Headset microphones are exactly what you’d expect: microphones attached to headsets. They’re perfect if you want to move around freely while singing, and they keep your hands free for playing an instrument or dancing, which is something you can’t do with a traditional handheld microphone.
Now, let me tell you, the best headset microphones for singing come with some great perks. They let you roam the stage, reduce the chances of feedback, and make performing hands-free super easy. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from what to look for when choosing one to comparisons of top models. Plus, I’ll throw in a few tips to help you out.
When you’re picking out a headset microphone, you’ll want to consider comfort, sound quality, and durability. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and testing these, so I can help you find the perfect headset microphone for your singing needs.
Quick Summary of the Best Headset Microphones for Singing
- Shure SM35 Headset Microphone - Best for Active Performers
- Shure WH20 Dynamic Headset Microphone - Best for Noise Isolation
- AKG C520 Headset Microphone - Best for High-Quality Sound
- Shure PGA31 Headworn Microphone - Best for Comfort
- Sennheiser ME 3 II Headset Microphone - Best Wireless Headset Microphone for Singing
- Sennheiser Wireless Headmic Set - Best for Gigs and Practice
- J K Professional Headset Mic - Best Budget
Best Headset Microphones for Singing
Here is our list of the best headset microphones for singing. We've picked these based on quality, comfort, and sound. Take a look and find the perfect one for you!
Shure SM35 Headset Microphone
A great pick for multi-instrumentalists and active performers seeking reliable sound quality.
Pros
- Secure and comfy wireframe
- Clear and crisp vocals
- Excellent feedback rejection
Cons
- Needs phantom power
- Headset wire can be fragile
- Costlier than some alternatives
This headset mic lets you move around without sacrificing sound quality. Its unidirectional cardioid pattern blocks out unwanted noise, making it perfect for loud stages.
The flexible gooseneck lets you position the mic just right. You'll enjoy clean and crisp vocals every time you use it.
However, be mindful of the wire, which can be a bit flimsy. Make sure you handle it with care to get the most out of this headset mic.
Shure WH20 Dynamic Headset Microphone
If you want great sound in a comfortable, secure mic for singing, grab this headset.
Pros
- Excellent noise isolation
- Lightweight and secure
- High input level without distortion
Cons
- Headband may not fit all
- XLR connector only
- May lack bass for some
The Shure WH20 headset microphone is a great choice for active singers. Its cardioid pickup pattern cuts out unwanted noise, keeping your voice clear and strong. Plus, the lightweight wireframe and elastic headband ensure comfort during long performances.
We love its high input clipping level, which prevents distortion. This is especially useful if you sing loudly or move a lot during your performances. It also comes with a collapsible boom for easy transport, which is great for gigging musicians.
However, the headband might not fit everyone perfectly. Plus, the XLR connector could limit some users, mainly if they use different setups. Despite these minor issues, the Shure WH20 is still a reliable and high-quality option.
AKG C520 Headset Microphone
This headset is perfect for performers who need high-quality sound and mobility.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfy design
- Flexible boom for optimal positioning
- Moisture shield protects the mic
Cons
- Might need an adapter for some setups
- Sensitive to placement
- Pricey for some budgets
The AKG C520 headset is amazing for live performances. It feels light on your head and doesn’t get in the way. You can move around freely while singing.
Its cardioid pattern rejects unwanted noise. That means you get clear vocals, even in a loud environment. The mic arm is flexible, letting you position it just right.
It also keeps moisture away, which is great if you get sweaty on stage. It’s a bit pricey and needs careful placement for the best sound. Still, it’s worth it for serious performers.
Shure PGA31 Headworn Microphone
Great choice for clear sound and comfort during live performances.
Pros
- Comfortable for long wear
- Clear vocal sound
- Secure fit
Cons
- May not fit non-Shure packs
- Adjustment can be tricky
- Needs a windscreen
This Shure PGA31 headset fits comfortably and stays secure. It's perfect for live singing or speaking on stage.
We found the sound quality crisp and clear. The design ensures the microphone stays in place, even if you move a lot.
Adjusting the microphone's position can be a bit tricky, but once set, it performs well. It fits Shure wireless packs seamlessly, giving you freedom. For clear sound and comfort, this headset is a solid choice.
Sennheiser ME 3 II Headset Microphone
This headset mic is a top choice for performers who need quality and comfort.
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Comfortable fit
- Strong feedback rejection
Cons
- Pricey compared to some options
- Requires wireless system
- Can be tight on ears
The Sennheiser ME 3 II headset microphone performed well in different settings. The sound quality is clear, making it a solid fit for lead vocals.
The cardioid pick-up pattern means you won't have to worry about feedback. It works well even in noisy environments.
While it's a bit expensive, the comfort and robustness make it worth the investment. This headset mic also stays secure during movement, which is great for intense performances.
Sennheiser Wireless Headmic Set
This headset mic set is great for gigs and practice, offering top-notch sound and ease of use.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Antenna-switching reception
- Automatic frequency management
Cons
- Plastic casing feels less durable
- Occasional signal dropouts
- Requires AA batteries
We tried the Sennheiser Wireless Headmic Set and loved its lightweight design. The head mic fits snugly without causing discomfort, letting you focus on your performance. The sound quality is clear and crisp, making it perfect for live shows.
Setting up the system is a breeze. Automatic frequency management simplifies the process, helping you hit the stage faster. You don’t have to worry about frequency interference, which is a big plus.
However, the plastic build of the bodypack and receiver feels a bit flimsy. We did experience occasional signal dropouts, though they were rare. Also, it runs on AA batteries, which can be a bit of a hassle.
J K Professional Headset Mic
If you need a versatile and affordable headset microphone for singing, this could be a solid choice.
Pros
- Great sound clarity
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Compatible with multiple systems
Cons
- Small screws can be troublesome
- Earpiece durability concerns
- Fit might not suit all head sizes
This headset microphone is perfect for lively performances. Its clear sound makes it great for singing, and the lightweight design keeps it comfortable, even during long sessions.
However, there are some fitting issues. The small screws can be a bit tricky, and if you move around a lot, you need to be careful with the earpieces.
We found it works well with Sennheiser systems. The sound quality is similar to higher-priced models. For the price, it’s a bargain, especially if you’re on a budget.
What to Look for in a Headset Mic for Singing
Choosing the right headset microphone for singing is about more than just grabbing any mic on a headset. You need to consider the type of microphone, its pickup pattern, frequency response, and design. All these factors can impact your performance.
Type of Microphone
When deciding between condenser and dynamic microphones, it boils down to sound characteristics and vocal styles. Condenser mics are known for their sensitivity and ability to capture detailed sounds, making them great for studio settings or soft singing styles.
Dynamic mics, on the other hand, are more rugged and handle high sound pressure well. They are ideal for live performances where durability and feedback resistance are important. Your choice here should align with your singing environment and style.
Polar Pattern
Polar patterns affect how a mic captures sound from different directions. Omnidirectional mics pick up sound equally from all directions, which can be useful in quiet environments.
Cardioid mics, however, focus on sound from the front while reducing noise from the sides and back. This makes them great for live settings where you want to minimize background noise. Knowing your performance environment can help you choose the right polar pattern.
Frequency Response
Frequency response describes how a mic reproduces different frequencies. For singing, a microphone with a wide and flat frequency response ensures accurate sound reproduction.
Look for a frequency range that captures both the lower and higher ends of your vocal range. Typically, a range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz is ideal for most singers, as it covers all audible frequencies.
Audio Quality
Clear and natural sound reproduction is crucial for a headset microphone. Factors like signal-to-noise ratio and impedance play a role in the overall audio quality. A higher signal-to-noise ratio means less background noise and clearer vocals.
Make sure the microphone provides consistent audio quality at different volume levels. This ensures that your voice sounds great whether you are singing softly or at full power.
Comfort and Fit
A secure and comfortable fit is essential for long performances. Look for headsets that offer adjustable components to fit your head size and shape. Lightweight materials and cushioned ear pads can also enhance comfort.
Consider how the headset stays in place during movement. Some headsets come with extra support features like behind-the-neck designs to ensure they don’t shift during energetic performances.
Durability
Durability is key for any headset microphone used on stage. Choose a model with a robust build and quality materials that can withstand frequent use and potential drops.
Check for reinforced cables and sturdy connectors to avoid wear and tear. Investing in a durable microphone ensures longevity and reduces the likelihood of technical issues during performances.
Wired vs. Wireless Headset Microphones: Which is Better?
When it comes to headset microphones, choosing between wired and wireless depends on your needs.
Wired microphones are usually more affordable. You won’t have to worry about signal ever dropping. Additionally, wired mics often have better sound quality because they aren’t affected by wireless interference. Perfect for studio settings, right?
However, wired mics restrict our movements. We can’t roam around freely during a performance. That’s where wireless microphones come into play. Wireless options give us the freedom to move. Performers can dance and interact with the crowd without getting tangled in cables.
Of course, wireless mics come with their own set of issues. Signal interference is one problem. To reduce this, keeping wireless devices away from other electronics is helpful. Also, consider using a reliable wireless system with good range.
Wireless mics can also be more expensive because of the extra technology involved. This may be a deciding factor for some.
So, both types have their pros and cons. It really depends on what you need for your performance or recording setup.
Final Thoughts
We’ve covered a range of headset microphones for singing. Each option has its strengths and caters to different needs.
Among them, the Shure SM35 Performance Headset Condenser Microphone stands out. I’ve been impressed by its sound quality and durability. If you want a reliable headset mic, this is a great choice.
When choosing a headset microphone, think about what matters most to you. Comfort, sound quality, and budget all play roles. A great headset can really boost your performance.
Don’t skimp on this investment. A quality microphone can be a game changer. We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Let us know what works best for you.
Happy singing, and may your performances be amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are headset mics good for singing?
Absolutely! Headset microphones are fantastic for singing, especially during live performances. They give you the freedom to move around on stage without worrying about holding a mic. Plus, since they’re close to your mouth, they help reduce the risk of feedback.
Are wireless headset microphones prone to interference?
Yes, they can be, especially in areas with a lot of frequency traffic. To reduce interference, invest in high-quality wireless systems. Choose less crowded frequencies and keep a clear line of sight between the receiver and transmitter.
How do I prevent feedback when using a headset microphone?
Proper mic placement is crucial. Position the mic slightly to the side of your mouth. Keep your monitor volume at a moderate level to avoid a feedback loop. Adjust your microphone gain with the help of a sound technician and consider using feedback suppression systems.