Karaoke Forums

I was just informed a week ago that there would be Karaoke at our family Thanksgiving party.  We do not have a Karaoke machine.  So I need some help quick.  With zero knowledge I started by researching this forum.  I just purchased a RSQ E-500 machine.  My plan is to connect it to a home theater system in our lower level.  This includes a 36" Sony TV, Sony receiver, five speakers and a subwoofer, etc.  My plan is to connect the RSQ to this system.

Again, I know nothing about Karaoke.  Will this setup work?  If it will, now I need microphones.  I was thinking wireless, but don't know.  I don't want to spend much, but the pressure is on....I am married to the VonTrapp Family singers...one of the family members has made four albums.  Oh man.  I just want the system to work, and for everyone to have fun.

Your advice is greatly appreciated.

That setup will work.  If you don't want to spend too much money, don't buy a wireless mic.  Go for a good wired mic, such as Audix OM5.  If you really want to save a lot of money, you may want to consider buying the GLS Audio ES-58 from speakerrepair.com.  Don't let the cheap price fool you.  This mic looks and sounds like the Shure SM-58.

Good luck!

Thnks for the suggestions.  I checked on the ES-58 microphones on spearkerreapir.com.  I see that for two mics & cables I will be paying $80+.  I can pick up a RSQ wireless system with 2 mics for close to same price.  Am I still better off with the wired mics?

For a home system with occasional use, I wouldn't bother with wireless mics. There's really no need for them. (also less chance of feedback from someone walking around and getting in front of a speaker.)

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Honestly, I didn't know that RSQ makes mics.  As a general rule, I would frown upon mics offered by karaoke manufacturers.  In the early years of karaoke, many of my friends bought mics from Pioneer, Panasonic, and some obscure brands.  I was pretty picky with the sound even at that time, and had tested several mics including those from Vocopro.  I ended up buying the Shure SM58 for $99, and have been very happy with it.  My friends love the sound of the SM58 so much so that they don't use their own mics when I bring my own mic.  

Wireless mics are nice, but the good ones are very expensive.  You can't expect good quality for a 2-mic wireless system such as the RSQ for under $100.  As gahmc has pointed out, you don't necessarily need a wireless mic for home use.  Personally, I would buy a good wired mic and the ES-58.  The Audix OM5 is a very good mic, and is not very expensive.  If there is a Guitar Center near your location, try out different mics, and choose the one that you like most.  Go for quality, even if it costs more.

Good luck.

The karaoke machines only take 1/4" microphone jacks.    You have to get the right impedance microphones.     My microphones use the 3 prong cables.   I had to get a line transformer to make them 1/4".   Get these line transformers at Radio Shack.