time, money, and your mood. A few minutes of testing will tell you if the mic will do the job or become a sunk cost.

What to check before you buy

Start with the basics: look, feel, and sound. Bring a phone or a small recorder. Try the mic on both voice and an instrument if you can. Watch for loose parts and signs of drops.

• Check the body for dents, big scratches, or cracks that might mean internal damage.

• Test the on/off switch and any pads or high-pass filters; they should click cleanly and stay in place.

• Plug it in and listen for hiss, hum, or crackle with different cables and preamps.

• Record a short sample and listen on good headphones for clarity, background noise, and distortion.

• Inspect the capsule or grille for dents, rust, or foam that’s falling apart.

• Ask about the mic’s history: studio use, live shows, or smoky bars can mean heavy wear.

• If it’s a condenser, check phantom power behavior; if it’s dynamic, try it with a console and with a handheld.

Micro-moment: You meet a seller at a cafe or studio. You plug the mic into your portable recorder. You say one short line and play a chord. Those two sounds will tell you more than a photo.

Red flags to watch for

If switches feel sticky or the mic loses sound when moved, those are bad signs. Heavy corrosion near the XLR or battery compartment often means future failures. A capsule that rattles or moves inside usually needs major repair. If the seller won’t let you record or test, consider that a deal breaker.

Quick tests for specific types

For dynamic mics: squeeze the grille gently while recording. If you hear thumps or rubbing, the internal mount may be loose. For condenser mics: listen for a noisy start-up when phantom power is applied. For ribbon mics: ask about any phantom power incidents and listen for a muted or broken ribbon sound.

Practical buying tips

Bring what you need to test: a spare cable, an adapter if required, headphones, and a recorder or phone. Offer to spot a quick recording; most sellers are fine with that. Negotiate based on repairs you can see. If the mic needs a new cable or a clean grille, factor that cost in.

If it won’t stay in tune through a short play test, assume there’s a reason and negotiate from that risk.

Today’s takeaway: Test with your ears and a short recording before you hand over cash.