Anyone out there know something about microphones?

Parent Cafe
1

Argh. So our non-profit’s old, donated portable hand-held microphone system has apparently died, and we need a new, used, or borrowed system for a program this week, ideally one with a body mic capability. The sum total of what I know about microphones is that you have to plug an amplifier into a socket, plug the mic into the amplifier, and make sure the mic is on. The end. I’m also dimly aware of the existence of wireless microphone systems because I did an Amazon search and saw some kind of cautionary notice from the FCC about them.

The program will be held in a small auditorium for about 100 attendees. Louder is always better for this group. Someone will be portraying a historical figure but the performer did request a mic and unless she’s Ethel Merman she probably can’t project so that everyone present will hear her without one.

Any thoughts or suggestions for someone who is a true audio idiot? Specific name brands or systems or even general ideas of where to look – all are appreciated. (Money is a huge object, too.) Thanks for reading!

2

Do you have a Guitar Center store around you? I have found them helpful in the past with audio related needs.

3

We do, and only about 15 minutes from here! Thanks, @oneofthosemoms - never would have thought of them.

4

Second guitar center

5

Bumping this to thank @oneofthosemoms and @powercropper for their helpful suggestion. We were able to rent a body mic and setup for about $40, and there were no complaints about not being able to hear. That’s huge in a room of more than 100 seniors.

On the very off chance that this thread is relevant to anyone else, I will say that I had to go back to the store to get a cable that connected the mic set with our amplifier. The clerk apparently thought I’d know I needed one and must have it if I didn’t ask for it. Even though I told him I was an A/V idiot, as stated in the OP. But the typical Guitar Center shopper is a lot savvier than I am (and a lot younger, too).

6

Thanks for the update, @frazzled1. I’m glad everything worked out for you!