Realistic Electret Cardioid Microphone

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