Do you love recording vocals? A good mic can make a world of difference. Mics are essential in capturing clear, crisp, and professional-sounding vocals. With so many choices available, it can be hard to pick the right one. A mic for recording vocals serves to amplify your voice and reproduce the sound accurately.
When looking for a mic, consider your space and the style of vocals you create. Mics come in different shapes and sizes, suitable for various purposes. Some mics work best in studio settings, while others are great for live performances. A great mic should be easy to use, durable, and deliver impressive sound quality.
To make the right purchase, focus on certain factors like sound quality and design. Also, consider your budget, as the price range can vary greatly. Investing in a high-quality mic can enhance your vocal recordings and performances.
We have researched and tested several mics to help you find the perfect one for your vocal needs. Continue reading to discover the top choices that cater to different styles and budgets.
Top Mics for Recording Vocals
Discover the best mics for recording vocals, handpicked just for you.
Audio-Technica AT2035PK Vocal Microphone Pack
This pack is perfect for streamers and podcasters seeking an all-in-one, high-quality mic setup.
Pros
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- Smooth, natural sound
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- Handles high sound pressure
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- Adjustable boom arm
Cons
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- Arm may need tightening
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- Headphones uncomfortable after a while
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- XLR cable issue in some cases
The Audio-Technica AT2035PK mic pack offers a superb solution for content creators looking to upgrade their recording setup. It includes a quality AT2035 cardioid condenser microphone, ATH-M20x professional monitor headphones, and a studio boom arm.
The microphone produces smooth, natural sound with low noise. It can handle high sound pressure levels, which ensures your recordings will always be clear and crisp. The adjustable boom arm allows for easy mic repositioning and 360° rotation, which is essential for finding the perfect angle during recordings.
However, some users have experienced issues with the arm needing extra tightening to hold the mic securely. Additionally, the headphones can become uncomfortable during long recording sessions. The XLR cable may require extra care as some customers reported problems with the internal threading.
Overall, the Audio-Technica AT2035PK Vocal Microphone Pack is a great investment for your streaming and podcasting needs, thanks to its high-quality sound and ease of use. Just be prepared to make minor adjustments to the arm and headphones to ensure the best experience.
Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
You’ll love this mic for capturing clear, crisp vocals at a great price.
Pros
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- Low self-noise
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- Warm, clear sound
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- Comes with accessories
Cons
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- Needs phantom power
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- Very sensitive to noise
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- Cable may be defective
Rode NT1-A offers great value and top-quality sound for your recording needs. With only 5 dBA of self-noise, it’s one of the quietest mics available and lets your vocals shine through. Its warm and clear audio output will amaze you and make you question how such an affordable mic can deliver such stellar results.
This condenser microphone is excellent for recording vocals, streaming, and singing, but it’s sensitive to external noises. Make sure you use a good shock mount and your recording space is quiet. The NT1-A does require phantom power, so ensure your audio interface or mixer can provide it before using the mic.
A downside reported about the Rode NT1-A is that some customers mentioned the provided cable might be defective. Keep an extra XLR cable handy in case you experience the same issue. Overall, buying this mic is a smart choice for beginners and experienced users who appreciate quality and value.
Shure KSM44A Mic
Capture studio-quality vocals with this premium, multi-pattern mic.
Pros
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- Great for studio and stage
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- Multiple polar pattern options
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- Low self-noise
Cons
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- Expensive
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- Needs phantom power
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- Not for international shipping
The Shure KSM44A is a top choice for recording crisp, clear vocals. Its large diaphragm and multiple polar patterns make it versatile for various settings.
You’ll love the detailed sound this mic captures, thanks to its advanced preamplifier technology. It offers an impressive dynamic range for nuanced audio capture, ideal for professional recordings.
However, be prepared to invest in phantom power, as it’s required for this mic to operate. Additionally, note that it’s not eligible for international shipping.
In conclusion, the Shure KSM44A is perfect for those seeking a reliable, high-performing mic for vocal recording. Its features make it well worth the investment.
Shure BETA 87A
Improve your vocals with this high-quality mic designed for clarity and precision.
Pros
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- Smooth frequency response
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- Superior gain-before-feedback
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- Low handling noise
Cons
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- Requires phantom power
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- Prone to feedback at high volumes
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- Pricey for some budgets
The Shure BETA 87A offers exceptional audio performance for both studio recording and live shows. Known for its rugged build and superb performance, this microphone can take your vocals to a higher level.
With a controlled low-frequency roll-off, the BETA 87A prevents the boomy sound that often comes with close pick-up. Its presence rise brightens the upper midrange, making your vocals shine. The tight supercardioid pattern ensures maximum isolation, minimizing off-axis coloration.
You’ll need phantom power to operate the BETA 87A, so make sure your audio setup can accommodate that requirement. Some users have reported feedback issues at higher volumes, so consider your specific needs and performance environment when choosing this mic. Overall, the Shure BETA 87A is a great investment for those seeking to improve their vocal recordings and performances.
Rode NT1-A-MP Stereo Studio Mics
Get outstanding vocal recordings with the Rode NT1-A-MP matched pair microphones.
Pros
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- Ultra-low noise (5dB self noise)
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- High SPL capability
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- Nickel-plated body
Cons
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- Slightly expensive
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- Bulky microphone design
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- Single polar pattern
The Rode NT1-A-MP microphone is a fantastic choice for capturing professional-sounding vocals in your studio. With a large 1″ capsule and gold-plated diaphragm, these mics deliver exceptional clarity and richness.
If you’ve always wanted a powerful, warm vocal sound, this matched pair is for you. The cardioid polar pattern helps to minimize background noise, letting your voice shine through. You can also trust these mics to capture dynamic performances, thanks to their high SPL capability.
However, keep in mind that the size and design may not suit everyone; if you have limited space in your studio, these microphones might be a bit challenging to work with. But if you can accommodate their size, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled vocal recordings.
Overall, the Rode NT1-A-MP Stereo Studio Mics are a must-have for anyone looking to produce professional-quality vocal tracks with ease. Their performance will impress both beginners and seasoned pros, making them a worthwhile investment for your recording setup.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right mic for recording vocals is crucial. Here’s a helpful guide to picking the perfect one.
Know Your Needs
First, think about what you’ll use the mic for. Is it for singing, voiceovers, or podcasting? Different tasks need different mics.
Look at Polar Patterns
Mics have various polar patterns—how they capture sound. The cardioid pattern is best for vocals, as it picks up sound in front and less from other directions.
Consider Frequency Response
A mic’s frequency response affects how it captures various sounds. For vocals, pick a mic with a wide frequency response. This ensures clear, detailed recordings.
Check the Diaphragm Size
The diaphragm is the part that captures sound. Large-diaphragm mics provide a warm, full sound for vocals. Small-diaphragm mics are more precise but less versatile.
Consider these features while choosing a mic for recording vocals. With these tips in mind, you’ll find the best option to meet your needs.