Singing is the purest form of expression. Right? The expression becomes more vivid when you use the right instrument for it. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced singer, you must always be looking for ways to express your ideas through singing. In this quest, you must be searching for the best microphone for recording vocals.
Is That Right?
Investing in the best vocal mic is always a win-win. You can sing and listen to your performance, record your songs, and create your own music. So, if you want your vocals to stand out, you need the best mic.
We will help you find one of the best mics for recording vocals. You can skim through our carefully sorted list of the best mics with their details below. Let’s see what suits your needs.
Deciding Between Condenser & Dynamic Microphone – What’s The Best Choice?
You have two major choices when it comes to choosing the best mic for recording vocals. i.e., a condenser and a dynamic microphone. A dynamic mic is excellent for a dynamic environment as it is forgiving when it comes to background noises. Whereas a condenser serves its purpose best in controlled and small spaces with less noise. You can go through the table for a better comparison of both microphones and decide which one is better
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What To Consider In A Vocal Mic?
Before you consider buying a vocal microphone, check out the following aspects:.
- Sound intensity in your studio, whether soundproof or not
- Type of instrument you want to record (guitar, drums, etc.)
- Adjustment to all voice types or specific voices
- Durability, versatility, and compatibility
- Frequency response
- Polar pattern
Rode NT1A
The amazing Rode NT1A is considered to be the best microphone for recording vocals. It delivers warmth, clarity, and excellence. For instance, it is the finest condenser microphone that picks up every detail and gives you the outcome you demand. Also, the Rode NT1A offers high-resolution analog-to-digital conversion to produce crystal-clear vocals. Released in 2023, the microphone is deemed to be the biggest and best condenser mic for vocals.
What We Like
- Very good build quality
- 10-year warranty
- Low signal to noise ratio
- Good quality and reasonable price
- Open and detailed high end
What We Didn’t Like
- Delicate
- A bit too bright-sounding
Shure SM7B
Shure SM7B is a professional, versatile microphone that delivers smooth and warm vocals. It offers electromagnetic shielding to reduce noise from studio tools. Also, the overall sound quality is good due to the professional XLR connection. Its classic cardioid pattern reduces off-axis noise and ensures comfortable singing. Shure SM7B has an upgraded model compared to previous models and guarantees great stability. You can call it “one microphone for everything,” as it is ideal for podcasting, broadcasting, and streaming.
What We Like
- Efficient noise rejection
- High sound pressure level (SPL)
- Very durable
- Delivers warm, natural sound
- No need of phantom power
- Free two-year warranty
What We Didn’t Like
- Expensive but worth the price
- Weighs a bit more
Aston Spirit
Designed and built in the UK, the Aston Spirit is a multi-pattern microphone with a built-in pop filter. The wave-from-mesh head, large diaphragm, and switchable pattern are notable features of the product. Its smooth cardioid pattern and extra-warm sound without harshness make it an all-purpose, versatile microphone. This stainless steel product with a polar pattern is an aesthetically pleasing option for home studios and commercial studios alike.
What We Like
- Open sound with bright harm
- Smooth frequency response
- A good all-rounder
- Efficient internal shock-absorption system
- Reduced self-noise
What We Didn’t Like
- Bigger and heavier
- Mesh head is too delicate to be bumped
- Sensitive to room noise
Rode NTK
Professionals who look for perfection must go for Rode NTK. Its special features include a capsule with a gold-plated membrane, a wide dynamic range, and twin triode valves that set the Rode NTK apart from other microphones. The frequency ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and the noise is extremely low. Therefore, the Rode NTK is of great value to professional singers and is the best microphone for vocals.
What We Like
- Well-priced
- Warm, detailed, and clear sound
- Robust style and design
- Great clarity and warmth
- Long-lasting with great value
What We Didn’t Like
- Not good for noisy room
- Needs external power supply
Neumann TLM 102
With a compact design, the Neumann TLM 102 condenser microphone is ideal for home recording and project studios. It delivers outstanding sound and offers excellent vocal presence. The audio sensitivity is 11 dB and has a unidirectional polar pattern. Also, Neumann microphones have a very high sound pressure level (SPL) of 144 dB due to the large diaphragm capsule (cardioid).
What We Like
- Gives good results across many sound sources
- Good quality and design
- Fairly high sound pressure level (SPL)
- Great price
- Presence boost around 6kHz
What We Didn’t Like
- Needs an external pop filter and shockmount
- No high pass filter
Audio Technica AT 2020
AT2020 offers a crisp and balanced audio profile and provides extended frequency response. Its delicate diaphragm has a low mass, and it provides an ideal transient response. In addition, the cardioid-polar pattern plays a role in picking up background sounds and isolating the desired voice. With a noise level of 20 dB SPL, Audio Technica At 2020 is good for home studios as well as professional singing.
What We Like
- Great for any casual application
- Excellent sound quality
- Perfect transient response
- Well-engineered with good design
- Very affordable
- Low mass diaphragm
What We Didn’t Like
- Noise level is comparatively higher
- Low resolution
- Features only cardioid polar pattern
AKG C414 XLII
When we talk about all-time classics and one of the best microphones for singing, we do not forget to mention the AKG C414 XLII. With nine selectable polar patterns, it allows users to choose the pattern of their preference. There are three attenuation levels that assist in close-up recordings. Low self-noise (6 dB-A). Flexibility and versatility have made it ideal for stage performances, broadcast performances, and studio recordings.
What We Like
- Versatile mic with maximum sound pressure level
- Perfect build quality
- Excellent sound
- Incredible versatility
- Switchable sensitivity
What We Didn’t Like
- A bit expensive
- A bit less smooth upper frequencies
- Plastic shock-mount
AKG C214
With outstanding dynamic range and integrated suspension, the AKG C214 is deemed ideal for streaming and singing. It is perfect for thorough recording of solo instruments and lead vocals. AKG’s switchable 20-dB attenuator, unidirectional polar pattern, and bass-cut filter make it a good pick for singers who look for a clear and bright sound.
What We Like
- Bright, clear sound with sharp top-end
- Very low self noise
- Sturdy, lightweight and easily portable
- Easy to operate
- High sound pressure level
What We Didn’t Like
- High end is too noticeable sometimes
- May pick up unwanted noise due to high sensitivity
- Not great for electric bass
Sennheiser E935
From live music to recording studios and broadcasting, the Sennheiser E935 is perfect for all live vocals. It’s a metal-bodied mic with a handy design that ensures easy handling. The cardioid pickup pattern, insulation from on-stage signals, and reliable shock-mounted capsule make this microphone the best vocal mic.
What We Like
- Perfect for live vocals
- Not heavy on your wallet (yes, it’s affordable)
- Offer warm, bright and open sound
- Nice solid feel and very durable
- Excellent feedback rejection
What We Didn’t Like
- May cause sibilance on some voices
Shure SM 58
If you want me to name one of the warmest-sounding mics, I’ll straight away say Shure SM58. Launched in 1966, this microphone is the chosen favourite of all professional beginner singers alike. This dynamic and versatile microphone is popular for its longevity and durability. From bearing knocks and drops to showing reliable performance, the Shure SM58 is the most commonly used mic for vocal performances.
What We Like
- Suitable for loud stages & live performances
- Rugged, reliable and durable
- Very affordable
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Effectively reduces background noise
What We Didn’t Like
- Not good for capturing intimate details
- Needs external pop filter for studio recording
Final Words
Summing it all up, the type of microphone you choose impacts the quality of your recording. Whether you are a podcaster, content creator, or singer, finding the right microphone is always important for exceptional audio content. We have listed the best microphones for recording vocals above with tried and tested products. We are hopeful you will choose the best mic for ideal audio outcomes for your project. Happy recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mic is best for recording?
- Rode NT1 is good for vocal recording.
- Audio Technica AT 2020 is the best recording mic on a budget.
- The AKG C214 is good for premium vocal recording.
- The Aston Spirit is ideal if you need an all-rounder mic.
What makes a recording mic good?
The frequency response of an ideal recording microphone is between 80 Hz and 15 kHz.
Is the condenser mic good for voice acting?
Yes, a condenser microphone is good for voice acting due to its sensitivity and low self-noise.