Condenser Mic for Under $20

In this Instructable I will show you how to make a simple condenser microphone for under $20. I used a tea tin for my microphone's case, but you can use whatever works for you.

List of Parts:
Condenser mic cartridge (I got mine from the component bins at Radio Shack)
10.0UF/100VDC metal-poly capacitor
1000PF 100V ceramic disc-style capacitor
9V battery snaps
2.21K ohm 1/4W 1% metal film resistor
Male XLR plug
9V battery holder
Casing for the mic (I used a Zhena’s Gypsy Tea tin)
Wires
Heatshrink tubing (optional, but can help prevent shorts)

All parts can be found on DigiKey.
Originally posted this (along with the schematic) on my blog. You can contact me there if you have questions.

Step 1: Prepare the microphone cartridge

Solder the disc capacitor between the mic cartridge leads. Be careful doing this as excessive heat can damage the cartridge.

Comments

[gturley]

I was wondering if it is possible to wire this microphone without the 9v battery option and instead use phantom power? If so what would be different?

[pstefanović]

This project is amazing! Here's mine microphone!