Unfortunately, a lot of people end up spending a lot more than they need to in the quest for a high-quality karaoke machine for home. As with anything, price doesn't necessarily equal quality, and you don't really need a $500 machine if this is a hobby you're just getting into. Rather than focusing on cost, it's important to look for the features you'll use the most.
Before discussing what you should look for, keep in mind there are four main types of karaoke machines available today, although they all offer the ability to sing along with prerecorded music. Some may have everything included while others require a bit more to work completely. The four primary types of machines include all-in-one karaoke systems, built-in song microphones, TV monitor systems and mp3 karaoke players. These last three will require a monitor and sometimes speakers to view lyrics and hear your voice, while an all-in-one karaoke system has absolutely everything you need and offers easy portability.
One popular feature in today's karaoke machines is pre-programmed songs in the machine itself, which means you can save money by skipping karaoke CDs for the time being. Some karaoke systems even have up to 2,000 songs included, which should be enough to keep you busy for awhile! After that, you can boost your collection with compilation karaoke CDs, greatest hits and more.
Another feature you may want to look for is iPod/iPhone compatibility. This allows you to play songs you have downloaded already on the device. With a really good system, it's possible to suppress the vocals that come with the song so you can hear your own voice instead, which gives you access to thousands of songs online and even greater savings. Of course, this feature is usually on the high end of the scale and may not be worth it in the beginning.
You'll also want to look for a clear display if you opt for a stand-alone display. While you can buy a karaoke system that hooks into your existing entertainment system, you may find a stand-alone model offers more portability and an authentic feel.
If the karaoke machine doesn't come with microphones already, don't forget to add a pair. Wireless microphones are the latest trend to enhance your singing performance and have more fun free from cords.
Finally, don't be lured by fancy machines that are out of your price range or have features you simply won't use. It's best to start with a system that offers great sound and vocal performance without worrying about elaborate features you don't fully understand yet.
With today's technology, karaoke has become more fun than ever. Whether you're interested in buying a home system for yourself and your family or you want to host your own karaoke competitions, make sure you keep these tips in mind.
Christine writes for 5 Star Karaoke, which has been specializing in karaoke for over a decade with a great selection of karaoke discs, players and machines. You'll find everything you need for your own home karaoke system at competitive prices.
So, once again, another year has given us a slew of new music. So you, the karaoke singer, need to stop singing the same old tune. You don't want to subject the crowd to one more time of singing the same song that you sing week after week, no matter how good you sing that song. There is plenty of new karaoke music to choose from. Sometimes it may seemed that there is no good new music out there. However it may seem that way because you've gotten into the habit of listening to your 'iPod' with your pre-selected choices in music. Start making it a habit of listening to radio or turning click here on a music channel more often, then you're going to find plenty of new selections to choose from.
If you're interested in singing then it's important to find the right song. Since I have been selling Karaoke Products for nearly 25 years, I may have the right song for you. If you are looking for new karaoke music we have thousands of recent songs available. Digital formats, such as MP3+G are also available, which makes karaoke so affordable that every home should have a karaoke machine in case a party breaks out.