The 10 Best Mic For Music Recording, Tested And Researched
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
The SM7B dynamic microphone features a flat, smooth frequency response that is suitable for both music and speech. It provides excellent shielding against electromagnetic noises generated by computer monitors, neon lamps, and other electrical devices. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone
Add life to your broadcasts and recordings with the Blue Yeti USB mic. Versatile and adaptable, the Yeti features four different pickup patterns for picking up sound from a variety of sources. Read Review
3. Best Sound Quality: Elgato Wave:3 Premium USB Condenser Microphone
The Elgato Wave: 3 is a reliable USB microphone with an easy-to-use design that is ideal for podcasters and streamers. The Wave: 3 produces solid audio quality and the onboard controls allow you to quickly get the most out of the microphone. Read Review
4. Best Versatile: MAONO AU-PM401 USB Microphone
The MAONO AU-PM401 USB Condenser Microphone picks up sounds of different frequencies very well, making it an excellent choice for recording concerts, speeches and other occasions. Read Review
5. Best Compact: Blue Yeti X USB Microphone
Blue Yeti features four different recording modes: Stereo, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Mono. You can capture every detail with recordings of extreme clarity using the three condenser capsules installed in a triple-capsule array. Read Review
Great sound is a combination of great performance, great technique and great recording. Capturing great audio is the final step to creating an articulate, authentic final product. Without good audio, no amount of mixing and mastering will save your track.
In this article you will learn how to choose the best mic and mic setup for your recording needs. Whether you’re just getting started in music production or want to upgrade your current setup, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out more about three essential instruments for every home studio:
We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone - our favorite one. We also provide you with Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone model that you may consider if Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone is not your choice.
You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the special features of products from famous brands including Shure, Blue microphones, Elgato, Maono, Fifine, Tonor, Audio-technica right here.
RELATED: We have researched 9,922 reviews from customers to create a list top 10 best cardioid dynamic microphone in 2024
Our Top Picks
- QUALITY IN THE DETAILS - Rugged Construction For Securing The Microphone Cartridge. Detachable Close-talk Windscreen And Switch Cover Plate Included. Bass Rolloff And Mid-range Emphasis (Presence Boost) Control With Graphic Display Of Response Setting.
- PROFESSIONAL XLR CONNECTION - The XLR Connection Along With An Audio Interface Allows You More Control Over The Sound — Thus A Better Overall Sound Quality. At least 60dB of gain is recommended to get that iconic warm and balanced tone most commonly associated with the SM7B.
- CLOSE-MIKING STUDIO APPLICATIONS - The SM7B Shines When Used For Close-miking Instruments and ASMR Audio Where Warm And Smooth Full-frequencies Are A Must.
- STUDIO VOCAL RECORDING - The SM7B’s Dynamic Cartridge With Smooth, Flat, Wide-range Frequency Response Produces Exceptionally Clean and Natural Reproduction Of Both Music and Speech.
- STREAMING CONTENT - Professional Live Streaming Starts With A Microphone Capable Of Capturing Exceptionally Clean And Natural Reproduction Of Both Music And Speech. The SM7B Has Been A Pioneer In Such Abilities For Decades.
- ONE MICROPHONE FOR EVERYTHING - Studio Recording, Home Recording, Podcasting and Streaming. The SM7B Is Trusted By The Worlds Leading Vocalists, Podcasters and Streamers.
- CLASSIC CARDIOID PATTERN WITH UNIFORM CAPTURE - The SM7B Cardioid Pattern Is Designed To Reject Off-axis Audio, So You Can Sing Or Speak At A Comfortable Angle And It Captures The Sound, Just As You Want It, With Minimum Coloration.
- WHAT’S IN THE BOX - Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone With One A7WS Detachable Windscreen And One RPM602 Switch Cover Plate. Free 2-year Warranty Included.
- PODCAST and BROADCAST - Found In The Top Podcasting Studios Around The World, The SM7B Air Suspension Shock Isolation and Pop Filter Eliminate Both Mechanical Noise And Breathiness. So Words Get Through And The Rest Stays Out Of The Mix.
- SHIELD YOUR SOUND - We Added Advanced Electromagnetic Shielding To Defeat Hum From Computer Monitors And Other Studio Equipment.
- Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
- Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC: Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.
- Onboard Audio Controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.
- Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
- Blue VO!CE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples. Advanced Blue VO!CE is compatible with Yeti, Yeti Nano and Yeti X. To access Blue VO!CE, please download Logitech’s free G HUB software.
- Up to 24-bit / 96kHz analog to digital conversion delivers lush detail
- Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern captures speech with precision
- Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission
- Proprietary Clipguard technology makes distortion virtually impossible
- Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 3 and up to seven other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes
- QUICKLY MUTE BUTTON AND 3.5MM HEADPHONES JACK: One-key mute/unmute microphone, which can indicate when the podcast microphone is active to speak. The built-in LED indicator to tell you about the working status(Green Light: Working, Red Light: Mute). Powerful headphone jack feature for zero-latency monitoring. Perfect for video recording, podcasting, gaming, youtube, skype and so on
- PROFESSIONAL SOUND CHIPSET 192KHZ/24BIT: MAONO PM401 USB Condenser Microphone has been designed with Dia.16MM mic capsule and professional sound chipset, which let the USB microphone hold high-resolution sampling rate. The microphone picks up sounds of different frequencies very well. Reproduce your sound perfectly to prevent distortion. Cardioid pick-up can effectively reduce background noise interferences to ensure you can record more perfect recordings. Perfect for project/home-studio
- PLUG AND PLAY: No need extra driver software, and no need for an external sound card, You only need to set the microphone as the default input device for your computer. High compatible with Windows, MAC OS, PS4(Not compatible with Xbox)
- PACKAGE LIST AND 12-MONTH WARRANTY: 1x USB Condenser Microphone, 1x Adjustable Scissor Arm Stand, 1x Metal Shock Mount, 1x Pop Filte, 1x Foam Mic Windscreen, 1x Table Mounting Clamp, 1x USB-B to USB-A Cable. MAONO products provide a 12-Month warranty to ensure a better shopping experience
- STURDY BOOM ARM SET: The extra strong arm stand prevents the microphone from accidental dropping, noise generation and shaking. Metal shock mount holds the computer microphone steady, which avoids the negative effects of constant movement and vibrations. It has a table mounting clamp and protective layers of sponge. An adjustable positioning screw can easily clip on any desktop with a thickness of 2". Pop filter and foam windscreen remove the rush of air caused by vocal plosives
- Multi-Function Smart Knob – Fine-tune your on-stream sound with easy-access controls for mic gain, mute, headphone volume and blend
- Four-Capsule Array – Capture legendary Blue broadcast sound with greater focus and clarity than ever for professional streaming, podcasting and YouTube
- Logitech G HUB Integration – Manage mic gain, headphone volume, monitoring preferences and pickup pattern selection right from your desktop
- Blue VO!CE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples. Advanced Blue VO!CE is compatible with Yeti, Yeti Nano and Yeti X. To access Blue VO!CE, please download Logitech’s free G HUB software.
- Customizable LED Lighting – Personalize the color of Yeti X’s LED lights to match your on-stream aesthetic
- High-Res LED Metering – Visualize your voice level at a glance and adjust up or down for powerful, broadcast quality sound
6
![FIFINE USB Desktop PC Microphone -K683A]()
- NOTE: This is a cardioid pickup pattern microphone. Make sure to speak directly into the mic diaphragm (the side with "fifine" logo), not into the rear or the top of the mic.
- PLUG AND PLAY - Compatible with Mac, PS4 and Windows PC computer laptop that has USB-A or USB-C port. No extra driver is required. You can instantly start live streaming, podcasting, computer gaming, ZOOM meetings and more with this external microphone. (◆◆Incompatible with Xbox ◆◆)
- DETACHABLE POP FILTER - No need to buy extra accessories. This audio recording mic comes with compatible pop filter. It helps to reduce the pops and will keep your audiences from being distracted by the harsher sounds. The strong tripod stand allows you to use the computer mic easily in the most comfortable way possible.
- STUDIO QUALITY SOUND - The cardioid condenser mic offers crystal-clear audio with minimum background noise. The wide frequency response and large diaphragm precisely reproduces every details of your voice. Get great sound whether you’re recording vocals, music or even lectures.
- EASY-TO-REACH CONTROLS - The gain knob enables quickly adjustment if there is any sensitivity, lack of sound or distortion during live broadcasting. Or if you want to take a break in the middle of a podcast, use the instant mute button. And there is a 3.5mm headphone jack on the back of this USB streaming mic for real-time monitoring.
- WHAT YOU GET - An all metal studio microphone, foldable tripod stand, pop filter, 6.56ft USB-B to USB A/C cable, 3/8'' to 5/8'' screw adapter, user manual with guide video. It also comes with friendly tech support to ensure better experience.
- NO WIND NOISE - Includes a black foam windscreen (part number AMV88-WS); please note that the windscreen comes attached and can be removed if desired
- POCKET-FRIENDLY - Capture powerful audio recordings on the move without the need for large and heavy audio equipment
- IN THE BOX - 2-Year Warranty, MV88 microphone, foam windshield, carry case, headphone monitor adaptor cable
- BUILT TO LAST - All-metal construction and quality Shure engineering that has stood the test of touring and live stages across the world over the past 90 years
- PROTECTION IN TRANSIT - High-quality zip carry case included for protection when traveling
- FULLY ADJUSTABLE - Flexibility to tilt, flip and rotate the microphone up to 90° to get stereo clarity, whatever your sound source
- TWO FREE APPS - ShurePlus MOTIV Audio and ShurePlus MOTIV Video allow you to customize the performance and set-up of the microphone for professional audio and video capture. Download directly from App Store
- IOS LIGHTNING CONNECTION - Apple MFi certified and compatible with all iOS devices with a Lightning connector
- Great Sound of Fidelity: Equipped with a 16mm large diaphragm, wide frequency response (20Hz to 20KHz) and professional sound chipset, Q9 microphone provides a perfect combination of clarity, warmth, extended dynamic range and high SPL capability. The cardioid condenser capsule enables the Q9 to capture pristine and accurate sound and cancel noise from surroundings, perfect for recording and communicating.
- Durable Boom Stand: The Q9 microphone has a sturdy all-metal suspension scissor stand that extends vertically up to 27.5"/700mm, giving you an excellent range of motion. Maximum desk thickness: 1.7"/45mm.
- Plug and Play: With USB A to B cable, TONOR Q9 microphone is easy to connect with both Mac and Windows computer, no need any extra driver software or sound card. It is perfect for podcasting, music/video recording, live streaming, gaming or online chatting. Note: This microphone is compatible with PS4, but not compatible with Xbox.
- User-friendly Design: With a convenient volume button, TONOR Q9 recording microphone is much easier for you to use. In working status, short press for adjusting mic volume level, 3s long press for turning off the microphone.
- Complete Mic Set: Package includes a condenser microphone, metal shock mount, adjustable suspension scissor arm stand, desk mount clamp, pop filter, foam mic cover, 1.8M USB A to B cable and manual. All premium accessories are contained in one package, which makes the TONOR Q9 to be your most secure choice!
- Best of both worlds: Professional handheld dynamic microphone with USB/XLR dual-mode output. USB digital output connects to a computer, pc, mac, and XLR analog output connects to a mixer, audio interface, or portable PA system. Ideal for podcasting, recording, live streaming, vocal, voiceover, singing, home-Studio, content creation.
- Zero-Latency Monitoring and Volume Control：onboard 1/8" (3. 5mm) headphone output allows you to monitor your sound while recording without any delay or echo. HD300T microphone also has a control button that can adjust the headphone output volume conveniently.
- Durable metal construction for long-lasting performance: Rugged metal construction provides outstanding reliability. The stable base with the all-metal and will not be easily knocked down. Height adjustable metal tube is stronger than ordinary plastic tube and easily supports heavy microphones. Shock mount and pop filter for reducing p-pops.
- Package List and Warranty: Dynamic microphone*1, microphone stand*1, pop fliter*1, shock mount*1, 78in USB cable, 98in XLR cable*1, user manual*1. MAONO HD300T dynamic microphone provides 24-month warranty.
- Cardioid dynamic microphone: Built-in cardioid capsule can capture sound in front of the microphone and reduces possible background noise from the other side and rear. Smooth, extended frequency response for rich and natural vocal reproduction.
10
![TONOR USB Cardioid Computer Mic Kit TC-2030]()
- Professional Sound Chipset: Sampling rate: 192kHz/24Bit!!! Using advanced microphone chip, pick up a wider range of nuances so your voice is clearly and properly captured.
- Durable Arm Set: TC-2030 kit is equipped with an extended boom arm made of durable steel and a desk clamp with 4 times larger contact area for easily clip to any desk up to 2.4''/60mm thick. Meanwhile it offers 27"/700mm horizontal/vertical distance and 360° full rotation without noise.
- Microphone Kit: 1 x condenser microphone, 1 x extended boom arm, 1 x spider shock mount, 1 x desk clamp, 1 x pop filter, 1 x mic cover, 4 x cable tie , 1 x USB cable and 1 x manual. Note: Not compatible with Xbox.
- Plug and Play: With USB 2.0 data port, the TC-2030 kit is compatible with Laptop, Desktop, PS4, no need for any extra driver software or an external sound card.
- Gold-plated 14mm Large-diaphragm: The gold-plated large-diaphragm condenser cartridge makes the sound range of low and high frequency wider and the sound quality more exquisite. Smooth 20Hz-20KHz frequency response, low distortion, giving you better sound quality. Excellent for streaming, recording, gaming, podcasting, voice over, home studio, etc.
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What to Look For in a best mic for music recording?
Upon looking for the perfect best mic for music recording, a lot of things should be taken into account. Each item has its own challenge of purchasing. As a result of the formation, we're here to help, advise, and provide answers to these problems.
Please keep in mind the following points to select best mic for music recording that fit you most:
Polar Pattern/Directionality
Directionality is the way a microphone picks up sounds from its surroundings. One microphone can detect sound in all directions simultaneously. Most other microphones can only pick up one direction at a time. This can be advantageous depending on the circumstances.
Connections
After you have chosen the mic type you prefer, it is time to think about how you will connect it to your system. There are two options: wireless or wired.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.
Impedance
This is measured in Ohms (symbol O) and refers to the microphone's ability to receive an audio signal or AC current. Mics with a low impedance (600O and lower) retain better audio quality when used on cables that are longer than 16 feet. High impedance signals that other microphone components may be of lower quality can sometimes indicate a low quality signal.
Type Of Microphone
The energy of sound waves is captured by microphones, which can then convert it into electricity in various ways. You can either use a condenser microphone or dynamic microphone to accomplish this.
Response Flatness
Although it might seem that flat responses are the best, a treble lift is sometimes an advantage. This applies especially to vocals. This can cause the PA system to become more sensitive to howling. The signal from speakers often gets in the microphone, creating a hissing sound. Many dynamic microphones have a treble lift, which lends itself to many vocals.
Maximum Sound Pressure Level
This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.
Frequency Response
The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can detect, usually 20hz-20Khz. Knowing the frequency range is not enough. What you need is the microphone's responsiveness to certain frequencies. Before you choose a microphone, think about the recording you are going to do. A microphone with a higher frequency, such as a dynamic microphone, may be better suited for recording bass, drums, and other musical instruments.
Attenuation Switch
Have you ever wondered what those switches at the back of Rode Videomic are for? Attenuation switches are the switches at the back. Attenuation switches on microphones reduce the output of the mic by a specific amount. This is usually between -10dB and -20dB. The microphone will become four to sixteen times more quiet than usual.
FAQs
Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?
Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?
A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?
It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?
Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?
Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?
The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?
A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.
What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?
Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.The list of best mic for music recording will be regularly updated to be included in additional data by our editor's team. Please keep an eye around for any amendments made to our website.
Our consultants could support you with problems related to best mic for music recording and other things as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need advice.
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