The use of a high-quality microphone is essential for any vocal recording. With the right microphone, you can achieve a great sound and take your recordings to the next level. There are many great microphones out there and it can be hard to decide which one to choose. We have compiled a list of some of the best microphones for vocals, to make your search for the perfect microphone easier.
Best Microphones For Vocals
| Rank | Product Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
|
1
 |
Shure SM58-LC
|
9. 7
|
|
2
 |
Rode NT1-A
|
9. 5
|
|
3
 |
Shure SM7B
|
9. 1
|
|
4
 |
AKG C414 XLII
|
8. 8
|
|
5
 |
Rode NTK
|
8. 6
|
|
6
 |
Sennheiser MD 421
|
8. 2
|
|
7
 |
Audio-Technica 4050
|
8. 0
|
|
8
 |
Manley Reference Cardioid
|
7 .7
|
|
9
 |
Mojave Audio MA-200
|
7. 4
|
|
10
 |
Neumann TLM 103
|
7. 2
|
1. Shure SM58-LC
The Shure SM58-LC is one of the most popular dynamic microphones available. It is an industry-standard vocal microphone, used on stages all around the world. It has a cardioid pickup pattern that rejects sound from the rear, giving it great feedback rejection and vocal clarity. The SM58-LC also has an internal pneumatic shock mount system that reduces handling noise and ensures a clear sound. The sound quality of the SM58-LC is second to none, providing a bright and crisp sound with plenty of presence. It is rugged and durable, making it perfect for use on the road. The SM58-LC is an excellent choice for musicians, vocalists, and even for public address and speech applications. Highly recommended!
- Cardioid polar pattern for focused sound pickup
- Uniform frequency response for consistent sound across the signal chain
- Built-in pop filter to reduce plosives and wind noise
- Rugged construction with hardened steel mesh grille
- Integrated shock mount to minimize handling noise
- Low-frequency roll-off to reduce rumble and wind noise
- Durable, industry-standard mic for professional performance
2. Rode NT1-A
I recently purchased the Rode NT1-A and I am extremely pleased with my purchase. The sound quality is excellent and it is perfect for recording vocals. It has a low self-noise level and a high SPL handling allowing me to capture even the quietest of vocals. It also comes with everything you need in the box, including a shock mount, pop shield and a 20 foot cable, making it even more practical. I would highly recommend this microphone for anyone looking for a great sounding vocal microphone.
- Large 1-inch capsule with gold plated diaphragm
- Low self-noise of only 5dBA
- Includes an SMR shock mount, pop shield, and 20 cable
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Suitable for vocal and instrument recording
3. Shure SM7B
I have been using the Shure SM7B for recording vocals for some time now, and I can honestly say that it is an excellent microphone. It is well-built, with a solid metal construction that feels very sturdy when handling it. The sound quality is excellent, with a rich, full sound that captures your voice accurately and clearly. The frequency response is also very good, with a wide range of frequencies that capture the nuances of your performance. The low noise floor and robust construction make it a great choice for recording in different environments, from a home studio to a professional one. All in all, the Shure SM7B is an excellent choice for any vocalist or recording engineer, and I highly recommend it.
- Cardioid polar pattern for high-rejection of off-axis sound
- Extended frequency response of 50Hz-20kHz
- Flat, wide-range frequency response for exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech
- High output for high signal-to-noise ratio
- Switchable response for use with an equalizer
- Internal air suspension shock isolation to minimize mechanical noise
- Yoke mounting with captive stand nut for easy mounting
4. AKG C414 XLII
I recently bought the AKG C414 XLII as an upgrade for my recording studio and I couldnt be happier with the results. This condenser microphone has a smooth, natural sound that is perfect for capturing every detail of vocal performances and instruments. The cardioid polar pattern is great for isolating specific sounds and rejecting unwanted noise. The frequency range is versatile and allows you to use this mic for a variety of applications. The wide dynamic range ensures you get the best possible sound out of each recording. Overall, the AKG C414 XLII is an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their recording setup or just get great quality recordings. Highly recommended!
- Switchable pickup patterns: nine including cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8 and more
- Large diaphragm condenser microphone with a warm sound
- Highpass filter and -20dB pad for flexibility
- Switchable bass-cut filter to reduce proximity effect
- Polarity reverse switch
- Excellent sound quality with low self-noise
5. Rode NTK
I recently purchased the Rode NTK microphone, and so far I am loving it! It’s a great quality microphone that captures crystal clear sound. The design is solid and well-built, and it’s very easy to use. The sound quality is excellent, with a low noise floor and great accuracy. The only downside to this microphone is that it can be a bit pricey, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny. Overall, I highly recommend this microphone to anyone looking for a high-quality model.
- High-grade microphone preamp designed for low noise and wide dynamic range
- 2 x 3-pin XLR balanced inputs for connecting microphones or other audio sources
- 2 x 3-pin XLR balanced outputs for connecting to an audio interface or mixer
- Variable gain control with a maximum of +75 dB
- High-pass filter switch with 3 settings (off, 75 Hz, 150 Hz)
6. Sennheiser MD 421
I recently purchased the Sennheiser MD 421 and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The sound quality is superb and I find myself enjoying music and podcasts more than ever. This mic is perfect for any type of recording, whether it be in a studio or on the go. The low-end response is outstanding and it delivers a crisp and clear sound even in noisy environments. The build quality is also top-notch and I expect it to last me a long time. It’s definitely worth the money and I would highly recommend this mic to anyone looking for an affordable and quality mic.
- Dynamic cardioid microphone
- Five-position bass roll-off switch
- Wide frequency response of 30Hz-17kHz
- Highly effective hum compensating coil
- Rugged construction
- Shock-mounted capsule for reduced handling noise
7. Audio-Technica 4050
I recently purchased the Audio-Technica 4050 mic and I’m very happy with it. It’s a great mic for recording acoustic instruments, vocals, and spoken word. The sound is crisp and clear, with a wide frequency response, and it’s well-built and rugged. It has a low self-noise and a low handling noise, so no need to worry about background noise. The mic also has a switchable 10 dB pad, which is handy when recording loud sources. Overall, I’m very happy with the Audio-Technica 4050 mic and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality mic for recording acoustic instruments, vocals, and spoken word.
- Large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone
- Switchable low-frequency roll-off and 10 dB pad
- High-pass filter switch for low-end control
- Integral 80 Hz high-pass filter
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range
- State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics for improved signal-to-noise ratio
- Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad
8. Manley Reference Cardioid
I recently purchased the Manley Reference Cardioid and I must say I’m impressed. The sound quality is absolutely top-notch and it is well worth the investment. The microphone is incredibly accurate and can produce very natural-sounding recordings. It has a clear and transparent sound, which is perfect for capturing every nuance of vocals and instruments. I’m also quite pleased with the construction of the microphone; it is built with sturdy materials, and the design is both sleek and classic. The controls are intuitive and easy to use, and the included shock mount and pop filter are a nice bonus. Overall, the Manley Reference Cardioid is an excellent microphone and a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality, professional-grade recording device. Highly recommended!
- Cardioid pattern for maximum signal isolation and minimum ambient noise pickup
- High-grade nickel-plated brass body
- Large, 1.25″ capsule with gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm
- High output and low noise
- Frequency response of 20 Hz-20 kHz
- No-hassle shockmount and windscreen included
- High-quality shielding for improved RF immunity
- Built-in pop filter for superior vocal reproduction
9. Mojave Audio MA-200
I recently purchased the Mojave Audio MA-200, and I am very pleased with my purchase. The preamp is well-made and provides excellent sound quality. The preamp is very versatile and can be used for a variety of applications such as recording, live sound, and studio mixing. The sound is very clear and has a nice warm tone. I also like the fact that the preamp has a built-in compressor, which helps to smooth out dynamics and give a polished sound. The preamp also has a number of useful features such as Gain, Pad, and High Pass Filters. In addition, the preamp is very easy to use and has a straightforward layout. All in all, I am extremely happy with the Mojave Audio MA-200 preamp and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a quality piece of gear.
- High-end Class A discrete amplifier.
- Exclusive hand-selected, vintage-style, large-diaphragm condenser capsule with three switchable polar patterns.
- Two switchable attenuator settings for additional headroom.
- Switchable high-pass filter.
- Two-stage low-noise amplifier.
- High-performance transformer-coupled output stage.
- High-quality electronic components.
- Custom-designed internal shockmount.
- Heavy-duty steel construction.
10. Neumann TLM 103
I recently purchased the Neumann TLM 103 microphone, and I am really impressed with its performance. The sound quality is top notch, providing clear, detailed audio that makes my recordings sound professional. The construction is solid and the build quality is very good. The microphone is also very versatile, and can be used for a variety of applications, from recording vocals to capturing acoustic instruments. The pickup pattern is tight and focuses on the sound source, which is great for isolating and eliminating background noise. Overall, I am very pleased with the Neumann TLM 103 and highly recommend it for anyone looking for an excellent quality microphone.
- Large-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Highly directional response
- Low-noise transformerless electronics
- Extremely low self-noise of 7 dB-A
- High sound pressure handling capability
- Highly consistent directional pattern
- Very low distortion even at high sound pressure levels
- Configurable switchable pre-attenuation pad
- Switchable low-cut filter
