The Best Microphone For Recording Singing In 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone (SM58S)
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone (SM58S)

The uniform cardioid pattern reproduces every note exactly as intended. It was designed to help voice professionals understand and use their voices with care. The SM58 produces a warm, crisp sound on any stage, from the club shows to the stadium. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone

The HyperX QuadCast delivers studio-quality voice capture with a flexible, four-pattern selection. Read Review

3. Best Powerful: TZ Stellar X2 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser XLR Microphone

The Stellar X2 is unique in that its capsule and circuit have been carefully tuned to produce a sound that is very smooth and easily sits in any mix without the tinny harshness of low-cost condenser microphones. Read Review

4. Best Adjustable: Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac

Its unique positionable design lets you adjust and pivot the microphone in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality. Read Review

When you’re recording music vocals, the quality of your sound is everything. A great singer with a horrible-sounding microphone or a badly-recorded track can make your song sound amateur. An amateur with a pro microphone and top-quality audio recording software can bring their voice to life like never before. To help you find the best microphones for recording singing, we’ve put together this blog post with everything you need to know about microphones for singing. Whether you’re just getting started and want to discover what budget mics are available or you’re looking to upgrade from a primary USB mic, read on to find out which microphones are best for recording vocals.

Our staff had to concentrate on studying over 16 hours to acquire such outcomes for readers. Such research depends on both customer star ratings and interviews with customers about their experience of the product. In addition, we recommend Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone (SM58S) as one of the ideal selections. Our team agrees that these products are full of accessories for singing, such as Foldable Mic Tripod and Mini Shock Mount. For your convenience, we've included an in-depth buyer's guide and other excellent alternatives for you to choose the final option.

Our Top Picks

  • Steel-mesh grille and enamel-coated metal construction resist wear and abuse
  • Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
  • Extremely durable under the heaviest use
  • Shure quality, ruggedness and reliability
  • The SM58S variant includes the SM58 cardioid dynamic vocal microphone with integrated on/off switch, A25D swivel stand adapter and storage bag
  • Furnished with zippered storage bag and break-resistant stand adapter
  • Effective built in pop-filter reduces undesirable wind and breathe noise
  • Uniform cardioid pick-up pattern for maximum gain before feedback and excellent rejection of off-axis sound
  • Performance tested, industry standard
  • Tailored frequency response specifically shaped for vocals, with brightened midrange and bass roll off to control proximity effect
TOP Choice #2 HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone
Our Score:
9.7
HyperX
  • Four selectable polar patterns
  • Mount adapter included
  • Multi device and chat program compatibility
  • Tap to mute sensor with LED indicator
  • Anti-vibration shock mount
  • Convenient gain control adjustment
  • High Quality Diaphragm: Our capsules are made using high-grade brass and Japanese imported mylar. They are manufactured with the most precise machinery to achieve higher sensitivity making them able to reproduce subtle sounds. This makes it the perfect for a vairety of sources.
  • Carefully Tuned Sound: Balanced and Neutral frequency response. Unlike most condenser microphones, this microphone does not sound harsh and will not stand out in your mix or sound fatiguing over time.
  • High Strength Iron Body: Our microphone body and frame are made out of high-grade iron with a durable grill to protect the capsule and ensure that every of our microphone will last a lifetime.
  • Low Noise Circuit: Our custom transformer less JFET circuit is made with German capacitors and components with a tolerance as low as 1%. It features gold traces for high conductivity, great performance without distortion, and a noise floor of less than 13dBA.
  • NOTE: To connect to a computer, please use a proper USB audio interface that can supply 48V and an XLR to XLR cable.
  • 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.
  • Unique Positionable Design: Adjust and pivot the microphone in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality.
  • Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
  • 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.
  • Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
  • Audio Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
  • Package Dimensions: 24.6 H x 13.2 L x 23.0 W (centimetres)
  • Package Weight: 1.859 kilograms
  • Country of Origin : United States
  • 【Streamlined Setup】USB output enables direct integration with a desktop or laptop computer.Condenser mic combines professional quality sound capture with the ease of plug-and-play USB connectivity on both pc and laptop, offering simple operability and high-quality audio capture for podcasters, YouTubers, vloggers, gamers, and voice-over artists in homes, project studios. ◆◆Incompatible with Xbox / Phones / iPad◆◆
  • 【Excellent Sound Quality】Stereo microphone deliver crystal clear, well-balanced reproduction across a wide frequency response and handles high SPLs, provide detailed, quality faithful sound for studio or on-the-road use. Cardioid polar pattern for minimal noise and feedback control, offers pristine and accurate capture. Suitable for presentations, podcasts, zoom, skype, recordings, instant messaging, game, stream on twitch.
  • 【Easy-to-use Controls】The desk microphone's 3.5mm stereo headphone output features a volume control and provides direct, latency-free monitoring anywhere, adjustable volume ensures monitoring quality and convenience. The quick mute functionality is very handy for headphones or monitors, with built-in LED light Indicate the working status. Provide a simple and efficient system for speech, podcasting, asmr and voice over applications.
  • 【The Accessory Package Includes】Made out of all metal construction external microphone stand. Sturdy and durable, a studio-grade streaming metal construction microphone.Premium 6.56’ USB cable. 5/8 inch male to 3/8 inch female mic thread screw adapter.A user manual and friendly Technical Support.
  • 【Decent Material for Durability】Integrated desktop stand made by die-cast zinc construction for secure and easily portable tabletop use. Compact Rugged metal construction dictation microphone for long-lasting performance. Very long USB cable (6.56’) with double with magnet ring minimize or eliminate the problem electromagnetic interference from computers. It's a super voice quality for tutorials, webinars, and casual chatting or business online meeting.
  • Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern captures speech with precision
  • Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 3 and up to seven other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes
  • Proprietary Clipguard technology makes distortion virtually impossible
  • Up to 24-bit / 96kHz analog to digital conversion delivers lush detail
  • Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission
  • Logitech G HUB Integration – Manage mic gain, headphone volume, monitoring preferences and pickup pattern selection right from your desktop
  • Multi-Function Smart Knob – Fine-tune your on-stream sound with easy-access controls for mic gain, mute, headphone volume and blend
  • Customizable LED Lighting – Personalize the color of Yeti X’s LED lights to match your on-stream aesthetic
  • Four-Capsule Array – Capture legendary Blue broadcast sound with greater focus and clarity than ever for professional streaming, podcasting and YouTube
  • High-Res LED Metering – Visualize your voice level at a glance and adjust up or down for powerful, broadcast quality sound
  • 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.
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • FULLY ADJUSTABLE - Flexibility to tilt, flip and rotate the microphone up to 90° to get stereo clarity, whatever your sound source
  • IN THE BOX - 2-Year Warranty, MV88 microphone, foam windshield, carry case, headphone monitor adaptor cable
  • IOS LIGHTNING CONNECTION - Apple MFi certified and compatible with all iOS devices with a Lightning connector
  • 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
  • POCKET-FRIENDLY - Capture powerful audio recordings on the move without the need for large and heavy audio equipment
  • PROTECTION IN TRANSIT - High-quality zip carry case included for protection when traveling
  • 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
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best microphone for recording singing?

Actually, when you decide to invest in best microphone for recording singing for yourself, lots of things to consider! It's harder to choose since the product comes with many types, functions, and features from different manufacturers. That’s why you should find a reliable space to acquire knowledge related to the item. 

We’ve highlighted the essential features of the best microphone for recording singing below. Along with checking out the list of best models in the list, you should also carefully read the buying guide here:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

After knowing the suitable kinds of best microphone for recording singing and the features you wish, it’s high time for you to start your shopping. Note that you shouldn’t run out to a particular store or start scrolling through online sales just yet. With the development of technology, especially the expansion of sale sites, you can easily find your buddy. 

Remember to check out our site weekly round-up to ensure that the current sales on best microphone for recording singing perform well in our tests. So you can catch up with them as soon as possible. Would you please give us your feedback for better service? Many thanks!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.