Used vintage Claricon dual crystal microphone, no connector, untested, likely from the 1960s. These "pill-style" microphones were popular Japanese-made imitations of the famous RCA 77-series ribbon microphones.

Signs of use, scuffs or stains on surface, no connector, hole in the box, excellent for retro display art.

Model & Features

Brand: Claricon (often made in Japan).

Transducer: Crystal (Piezoelectric), specifically using Rochelle salt crystals to convert sound into electricity.

Design: A "dual crystal" setup was common in these models to improve frequency response, though they generally have a thin, telephone-like sound profile.

Impedance: Typically high impedance (Hi-Z), designed for vintage PA systems, tube amplifiers, or radio equipment.

Condition & Repair

The cable is frayed and lacks a connector. Since crystal microphones are passive (they don't require batteries), repairing them is a straightforward DIY task:

Soldering: You can strip the gray outer jacket to reveal the internal signal wire and the braided ground shield.

Connectors: These were originally fitted with either a 1/4" mono phone plug or an Amphenol screw-on connector.

Fragility: Be aware that the internal crystals are very sensitive to heat and moisture. If the microphone has been stored in a damp basement or attic, the crystals may have "dissolved" or cracked, leaving the mic dead even after cable repair.

Value & Collectibility

Vintage Japanese pill mics like this are highly sought after by collectors for their Art Deco aesthetic and are often used as decorative props or "vibe" microphones for blues harmonica. Similar models from brands like Calrad, Midland, and Lafayette typically sell for $80 to $180 depending on condition.