Custom Lo-Fi ‘Bell Payphone’ Microphone - Northern Telecom 1970's Handset - Black

Looking for lo-fi sounding vocals? Why spend $200+ on a Shure Green Bullet harmonica mic and have your sound guy plague your mix with feedback when you can rock something with a lot more style and 100x easier to manage on stage. These mics do not require phantom power or a DI box or any special wiring. Just plug it in like any other mic and voila: instant compressed lo-fi radio/telephone style vocals.

Featured in this listing is a genuine 1970's bell payphone handset from Northern Telecom. The mic is made from the original earpiece from Northern Telecom but has been rewired using modern components. Mic has been wired into the mouthpiece (not the earpiece). Features 4' of reinforced steel security cable terminating in a male XLR connector. Blue heat shrink was added to the ends of the cable to recreate the signature blue plastic casing around the ends on original payphones.

Normally these Northern Telecom G1 type handsets would be showing their age (nearly 60 years old) with blemishes, scratches, and other signs of use to the finish. However, because this was picked up at an electronic surplus store in-box it is in surprisingly clean condition considering its age. The photos in the listing are of the actual item you will receive.

These types of mics have a lot of colour and break up in their sound. Be careful when first connecting to amp or PA before increasing input/output levels.

Shipping is for Canada Post XpressPost. Or else pickup is available at Space Station Rehearsals in Toronto (near Wallace Ave & Lansdowne Ave).

I can also make lo-fi mics out of other vintage electronics too (like walkie talkies or CB radios). Or you can supply me with the item and I can make the conversion for you at a discounted rate. Just message me for further details or your ideas for a custom project and I can create a listing for you.