So you've built a cigar box guitar, eh? Want to add some vocals while you rock the box? Then let's build a beer can mic. I've built several of these, and they have a great, old-time sound that's even better with a little gain.
Want to add some vocals while you rock a cigar box guitar? Then let's build a beer can mic!
I've built several of these, and they have a great, old-time sound that's even better with a little gain.
Here's your recon mission:
• 24-ounce beer can (Soda cans work too)
• Piezo disk element
• Metal sink drain strainer
• A piece of scrap wood the length of the beer can
• Volume pot (volume control). I like the 500k, but 250k will work too.
• ¼-inch phone jack
• Volume knob
• Bits of electrical wire
• Electrical tape
• Duct tape (Oh, yeah)
• Three each, 1/2-inch wood screws
The tools:
• Work gloves
• Safety goggles
• Tin snips
• Sandpaper
• Belt sander (optional)
• Screwdriver
• Soldering iron and solder
• Drill with 3/8-inch and 9/32-inch bits
As always, check out the Everything for a $1 stores and thrift stores for your gear, and check out CB Gitty for the piezo, jack and volume pot.
After you have emptied your can or can(s), give it a good wash inside and out and make sure it is dry. I use the 24-ounce can because, well, it's 24 ounces -- and it fits a little neater with the sink strainer.
Caution: This is dangerous! Be careful while doing this part. While wearing thick work gloves, carefully cut out the top of the can using tin snips. I use a belt sander with fine-grit paper instead