10 Best CB Microphones
Anyone who uses a CB radio will definitely agree when we say that a CB radio is nothing without a proper CB microphone. A CB microphone can actually be considered the heart of a CB radio.
You may wonder why you need to buy a microphone separately when most CB radios include a microphone. It is because most of the microphones aren’t as good and will not provide you with the ultimate experience of using a CB radio.
Well, we know that by now, the market is full of different types of CB microphones, and not all of them were made to suit everyone’s needs. To help you overcome the hassle of browsing through hundreds of microphones, we have researched the market and tested out the top-rated CB microphones.
If you wish to know about the best CB mics on the market, continue reading. You need a microphone that will enhance the experience of your CB system. If you are looking for a high-quality CB microphone, continue reading.
10 Best CB Microphones
Astatic 302-636LB1
If you are looking for the most reliable and best noise-canceling CB microphone, then you might have found the right one. The Astatic 636 is one of the most popular microphones to ever exist, and for good reasons too.
And the 636 by Astatic is a great-looking microphone that features a solid and sturdy case design that is guaranteed to last for years to come. To make it even stronger, the mesh used for the loudspeaker is made up of a polyurethane-coated steel grid.
Now, what will impress you the most isn’t the durability of the product but the quality of the sound. The microphone features a low impedance dynamic that allows it to perfectly preserve sound clarity.
Another quality of the microphone we love is their great noise cancelation quality that helps deliver first-class sound and communication. As a matter of fact, you will not face any sort of disturbance even if you are on the noisiest roads when you use this amazing device.
The microphone comes with a frequency response range of 100Hz-8kHz and an output impedance of 2000 Ohms. This means no matter how close or far away you are to the mic; you will not risk sound distortion. Moreover, it also confirms that your voice will always be amplified when you use this mic.
You will be delighted to know that this microphone is compatible with almost any CB radio. Additionally, it comes with amateur and single side-band options.
All in all, with all these amazing features and durability, the microphone is still being offered at a really reasonable price point. You will not find a better deal than this.
Pros
- Reasonable price point.
- Extremely durable and robust.
- It will provide you with clear and loud sound quality.
- Great noise cancelation.
- Compatible with almost any kind of CB radios.
Cons
- Que switch spring could have been better.
Ranger SRA-198
Up next, we have another great noise-canceling microphone. The SRA-198 by Ranger is one of those microphones that will enrich the pleasure of using a CB radio.
This microphone sports a classic design and comes in a very compact size, which is why you will love using it. The size and feel of the mic are the perfect combination required for a comfortable grip.
Although the microphone sports a compact design, don’t think that it’s flimsy. The mic has a solid construction to produce a robust device that will be durable enough to last for years without issues.
We loved that every aspect of the microphone was developed to provide the customer with convenience. The mic comes with a hanger for you to safely keep it in your vehicle. Additionally, the connection between the cord and the mic has a spring, which makes operating the microphone even better.
When it comes down to the sound quality, this mic will not disappoint. The SRA-198 is prepared with a noise cancelation feature that works great in providing a crystal clear signal, free of distortion and static.
The four-pin wire connector guarantees compatibility with almost any CB radio despite the brand. This is great because you won’t have to match with any specific brands. And the best part about this microphone is definitely the fact that it is super affordable despite being full of amazing features.
Pros
- Compatible with almost all types of CB radios
- Well built
- Will last for years
- Very affordable
- Amazing sound quality
- Comes with a hanger
- Includes a long cord for convenience
Cons
- Some of the mics may be defective
Uniden BC645
Are you looking for the best CB microphone to replace your current one? If you are, we recommend you check out the BC645 by Uniden. Why? You’ll know that after reading this CB power mic review.
Right off the bat, you will notice that it sports a minimalistic design that is easy to use and will be appreciated by most CB operators. The body of the mic has been constructed with high-grade ABS plastic to make the mic durable, as it will protect it from rust and cracks.
This is a good CB power mic that only requires one battery to operate. You will be amazed to notice how much your voice will be amplified despite requiring only one battery to function. This feature is especially handy for people with a low voice.
The mic has a big push button that you must press before transmitting your message. Previously, we faced difficulties using the push button with other models, so we were genuinely happy with how easy the button is on the BV645.
Finally, we would like to talk about how incredible the noise-canceling feature of this mic is. The feature can successfully cancel out any background noise as well as static when you use it.
What’s noteworthy is that despite all the features and other added benefits the mic comes with, such as a long cord, it is still priced at a very low point. We were surprised to find such a great product at such an incredibly low rate.
Pros
- Great construction
- Comfortable and simple to use
- Compatible with nearly all CB radios
- Sound is amplified
- Great noise cancelation feature
Cons
- The wires could have been of better quality
Workman DM 507-4
Up next, we have the DM 507-4 by Workman. It is one of the best options for people who are looking for a good CB power mic on a budget.
Just because the microphone is being offered at a very affordable price point does not mean that it is not full of amazing features. In fact, we were surprised to find that it outdid a lot of other high-end microphones.
To start off, we would like to talk about the microphone’s extraordinary sound quality. Not only will this microphone provide you with clarity, but it will also help to not make you sound plasticky.
Despite not featuring noise cancelation, we were blown away by how the microphone manages to keep any unwanted sound and static away.
It comes in a very compact size, which is great because it makes it easier to operate the device. Moreover, the compact size will also make it more convenient to store in the vehicle.
The body of the microphone has been made with high-quality plastic to keep it safe from damage. And the material also gives the microphone a good premium feel. In fact, you will love having one of these in your hands.
One thing that we did not like was the cord that comes with the mic. For us, it is too small to be able to move around the vehicle or take it outside. Additionally, we found it to be very rigid and difficult to maneuver.
That being said, this tightness should go away after using it for a while and allowing it to be exposed to the sun.
Pros
- Small and compact design
- Great sound quality
- Made with good materials
- Very affordable
Cons
- The cord extension could be a lot better
Astatic 636LSE
Looking for a reliable microphone that will successfully get your message out to the public or fellow CBers? We may have just the right product for you. The 636LSE by Astatic is another great microphone that you will love using, and it’s also regarded as the best CB mic for Cobra 29.
One of the features that drew us to this product is its peculiar shape. If you look at it closely, it sort of resembles a cobra, which is pretty cool. What this shape does is make the user experience way easier and hassle-free. It does so by placing all the switches and knobs where it’s easy to access.
You will notice that almost all the parts of the microphone, including the cord, are made out of really great material. The grille screen has a polyurethane coating, whereas the cord is covered with chrome. Not only do these make it look premium, but it also helps the mic to be durable.
Both the materials used give superior protection against scratches, dents, and the weather.
To operate this microphone, you will require one 9-volt battery. The microphone also comes with a built-in amplifier as well as gain control, which means that your messages will always have clarity, even if you are outside with a lot of people.
Moreover, the 636LSE also features noise cancelation that further cuts down even the loudest background noises. Thanks to the low impedance dynamic feature of this microphone, you will be able to send your message loud and clear over long distances.
Pros
- Made out of high-grade material
- Scratch, dent, and weatherproof
- Very durable
- Easy to use
- Delivers loud and clear messages
- Compatible with CB, SSB, and amateur radio
Cons
- It might seem a bit difficult to use indoors.
Cobra HG M73-70
Here is another extremely popular and innovative CB microphone. The HG M73 by Cobra will be the ideal CB microphone to carry along when going to places that has noisy environment.
Cobra is popular for its pioneering designs, and it is evident on the HG M73-70. This model features a cool, eye-catching design and has been built to last for a lifetime.
Most of the construction is made of ABS shell to make the mic tough and durable, but they also used metal mesh grills to enhance the microphone’s strength.
When it comes to features and performance, the microphone will exceed your expectations. The microphone has dynamic noise cancelation. It also has a voice coil diaphragm that works hand in hand to improve the quality of sound.
In fact, even in the busiest places, you will be able to get your message out without any unwanted sounds.
There is a PTT talk button located on the left side of the microphone. It will allow you to communicate on the go without any stress. You will be delighted to know that the mic comes with a really long, high-quality cord that will allow you to use the mic even if you are very far away.
Given that it has a 4-pin connector, it means that it is compatible with all the CB radios from Cobra and various other brands. Moreover, did you know that this microphone is able to withstand even the most extreme temperatures? Amazing, isn’t it?
Pros
- Really easy to use
- Compatible with almost all the CB radios
- Aesthetic design
- Extremely durable
- Able to withstand extreme temperatures
- Comes with a long cord
- Great quality sound
Cons
- It might be a bit too big
RoadKing RK564P
When it comes to buying a new microphone for a CB radio, it is essential to get one that will provide you with great sound quality, which is why we had to include the RK564P by RoadKing.
This microphone will provide you with a sound output like no other. If you are struggling to find a microphone that will allow you to be heard by all the CB users clearly, then this one will surely be the answer to your problems.
The microphone is able to provide crystal clear communication because of the great dynamic noise cancelation. When we were testing this product, we were amazed to find that even with a background that included loud music and gossip, the sound output came out loud and clear of those unwanted sounds.
We were also impressed by the frequency response of this mic. It has an output level of 100Hz–8kHz and an output impedance of 2000 Ohms that matches inputs of 600-5000 Ohms. This means you will be able to reach a lot of people around you, even if they aren’t very close by.
Not only is this microphone full of great features, but it is going to be super durable as well. It sports a rugged look and has been made up of good quality plastic to keep it safe from rust, weather conditions, and dents. In fact, most users did not have to change their microphones for years, if at all.
And The only drawback for us would be the pricing. While it is a great microphone, cheaper ones with similar features do exist in the market.
Pros
- Very durable
- Amazing noise cancelation
- Provides a good range and frequency
- Excellent output sound quality
- Comes with a 2-position transitory slide switch
Cons
- A little expensive
Aries 50043
Have you ever used a product and felt that it was too good to be true? Well, that’s how we felt about this incredibly affordable and amazing microphone by Aries.
The 50043 by Aries is a minimalistic-looking microphone created for anyone who is into classic designs. But don’t let its minimalistic look fool you. While it features a simple design, it is anything but simple.
To start off, this is one of those microphones that can be labeled as a heavy-duty one. It has been created using ABS plastic and mesh grills to make it sturdy and durable. It is a nice and compact size that will comfortably fit into your hands. Moreover, the compact shape makes it to be easy to use.
Now, this microphone doesn’t feature noise cancelation. But that being said, you will rarely face any wanted sound getting in. However, if you do find it sensitive to loud noises, you should know that it is super easy to modify and get it to the ideal setting.
The quality of the sound of this microphone is incredible. It won’t make you sound nasally or overmodulated. You will find that it will give you the perfect amount of modulation you require to reach your message.
Also, you should know that the microphone is compatible with almost any CB radio, including high-ended ones. It only requires one optional battery to operate this great microphone.
Pros
- Very durable
- Simple and compact design
- User friendly
- Easy to modify
- Good sound quality
Cons
- Does not feature noise cancelation
RoadKing RK564PCH
Up next, we have another amazing microphone by RoadKing. The RK564PCH is yet another masterpiece produced by RoadKing.
Unlike most microphones that are made up of multiple different materials, this model is mostly made up of chrome. The use of chrome guarantees protection from rust, scratches, and the weather. This confirms that you will have a microphone that will last a very long time.
We loved that RoadKing added a flexible coil cord as it decreases the chances of the wire tearing. Moreover, it makes the microphone easier to use. The microphone has a great frequency response rate of 100Hz – 8kHz and a frequency output level of 1kHz.
This ensures that your transmissions will be able to reach a great range. Thankfully, this is a noise-canceling microphone, so you won’t have to worry about any background noise getting through. As a matter of fact, even the loudest noise is unlikely to get through this incredible device.
And we were pleased to find that despite being such a great quality microphone, it has an attractive price point. How doesn’t it like a great deal when it’s the perfect fit?
Pros
- Made with chrome.
- Very sturdy and durable.
- Attractive price point.
- Great transmission rate.
- Excellent noise cancelation.
Cons
- Some might have manufacturing defection.
Pro Trucker Driver’s Product DP56
For those of you who are looking for a microphone that will deliver supreme talk power, let us introduce you to the Driver’s Product DP56 by Pro Trucker.
This microphone will deliver you a clear and loud transmission that almost no other mics would do. It is featured with dynamic noise cancelation, effectively stopping background noise from going through. If you ask us, it is one of the best noise cancellations we have ever gotten from a CB mic.
But that’s not the only feature that gives the microphone such an amazing output transmission. It also comes with a built-in amplifier that maximizes the volume of your message without cracking it.
Incredibly, it comes with a durable coiled cord that is also flexible and is 9.5 inches long! This is probably one of the longest mic cords that you will find on the market. Thanks to the long cord, you can easily use it outside the vehicle without any disturbance.
When it comes down to the design and build, they have also nailed it there. The body is made out of silver-colored high-impact ABS plastic and a black mesh grille. The use of these materials enables the mic to be protected from scratches, dents, rust, and temperature.
As a matter of fact, even if you drop the mic daily, you will still have a device that will look and perform as well as new. Fortunately, the microphone is being sold at a very reasonable price point, which is just the cherry on top.
Pros
- Offered at a reasonable price point.
- Made out of high-grade ABS plastic.
- Compact and sleek design.
- Easy to operate.
- Great loud quality.
- Comes with a very long cord.
Cons
- The design could be nicer.
CB Microphone Buyer Guide: What Makes a Perfect CB Microphone?
Before you pick the microphone you want to buy, we should inform you that there are certain things you need to be aware of. If you know which features to look out for, it will definitely help you buy the best CB mic for you.
Sound Quality
The purpose of buying or replacing a CB microphone is almost always to get a device that will provide you with enhanced sound quality. This is why it is important to go for a microphone that perfectly balances volume and clarity.
To get a device that will deliver great sound quality, you should look for noise cancelation and amplifiers. A noise-canceling microphone will allow you to communicate peacefully without unwanted background noise getting in the way.
While the amplifiers will give help, you get your message sent loud and clear.
Design
When we speak of design, we are referring to the microphone’s outlook and the product’s overall structure. While it is nice to have a good-looking microphone, you should look for a well-designed one.
We will recommend you look for a microphone that has a compact design with all the needed switches and buttons in reachable places. Other features, such as a long cord or a handler, will further enhance your experience of using the microphone.
Power Capability
A lot of microphones that are being offered in the market today require at least one battery to run. How long the battery will last will depend not only on the quality of the battery but also on the microphone.
A good CB mic is likely to give you long battery life, given it consumes energy efficiently. However, you will find a lot of microphones that yield energy out of the radio.
How to Wire a CB Microphone?
When it comes to wiring a CB microphone, you should be aware that not all of them will have the same method, even if they are similar. For example, even if both the microphones feature 4 pin connectors, it does not necessarily mean they can be wired similarly.
However, we are here to give you general instructions on how you can mount almost any 4-pin CB microphone.
The first thing you need to do when wiring a microphone is to determine the different pins on the radio’s mike to distinguish between Audio, Ground, TX, and RX. Next, you need to figure out which colored wire you will need to use.
Finally, you need to be able to precisely solder and insulate the right wires on the matching pins of the microphone’s plug.
Now, you should know that you can wire your microphone by using an Ohmmeter or without it. Whether you choose to use the Ohmmeter or not will have an effect on the course of actions you will need to take while mounting.
For further instructions, we recommend you go through the instruction manual carefully and watch a few tutorial videos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you have read the CB microphone reviews and the buying guide, it’s time for some faqs.
What makes a good quality CB microphone?
The microphone must feature noise cancelation and sound amplifiers to be considered a good-quality CB mic. So, get the best noise-canceling CB microphone out there for you.
What makes the microphone screech?
If the signals travel in a continuous loop, the microphone will tend to squeal.
Do I need to match the brand of the microphone with the radio?
No, most CB microphones come with a 4-pin connector that will allow you to connect with almost any CB radio.
Is noise cancelation really important?
While noise cancelation guarantees clear communication, it is not a must-have feature. Many great microphones will give you great transmission without noise-canceling features.
Is it possible to modify a CB microphone?
It is very much possible to bring changes and modify a CB microphone to suit your needs.
Conclusion
Simply buying a branded microphone or the loudest one will not ensure a good experience or communication. We trust that, by now, you are aware of which features you need to keep an eye out for.
At the same time, we hope to present you with the right microphones that will suit your wants and needs the best.
Make sure to know what you need and are looking for before you decide on a specific product. Furthermore, do not forget to test it before installing it on your radio. Best of luck with the purchase!