How to Demagnetize a Microphone

Microphones might become magnetized in extremely rare circumstances.

Although many microphones have magnets within them, according to sound engineer John Eargle, they utilize magnetism in routine operation, so they don't usually require demagnetizing. The magnets are shielded anyway so the microphones can't be considered magnetic in the normal sense of the word. To demagnetize a microphone in a crude fashion, simply take the microphone apart and physically remove the magnets. For a less extreme job, use a head demagnetizer, a special tool for tape head maintenance.

Things You'll Need

• Tape drive / head demagnetizer

Instructions

1. Plug the head demagnetizer into a power supply, such as an AC outlet.

2. Place the tip of the head demagnetizer near to the microphone, making sure there is no actual contact between the two. Utilize a small circular motion while moving the head demagnetizer over the whole of the surface area of the microphone, always ensuring no actual contact.

3. Move the head demagnetizer slowly away from the microphone until there is a distance of about 1 foot 6 inches between them. Disconnect the head demagnetizer from the power supply.

Tips & Warnings

• Using a head demagnetizer is unlikely to have any useful effect because there is little chance your microphone needs to be demagnetized.

• While tape heads regularly become magnetized and can usefully be demagnetized with a head demagnetizer, it is very unlikely a microphone would be affected in the same way.

References

• "The Microphone Book"; John Eargle; 2004

Resources

• Athana International: Tape Drive / Head Demagnetizer