Astatic Microphones Manufacturer
Born from the shared passion of radio amateurs in 1931, Astatic Microphones transformed from a kitchen-table experiment in Youngstown into a cornerstone of American audio engineering. The brand carved its name into history with the legendary D-104 “Silver Eagle,” a microphone that became the gold standard for ham radio operators and CB enthusiasts for nearly seventy years. Beyond its hobbyist roots, the company’s pivot to Rochelle salt crystal technology and vital World War II military production solidified its reputation for rugged innovation. From the iconic “bullet” mics gripped by blues harmonica legends to the sophisticated remote-pattern controllers used in modern boardrooms, Astatic’s legacy lives on through the precision of CAD Audio and the durable gear of DAS Companies.
Top Astatic Microphones
Astatic D-104
The legendary “Silver Eagle” is an iconic base station microphone celebrated by ham radio operators for its high-output crystal element and unmistakable chrome-plated “lollipop” design.
Astatic JT-30
Originally designed for public address, this bullet-shaped classic has become the gold standard for blues harmonica players seeking a warm, gritty, and naturally distorted “Chicago” tone.
Astatic 636L
Recognized as the premier choice for professional truckers, this rugged noise-canceling handheld microphone is engineered to deliver crystal-clear communication in the loudest high-traffic environments.
Astatic Microphones delivers elite audio precision tailored for the high-stakes environments of modern boardrooms, sprawling airports, and sacred sanctuaries.
Product Categories
Experience seamless integration and superior sound clarity across our diverse range of professional audio solutions.
Boundary Microphones
These low-profile units utilize advanced variable pattern technology to capture clear dialogue across large conference tables while remaining nearly invisible to the eye.
Gooseneck Microphones
Designed for podiums and boardrooms, these flexible mics offer precise positioning and specialized RF shielding to eliminate interference from mobile devices.
Handheld and Paging Microphones
Built for the rigors of daily use in schools and transport hubs, our handheld and paging models feature rugged construction for dependable voice announcements.
Specialized Wireless Systems and Headphones
Beyond traditional wired options, our wireless systems and high-fidelity headphones provide the mobility and monitoring accuracy required by commercial audio technicians.
User Experiences
Arthur Sterling “As a lead AV integrator for international airports, I have relied on Astatic paging microphones for over a decade because they are virtually indestructible. During our last terminal expansion, we installed their boundary mics in the executive conference rooms, and the remote variable pattern control allowed us to tune the acoustics perfectly without physically swapping out hardware. The feedback from the airport board has been phenomenal, specifically noting the crispness of the announcements even in high-traffic, echo-prone areas.”
Eleanor Vance “Upgrading our historic church’s sound system was a challenge due to the limestone walls, but the Astatic gooseneck microphones on the pulpit solved our clarity issues immediately. I was particularly impressed with the RF filtering; we no longer get that annoying buzz when a parishioner’s phone searches for a signal mid-service. The sleek design of the 900-series blends perfectly with our woodwork, proving that professional-grade audio doesn’t have to look industrial or out of place in a traditional setting.”
Marcus Thorne “I’ve used Astatic gear since my early days in radio, so when it came time to outfit our new corporate headquarters, I looked straight to their commercial line. Their boundary microphones have transformed our huddle rooms, as the pick-up range is wide enough to capture everyone around the table without the need for multiple intrusive stands. Dealing with their distribution partners at Dale Pro Audio was a breeze, and it’s clear that the legacy of quality from their Ohio roots is still very much alive in their current CAD Audio partnership.”
Astatic FAQ
What makes the Astatic D-104 so popular among radio enthusiasts?
The D-104 earned its “Silver Eagle” reputation due to its high-impedance crystal element, which provides a crisp, high-frequency response that cuts through atmospheric noise better than standard microphones. Its iconic “lollipop” aesthetic and rugged stand became a status symbol in the ham and CB radio communities throughout the 20th century.
Can I still use vintage Astatic crystal microphones with modern audio equipment?
Yes, though it often requires an impedance matching transformer or a high-impedance preamp because modern mixers and interfaces are typically designed for low-impedance inputs. Without proper matching, a vintage crystal or ceramic element may sound thin or lose its characteristic low-end warmth.
Why is the Astatic JT-30 considered the best microphone for harmonica players?
The JT-30’s small, “bullet” shape fits perfectly in the hands of a harmonica player, allowing them to cup the mic and create an airtight seal that produces a fat, overdriven tone. Its crystal element is highly sensitive to the nuances of “cupping,” which is essential for achieving the classic Chicago blues sound popularized by artists like Little Walter.
What is Variable Pattern Technology in Astatic commercial microphones?
Variable Pattern Technology allows an installer or user to remotely adjust the microphone’s polar pattern—such as switching from omnidirectional to cardioid or hypercardioid—using a control box or software. This flexibility is vital in boardrooms and airports where the acoustic environment may change depending on the number of people in the room or the level of background noise.
Where can I find replacement parts or service for legacy Astatic products?
While DAS Companies now handles CB accessories and CAD Audio manages the commercial line, many legacy parts for vintage models like the D-104 or JT-30 are available through specialized restoration shops like West-Tech Services. Collectors often seek out original Rochelle salt crystals or replacement elements to maintain the authentic vintage sound.