Karaoke Microphones
Belting out your tune
If you don’t have a Karaoke microphone, you might as well be singing in the shower! Microphones convert sound into an electrical signal that can be sent to amplifiers, mixers and speakers. They’ll transmit your voice loud and clear to your audience. Some mics will even act as voice tutors and gauge the accuracy of your pitch. There are many different types of microphones available, but if you’re singing along to Karaoke, you can avoid all the technicalities and simply get yourself a basic microphone.
The only choice you’ll have to make is between a cordless and a corded microphone. There are pros and cons to each type of microphone and you’ll have to make your decision based on how you want to use your mic in your performance.
Cordless Microphones
Cordless (or wireless) Karaoke microphones send the electric signal to speakers and other accessories through a transmitter. They give you the freedom to move around unimpeded by a cord that can get tangled around other onstage objects or simply trip you up. You’ll be able to communicate more to your audience throughout your performance because you have the freedom to get close to them and move about the stage without worrying about the cord interrupting things.
Many performers prefer cordless microphones. There’s less chance of mishap when you’re using equipment that’s more compact.
Cordless microphones aren’t always the easiest way to go, though. They’re more expensive than their corded counterparts and have more elements that are susceptible to technical difficulties. You have to be aware of your venue when you’re working with a cordless mic because the transmitter can be interrupted and cause distortion and feedback.
You also have to power a cordless Karaoke microphone. Batteries are commonly used as a power source, but then you run the risk of running out of juice in the middle of a performance. It’s awfully easy to forget to recharge a battery after you’ve belted out a great performance!
If you’re looking at cordless microphones you have to weigh versatility against cost and reliability.
Corded Microphones
Corded Karaoke microphones also have both advantages and disadvantages. They’re incredibly reliable – they don’t run out of power and don’t suffer from the interference that cordless microphones can experience. They’re also less expensive then your average cordless microphone and provide a clear and consistent sound.
The problem with corded microphones is the fact that they’re attached to a cord. While some performers just work the cord into their show, some will find it distracting – or even downright dangerous!
The cord is a constant trip hazard and can also limit your on-stage mobility. Depending on the length of the cord you may be stuck in a small area for your entire performance simply because the cord doesn’t stretch any further. This may prevent you from interacting with the audience or putting on the type of show you want.
The choice to go with a corded Karaoke microphone really depends on how much movement you want to be able to include in your performance and how coordinated you can be around onstage obstacles.
