Build Your Own Microphone
With Alan Affichard
Ever wanted to build your own microphones from scratch? In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn to construct one of three types of DIY microphones — electret, piezo, and hydrophone — and walk away with working tools you actually made yourself. No experience needed. The workshop focuses on accessible, hands-on fabrication techniques, including basic soldering, gluing, and sewing. You will go from raw components to fully functional mics in a single session. Each microphone captures sound in a different way, opening up new possibilities for field recording, live performance, and experimental sound work. By the end of the session, you'll test your creation in real conditions — recording environments around, exploring textures and resonances, or plugging into experimental live setups. Whether you're a musician, sound artist, or just curious about how microphones work, this workshop gives you the skills, the tools, and the confidence to keep building.
- Dates
- Mon 12 Oct, Mon 19 Oct, Mon 26 Oct, Mon 2 Nov, Mon 9 Nov, Mon 16 Nov
- Time
- 18:00–20:00
- Cost
- €40-60 (+ €5 membership fee for new members)
- Attendance type
- Each workshop is a one-off
- Class type
- Music, DIY, Sound, Practical skills
- Space
- Workshop
- Desired audience
- Artists, musicians, performers, this workshop is for anyone drawn to sound recording, nature field recording, experimental music, or performative practices — and curious about DIY, noise, and hands-on sonic practices. It's also a great opportunity for those who can't afford commercial microphones to learn how to build their own, high-quality tools at a fraction of the cost.
- What should I bring?
- If possible, bring a portable recorder (such as a Zoom) and headphones. No prior knowledge needed — total beginners are very welcome!
About the artist
Alan Affichard is an artist whose practice sits at the intersection of sound art, craft, and new technologies. Through performance and installation, he explores the tensions and possibilities that emerge between these fields. Drawing equally from experimental music and artisanal practices, his work brings together DIY instruments, field recording, and electroacoustic devices to open up new approaches to musical composition.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alanaffichard/https://alanaffichard.com/
Accessibility
One solidarity spot is available for this course at no cost. Please write to 90milartschool@gmail.com to book. 90mil is wheelchair accessible. Please see the yellow section below for more on accessibility.
Sliding scale
We use a sliding scale to make courses as affordable as possible. Here’s how to use it: Lower end: You don’t have a stable income. Mid range: You have a less stable financial situation and are more selective about where you spend your money. Higher end: You experience relative financial stability. Solidarity spot: You’re experiencing financial precarity and wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to come to a workshop.