PowerBook Computers and External Microphones

TOPIC

I would like to purchase an external microphone for my PowerBook computer. The PowerBook 500 series manual indicates I can buy a "line-level" microphone from Radio Shack, but no part or model number is provided.

I contacted Radio Shack they did not know what I'm talking about. Can you provide a product, model, or part number for the external microphone I need to purchase?

What kind of microphones can be used with the various models of PowerBook comptuers?

DISCUSSION

Which Microphone?

• The PowerBook 500 and 5300 series computers require a line level microphone. Apple does not currently offer a compatible solution. You will need to purchase a third-party microphone.

• All 100 series EXCEPT the PowerBook 100, 150, and 190 series computers use the Apple Omnidirectional Microphone. None of the aforementioned computers have a sound input port, hence cannot accept an external microphone.

• The PowerBook 200 and 2300 series (Duo) computers can use the Apple Omnidirectional Microphone when connected to an Apple Duo Docking station or Duo Minidock.

Third Party Microphones

The two units tested were both called Tie Clip Microphones. When we contacted Radio Shack, the part numbers given to us were the Radio Shack part numbers were 33-1052 and 33-3003.* These microphones may not be the only external microphones available, but they were the only microphones tested.

Note: You will need to contact Radio Shack for up-to-date part number information.

If you want to look elsewhere for a microphone, please be sure to look for a "line level" type device, and it is also recommend that the microphone be pre-amplified. If the amplifier is not present the input volume from the microphone may be very low and unusable to most users.

This article provides information about a non-Apple product. Apple Computer, Inc. is not responsible for its content. Please contact the vendor, Radio Shack, for additional information.

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