Vocals are the heart of any good mix and having the right microphone can make all the difference. Ribbon mics offer a unique sound that can add a richness and warmth to your vocal recordings that you just can’t get with other types of microphones. While ribbon mics have traditionally been used more in the recording studio, advancements in technology have made them more suitable for live performances as well. Here we will be discussing some of the best ribbon mics for vocals and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Best Ribbon Mics For Vocals
| Rank | Product Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
|
1
 |
Recording Secrets for the Small Studio (Sound On Sound Presents…)
|
9. 7
|
|
2
 |
Shure SM58-CN Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with 25′ XLR Cable
|
9. 5
|
|
3
 |
MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone
|
9. 1
|
|
4
 |
Shure KSM313/NE Dual-Voice Ribbon Microphone with Roswellite Ribbon Technology
|
8. 8
|
|
5
 |
Golden Age Project R1 Active MKIII Active Ribbon Microphone
|
8. 6
|
|
6
 |
sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 Active Ribbon Mic
|
8. 2
|
|
7
 |
sE Electronics X1R Passive Ribbon Microphone
|
8. 0
|
|
8
 |
Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone – Old Vintage Style Unidirectional Cardioid Mic with XLR Cable – Universal Stand Compatible – Live Performance In Studio Recording – Pyle PDMICR42SL (Silver)
|
7 .7
|
|
9
 |
Rode NTR Premium Active Ribbon Microphone
|
7. 4
|
|
10
 |
Cascade Microphones 98-B-A Ribbon Microphone
|
7. 2
|
1. Recording Secrets for the Small Studio (Sound On Sound Presents…)
I recently purchased the book “Recording Secrets for the Small Studio” by Mike Senior and it was an excellent investment. This book is great for anyone looking to get the most out of their home studio without spending a fortune. The book covers everything from microphone selection, soundproofing, acoustic principles, recording technique, mixing, and much more. Mike Senior does an excellent job of explaining the concepts in a way that is easy to understand and apply. He also provides helpful tips and tricks along the way that can really help you get the most out of your studio. I would highly recommend this book for anyone looking to get the most out of their small studio. It has been a great help so far and I’m sure it will continue to be a great resource for many years to come.
- Step-by-step guide to recording and mixing
- Tips and tricks from the pros
- Advice and guidance on setting up a home studio
- In-depth tutorials on recording techniques
- Up-to-date information on audio gear and software
- Troubleshooting advice for common recording and mixing issues
2. Shure SM58-CN Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with 25′ XLR Cable
I just recently purchased the Shure SM58-CN Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with 25′ XLR Cable and I’m so glad that I did. This mic has been an absolute game changer for me and I really can’t believe how much of a difference it has made. The sound quality is great and it’s very clear compared to the older mics I was using before. The 25′ cable makes it so much easier to move around and I love the fact that it’s cardioid so it captures only what you want it to. The construction is also very sturdy and it comes with a lifetime warranty which is always nice. I would highly recommend this mic to anyone looking for a great, reliable mic that won’t break the bank.
- Cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates desired sound source
- Dynamic cartridge with a tailored frequency response designed for vocal applications
- Internal shock-mount system reduces handling noise
- Uniform cardioid polar pattern provides maximum isolation
- Effective pneumatic shock-mount system minimizes handling noise
- Includes a 25′ XLR cable
- Legendary Shure quality and reliability
3. MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone
The MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone is a great tool for anyone who needs a high-quality microphone for recording. It has a very accurate pickup range and a smooth, consistent sound quality. The build quality is superb, making this a reliable and durable microphone. The sound is very clear and crisp, and I was very impressed with how well it was able to capture the nuances of my voice. The only downside I found was that it takes a bit of tinkering to get the settings just right, but once you do that, the results are amazing. Overall, this is an excellent microphone and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a great recording experience.
:
- High quality Large Diaphragm condenser microphone
- Designed to capture a wide range of sounds
- Gold sputtered diaphragm for superior sound reproduction
- Cardioid polar pattern for instrumental and vocal recordings
- Smooth frequency response for accurate capturing of voice and instruments
- Switchable -10 dB pad for recording loud sounds
- Low-noise, transformerless FET circuitry
4. Shure KSM313/NE Dual-Voice Ribbon Microphone with Roswellite Ribbon Technology
The Shure KSM313/NE Dual-Voice Ribbon Microphone with Roswellite Ribbon Technology is an amazing piece of equipment that I would highly recommend. The Roswellite ribbon technology allows for a rich, full tone with a wide dynamic range. The microphone is extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, from vocal and instrument recording to capturing live performances. The sound is clear and crisp, and the microphone is very durable and well-built. I’ve used this microphone for a number of projects with excellent results. It’s definitely worth investing in if you’re looking for a quality ribbon microphone that can handle a variety of tasks. Highly recommended!
- Robust, versatile dual-voice ribbon microphone with Roswellite Ribbon Technology
- High SPL and transient response capture every detail with clarity and precision
- Custom designed, internally-shielded toroidal transformer provides superior level handling and sonic clarity
- Premium grade steel construction for maximum durability and long life
- High-frequency and low-frequency presence controls for added versatility
- Switchable pattern selection for capturing a wide variety of sound sources
5. Golden Age Project R1 Active MKIII Active Ribbon Microphone
After doing some research, I decided to purchase the Golden Age Project R1 Active MKIII Active Ribbon Microphone, and I am very glad I did. This microphone is incredibly versatile and can be used to record practically any type of sound. The sound quality is crisp and clear, and the frequency response is excellent. The active ribbon design ensures that the signal remains strong and consistent, and the low noise floor ensures that you get the most out of your recordings. The construction is sturdy and reliable, and the price is more than reasonable for a microphone of this quality. I would highly recommend the Golden Age Project R1 Active MKIII Active Ribbon Microphone to anyone looking for a great quality microphone.
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Handmade aluminum ribbon transducer
- Active electronics for balanced output
- Frequency response of 20 Hz – 18 kHz
- Switchable Pad of 0 dB and -10 dB
- Switchable high-pass filter of 80 Hz and 120 Hz
- Low-noise transformer
- Integrated shockmount for robust mounting
- High-quality, anodized aluminum body
6. sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 Active Ribbon Mic
I recently purchased the sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 Active Ribbon Mic and it has been an absolute game-changer for my home recording setup. I’m a big fan of using ribbon mics as they have a warm, vintage sound that really brings out the character of recordings. The Voodoo VR2 is a particularly great mic – it has a natural sound that captures subtle nuances and clarity at all ranges. Plus, the active output makes it easy to get the desired level of gain. I’m very happy with my purchase, and I definitely recommend this mic to anyone looking for a great ribbon mic.
- Professional grade active ribbon mic
- Smooth, natural sound
- Excellent frequency response
- High SPL capability
- Captures subtle nuances
- Ideal for both vocals and instruments
7. sE Electronics X1R Passive Ribbon Microphone
I recently purchased the sE Electronics X1R Passive Ribbon Microphone and I am extremely pleased with the results. The sound quality is fantastic, offering a warm and detailed tone that is perfect for a variety of recording applications. The mic is also incredibly versatile, with its switchable polar pattern and adjustable pad, allowing you to easily fine-tune the sound to your needs. The build quality is top-notch, with a rugged construction that ensures it will last a lifetime. All in all, this is an amazing microphone that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a great-sounding and versatile ribbon mic.
- Compact size and lightweight design for easy portability and setup
- Requires no phantom power for operation
- Highly sensitive ribbon microphone for superb audio quality
- Flat frequency response for accurate reproduction of sound
- Switchable high-pass filter for reduction of unwanted low frequency noise
- Switchable -10dB pad for capturing loud sound sources
- Includes a shock mount and dust cover for protection
8. Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone – Old Vintage Style Unidirectional Cardioid Mic with XLR Cable – Universal Stand Compatible – Live Performance In Studio Recording – Pyle PDMICR42SL (Silver)
I recently purchased the Pyle PDMICR42SL Classic Retro Dynamic Vocal Microphone, and I am absolutely in love with it! The sound quality is great, and it is really easy to use. The cardioid polar pattern helps to minimize unwanted noise, while the universal stand compatibility makes it easy to set up wherever I need it. It’s perfect for both live performances and studio recordings, and the old vintage style looks great. The XLR cable that comes with the microphone is very durable and provides a clear signal connection. I’m very impressed with this microphone and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high quality retro microphone at an affordable price.
- Vintage style unidirectional cardioid mic with XLR cable
- Universal stand compatible
- Ideal for live performance or studio recording
- Dynamic vocal microphone with classic retro style
- Silver finish with all-metal construction
- High signal output for clear and accurate sound reproduction
- Smooth and flat frequency response
- Integrated wind screen to reduce vocal popping
9. Rode NTR Premium Active Ribbon Microphone
I recently purchased the Rode NTR Premium Active Ribbon Microphone, and I’m absolutely impressed by the quality of sound. The clarity and warmth of the microphone is perfect for recording vocals and instruments, and the noise rejection capabilities just add to its overall brilliance. The construction of the microphone is top-notch, with an all-metal body and a low-noise output. The ribbon transducer provides an incredibly transparent sound, and the onboard amplifier provides enough gain for most applications. I’m really impressed with the versatility of this microphone – it can be used for a wide variety of recording applications, from live performances to studio recordings. Overall, the Rode NTR is an excellent microphone for both professional and home studio recordings. Highly recommended!
- High-performance active ribbon microphone
- Delivers a warm and mellow sound with extended low frequency response
- Robust build quality with internal shock mounting to minimise noise
- Features a 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
- 2.2 mV/Pa sensitivity and a maximum sound pressure level (SPL) of 140 dB
- Featuring a symmetrical figure-8 pattern
- Includes a hard mount and windscreen for added protection and convenience
- Requires a 24V DC power source for operation
- Ideal for use in recording studios and live performance
10. Cascade Microphones 98-B-A Ribbon Microphone
The Cascade Microphones 98-B-A Ribbon Microphone is an amazing tool for any recording studio. It provides a great sound quality with a smooth and warm sound. It’s well-built and provides great sensitivity and clarity when recording. The frequency response is excellent, and it can capture a wide range of sounds from the low end to the high end. It’s a great microphone to use for vocals, instruments, and even acoustic instruments. The price is reasonable and it’s perfect for those who want a quality microphone at a great price. Highly recommended!
- Cascade Microphones proprietary designed, custom-tooled large ribbon element.
- State-of-the-art active electronics (no transformer) for high output and low distortion.
- Custom post-ribbon baffle for improved off-axis frequency response.
- Custom low noise Mogami Cable including Mogami Gold Connectors with gold plated contacts.
- Included shockmount and carrying case.
- Smooth frequency response of 20Hz to 15kHz.
- Extremely low self-noise.
- High Output Level.
- Rugged, road-proof construction.
- Durable, stylish finish.
