Finding the best microphone for recording vocals is crucial for any serious music producer or vocalist. The right vocal microphone can redefine your recording quality at the source, significantly enhancing the overall production process.
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**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
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As you delve deeper into music production, you’ll notice the limitations of entry-level equipment, particularly when it comes to capturing vocals. Using substandard microphones often requires extensive intervention during mixing, resulting in inconsistent and less professional sound. Acquiring the best microphone for recording vocals is one of the most effective ways to elevate your studio’s recording quality and achieve the professional sound that every artist strives for.
Each person’s voice is unique, and not every microphone suits every singer optimally. Employing the right vocal microphone that doesn’t distort or alter a vocalist’s natural sound can help achieve exceptional performances. A microphone’s frequency response is particularly important here, as it dictates how well the mic captures the nuances of your voice. Thus, finding the best vocal mic that complements your specific vocal characteristics is essential. Whether you’re recording in a professional studio or a home studio recording environment, having the best recording microphone can make all the difference in the final product.
If you’re unsure which type of microphone to get, this article will guide you through some of the best microphones for recording vocals. Whether you need a condenser microphone, dynamic microphone, or something more specialized like ribbon mics, our selection provides options for every recording environment. For assistance in choosing the best vocal mic for bedroom studio setups, we recommend our article: “Choosing the Right Type of Studio Recording Microphone for Your Vocal Type.”
This guide highlights established favorites in professional recording studios and promising newcomers in the industry. We’ve focused on a mid-range category, omitting extremely low-budget options and high-end custom models that might not be accessible to everyone. Whether you’re looking for the best studio microphone for vocals, the best mic for studio recording, or the best mic for vocal recording in a home setting, our selection provides something for everyone. Understanding the importance of sound quality, natural sound, and the specific needs of your recording studio is key to choosing the right microphone for your projects.
Best Microphone for Recording Vocals Under $200
We found three condenser microphones in the $100 – $200 price range that are worthy of our recommendation. Each of these mics delivers quality and reliability, making them excellent choices for those who are building or upgrading their home recording studio. In this price range, you can find some of the best microphones for recording vocals that offer excellent sound quality without breaking the bank. These mics are particularly good at capturing the nuances of vocal recordings, making them a great choice for anyone looking to improve their home studio setup. For other cheap condenser microphone options, refer to our best microphone under 100 guide.
The Audio-Technica AT2035 is widely regarded as the best microphone for recording vocals within its price range. Despite being budget-friendly, this large diaphragm mic offers features often found in higher-end models, such as a custom shock mount and sturdy metal exterior. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking the best studio microphone for vocals without breaking the bank. The AT2035 is part of the Audio-Technica lineup, which is known for producing reliable, high-quality audio equipment – like its sibling, the Audio-Technica AT2020.
One of the standout features of the AT2035 is its clarity and detailed sound, making it a top contender for the best studio microphones. This mic’s cardioid polar pattern ensures excellent isolation of the sound source, reducing unwanted background noise and making it an excellent studio recording microphone for those in less-than-perfect environments. The AT2035’s ability to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) also makes it versatile enough to use with loud instruments, ensuring that your vocal recordings remain clear and undistorted even in challenging conditions.
However, the AT2035 comes with limited accessories, which may require additional purchases. Despite this, the AT2035 remains a reliable and versatile choice, offering exceptional vocal recordings that rival more expensive mics. Its ability to capture natural sound makes it ideal for home studio recording, and its performance ensures that your vocals stand out in any mix. The microphone’s frequency response is well-balanced, allowing it to capture the full range of the human voice, from deep lows to sparkling highs, making it an ideal choice for various recording techniques.
The AT2035’s design also includes a switchable 80Hz high-pass filter and a 10dB pad, which provide additional flexibility in different recording scenarios. These features make it easier to manage proximity effect and reduce low-frequency rumble, ensuring a cleaner, more professional sound. Whether you’re recording vocals, acoustic guitar, or other instruments, the AT2035 delivers a sound that is both detailed and natural, making it one of the best vocal mics for recording in this price range. Its sturdy construction also means it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, making it a long-lasting investment for your recording studio.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 120 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 148 dB
- Power Requirements: 11-52V DC, 3.8 mA
The AKG P420 is another strong contender for the best mic for recording vocals under $200. This large diaphragm condenser microphone stands out for its versatility, featuring a dual-element design that allows users to switch between cardioid, omni, and figure-8 polar patterns. This makes it one of the best studio microphones for those who need flexibility in their recording setup. The ability to switch between different polar patterns makes the P420 a versatile microphone, suitable for a wide range of recording applications, from solo vocals to group performances and even instrument recording.
The P420’s ability to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) makes it a versatile microphone for recording vocals and instruments alike. Its sturdy metal enclosure also contributes to its durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of frequent use, making it an excellent studio microphone for singing and other dynamic performances. The P420’s sound quality is enhanced by its ability to capture a wide dynamic range, making it ideal for recording both quiet and loud passages with equal clarity and precision.
Despite these strengths, the P420 may introduce slight noise when paired with less-than-stellar preamps. However, this microphone’s adaptability makes it an ideal choice for beginners and seasoned professionals alike, looking for the best studio mic that offers both quality and versatility. Its frequency response is wide and balanced, ensuring that your recordings capture the full spectrum of your performance, from the deepest bass to the most delicate high frequencies. The P420 is particularly well-suited for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and even complex arrangements, making it a versatile tool in any recording studio.
The P420 also includes a switchable -20dB pad and a bass-cut filter, which further enhance its versatility in different recording situations. These features allow the microphone to handle even the loudest sound sources without distortion, while the bass-cut filter helps to eliminate unwanted low-frequency noise.
Whether you’re recording in a professional studio or a home studio environment, the AKG P420 provides the flexibility and sound quality needed to capture professional-grade recordings. Its durability and performance make it a valuable addition to any audio equipment collection.
The AKG C214 is another popular vocal mic from this company. It’s priced higher but is outranked by the P420’s great features and value for money.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 200 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 135 dB (155 dB with pad)
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
The TZ Stellar X2 has gained a strong reputation as one of the best microphones for recording vocals, particularly for home studios. Its large diaphragm provides a smooth, balanced frequency response, making it an excellent vocal condenser microphone for capturing detailed and nuanced performances. This microphone’s robust build also ensures it stands up to regular use, making it a good mic for recording vocals over time. The Stellar X2 is designed to deliver a natural sound, with a focus on capturing the subtleties of the human voice, making it an ideal choice for vocal recordings.
One of the most significant advantages of the Stellar X2 is its ability to deliver clarity and warmth, characteristics often sought after in the best vocal microphones. While it’s limited to a cardioid polar pattern, this microphone excels in vocal recording, making it a solid choice for those looking to invest in the best studio microphone for vocals within this price range. The Stellar X2’s sound quality is enhanced by its low self-noise, which ensures that your recordings remain clean and free from unwanted background noise, even in less-than-ideal recording environments.
Overall, the TZ Stellar X2 is an outstanding option for achieving high-quality vocal recordings on a budget. Its sound signature and build quality make it a top choice for those seeking the best mic for recording music without the associated high costs. The Stellar X2’s performance is further enhanced by its ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications, from quiet vocal performances to loud instruments like guitar cabs or drums. Its durability and sound quality make it a reliable choice for both home and professional studios.
In addition to its excellent sound quality, the Stellar X2 also comes with a custom shock mount and pop filter, which help to further enhance its performance in the studio. The shock mount reduces handling noise and vibrations, while the pop filter helps to eliminate plosive sounds that can distort your recordings. These features make the Stellar X2 an excellent all-around microphone for vocal recording, offering the quality and reliability needed to produce professional-grade recordings in any studio setting. Whether you’re recording spoken word, singing, or instruments, the Stellar X2 is a versatile and dependable microphone that delivers consistently great results.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 200 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 138 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
Best Microphone for Recording Vocals Under $500
This price range allows manufacturers to balance cost with quality, resulting in microphones that are accessible to serious home studio enthusiasts and professionals alike. Below are some of the best studio vocal mics that offer premium components and sound quality within this category. These microphones are designed to deliver a professional sound, with features that enhance their performance in a variety of recording environments. Whether you’re upgrading your home recording studio or outfitting a professional studio, these mics provide the quality and versatility needed to capture top-notch recordings.
The Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is a standout choice for anyone searching for the best microphone for recording vocals under $500. Known for its neutral midrange and silky smooth high end, the LCT 440 Pure is an excellent studio recording microphone for capturing pop vocals and acoustic instruments with remarkable detail and brightness. The microphone’s wide frequency response ensures that it captures the full range of your performance, from deep lows to crisp highs, making it an ideal choice for a variety of recording techniques and musical genres.
This microphone’s low self-noise also makes it an ideal choice for quieter recording environments, ensuring that even the most subtle nuances are captured without interference. The LCT 440 Pure’s ability to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) makes it a versatile microphone for recording a wide range of sound sources, from delicate vocal performances to loud instruments like drums or electric guitars. Its sound quality is enhanced by its ability to capture a natural sound, making it a great choice for those who want their recordings to sound as close to the original performance as possible.
Despite being limited to a cardioid polar pattern, the LCT 440 Pure remains one of the best microphones for recording vocals, offering an excellent balance of price and performance. Its streamlined design keeps costs down while maintaining the high standard of sound quality that Lewitt is known for, making it a top choice for those seeking the best mic for recording music. The LCT 440 Pure’s design also includes a built-in pop filter, which helps to eliminate plosive sounds and ensures that your recordings remain clean and clear, even during dynamic performances.
The LCT 440 Pure also comes with a custom shock mount, which reduces handling noise and vibrations, further enhancing the microphone’s performance in the studio. This combination of features makes the LCT 440 Pure a versatile and reliable microphone for a wide range of recording applications, from vocals to instruments. Whether you’re recording in a home studio or a professional environment, the LCT 440 Pure provides the quality and performance needed to capture professional-grade recordings. Its durability and sound quality make it a long-lasting investment for any recording studio.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 110 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 140 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
The Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone, widely regarded as one of the best studio microphones available today. Originally designed for radio, this dynamic microphone has proven its versatility in various applications, from clean vocal recordings to aggressive, screamed vocals. It’s also a favorite for recording distorted electric guitars, making it a go-to choice for those seeking the best microphone for recording vocals. The SM7B’s wide frequency response allows it to capture a wide range of sounds, from deep bass to crisp highs, making it a versatile microphone for a variety of recording techniques.
One of the key features of the SM7B is its ability to handle both clean and aggressive vocals with ease. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for any studio, whether you’re recording a smooth vocal track or capturing the raw energy of a rock performance. The SM7B’s sound quality is enhanced by its ability to reject background noise, making it ideal for recording in less-than-perfect environments. This makes it one of the best microphones for recording vocals in a home studio, where ambient noise can often be a challenge.
However, the SM7B requires a lot of gain to drive properly, which means you’ll need a high-quality preamp or an inline preamp booster to get the best performance out of this microphone. Despite this requirement, the Shure SM7B lives up to its reputation as a “do-all” microphone. Its robust build quality ensures that it can withstand heavy use, making it a reliable choice for both professional and home studios looking for the best mic for studio recording. The SM7B’s ability to handle high sound pressure levels also makes it a great choice for recording loud instruments like guitar cabs or drums.
The SM7B’s design includes a built-in pop filter and a switchable bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis control, which provide additional flexibility in different recording scenarios. These features make it easier to tailor the microphone’s response to your specific needs, ensuring that your recordings capture the full range of your performance. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or even spoken word, the SM7B delivers a sound that is both detailed and natural, making it one of the best vocal mics for recording. Its durability and performance make it a valuable addition to any recording studio.
- Type: Dynamic
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 50Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 150 ohms
- Maximum SPL: Not specified, but very high
- Power Requirements: None (dynamic)
The Electro-Voice RE20 is another excellent option for those seeking the best microphone for recording vocals. Known for its clarity and depth, the RE20 is particularly well-suited for voice recording, whether it’s for vocals, voiceovers, or podcasting. Its variable-D design helps minimize proximity effect, ensuring a consistent sound even when the distance from the mic varies. The RE20’s wide frequency response allows it to capture a wide range of sounds, from deep lows to crisp highs, making it a versatile microphone for a variety of recording applications.
One of the RE20’s main strengths is its ability to capture vocals with a rich and natural sound, making it one of the best vocal microphones in professional settings. The microphone’s sound quality is enhanced by its ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications, from delicate vocal performances to loud instruments like drums or electric guitars. The built-in pop filter is another valuable feature, reducing plosives and ensuring a clean recording without the need for an external pop filter, making it one of the best vocal mics for recording in any environment.
However, the RE20 is on the heavier side, which may require a more robust mic stand to hold it securely. Despite this, its clarity, depth, and durability make it a reliable tool for both professional studios and home setups looking for the best mic for studio recording vocals. The RE20’s ability to reject background noise also makes it an excellent choice for recording in less-than-perfect environments, where ambient noise can often be a challenge. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or spoken word, the RE20 delivers a sound that is both detailed and natural, making it one of the best microphones for recording vocals.
The RE20’s design includes a switchable bass roll-off filter, which provides additional flexibility in different recording scenarios. This feature makes it easier to tailor the microphone’s response to your specific needs, ensuring that your recordings capture the full range of your performance. Whether you’re recording in a professional studio or a home studio environment, the RE20 provides the quality and performance needed to capture professional-grade recordings. Its durability and sound quality make it a long-lasting investment for any recording studio, making it one of the best microphones for recording vocals.
- Type: Dynamic
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 45Hz – 18kHz
- Impedance: 150 ohms
- Maximum SPL: Not specified, but very high
- Power Requirements: None (dynamic)
Author’s Pick: Best Value Microphone for Recording Vocals
The Rode NT1 is often considered the best microphone for recording vocals, particularly for those seeking a warm, vintage sound signature. This condenser microphone offers a tone reminiscent of classic German microphones like the Neumann U47, making it a favorite among both professionals and home studio enthusiasts looking for the best vocal mic. The NT1’s wide frequency response ensures that it captures the full range of your performance, from deep lows to crisp highs, making it an ideal choice for a variety of recording techniques and musical genres.
One of the most appealing aspects of the NT1 is its versatility. While it shines in vocal recording, its neutral and warm sound signature makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including acoustic instruments and voiceovers. The NT1’s robust build quality, coupled with the included shock mount and pop filter, adds to its value, providing a complete package that’s ready for immediate use. The microphone’s low self-noise ensures that your recordings remain clean and free from unwanted background noise, making it an excellent choice for home studio recording.
However, the NT1 is somewhat limited by its cardioid-only polar pattern, which may not offer the flexibility needed for more complex recording setups. Despite this, its low self-noise and warm tonality make it an exceptional choice for recording vocals, making it one of the best mics for studio recording. The NT1’s ability to capture a natural sound also makes it a great choice for those who want their recordings to sound as close to the original performance as possible. Its durability and performance make it a reliable choice for both professional and home studios.
In conclusion, the Rode NT1 offers exceptional value and performance, making it a worthy addition to any recording setup. Its sound quality, coupled with its build quality, ensures that it will remain a reliable tool in any studio, positioning it as one of the best studio microphones available. Whether you’re recording vocals, acoustic instruments, or spoken word, the NT1 delivers a sound that is both detailed and natural, making it one of the best vocal mics for recording in any environment. Its durability and performance make it a long-lasting investment for any recording studio.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 100 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 132 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
Best Microphone for Recording Vocals Under $1000
In this price range, the lines between home recording and professional studios blur, resulting in premium-quality microphones that justify their higher price. These mics offer a level of detail, clarity, and durability that make them solid investments for serious recording enthusiasts and professionals seeking the best studio recording microphone. Whether you’re upgrading your home recording studio or outfitting a professional setup, these microphones provide the quality and versatility needed to capture top-notch recordings.
The Warm Audio WA87 R2 is a modern iteration of the classic Neumann U87, making it a strong contender for the best studio microphone for vocals. This microphone is designed to capture the warmth and detail that made the U87 famous, while also incorporating modern enhancements that improve its performance and usability. The WA87 R2 is favored by recording engineers and producers who appreciate its rich, realistic sound, making it one of the best microphones for recording vocals in a professional studio environment.
One of the standout features of the WA87 R2 is its versatility. With three polar patterns (cardioid, omni, and figure-8), it’s capable of handling a wide range of recording situations, from solo vocals to group performances. The microphone also features an 80Hz high-pass filter and a -10dB pad, adding to its flexibility and allowing it to handle high sound pressure levels with ease. The WA87 R2’s sound quality is enhanced by its ability to capture a natural sound, making it a great choice for those who want their recordings to sound as close to the original performance as possible.
However, the WA87 R2 is relatively heavy, which may require a more robust mic stand or shock mount. Despite this, its ability to deliver warmth and detail, similar to the U87 across a range of studio applications, positions it as a compelling choice for both home and professional studios seeking the best vocal recording microphone. The WA87 R2’s ability to handle a wide dynamic range also makes it a versatile microphone for recording a variety of sound sources, from delicate vocal performances to loud instruments like guitar cabs or drums.
The WA87 R2’s design includes a custom shock mount and a hard-shell case, which provide additional protection and durability, making it a valuable investment for any recording studio. These features, combined with the microphone’s sound quality and versatility, make the WA87 R2 one of the best studio microphones available. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or spoken word, the WA87 R2 delivers a sound that is both detailed and natural, making it a top choice for professional-grade recordings. Its durability and performance make it a long-lasting investment for any recording studio.
- Type: FET Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 150 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 125 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
The Neumann TLM 102 is a top-tier microphone designed specifically for vocal recording. As one of the more affordable models in Neumann’s lineup, the TLM 102 offers the brand’s renowned quality and sound at a more accessible price, making it a strong contender for the best vocal recording mic. Its large-diaphragm condenser capsule is designed to capture vocals with exceptional clarity and presence, making it a favorite for studio vocal recordings. The TLM 102’s wide frequency response allows it to capture the full range of your performance, from deep lows to crisp highs, making it an ideal choice for a variety of recording techniques and musical genres.
The TLM 102’s sound signature is slightly focused on the midrange, which helps vocals stand out in a mix. This makes it particularly well-suited for pop and rock vocals, where clarity and presence are crucial. Despite its compact size, the TLM 102 delivers a big, full-bodied sound that rivals larger, more expensive microphones, making it one of the best recording microphones for vocals. The microphone’s ability to capture a natural sound also makes it a great choice for those who want their recordings to sound as close to the original performance as possible.
However, the TLM 102 is a simple, no-frills microphone. It lacks the additional features found in more expensive models, such as multiple polar patterns or built-in filters. Despite this, its premium build and clear, focused sound make it a standout microphone in its price range, making it one of the best studio microphones for vocal clarity. The TLM 102’s durability and performance make it a reliable choice for both professional and home studios, where its sound quality and build quality ensure that it will remain a valuable tool in any recording setup.
In addition to its excellent sound quality, the TLM 102 also comes with a custom shock mount, which reduces handling noise and vibrations, further enhancing the microphone’s performance in the studio. This combination of features makes the TLM 102 a versatile and reliable microphone for a wide range of recording applications, from vocals to instruments. Whether you’re recording in a home studio or a professional environment, the TLM 102 provides the quality and performance needed to capture professional-grade recordings. Its durability and sound quality make it a long-lasting investment for any recording studio, making it one of the best microphones for recording vocals.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 144 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
Emerging from the legacy of AKG, Austrian Audio has quickly made a name for itself with the OC18 Studio Set, a microphone that blends tradition with modern innovation. The OC18 is a fixed cardioid condenser microphone that features the CKR12 capsule, a nod to the legendary CK12 capsule used in classic AKG microphones. This combination of heritage and innovation results in a microphone that delivers a natural, clear, and versatile sound, making it a strong contender for the best vocal mic for home studio setups. The OC18’s wide frequency response allows it to capture the full range of your performance, from deep lows to crisp highs, making it an ideal choice for a variety of recording techniques and musical genres.
The OC18 is particularly praised for its ability to capture a wide range of sources with exceptional clarity and detail. Whether you’re recording vocals, acoustic instruments, or even orchestral setups, this microphone offers a transparent and natural sound that faithfully reproduces the source. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for studios that require a reliable all-purpose microphone, making it one of the best mics for studio recording. The OC18’s sound quality is enhanced by its ability to handle a wide dynamic range, making it suitable for a variety of recording applications, from quiet vocal performances to loud instruments like guitar cabs or drums.
One of the few criticisms of the OC18 is the quality of the included shock mount, which some users find to be less durable than expected, especially considering the microphone’s price. Despite this, the OC18 delivers exceptional performance, offering a compelling choice for various recording applications, making it one of the best vocal mics for recording in professional settings. The OC18’s durability and performance make it a reliable choice for both professional and home studios, where its sound quality and build quality ensure that it will remain a valuable tool in any recording setup.
The OC18’s design includes a custom shock mount and a hard-shell case, which provide additional protection and durability, making it a valuable investment for any recording studio. These features, combined with the microphone’s sound quality and versatility, make the OC18 one of the best studio microphones available. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or spoken word, the OC18 delivers a sound that is both detailed and natural, making it a top choice for professional-grade recordings. Its durability and performance make it a long-lasting investment for any recording studio, making it one of the best microphones for recording vocals.
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
- Impedance: 275 ohms
- Maximum SPL: 148 dB
- Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
Things to Consider When Buying a Microphone for Recording Vocals
Diaphragm Type: Condenser vs Dynamic Microphones
Choosing the best studio recording microphone often starts with the recording engineer deciding between a condenser microphone or dynamic mic. Condenser microphones are staples in vocal recording, especially in studios, due to their sensitivity and detail capture. Home studio setups benefit greatly from their sensitivity and versatility. Dynamic microphones, while less sensitive, are better for handling louder sound sources like guitar amps, the kick drum, and others. Dynamic mics are also great for environments with more background noise. Both types have their place in a well-rounded studio setup. Understanding the differences between these types of microphones is key to selecting the right mic for your specific recording needs.
Polar Pattern
Polar patterns are crucial in determining how a microphone picks up sound. The cardioid polar pattern is the most common for vocal recording, capturing sound from the front and rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This is ideal for solo vocal performances where you want less of the room acoustics. For more complex recordings, consider mics with multiple polar patterns, as these offer flexibility in different recording scenarios, making them some of the best mics for studio recording. You have to take into account how different polar patterns affect the sound capture. This is essential for achieving the best possible recordings in any environment.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone shows how it handles different frequencies, which impacts the tonal quality of your recordings. Some microphones have a flat response for a natural sound, while others might boost certain frequencies for added warmth or brightness. Understanding your voice type and the music genre will help you choose the best recording microphone for singing or other specific applications. Knowing how to read and interpret a microphone’s frequency response chart can also help you make more informed decisions when selecting the right microphone for your studio. For further information on Polar Patterns, see the article The Different Types Of Mics And Their Uses.
Pop Filter
A pop filter is essential for preventing plosives that can distort recordings. Pop filters are essentially “wind screens” that stop excessive air movement while allowing sound to pass through. Many of the best studio microphones come with built-in pop filters, but you can also purchase external ones for added protection. Ensuring you have a good pop filter will help maintain the clarity and quality of your recordings. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or spoken word, a pop filter is an important tool for achieving professional-sounding recordings in any studio environment.
Max SPL (Sound Pressure Level) and Attenuation Pads
Max SPL indicates how loud a sound can be before a microphone distorts. This is more important for loud instruments but is still relevant for dynamic vocal performances. Attenuation pads help manage louder sources without distortion, making them useful in a versatile recording environment. Choosing a mic with a high SPL and attenuation options can make it one of the best recording microphones for singing in various settings. Understanding the importance of managing SPL is crucial for achieving clean, distortion-free recordings in any environment.
Power Source – Phantom Power
Condenser mics are widely considered the best mics for recording vocals, so your gear has to be set up to accommodate them. Most condenser microphones require phantom power, which is typically provided by an audio interface, mic preamp, channel strip, or mixing console. If your setup doesn’t support phantom power, you’ll need an external power source. Ensuring your equipment can provide the necessary power is crucial for getting the best performance from your microphone, especially for studio recording mics. Understanding how phantom power works and how it affects your microphone’s performance is essential for achieving the best possible recordings in any studio environment.
Mic Versatility
While this guide focuses on the best microphone for recording vocals, many of these microphones also perform well with other instruments. Investing in a versatile microphone ensures that you can record a wide range of sources, getting more value from your purchase. Note that many hobbyists and pros don’t require the very best USB microphone for vocal recordings. Versatility is key when choosing the best mic for recording music, as it allows you to adapt to different recording needs. Understanding how to choose a versatile microphone that can handle a variety of recording applications is crucial for achieving the best possible recordings in any environment.
Best Microphone for Recording Vocals Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. The current edition was published on August 28, 2024.
Our goal is to feature the best studio microphones that can be readily purchased from online American music equipment retailers. We initially shortlisted 81 popular and top-rated microphones currently available in the USA from brands including AKG, Aston Microphones, Audio-Technica, Audix, Austrian Audio, Avantone Pro, Behringer, Earthworks Audio, Electro-Voice, Golden Age Project, Heil Sound, Lauten Audio, Lewitt Audio, Mackie, Miktek, Mojave Audio, Neumann, PreSonus, Rode, sE Electronics, Sennheiser, Shure, Slate Digital, Studio Projects, TZ Audio Products, United Studio Technologies, Warm Audio.
We then compiled all relevant ratings, reviews, forum discussions, and expert recommendations, totaling over 102,700 rating sources. These were processed via the Gearank Algorithm, which provided us with rating scores out of 100 that we used to select the top-rated microphones in three specific price ranges: under $200, under $500, and under $1000. 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: Research.
Alexander Briones: Editing.
Jason Horton: Shure SM58 Review, Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: based on a stock photograph in the public domain.
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 LCT 440 Pure and Rode NT1 photos, which were taken by the author.
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The following mics came off our recommended list above when we published the July 2022 Edition:
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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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As a result of our February 2020 update the following mic came off the recommended list above, but you can still read our analysis of it: Heil Sound PR 40.
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As a result of the October 2018 update to this guide the following mics were removed from our recommended list above but you can still find our analysis here:
As a side note, the following mics made it back onto the recommended list above:
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So the Akg p220 condenser mic can work well in accompanied with what type of mixer and interface?
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The November 2017 update of this guide resulted in several microphones being removed from our recommended list above, however you can still read about them here:
SE Electronics sE2200a II C
Sennheiser MD421 II
Rode NT2-A
Avantone CV-12
Neumann TLM 102 -
I’m looking for a Mic plus pa system that will give me a quality sound over a screaming audience without me having to scream into the Mic, and or make adjustments in the middle of a song. While at the sametime picking up the sound from an acoustic guitar. I’m not trying to ruin my vocal cords while singing any type of song. I’m open to suggestions.
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the best way learn to sing properly, really. Unless you specifically go there for the quietness (like billie eilish, etc. do nowadays) you should be able to sing loud enough to be louder than any normal crowd, if your singing technique is correct. In fact, singing quietly is a sign of a person not using their lungs and head properly. Singing louder is not about vocal chords at all, but about the resonance of your body, the vocal chords actually play a minor part in the loudness of the sound. If you feel like singing louder makes your vocal chords soar, please, find a vocal couch. It is really dangerous to sing in a vocal-chords-heavy way, even if you sing just a bit louder than just quiet.
If you want me to recomed a mic however, i would go for the shure sm58 for vocals, and a guitar with a pickup. I cannot recommend any more versatile mic, while not knowing how your voice sounds. About the PA, if you are on the budget, i would just recommend any small mixer, and like an RCA, or any half-way decent monitor.
But seriously, make sure your breathing technique is correct, and that you do not overuse your vocal chords. It might me dangerous, and might affect your voice in the future.
i hope this helps… ale the best!
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While you can mic an acoustic guitar on stage, it requires more effort to setup. It is also harder to stop noise from bleeding into acoustic guitar mics. This is why miking acoustic guitars are mostly done in recording studios, or intimate/small venue performances.
If you’re singing and playing guitar at the same time over a noisy crowd, then you’re best option is to have a good acoustic electric guitar that can be plugged in straight to PA, and have a dedicated stage mic for vocals. You can click the links to see our recommendations, based on market response.
Since you mentioned you’re looking for a PA system, you can check out our Portable PA System recommendations.
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