
The acoustic guitar has long been, and continues to be, the most accessible music instrument available. It makes sense to invest in the best mic for acoustic guitar recording, this way, you can accommodate guitarists who want to professionally capture their guitar playing.
Small Diaphragm Condenser | Small Diaphragm Condenser Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
95 | 100+ | ||||
97 | 525+ | ||||
94 | 125+ |
Budget Small Diaphragm Condenser | Budget Small Diaphragm Condenser Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
95 | 250+ |
Large Diaphragm Condenser | Large Diaphragm Condenser Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 90+ | ||||
96 | 825+ |
Budget Large Diaphragm Condenser | Budget Large Diaphragm Condenser Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
94 | 3625+ |
Dynamic Microphones | Dynamic Microphones Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 7975+ | ||||
95 | 1350+ |
Ribbon Microphone | Ribbon Microphone Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
96 | 125+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
Knowing how to record acoustic guitars is a fundamental skill in audio engineering as it teaches you concepts like proximity, phase, and tonality, to name a few. Technologies have been developed to amplify and record the instrument, such as acoustic guitar pickups, acoustic preamps, and miking up an acoustic amp, but I prefer recording with microphones, as do many other audio engineers. Acoustic guitar sounds better when recorded with a proper microphone.
Choosing the right microphone to record acoustic guitar and learning the skill of guitar micing can be a challenge, especially with so many on the market today. Among those, not every mic complements the sound of the acoustic guitar. Some microphones have frequency responses that sound great with vocals but end up making acoustic guitars sound brittle or thin. Many like to assume that any condenser mic will do the job, but the most optimal might even be a dynamic mic or ribbon mic.
To help you narrow down your choices, I’ve personally selected the mics below to recommend based primarily on my personal experiences rather than Gearank Ratings, as we do in most of our other guides.
Best Small Diaphragm Condenser Mics for Recording Acoustic Guitar
The Audio-Technica ATM450 is a small-diaphragm condenser microphone offering a smooth, neutral sound that fits effortlessly into a mix. Its side-address design makes it more versatile, especially when working in limited spaces or aiming to reduce bleed when recording multiple instruments or vocals simultaneously.
Designed to handle high SPLs, the ATM450 works beautifully with drums, cymbals, and amp cabinets. However, it also excels with acoustic instruments—its sensitivity captures the subtle dynamics of fingerpicking and strumming, making it a reliable choice for acoustic guitars.
One standout feature is its 80Hz high-pass filter and 10dB pad switch, which add extra flexibility for adjusting to different recording situations. While it lacks the deep low-end found in large-diaphragm condensers, this can easily be addressed with proximity adjustments or EQ tweaks during mixing.
Overall, the Audio-Technica ATM450 offers more value than many competing microphones in its class. Its tonal balance, high SPL handling, and ease of placement make it a well-rounded option for musicians and engineers looking to capture everything from acoustic instruments to louder sources with clarity and precision.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 40Hz-18kHz
- Impedance: 200 ohms
- Max SPL: 152dB
- Power Requirements: +48V
Audio-Technica ATM450 Frequency Response and Polar Pattern Charts:

The Shure SM81 is a cardioid condenser microphone that has a transparent and clear sound comparable to premium tube microphones.
Because of its small diaphragm design, the SM81 is lighter (1.63 lbs) and easier to position than most microphones of this design.
It handles loud sound sources handily with a max SPL (sound pressure level) of 136dB (146dB with the built-in Pad), and as such it captures the nuances of acoustic guitars much better – be it during loud strumming or when carefully fingerpicking. This also makes it capable of handling acoustic guitar amplifiers and other loud instruments.
The usual downside of small diaphragm mics is its lack of frequency response, but this doesn’t seem to be very noticeable with the SM81. The SM81 gives you more sound quality per dollar than similarly priced microphones.
It’s really hard to find fault with it, especially for acoustic guitars, other than its natural limitation of not having the same low frequency emphasis as large-diaphragm mics. The Shure SM81 is highly recommended for acoustic guitar and beyond, and it sounds good regardless of your playing style. It is the best small diaphragm condenser for singer songwriter performers and for solo acoustic guitar players.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Impedance: 150 ohms
- Max SPL: 136dB (146dB w/Pad)
- Power Requirements: +48V
Shure SM81 Frequency Response Chart:

Shure SM81 Polar Pattern Chart:

The Neumann KM 184 is a pencil style small-diaphragm condenser that can rival the sensitivity of large-diaphragm mics, while retaining high SPL handling.
It has a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, which is similar to large-diaphragm mics, and this allows for highly detailed sound capture that I certainly appreciate.
Another great feature is its minimal off-axis coloration – great for recording acoustic guitars with a matched pair in an x-y or near-coincident formation.
As expected from Neumann, this mic has premium build quality and feel. High input gain proved to be no problem with its supremely quiet operation. It works stunningly well with acoustic guitars especially with stereo guitar micing techniques.
As an added bonus, it also makes quick work of orchestral instruments, hi-hats, cymbals, and even choirs. Some even go so far as to claim that the Neumann KM184 is the best pencil style condenser microphone, and we understand where they are coming from, especially when most who have used this mic would agree as you can see from the high ratings it gets.
There shouldn’t be anything holding you back from getting this mic other than the price, but those who wisely invest in the Neumann KM 184 will be more than satisfied with what they get.
Not just great for single miking, Neumann has hit a home run for Stereo Recording with the KM 184. Its phase integrity and tolerance are its best selling points as using a matched pair makes for great sounding acoustic guitar recordings in stereo.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Max SPL:138dB
- Power Requirements: +48V
Neumann KM 184 Frequency Response and Polar Pattern Charts:

Budget Small Diaphragm Condenser
The Shure PGA181 is a versatile, side address mic with a frequency response that complements a wide variety of sound sources.
Design-wise it is unlike the usual small diaphragm “pencil” form factor. Instead, it uses a side-address design more common with large diaphragm condensers. This gives the mic positioning options more similar to large diaphragm condensers.
The PGA181 is hailed as a “Jack of all trades”. On acoustic guitar specifically, the sound is best suited for capturing near the bridge or near the neck joint and helps tighten up big bodied acoustic guitars. For single mic use along with singing, it captures a nice balance when recording instrument and when you record vocals.
The mic is a bit heavy, able to tip some mic stands over. To address this, we recommend using a solid Mic Stand.
The PGA181 is a versatile microphone that you can use for both your acoustic guitar and vocals (as well as other instruments). Get it if you want a great do-it-all mic at this price. This is best mic for vocals and acoustic guitar in this price range. If you had to get just one mic and you’re on a tight budget, get the Shure PGA181.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 50Hz-20kHz
- Impedance:120 ohms
- Max SPL: 138 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V
Shure PGA181 Frequency Response and Polar Pattern Charts:


Best Large Diaphragm Condenser Mics for Recording Acoustic Guitar
The Lewitt LCT 540 S is a versatile 1-inch true condenser studio microphone that excels in capturing detailed and nuanced sound. It features low self-noise across the frequency spectrum, ensuring minimal distractions during recording. With a remarkable dynamic range of 132 dB, it can handle various audio sources, maintaining clarity even after aggressive signal processing. The cardioid polar pattern provides focused sound capture and excellent isolation for the recording source. Additionally, it comes with essential accessories, including a shock mount, pop filter, windscreen, transport bag, and a sturdy case.
Regarding pros, users praise the detailed and musically honest sound of the Lewitt LCT 540 S, which captures fine-grained details often missed by other microphones. Its versatility makes it suitable for various recording tasks, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion. Furthermore, considering its performance, the microphone offers excellent value at a moderate price.
However, some users have reported sibilance issues, particularly with female voices, although proper guitar mic placement and EQ adjustments can help manage this. Additionally, the microphone emphasizes higher frequencies, which may not be ideal for every recording scenario. While it may not be the best mic for recording vocals and acoustic guitar – but it does a good enough job for it to be viable.
Overall, The LCT 540 S is a great buy for those looking for a polished high-frequency range with incredible detail and clarity.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20 – 20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 68 ohms
- Max SPL: 136dB SPL (0.5% THD)
- Power Requirements: 48V
The Neumann TLM 102 is among the most affordable offerings from Neumann, though it still carries the brand’s signature sound and build quality. Designed with a large-diaphragm capsule, this microphone offers impressive clarity and a transparent sound, making it a favorite not just for vocals but also for acoustic instruments.
With its edge-terminated diaphragm, the TLM 102 achieves high SPL tolerance (up to 144 dB) without compromising tonal detail, allowing it to handle everything from guitar amps to wind instruments with ease. Although it strips away extra features—like attenuation pads or high-pass filters—its simplicity ensures reliable, high-quality performance.
The mic also boasts a slight 6kHz boost, which gives recordings a crisp, present character that works exceptionally well with acoustic guitars. Its transformerless design minimizes self-noise, providing the quiet operation expected of more expensive models in Neumann’s lineup.
If you’re looking for professional-level sound on a tighter budget, the Neumann TLM 102 offers excellent value, making it a worthy investment for vocals, instruments, and even louder sources.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Max SPL: 144 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
Budget Large Diaphragm Condenser
The AKG P120 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone is a standout choice for those seeking high-quality audio without breaking the bank. Its impressive audio fidelity, durable all-metal construction, and versatile features make it a compelling option for beginners and seasoned professionals. With a wide frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a cardioid polar pattern that effectively isolates the main sound source, this microphone excels in capturing clear and natural sound, whether for vocals, instruments, podcasts, or voice-overs.
Despite its budget-friendly price, the AKG P120 offers features that rival higher-end microphones, such as a -20dB pad for handling high SPL sources and a low-cut filter at 300 Hz to reduce unwanted low-frequency noise. While it may lack some included accessories and require 48V phantom power, these limitations are relatively minor compared to the overall value and quality it provides.
In conclusion, the AKG P120 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone delivers outstanding performance and durability at an affordable price, making it a worthy addition to any recording setup. Whether you’re a home studio enthusiast, podcaster, or musician, this acoustic guitar microphone offers professional-grade audio quality and features that exceed expectations for its price point.
Best Dynamic Mics for Recording Acoustic Guitar
When I started building my recording setup years ago, I had only a few things on my wishlist: A Mac, a Focusrite interface, and a Shure SM57. It’s the one mic that every audio engineer I’ve encountered and interacted with told me to get first. I was told that it can record anything from drums to vocals to acoustic guitar. Eventually, I would expand my mic collection, but I always have a use for the Shure SM57.
The Shure SM57 was developed in 1959 by Ernie Seeler. Seeler actually despised rock music and hoped the mic would be used for orchestras. In a stroke of irony, the SM57 went on to be one of the mainstays of rock music thanks to its high SPL handling, frequency response, and long-term durability. The mic can also be seen gracing US Presidential podiums paired with the Shure A81WS foam windscreen.
The Shure A81WS foam windscreen paired with the SM57 is the configuration most often seen on US Presidential podiums. Pardon the cat fur; it’s an old mic.
“SM” Stands for (TV) Studio Microphone. Despite its initial development for TV, the SM57 is able to record almost anything in the studio save for the most quiet sound sources that require absolute detail. It excels in handling electric guitar, drums, and aggressive screamed vocals (with a pop filter or foam windscreen).
The SM57 is versatile enough to be used on acoustic guitars. Instead of miking from a distance like you would a condenser, the SM57 sounds best when pointed closer to the guitar. This results in a recording with lots of attack and punch. It is perfect for tracks where the acoustic guitar is layered in rather than as a solo acoustic track.
What I don’t like about the SM57 is how hit-or-miss it is with sung vocals. Some singers sound great on it without much work, while others sound brittle. It’s this single inconsistency that I find makes me reach for a good condenser microphone. Another is that it’s not the best mic for spoken word or podcasts. That task is better suited to the Shure SM7b which has a bit more detail and low end extension. But at nearly 4 times the price, the SM7b is only marginally better than the 57 in a lot of other aspects.
All in all, I echo the words of my mentors, who say that EVERY studio has to have at least one SM57.
One final note: The SM57 and the SM58 are two of the most counterfeit microphones on the market. Be sure to get yours from a reputable seller or retailer. The counterfeits do not sound remotely close to the originals despite many looking very convincing.
Check out my extended review for sound samples and more photos.
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response:40Hz-15kHz
- Impedance: 310 ohms
- Max SPL: 149 dB
Shure SM57 Frequency Response and Polar Pattern Charts:
The Shure Beta 57A Dynamic Instrument Microphone is a versatile, robust mic designed for live sound and recording applications. Its durable build and high output make it a favorite among musicians and engineers. The mic’s supercardioid polar pattern provides excellent off-axis rejection, ensuring precise sound capture with minimal background noise and feedback. It excels in live settings and handles high sound pressure levels. Also, it offers clear and accurate instrument representation in studio environments.
The Beta 57A’s versatility is a major strength. It performs well in various scenarios, from instrument miking to vocal applications. Despite being priced higher than the standard SM57, its enhanced durability, superior sound isolation, and versatile applications justify the cost. The microphone’s durable and rugged design, excellent sound quality, and versatility make it a top-tier choice for both amateur and professional audio technicians.
It’s priced slightly higher than the SM577 and may need EQ-ing for some instruments. Despite this, the reduced proximity effect and better side rejection make it a worthwhile upgrade.
The Shure Beta 57A Dynamic Instrument Microphone is a reliable, versatile, and high-performing mic suitable for various applications, from live performances to studio recordings. Despite its slightly higher price, the Beta 57A offers excellent value. It is a solid investment for any serious musician or sound engineer.
- Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
- Frequency Response: 50Hz-16kHz
- Impedance: 150 ohms
- Max SPL: 134 dB
Best Ribbon Mic for Recording Acoustic Guitar
The Royer R-10 Ribbon Microphone is a versatile, high-quality microphone that combines vintage warmth with modern durability and design. Its exceptional sound quality, with a natural, balanced tone, smooth high-end, and robust low-end, makes it ideal for recording various instruments and vocals. The microphone’s robust build quality, including a sturdy construction and internal shockmount system, ensures it can withstand the rigors of studio and live use, reducing handling noise and vibrations.
Its figure-eight polar pattern allows for creative mic placement and effective sound source isolation while capturing room ambiance. Its ability to handle high sound pressure levels makes it suitable for loud and aggressive acoustic guitar playing, ala Glen Hansard. The R-10 offers excellent value for its quality and performance, being reasonably priced compared to other high-end ribbon microphones.
One potential drawback is its lower output level as a passive ribbon microphone, often necessitating a high-gain preamp to achieve optimal recording levels. Additionally, like most ribbon microphones, the R-10 can be damaged by phantom power if not correctly handled, requiring careful attention. However, its superb audio quality, versatility, and affordability make the R-10 a worthy investment for musicians, engineers, and producers.
- Polar Pattern: Figure-8
- Frequency Response: 30Hz-15kHz (±3dB)
- Impedance: 100 ohms
- Max SPL: 160dB SPL (1kHz)
- Power Requirements: None
Things to Consider When Buying an Acoustic Guitar Mic
Diaphragm
Since acoustic guitars produce similar frequencies to vocals, large diaphragm condenser microphones work great with them. These are widely available and versatile, making them a practical option, ideal for first-timers and those who capture vocals and mostly acoustic guitar sounds, while keeping expenses in check. The only downside would be the size, especially for models with a shockmount. Removing the shock mount may be a hassle if it’s your only mic for recording guitars and vocals. Keeping it on for acoustic guitar may limit your positioning options.
Small diaphragm condenser mics and ribbon mics, with their high frequency response and high SPL capabilities, work considerably well with the acoustic guitar’s inherent treble emphasis and varying dynamics. As such, they remain the professional’s choice when Recording Acoustic Guitar, as evidenced by their presence in many performance stages and recording studios. While they are not advisable for for use as an all-around mic, they are ideal extra mics that can be used for acoustic guitars, miking other instruments, and for adding space and realism to recordings.
Small Diaphragm mics tend to have more low-frequency roll-off than their large diaphragm counterparts, which makes them more suited for use in multi-miked recordings. A spaced pair with one pointed at the soundhole, and one near the bridge can compensate for the low-frequency loss and provide an option for more detail in strumming. Using two mics X-Y or near-coincident mic patterns with small diaphragm condensers produces better stereo recordings than a spaced pair of large diaphragm condensers and are easier to position. Often you position one mic near the sound hole, and the other near the bridge.
For better positioning and more efficient use of your condenser mics, you should know the mechanism behind your mic capsule, and answer the basic question: what is a condenser microphone.
Polar Pattern
Cardioid is the most common polar pattern used on mic designs, because of its simplicity and effectiveness. It is especially great for capturing single sound sources like acoustic instruments, where you just move the mic around to find the sweet spot and start capturing. Still, it won’t hurt to have mics with multiple patterns because they can be useful for other purposes, like when capturing multiple instruments that play simultaneously. Do take note that different mics may have the same polar pattern but have different sensitivities at varying degrees of capture. Some may be suited for miking directly in front while others are better for capturing the room.
dB Pads
Pads allow microphones to better handle loud sound sources, especially when positioned up close. And since volume and dynamics vary from player to player, mics with pads allow for easy compatibility and positioning.
Reliability
These days, most condenser mics are built like tanks with tough metal exteriors, but it still pays to check the specs and pictures to see if the mic is solid. This is important because miking acoustic guitars require a bit more repositioning than when miking vocals, so there’s always the tendency of bumping or falling off. As with all electronic devices, do handle with reasonable care. Use only the best mic stands, to keep your mics stable. This way, you can prevent your mics from inadvertently damaging your guitar body.
Acoustic Guitar Mic Selection Methodology
The first Edition was published in 2016.
Our methodology for this guide is a bit different from most of the gear guides on Gearank.com. While our recommendations are usually based on product ratings, in this case, we used a combination of professional judgment and ratings.
We created a short-list of 58 mics that we know from experience have properties that are well suited to recording acoustic guitars.
For this edition, we ended up processing over 60,100 reviews, ratings, and forum comments with the Gearank Algorithm to produce rating scores out of 100 for each mic. Our top picks were then sorted according to type for this guide. For more information about our methods, see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Some of the recording gear I use in my studio include the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Samson QH4 Headphone Amp, and Cloudlifter CL-1. My mics include Aston Origin, Aston Element, Shure SM57, Rode NT1, Rode PodMic, and MXL V67G.
Contributors
Jerry Borillo: Product Research.
Alexander Briones: Editing.
Jason Horton: Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the Neumann KM 184, Neumann TLM 102, Royer R-121, and Guild D-40.
The individual product images, frequency response charts, and polar pattern charts were sourced from their respective manufacturers’ websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation, except for the additional images of the Aston Origin, Lewitt LCT 440 Pure, and Shure SM57, which were photographed by the author.
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Comments:
8 responses
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The following mics came off the recommended list above when we published our July 2022 Edition:
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Thank you for the information
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No 48V requirements for Shure SM57 dynamic mic
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Thanks for pointing out that I made that mistake when editing this guide. I have now corrected the SM57 specifications.
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The publication of our April 2021 edition resulted in the following mics coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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Why did you remove the Rode? I think it’s a fantastic microphone for voice and acoustic guitar. I tried the Technica, but found that it failed the clarity test. I know other people will hear different things. But I would have Rode at the too of my list.
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As a result of our March 2020 update the following came off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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As a result of our July 2018 update of this guide, the following microphones were removed from the recommended list above:
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