Audio-Technica ATR1100 Microphone

I bought an inexpensive microphone for singing practice at home. I plug it into a little guitar amplifier. The microphone is Audio-Technica ATR1100 and I purchased it online from Radio Shack (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4085499). It is also sold by other online retailers and you might shop around for best price.

It is priced about USA $ 10 and for the month of October shipping is free. I was apprehensive about buying such a cheap microphone but it's made by Audio-Technica, it's for home practice so I gambled and let's see how good this is.

I like it. The ATR1100 microphone is about the same shape and size as the Shure SM58 microphone. The 3 meter long cable is hard wired in but it is long enough for my use. The connector is a 1/8 inch phono plug and a 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch adapter is included. It is described as "unidirectional", a narrow cardioid directional pattern. It handles like other microphones. It is directional but that's OK, I can turn up the amp and hear myself without feed back. I am pleased with the sound, much better sound than I expected, sounds quite a bit like the Shure SM58 microphone but there are differences - the ATR1100 handle is microphonic - tap on the handle and the tap tap sound comes through the speakers, and the handle is plastic (I remember my SM58 having a metal handle), the SM58 is rugged and can tolerate road use, the ATR1100 looks sturdy but is probably for home use. The ATR1100 has a on/off switch on the handle.

Overall I think the Audio-Technica ATR1100 is a good practice microphone, I am pleased with the sound and performance, I recommend this microphone for home use vocal practice through a little guitar amplifier.

Good to hear you found a good bargain mic for your home use.