As musicians, we know that finding the right tools to make our music is vital. One essential piece of gear—especially for vocalists—is a high-quality microphone. The best mic for vocals can make all the difference in capturing the emotion, tone, and quality of your voice.
There’s more to choosing the right mic than meets the eye. It’s not just about spending big bucks on a mic that looks cool or boasts impressive specs. Instead, it’s about understanding the differences between microphone types, how they impact vocal recording, and finding the one that suits your unique voice and style.
When searching for the best mic for vocals, consider factors like polar pattern, frequency response, and sensitivity. Additionally, think about whether the mic best suits studio recording or live performances, as some mics excel in one setting while struggling in the other. So, let’s dive into our top picks for the best vocal mics, tailored to make your voice truly shine.
Best Mics for Vocals
We’ve gathered the top vocal mics for aspiring musicians and producers. Enjoy our list below!
Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone
Upgrade your vocal game with the Shure MV7X, perfect for podcasting and vocal recording.
Pros
- Excellent voice isolation technology
- Durable all-metal design
- XLR output for easy connection
Cons
- No included XLR cable
- Need additional gain with some audio interfaces
We just tried out the Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone, and it’s definitely a game-changer for podcasters and vocalists alike. Its voice isolation technology helps shy away from unwanted background noises. Plus, the all-metal construction adds a professional touch to your setup.
However, we noticed some drawbacks. The MV7X doesn’t come with an XLR cable, which means you’ll need to purchase one if you don’t have it already. Also, depending on the audio interface you’re using, you might need an extra gain boost.
That said, the Shure MV7X is still an excellent investment for those serious about their vocal recordings and podcasts. Its rich sound quality and impressive isolation technology outweigh the need for an extra cable or gain adjustment. So, if you’re looking to step up your audio game, give the Shure MV7X a shot!
Shure MV7 USB Microphone
We highly recommend this mic for its versatility, quality, and all-around performance.
Pros
- Dual USB/XLR connections
- Rich vocal reproduction
- Durable metal construction
Cons
- Trickier gain settings
- No built-in stand
- Pricey for beginners
The Shure MV7 USB Microphone is a fantastic option for anyone looking to up their vocal recording game. With its dual USB/XLR output, you have the flexibility to record digitally or through an analog interface.
One standout feature of this mic is its optimized frequency response for rich and natural vocal reproduction. This makes it perfect for podcasting, live streaming, and recording vocals for your music projects.
The all-metal construction of the Shure MV7 ensures that it’s built to last, which we appreciate as musicians and audio enthusiasts. You won’t have to worry about easily damaging this microphone during transport or regular use.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows with the Shure MV7. While it’s a fantastic performer, there are a few cons to consider. The gain settings can be a bit more challenging to get right compared to other mics, so it may take some tweaking before you find your ideal sound.
Additionally, the Shure MV7 doesn’t come with a built-in stand, so you’ll need to invest in a separate mic stand or boom for placement. And as a high-quality microphone, it does come with a higher price tag, which may be a concern for beginners or those on a tight budget.
But overall, we believe the Shure MV7 USB Microphone is a solid choice for those looking to capture great vocals without any fuss. With its versatile connection options, quality sound, and durable construction, it’s a microphone that’s worth considering for your audio endeavors.
Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Nail your vocal recordings with this versatile and reliable mic.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Effective against electromagnetic hum
- Ideal for music and speech
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Requires a good preamp
- Bulky design
We just tried the Shure SM7B and let us tell you: this mic is perfect for those who care about quality sound. Its performance is unmatched, making it a popular choice among musicians and broadcasters alike.
One standout feature is its ability to block out electromagnetic hum from monitors and lights. You’ll get pure, clean sound with no interference. The dynamic cartridge provides a wide-range, flat frequency response that’s ideal for both music and speech.
However, this powerhouse comes with a price – it’s a bit on the costly side. And while it doesn’t require phantom power, you’ll want a strong preamp to get the most out of it. Lastly, keep in mind that the design can be a bit bulky, which may not be suitable for all setups.
Nonetheless, the Shure SM7B is a wise investment for singers, podcasters, and broadcasters who want top-notch audio quality.
Shure MV7 USB Microphone with Tripod
We think this mic is a great choice for any aspiring vocal artist due to its exceptional features and quality.
Pros
- USB and XLR connections
- Intuitive touch panel controls
- Rich, natural vocal reproduction
Cons
- A bit costly for beginners
- Small learning curve for controls
- Requires a separate XLR cable for that connection
The Shure MV7 is perfect for those who desire professional vocal recording quality. Dual USB/XLR output options allow you to record digitally or in analog, depending on your preference.
This mic really shines in close mic applications, making it great for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and more. Its intuitive touch panel offers easy control over gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and mic muting.
With the ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop Application, you can save your own presets and adjust settings while recording. The all-metal construction adds durability and a touch of professionalism to your recording setup. Its adjustable yoke lets you mount it on various microphone stands for flexible placement options.
In conclusion, if you’re searching for the best mic for vocals, the Shure MV7 is definitely worth considering. Yes, it might be a bit expensive for beginners, but the investment is well worth it for the high-quality vocal recordings it produces. This microphone can elevate your podcasts, streams, and recordings to the next level and truly showcase your vocal talents.
Shure BETA 58A Vocal Microphone
Upgrade your vocals with this robust mic, ideal for both live and studio applications.
Pros
- Excellent vocal performance
- High gain before feedback
- Rugged construction
Cons
- Not budget-friendly
- Slightly heavy
- Strictly for vocalists
We recently tested the Shure BETA 58A and found it to be a remarkable addition to our stage and studio gear. Its tailored frequency response delivers natural-sounding vocals with a present midrange while its supercardioid pattern ensures maximum isolation from other sound sources.
The BETA 58A’s neodymium magnet provides high output with low noise, allowing for crisp and clear professional-quality recordings and performances. Furthermore, its hardened steel mesh grille and rugged construction make it resistant to wear and abuse, proving it to be a reliable companion for the touring musician.
However, keep in mind that this microphone is designed specifically for vocals. If you’re a vocalist looking to invest in superb sound quality, the Shure BETA 58A is an undeniable choice. But, if you’re on a tight budget or need a mic for various applications, you might want to explore other options. Overall, it’s a great investment for those striving to elevate their vocal performance.
MAONO Microphone with Studio Headphone Set
The MAONO Microphone with Studio Headphone Set is perfect for aspiring musicians looking for high-quality sound on a budget.
Pros
- Professional sound chipset (192kHz/24bit)
- Plug and play condenser microphone
- Comes with studio headphones
Cons
- Bulky setup
- Noise cancellation could be better
- Arm material may not be the most durable
Searching for the best mic for vocals? Look no further! We recently used the MAONO Microphone with Studio Headphone Set and found it perfect for our music needs.
This mic is designed with a professional sound chipset which gives you fantastic audio quality. Plus, it’s easy to connect since it’s plug and play. That means no need for external sound cards or driver software.
We loved that it came with studio headphones as well. They are comfortable and have a great sound quality. However, keep in mind that the microphone setup might be a bit bulky in small areas.
Despite these minor drawbacks, this mic has a lot to offer. We highly recommend the MAONO Microphone with Studio Headphone Set for singers, podcasters, and content creators who want high-quality recordings without breaking the bank.
RØDE NT1 5th Gen Studio Condenser Mic
Capture studio-grade sound with this versatile and cutting-edge microphone.
Pros
- XLR and USB connectivity
- Ultra-low noise, high-gain preamp
- Sturdy and well-built design
Cons
- USB mode has some issues
- Heavy shock mount
- Costly compared to previous models
We’ve tested the highly anticipated RØDE NT1 5th Generation and, let us tell you, it doesn’t disappoint. The build quality is top-notch, and the sound is crystal clear with that warm, silky character RØDE is known for.
As musicians ourselves, we appreciate the versatility offered by the NT1’s XLR and USB connectivity. This feature allows us to record with ease, whether we’re using a professional mixing console or a simple laptop setup. However, some users have reported issues using the USB mode, so be prepared for a possible workaround if needed.
One downside to consider is the shock mount. While useful for recording, it’s quite heavy and may require a sturdy boom stand for optimal usage. The mic is also a bit more expensive than its predecessor, so make sure you’re ready to invest in the upgrade.
Overall, if you’re serious about capturing top-quality sound in your recordings, the RØDE NT1 5th Gen is a fantastic choice. Just be prepared to address the minor cons that come with it.
BEACN Dynamic USB Microphone
Get this mic for easy setup, great sound, and customizable features for your creative endeavors.
Pros
- USB C Microphone for an easy setup
- In-depth software for customization
- Clear, rich sound quality
Cons
- Gain adjustment might be needed
- Software can be complex for beginners
- Compatibility limited to PCs and Macs
The BEACN Dynamic USB Microphone is an all-in-one solution for aspiring musicians, artists, and content creators. With its simple setup, there’s no need for extra equipment or interfaces. Plug in the USB C cable, and you’re ready to rock!
Featuring in-depth software to customize your voice, you can sound like a pro in podcasts, streaming, and gaming sessions. Adjust the gain, set your noise floor, and more to achieve that perfect audio balance. Plus, the customizable RGB lighting adds some extra flair to your setup.
Though the microphone delivers clear and rich sound, you might need to tweak the gain settings, as it can be a bit quieter than expected. Additionally, the software may pose a learning curve for beginners, but given some time and practice, you’ll be mastering it in no time. Bear in mind that this mic is compatible with PCs and Macs only.
Overall, the BEACN Dynamic USB Microphone offers an easy, versatile, and affordable solution if you’re looking to upgrade your audio game. Just adjust the settings to your liking, and get ready to impress your audience!
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X
This mic is a fantastic choice for content creators seeking clear, natural sound and convenience.
Pros
- High-resolution A/D conversion
- Direct monitoring and mix control
- Soft-touch capacitive mute button
Cons
- Potential USB noise
- Picks up background noise
- Might not suit all environments
With the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X, we experienced top-notch sound quality, making it ideal for a variety of applications like podcasting, home studio recording, and streaming. The 24-bit/96 kHz sampling rate ensures pristine audio capture.
We loved how this mic offers direct monitoring via the built-in headphone jack, preventing latency while recording. The mix control is a bonus, allowing us to blend the mic’s audio with our computer’s audio.
The soft-touch mute button came in handy when we wanted to mute the mic quickly and silently. However, we noticed that the built-in USB interface might introduce some noise in certain setups. Moreover, the directional pickup pattern means this mic will capture background noise, making it unsuitable for noisier environments.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best mic for vocals might seem challenging. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Below is a simple guide to consider when buying the perfect mic to suit your needs.
Features to Consider
- Type of Microphone: We have dynamic and condenser mics. Dynamic mics work well on stage, while condenser mics are excellent in studios.
- Polar Patterns: Pick a mic with the right polar pattern (omni, cardioid, or figure-8) based on your recording environment and purpose.
- Frequency Response: Look for a mic with a wide frequency range to capture the full spectrum of your vocals.
- Sensitivity: A higher sensitivity mic will better capture details and nuances in your voice, especially valuable in studio settings.
- Durability: Are you a touring artist? Consider a mic with sturdy build quality to withstand the rigors of the road.
Budgeting
Set a budget! You don’t want to overspend or underspend on a mic. What’s your price range?
- Entry-level: $50 – $200
- Mid-range: $200 – $500
- High-end: $500+
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the top microphone for capturing pristine vocals?
We adore the Neumann U87 for recording clear, top-notch vocals. It’s a beloved industry-standard condenser mic.
Which condenser mic enhances vocal performances?
The AKG C414 offers versatility in recording vocals. Its multiple polar patterns adapt to various performance styles.
How to choose the ideal microphone for singers?
Consider your budget and needs. A large-diaphragm condenser mic is commonly chosen for studio vocals, while dynamic mics suit live performances.
What factors impact a microphone’s vocal recording quality?
Frequency response, polar pattern, and sensitivity influence vocal recording quality. A mic with a tailored frequency response captures vocals accurately.
Do dynamic mics work well for vocal recordings?
Yes, dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B excel at capturing powerful, punchy vocals. They’re ideal for rock and live settings.
Any budget-friendly mics for recording quality vocals?
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great budget condenser mic for vocals. It delivers excellent clarity and detail without breaking the bank.