If you’re a singer shopping for a mic to use in the studio or on stage, it’s important to not only invest in a model that sounds clean and detailed, but to also find one that suits your vocal style and intended effect. Whether you’re looking for a neutral-sounding all-rounder or searching for a warm and colorful tube mic to add to your studio artillery, we’ve listed the best models at every price range. We’ve also made sure to feature the best dynamic mics for live performances.
Best Condenser Recording Mics
Under $100
When it comes to budget-friendly mics, you’re like to find the Audio-Technica AT2020 at the top of the list. A staple for home-recording musicians and producers, the AT2020 is nothing if not reliable, employing many of the design elements used in the brand’s most reputable studio microphone models. Given its neutral-leaning frequency response, the AT2020 is reasonably versatile. But for those who like a little extra warmth in the low end, we suggest getting up close to the mic for added depth and bass presence.
Tube condenser microphones tend to be rather expensive, often making it difficult for budget-conscious musicians to acquire that warm, vintage sound that they’re famous for. Although not a tube mic, the V67G from MXL has gained incredible popularity for its thick and mellow analog flavor. It’s got that classic tube mic feel in the form of a solid-state condenser that’s not only highly affordable, but also a pleasure to look at.
Under $300
If you’re looking for a particularly clean, crisp, and natural sound, check out the LCT-4400 PURE form Lewitt. Using the same components and design from their highest tier models, the LCT04400 PURE comes without all the bells and whistles featured in its more expensive mics, like pads, switching and filters. But it’s a very capable microphone, delivering extra presence in the treble for added clarity while avoiding any uncomfortable sharpness in the highest frequencies.
The LCT-4400 PURE also saves you the hassle and added expense of buying external accessories, as it comes packaged with a shockmount and pop filter. Just mount it to a stand, and you’re ready to go.
The X1 S from sE Electronics is a good option for vocalists recording in less-than-ideal acoustic spaces. It comes equipped with two low-cut filters that reduce low-frequency rumble and floor vibrations. And if you’re using the mic for amplified guitars and drums as well, you can use the attenuation pads to minimize any distortion.
The sonic profile is characterized as being on the brighter side, but it avoids sounding brittle or peaky in the top frequencies. The X1 S may be especially well suited for baritone voices that already have plenty of depth and body but could use a little “lift” and treble presence.
Under $500
The MK 4 from Sennheiser is perfect for those looking for a warm and full-bodied sound with a smooth high-end. In true Sennheiser fashion, the sonic profile is both natural yet super pleasing to the ear. The mic is versatile too, equally suited for a wide range of instruments as it is for vocals. And overall, the company has put all its investment into sound quality rather than on any fancy bells and whistles, like pads and filters. Still, it features a 24kt gold-sputtered diaphragm, as gold is not only a superior conductor for electrical signals but also prevents corrosion over time. And overall, the build of the MK 4 is undeniably sturdy. Add to that an included shockmount, and you’ve got a great deal from one of the most reliable audio brands in the world.
For all those familiar with the legendary AKG C414, the C214 can be regarded as a more cost effective yet worthy alternative. In fact, the C214 employs the same 1-inch capsule as the C414 but in a single-diaphragm, cardioid-only configuration. So, while you won’t have variable polar patterns, you can still enjoy the wide frequency range, low noise and incredibly detailed delivery that AKG’s best microphones are famous for. Bright, clear, and sparkly in the high end, the C214 is one of the most talented mics in this price range.
Under $800
A microphone buying guide wouldn’t be complete without the inclusion of a quality tube mic. For singers looking for a warm and mellow vintage tone, check out the Black Series LA-320 V2 from Lauten Audio. Apart from its top-class sound quality, the great thing about this mic is that it has onboard sound shaping, allowing you to switch between the classic tube mic character to a more modern tube sound that puts emphasis on clarity over warmth. This is not a mic intended for heavy signal processing. It’s meant to sound great out of the box with its own distinct flavor.
In this price range, we also wanted to include a mic with variable polar patterns for situations in which you want to record more than one vocalist on one track. Like the AKG C214, mentioned above, the C314 takes its cues from the venerable C414 while keeping the cost down. But this model also features four selectable polar patterns. Stick to cardioid pickup for single vocalists and then switch to a figure-8 polar pattern to balance out two vocalists.
$1000 and Up
The Neumann U 87 is one of the most famous and most frequently used microphones for vocals even made. Warm and well-balanced with three polar pattern selections, the U 87 Ai is not only honey to the ear but also a versatile choice for those using recording with instruments or multiple singers. It features a 10dB attenuation switch to handle high sound pressure levels, as well as a selectable low-frequency roll-off to minimize room tone and reduce the proximity effect. Uber-detailed with rich low-frequencies and smooth, silky highs, the U 87 provides a level of clarity and depth that few other mics can match.
We could mention the AKG C414 and end the article right there, as it’s an industry standard in professional studios around the world. But instead, we thought we’d throw in the incredibly gorgeous, unique, and admittedly pricey SU-017 tube condenser from Soyuz Microphones. Full-bodied and warm in the bass and lower midrange with airy and articulate highs, this mic works equally well with male and female vocals. Don’t expect much neutrality for the SU-017. Rather it’s full of character and color, giving majesty to orchestral instruments, like cellos, as well. It features a cardioid capsule that can be swapped out with omnidirectional and figure 8 capsule (sold separately).
Best Dynamic Stage Mics
Under $100
The legendary German brand, Sennheiser, rarely makes a bad product. And this is especially true with respect to its dynamic performance mics, even the more affordable ones. The e 835 offers singer-friendly tuning, a rugged and weighty metal body, and whopping 10-year warranty. You’ll hear a gentle presence boost, giving vocals a sense of forwardness and clear projection. The mic also minimizes the proximity effect to keep the sound consistently clean regardless of whether you’re singing very close to the mic or further away. The e 835 also does a great job of reducing handling noise and rejecting any annoying feedback that can often occur on stage.
Another top seller in this category is the Shure SM58-LC. Despite its low price point, this mic has become an industry standard for live vocal performance. With a little boost in the midrange and a natural bass roll-off, the SM58-LC is tuned optimally for vocals. If you want a warm and full-bodied sound, move up close to the mic. Or if you prefer a less colored tone with less bass, pull the mic back for a more natural reproduction. Noise is also kept to a minimum thanks to a specialized integrated shockmount system that absorbs vibrations and handling noise. Also built into the SM58 is a pop filter, which helps reduce breath noises and plosives.
Under $300
If you’re looking for a particularly crisp and spacious sound, check out the sE Electronics V7. In addition to its distinctive sonic profile, the V7 also features a supercardioid polar pattern, which has a tighter pickup than cardioid capsules. This element will not only eliminate more sound coming from the stage but will also reduce the risk of feedback as a result. It’s also hard to ignore the aesthetic appeal of this mic with its shiny zinc alloy chassis. The build is solid, including a steel mesh grille that’s apparently dent-proof and corrosion free. Like all decent dynamic mics, you can also expect an integrated shockmount providing low handling noise and reducing vibration. Additionally, the internal windscreen does a good job at reducing unwanted breath sounds and plosives.
Given its wide range of available colors, the Telefunken M80 is a fun choice for performers who love their mic to match their outfit. But more importantly, the M80 is notable for its condenser-like sound. Thanks in part to the M80’s wide frequency response, the sound reproduction approximates that of a studio large diaphragm condenser microphone, where the vocals feel exceptionally detailed and intimate. So, it has a somewhat unique sound profile when compared to most dynamic mics, which tend to be more midrange focused. The M80 is also quite resistant to the proximity effect. And as a result, no matter how close you get to the mic, the bass will never feel too emphasized or muddy. At the same time, there is good presence in the bass range, ensuring that the sound is never thin or lacking in body. Like the V7, described above, the M80 sports a supercardioid polar pattern, giving it a tighter pickup pattern than a typical cardioid capsule.
$500 and Up
The Neumann KMS 104 plus is one of our favorite dynamic mics on this list not only because of its fantastic resolution but also because it’s especially well-suited for the female singer. Neumann has injected more richness in the lower frequencies, an extra smooth midrange and silky high frequencies to bring out the best sound in a typical female vocal. You won’t run into any harshness or shrill, yet vocals will never sound shallow or lacking in body. Like the M80, described above, the KMS 104 plus borrows a few traits from a classical condenser mic, retaining sibilants and other subtle articulations that typical dynamic mics usually ignore. Other compelling features include the mic’s impressive low self-noise, which allows the KMS 104 to be used at high gain levels. Thanks to the high signal-to-noise ratio, you’ll have the freedom to move around during your performance without being preoccupied with your position from the mic.
For more information about the microphones listed, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out our detailed product pages. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.
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