Are you a musician looking to create professional-sounding vocal recordings? The right microphone can make all the difference in capturing the perfect performance, but having experienced it myself can be challenging to find the ideal one for your needs.
In this blog post, I’ve researched, ranked and reviewed the best microphones for your needs, including a brief overview, pricing information, and perks of each.
I’ll cover a range of options, from budget-friendly choices for beginners to high-end models used in professional studios. By the end of this post, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and elevate your vocal recordings to new heights.
So without wasting any more time, here is my list of the best microphones for recording vocals in 2023.
What Is the Best Microphone for Recording Vocals in 2023?
1) Shure SM7B – Best professional microphone + great noise rejection
2) Warm Audio WA-47jr – Wider configurations & versatility + durable quality
3) Rode NT1-A – Crisp sound + budget friendly
4) Audio-Technica AT2020 – Best overall value for money + popular
5) AKG P220 – Solid all-rounder + studio quality
6) Lewitt LCT 440 Pure – Superior sound + warm vocals
7) Neumann U87 – Professional studio mic + versatility
1) Shure SM7B – Best Professional Microphone
Overview
The Shure SM7B is considered to be the gold standard when it comes to professional vocal microphones. It has a unique design that helps reduce background and off-axis noise, making it perfect for recording in noisy environments. It also offers excellent low-end response and a smooth midrange that helps capture a full-bodied sound.
Top Features
> Flat, wide-range frequency response: The SM7B has a frequency response of 50 Hz to 20,000 Hz, which ensures a natural and detailed reproduction of vocals, capturing the full spectrum of the human voice.
> Cardioid polar pattern: The cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates the main sound source, focusing on what’s directly in front of the microphone while minimizing ambient noise and room reflections.
> Excellent noise rejection: The SM7B is designed with electromagnetic shielding, which helps to reduce hum and interference from nearby electronic devices, ensuring a cleaner recording.
Air suspension shock isolation: The built-in internal air suspension system helps to eliminate mechanical noise transmission, reducing unwanted vibrations and handling noise.
> Bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis controls: The microphone features selectable frequency response settings, allowing you to tailor its sound to suit specific recording applications. The bass roll-off setting reduces low-frequency rumble, while the mid-range emphasis (presence boost) setting enhances the clarity and intelligibility of speech.
> Pop filter and foam windscreen: The SM7B comes with a built-in pop filter and a removable foam windscreen, which help to minimize plosive sounds (like “p” and “b”) and reduce wind noise, ensuring a clear and professional recording.
> Rugged construction: The microphone is built with robust, all-metal construction, ensuring long-lasting durability and reliable performance.
> Versatility: Although the SM7B is primarily known for its excellent vocal recording capabilities, it can also be used for other applications, such as recording instruments or broadcasting.
Pricing
The Shure SM7B is one of the more expensive microphones on this list, with an MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) of $399. However, this is still a great value for the quality and features it offers.
Bottom Line
The Shure SM7B has earned its reputation as a top choice for vocalists, podcasters, and broadcasters due to its outstanding sound quality, noise rejection, and durability. Its customizable features make it adaptable to various recording scenarios, ensuring consistently professional results.
To get the Shure SM7B, click the link below!
2) Warm Audio WA-47jr – Wider Configurations & Versatility
Overview
The Warm Audio WA-47jr is a solid-state, large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers a vintage-inspired sound at an accessible price point. It is a more budget-friendly alternative to the company’s flagship WA-47, which is a recreation of the legendary Neumann U47 tube microphone.
Top Features
> Custom K47-style capsule: The WA-47jr features a custom K47-style capsule that reproduces the classic sound of the original Neumann U47. This contributes to the microphone’s natural, smooth, and warm sonic characteristics.
> Cardioid polar pattern: The WA-47jr has a cardioid polar pattern that captures sound from the front while minimizing off-axis noise. This makes it well-suited for isolating vocals and instruments in recording situations.
> Transformerless design: Unlike the tube-based WA-47, the WA-47jr employs a transformerless FET (Field Effect Transistor) design, which offers a more transparent and detailed sound, while still maintaining the warmth associated with vintage microphones.
> High-pass filter and pad switch: The microphone features a selectable high-pass filter (70 Hz) to help reduce low-frequency rumble and a -10 dB pad switch for recording louder sound sources without distortion.
> Robust construction: The WA-47jr is built with high-quality components, ensuring durability and reliability for long-term use.
> Versatility: Its vintage-inspired sound and customizable settings make the WA-47jr suitable for a wide range of recording applications, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and percussion.
> Accessible price point: Warm Audio’s mission is to provide professional-grade equipment at affordable prices. The WA-47jr delivers the sought-after U47 sound without the hefty price tag, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious musicians and producers.
Pricing
The Warm Audio WA-47jr goes for a price of $299. This is a great value for the quality and features it offers, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their vocal recordings.
Bottom Line
The WA-47jr is designed for use in a variety of recording situations, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and drums. Its warm and smooth sound makes it an excellent choice for both professional and home studio environments.
Get the Warm Audio WA-47jr by clicking the link below!
3) Rode NT1-A – Crisp sound + budget-friendly
Overview
The Rode NT1-A is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has gained popularity for its crisp, clear sound and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for home studios and those on a budget, without sacrificing sound quality.
Top Features
> Ultra-low self-noise: The NT1-A boasts one of the lowest self-noise levels of any studio microphone, ensuring a clean and clear recording.
> Cardioid polar pattern: The cardioid polar pattern captures sound from the front while minimizing off-axis noise, making it ideal for recording vocals and instruments.
> High SPL handling: With a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) of 137 dB, which makes it suitable for recording loud instruments like drums or guitar amplifiers. The NT1-A is capable of handling loud sound sources without distortion.
> Complete Recording Package: The NT1-A comes as a complete package that includes a shock mount, pop shield, and microphone cable, making it easy to set up and use right out of the box.
> Solid Build Quality: The microphone features a nickel-plated body and a stainless steel mesh grille, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance.
Pricing
The Rode NT1-A offers exceptional value for money, with an MSRP of around $199, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Bottom Line
The Rode NT1-A is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly microphone with a crisp sound. Its low self-noise and cardioid polar pattern make it ideal for recording vocals and instruments in a home studio setting.
To get the Rode NT1-A, click the link below!
4) Audio-Technica AT2020 – Best overall value for money + popular
Overview
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a popular large-diaphragm condenser microphone that offers excellent overall value for money. Its natural sound and versatility make it a favourite among musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike.
Top Features
> Sound Isolation: The AT2020 features a cardioid polar pattern that effectively isolates the sound source in front of the microphone, minimizing background noise and off-axis sounds. This makes it ideal for capturing clear, focused audio.
> Accurate sound production: The AT2020 has a wide frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring accurate audio reproduction across a diverse range of sound sources. This makes it suitable for recording vocals, instruments, and even ambient sounds.
> Reduced Distortion: The AT2020 has a high maximum sound pressure level (SPL) handling of 144 dB, allowing it to capture loud sound sources without distortion. This is particularly useful when recording instruments like drums, guitars, or brass.
> Sturdy Construction: The AT2020 is built with a rugged metal chassis, ensuring durability and longevity. The microphone’s build quality ensures that it can withstand the rigours of daily use in both studio and live environments.
> Pivoting Stand Mount: The AT2020 comes with a pivoting, threaded stand mount that attaches securely to the microphone, allowing for easy positioning and angling to capture the best possible sound.
> Versatility: The AT2020 is suitable for a variety of applications, such as podcasting, voiceovers, recording musical instruments, and even live performances. Its performance and durability make it an excellent choice for both amateurs and professionals alike.
> Affordable Price: Despite its professional-grade features, the AT2020 is priced affordably, making it an excellent option for those looking for a high-quality microphone without breaking the bank.
Pricing
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is priced at an MSRP of around $99, making it an affordable option for those seeking a high-quality microphone with great value for money.
Bottom Line
The Audio-Technica AT2020 offers the best overall value for money, providing a natural sound and versatile performance at an attractive price point. It’s an ideal choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators looking for an affordable, high-quality microphone.
To get the Audio-Technica AT2020, click the link below!
5) AKG P220 – Solid all-rounder + studio quality
Overview
The AKG P220 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers studio-quality sound and versatility. It’s a solid all-rounder, suitable for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and drums.
Top Features
> Sound quality: The AKG P220 provides clear and accurate sound reproduction, with a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz. The microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which reduces unwanted sounds from the sides and rear of the microphone, making it ideal for studio recordings.
> Durability: The AKG P220 is built to last, with a rugged metal body and a robust metal grille. It also comes with a spider shock mount to reduce handling noise and a metal case for safe storage and transportation.
> Versatility: The AKG P220 is suitable for a wide range of recording applications, including vocals, acoustic guitars, drums, and other instruments. It also features a -20dB pad switch for high SPL applications, making it suitable for loud sound sources like guitar amps and brass instruments.
> Affordability: Compared to other high-end condenser microphones, the AKG P220 is relatively affordable, making it an excellent choice for home studios or musicians on a budget.
> Ease of use: The AKG P220 is easy to set up and use, with a standard XLR connector that can be connected to most audio interfaces and mixers. The microphone also has a switchable bass cut filter to reduce low-frequency rumble and a -10dB pad to reduce the level of loud signals.
Pricing
The AKG P220 is available for an MSRP of around $149, making it one of the most affordable large-diaphragm condenser microphones on the market.
Bottom Line
The AKG P220 is an excellent all-rounder that delivers studio-quality sound, just like other high-end studio mics, at an attractive price point. It’s ideal for home studio recordings, vocalists, and musicians looking for a high-performance microphone without breaking the bank.
To get the AKG P220, click the link below!
6) Lewitt LCT 440 Pure – Superior sound + warm vocals
Overview
The Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is a premium condenser microphone that delivers superior sound quality and warmth for recording vocals. It’s engineered with a high-end capsule and circuitry, making it one of the best microphones for recording vocals.
Top Features
> Clarity and Transparency: The LCT 440 Pure microphone offers a natural and transparent sound that accurately captures the tonal qualities of the source material. It is ideal for recording instruments and vocals that require a detailed and clear sound.
> Versatility: With its wide frequency response range and high SPL, the LCT 440 Pure is a versatile microphone that can be used for a wide range of recording applications. It can handle loud sources such as drums and electric guitars, while also capturing the subtle nuances of acoustic instruments and vocals.
> Robust Build Quality: The microphone is built with high-quality components and features a rugged metal housing that can withstand the rigours of professional use. The microphone also comes with a shock mount that helps reduce unwanted vibrations and noise.
> Ease of Use: The LCT 440 Pure is easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for beginners and professionals alike. It requires minimal setup and can be connected to a variety of devices, including preamps, audio interfaces, and mixers.
> Affordable: Despite its high-quality components and professional-grade features, the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is relatively affordable compared to other large-diaphragm condenser microphones on the market. This makes it an excellent option for home recording studios and budget-conscious professionals.
Pricing
The Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is available for a price of $289.
Bottom Line
The Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is one of the best microphones for recording vocals. It offers superior sound quality, clarity, and warmth that can capture subtle nuances and loud sources alike. It is also easy to use and affordable, making it a great choice for home recording studios and professional musicians on a budget.
To get the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure, click the link below!
7) Neumann U87 AI – Professional Studio Mic + Versatility
Overview
The Neumann U87 AI is a legendary large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has been a staple in professional recording studios for decades. Known for its warmth, clarity, and versatility, the U87 AI is often considered the industry standard for vocal recordings and can also be used for a wide variety of applications, including instruments and voiceovers.
Top Features
> Dual-diaphragm design: The U87 AI features a dual-diaphragm capsule that allows for three selectable polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. This makes the microphone adaptable to various recording scenarios.
> Clear and warm sound: The U87 AI is known for its natural, warm, and detailed sound that captures the nuances of the human voice, making it a favourite among vocalists and producers.
> 10 dB pad and low-frequency roll-off: The microphone includes a switchable 10 dB pad for handling high sound pressure levels (SPL), as well as a low-frequency roll-off switch to reduce rumble and unwanted low-end noise.
> High-quality construction: The Neumann U87 AI is built with precision German engineering and high-quality components, ensuring long-lasting durability and consistent performance.
> Versatility: The U87 AI is not only excellent for vocal recordings but also shines in various applications, such as recording acoustic instruments, ensembles, and voiceovers.
Pricing
The Neumann U87 AI is a premium microphone with a price to match. Its MSRP is around $3,200, making it one of the most expensive microphones on the market. However, its legendary sound quality and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking professional-level recordings.
Bottom Line
The Neumann U87 AI is an industry-standard microphone that delivers exceptional warmth, clarity, and versatility. Its high-quality components and multiple polar patterns make it an excellent choice for professional studios and serious home recording enthusiasts. While its price tag may be steep, the U87 AI’s legendary sound quality and performance make it a worthy investment for those seeking the best in vocal recording.
To get the Neumann U87 AI, click the link below!
How Do I Choose a Microphone for Recording Vocals?
When it comes to recording vocals, choosing the right microphone can make a world of difference.
With so many different types of microphones available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to begin.
Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a microphone for recording vocals.
1) Type of Microphone
The first thing to consider when choosing a vocal microphone is the type of microphone you need. There are two main types of microphones: dynamic and condenser.
Dynamic microphones are rugged and durable, making them a popular choice for live performances. However, they typically don’t offer the same level of sensitivity and detail as condenser microphones.
Condenser microphones, on the other hand, are more delicate and sensitive, making them a great choice for studio recording. They capture more detail and nuance than dynamic microphones, but they also require phantom power, which is a source of electrical power that the microphone needs to operate.
2) Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the way that it picks up sound from different directions. There are several different types of polar patterns, including cardioid, super cardioid, and omnidirectional. Cardioid microphones are the most commonly used for vocal recording because they pick up sound primarily from the front of the microphone while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This helps to reduce background noise and create a clearer, more focused recording.
3) Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies that it can capture. For vocal recording, you want a microphone that has a flat, neutral frequency response that accurately captures the full range of the human voice. A microphone with a tailored frequency response can add warmth or brightness to the recording, but it can also introduce colouration that may not be desirable.
4) Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a microphone refers to its ability to pick up quiet sounds. A more sensitive microphone will capture more detail and nuance, but it may also pick up more background noise. When recording vocals, it’s important to find a balance between sensitivity and noise reduction.
5) Budget
Finally, you’ll need to consider your budget when choosing a microphone for recording vocals. There are microphones available at a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end professional models. While it’s true that more expensive microphones often offer better quality and features, there are still plenty of great options available for those on a budget.
What Is a Condenser Microphone?
A condenser mic is a type of microphone that uses a capacitor to convert sound into electrical energy. Condenser microphones are often used for recording vocals due to their sensitivity, clarity and reliability. Unlike traditional dynamic mics, condenser mics require an external power source (such as phantom power) to function properly – which means they need to be plugged into an audio interface or mixer.
What is a Dynamic Mic?
Dynamic mics are the most common type of microphone used in live sound applications. Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic mics do not require any external power source, making them easier and more reliable for use on stage. They are also typically less expensive than condenser mics and offer more durability – making them perfect for touring musicians or DJs.
Dynamic microphones usually feature a cardioid pickup pattern and are designed to capture sound from the front of the mic. They are well-suited for capturing loud sounds, such as drums and guitar amplifiers, but may not be ideal for recording vocals due to their lower sensitivity.
What Kind of Microphone is Best for Recording Vocals?
When it comes to recording vocals, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Different vocal mics offer different benefits, and the best choice will vary depending on your individual needs.
Generally speaking, condenser microphones tend to be the most popular choice for recording vocals. They have excellent frequency response and sensitivity, which makes them well-suited for capturing subtle nuances in vocal performance. Additionally, a condenser mic often has interchangeable capsules, which allow you to customize the sound even further.
Dynamic mics can also be an excellent choice for vocal recording. They tend to be less expensive than condenser mics and are more resistant to feedback and external noise. A dynamic microphone also tends to provide a slightly warmer, smoother sound than condenser mics.
Finally, USB microphones have become popular in recent years for recording vocals with a computer. While they are convenient and often come at an affordable price point, their fidelity is often not as good as more traditional microphones, and the sound can easily be compromised by background noise and interference.
Summary
Finding the right microphone for recording vocals can make or break a project. However, with a little knowledge, anyone can find the right microphone for their needs.
Whether it’s for professional use, home studio use, or budget recording purposes, there is an option that fits the bill. As we have seen here, each type of mic has its own pros and cons and should be considered carefully when making a decision.
By following the guidelines discussed in this article, you can choose between a condenser microphone, dynamic microphone, or USB microphone for your recording project.
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Esther Alu is a singer who also loves playing the piano. She’s been playing the piano for over 3 years and recently picked up learning the guitar.