Buying Vintage Microphones at Flea Markets or Thrift Stores

Tapetown
Nov 7
3 min read

A collection of various microphones arranged on a cream cloth. Includes vintage and modern designs in silver, black, and metallic colors.

Thrift stores and flea markets sometimes hide old microphones that can transform your home recordings. Vintage mics from the 1950s to 1980s, used in studios or on stages, offer warm sound for music creation at a fraction of pro mic prices. Here are 10 microphones you might find for cheap, with tips for recording studios.

1. Shure SM57

Era: 1960s–1980s or sometimes newer as well
Used By: Red Hot Chili Peppers for vocals and guitar.
Sound: Clear, versatile for vocals and instruments.
Why It’s Exciting: Pro mic for home recording studios at thrift store prices.
Thrift Price: $20–$50
Spotting Tips: Black grille, dynamic mic. Test for clear sound, no rattles.

2. Electro-Voice RE15

Era: 1960s and onward
Used By: Radio stations for vocals
Sound: Warm, dynamic for voice and acoustic guitar.
Why It’s Exciting: Studio-quality for songwriting demos on a budget.
Thrift Price: $30–$100
Spotting Tips: Silver body, long handle. Check cable connection.

3. AKG D12

Era: 1950s but you will most likely find newer models from later years
Used By: Early rock for kick drum
Sound: Deep, punchy for drums and bass.
Why It’s Exciting: Vintage vibe for recording studios at low cost.
Thrift Price: $50–$150
Spotting Tips: Large, black body. Test for low-end clarity.

4. Shure 55SH

Era: 1950s but you will only find newer models
Used By: Elvis Presley for live vocals
Sound: Warm, retro vocal tones for rock and blues.
Why It’s Exciting: Iconic look and sound for music creation.
Thrift Price: $40–$100
Spotting Tips: Chrome “Elvis mic” design. Check for dents or noise.

5. RCA BK-5

Era: 1950s and onward
Used By: Early TV studios
Sound: Warm ribbon mic for vocals and instruments.
Why It’s Exciting: Rare studio mic for home recording at thrift prices.
Thrift Price: $50–$150
Spotting Tips: Small, ribbon-shaped. Handle gently, test ribbon.

6. Older Sennheiser MD421's

Era: 1960s–1970s and onward
Used By: Studio drummers for toms
Sound: Clear, dynamic for drums and vocals.
Why It’s Exciting: Pro sound for music creation on a budget.
Thrift Price: $50–$120
Spotting Tips: Black body, white grille. Test for consistent output.

7. Altec 639

Era: 1950s and onward
Used By: Early radio and studios
Sound: Warm, versatile for vocals and instruments.
Why It’s Exciting: Vintage gem for recording studios at low cost.
Thrift Price: $40–$100
Spotting Tips: Birdcage design. Check for working elements.

8. Shure PE54

Era: 1970s and onward
Used By: Local bands for live vocals
Sound: Clear, dynamic for home recording.
Why It’s Exciting: Budget-friendly for music production demos.
Thrift Price: $20–$50
Spotting Tips: Black, bullet-shaped. Test for pops or distortion.

9. Turner 33D

Era: 1950s and onward
Used By: Early rock vocalists
Sound: Warm, vintage tones for retro vocals.
Why It’s Exciting: Unique sound for songwriting at thrift prices.
Thrift Price: $30–$80
Spotting Tips: Chrome or silver body. Check for cable issues.

10. Reslo RB Ribbon

Era: 1960s and onward
Used By: BBC studios for vocals
Sound: Soft, warm ribbon tones for acoustic recordings.
Why It’s Exciting: Rare find for home recording studios.
Thrift Price: $50–$150
Spotting Tips: Small, rectangular ribbon mic. Test gently for ribbon damage.

A microphone like a Shure SM57 or RCA BK-5 from a thrift store can elevate your home recording studio without costing much. Test the mic thoroughly and negotiate for a deal. Check our articles on portable recorders for more budget studio gear.