Hi Mosh, its not a silly question its a good one. And now you have me thinking.

I think the answer is no. I am certain most weren't. I am trying to remember back 6 years as to what I tried.

The one I really thought would work was a small stereo one from a recording sony walkman I had. But not a dicky bird can be heard when its plugged in.

I assumed these are small electret types whci are powered from the walkman - and hence video camera. But maybe thats part of the problem.