The Best Professional Recording Microphone For 2024

Piers Anthony By, Piers Anthony
Updated
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone

The Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone 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 minimal colouration. For close-miking instruments and ASMR audio where warm, smooth frequencies are a must, this microphone shines! Read Review

2. Best Audio Performance: HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Microphone

With the HyperX QuadCast, you are in control of your voice. Whether you're streaming live, playing games or doing recordings, the four selectable polar patterns and convenient gain control adjustment ensure that your voice is heard louder and clearer than ever before. Read Review

3. Best Quality: Blue Microphones Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming

The Blue Microphones Yeti USB Mic is a custom three-capsule array that produces broadcast quality sound for YouTube, game streaming and podcasting. Its on-board audio controls let you control volume, pattern selection, instant mute and mic gain so you can adjust to every level of the recording and streaming process. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone for Recording Streaming

The perfect microphone for podcasts, YouTube videos, gaming and voice-over! The FIFINE USB Podcast Microphone for Recording Streaming is a Plug-n-Play stereo condenser microphone that offers simple operability and high-quality audio capture. Compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, the connected USB output enables direct integration with your desktop or laptop computer. Read Review

Professional recording microphones are essential for capturing clean, high-quality audio with any kind of recording setup. These mics are specifically designed with performance and reliability in mind, making them a better option than standard household mics when recording audio as a hobby or for professional use.

Whether you’re just getting started as an audio enthusiast or you’re ready to take your career to the next level by investing in the right kind of gear, the best professional recording microphones will give you everything you need to take your recordings to the next level. If you are looking to upgrade your home studio or invest in great equipment for your future as an audiophile, here is our list of the best professional recording mics available on the market right now.

Our team, including qualified experts in this area, conducted a survey and carried it out for a great amount of time to find the right products for nearly hours. And after lots of effort, we have done it well. 

As a result, we found some top trending models on the market that many customers tend to search for. In addition, we believe that the Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone is one of the best options available to you. We have provided you with a detailed buyer's guide and many other good choices so that you can decide which one is the best for your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Our Score:
9.7
Shure
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • ONE MICROPHONE FOR EVERYTHING - Studio Recording, Home Recording, Podcasting and Streaming. The SM7B Is Trusted By The Worlds Leading Vocalists, Podcasters and Streamers.
  • 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.
  • 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.
TOP Choice #2 HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Microphone
Our Score:
9.5
HyperX
  • Four selectable polar patterns
  • Mount adapter included
  • Convenient gain control adjustment
  • Tap to mute sensor with LED indicator
  • Multi device and chat program compatibility
  • Anti-vibration shock mount
TOP Choice #3 Blue Microphones Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming
Our Score:
9.4
Logitech for Creators
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 【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.
  • 【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◆◆
  • 【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.
  • 【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.
5 Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone
Our Score:
9.1
Shure
  • POCKET-FRIENDLY - Capture powerful audio recordings on the move without the need for large and heavy audio equipment
  • 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
  • FULLY ADJUSTABLE - Flexibility to tilt, flip and rotate the microphone up to 90° to get stereo clarity, whatever your sound source
  • 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
  • PROTECTION IN TRANSIT - High-quality zip carry case included for protection when traveling
  • IOS LIGHTNING CONNECTION - Apple MFi certified and compatible with all iOS devices with a Lightning connector
  • 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
  • IN THE BOX - 2-Year Warranty, MV88 microphone, foam windshield, carry case, headphone monitor adaptor cable
  • Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern captures speech with precision
  • Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission
  • Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 3 and up to seven other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes
  • Up to 24-bit / 96kHz analog to digital conversion delivers lush detail
  • Proprietary Clipguard technology makes distortion virtually impossible
  • Top Selling multi-purpose condenser microphone
  • Balanced bass response with high end clarity
  • Versatile for streaming and podcasting
  • Excellent for vocals, pianos, stringed instruments, and percussion
  • Low frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted rumble
  • Low noise FET preamp with balanced, transformerless output
  • Adjustable Mic Stand Mount - for connecting to standard microphone stands and boom arms
  • Custom Blue Condenser Capsule – captures your voice with stunning depth and clarity
  • Open, Accurate Sound – with impressive headroom, Ember delivers clear, commanding vocals for your voice recordings, gaming and video streaming
  • XLR Connection - Perfect for computer audio interfaces and mixers
  • Precise Cardioid Pattern - Ensures focused sound while minimizing room sound
  • Wide, Consistent Frequency Response - innovative circuit design provides remarkably consistent phantom power to the capsule
9 Blue Yeti X Professional Condenser USB Microphone
Our Score:
8.1
Logitech for Creators
  • High-Res Led Metering – Visualize Your Voice Level At A Glance And Adjust Up Or Down For Powerful, Broadcast Quality Sound
  • 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
  • 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.
  • Smooth, wide ranging frequency response (20–20,000Hz) captures the full audible spectrum
  • Directional cardioid polar pattern and pure-aluminum-plated, 18mm-diameter-diaphragm condenser capsule
  • Compact footprint and lightweight form factor for portable audio capture
  • Studio-grade condenser microphone that delivers premium audio performance for crystal clear audio capture - perfect for vocals, acoustic instruments, amplifiers and more
  • High sensitivity and low signal-to-noise ratio captures every subtle nuance of your source audio
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Factors Should You Consider While Choosing best professional recording microphone?

Getting to the best decision for a product purchase may take a bit of time. In a nutshell, we're available to serve you with your product problems at all hours of the day and night!

You can rest assured if you consider the following points before selecting best professional recording microphone:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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About Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony is a freelance writer and computer expert who enjoys helping others get the most out of their technology. He has written extensively about laptops, soundbars, and other computer-related topics, and he currently serves as the editor of The Audio Insights website. When he's not writing or tinkering with his gadgets, Piers can be found spending time with his wife and family.