When choosing between the microphone for vocals, most people confuse about the options. The best microphone for recording vocals can provide a high-quality, lifelike sound. Voice recording has different forms, such as podcasts, musical performances, voice over, etc. And there are various microphones in the market with special designs and versatility for your podcast, streaming, and musical applications.
However, some mics are suitable for recording vocals, and some of them have features for recording instruments. After testing and research, I narrowed down a list of the best microphones for recordings, so have a look at their features and specifications and pick one that can meet your requirements and give you better results. My experience regarding these microphones helped me write this guide to guide both beginners and experts.
5 Best Microphone For Recording Vocals
Table of Content
- Audio-Technica AT2020 Microphone
- Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone
- Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
- Blue Yeti USB Microphone
- MXL 770 Multipurpose Large Microphone
- Types Of Microphone is Best for Recording Vocals
I listed these microphones best for recording vocals because they have clarity of sound, good frequency, and dynamic range. The microphones come in two types condenser and dynamic good in their functions and features.
I ranked these 5 best microphones for recording vocals according to frequency, sound clarity, and impedance. However, these are my recommendations after testing and a lot of searches, but you can come down for available specs and your budget.
Headphone With Microphone: Best Behind the Neck Headphones With Microphone
1) Audio-Technica AT2020 Best Microphone For Recording Vocals At Home
| Microphone type | Condenser |
| Frequency response | 20 – 20,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 14.1mV/Pa |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Impedance | 100 Ohms |
| Weight | 1.32 pounds |
Audio Technica AT2020 is one of the best and most affordable microphones that can meet your requirements at your home studio. It is the best microphone for recording vocals at home if you want something that remains within your budget and provides high quality. Then goes for this best microphone for recording vocals. Due to its affordability and home recording capability, Audio Technica is on this list.
Dynamic Range
After testing, I noticed that it has a dynamic range and is the best option for those familiar with the sound. I get a clear and detailed sound which is very broad and dynamic in range.
Transient Response
I find it very convenient to use while standing or sitting due to a conventional stand. Its low-mass diaphragm gives a quick transient response for recording my vocals and a good frequency range.
Noise Level
The noise level is about 20dB SPL which is ideal for your home studio. AT2020 is a fantastic microphone that can work for different vocalists. But I was disappointed because it lacks a high pass filter and noise reduction feature, which sometimes becomes noisy. But I found a solution and eliminated this problem using a powerful preamp.
Good Output Sound
It is a condenser microphone, but you may require an audio interface with a +48V phantom power to power the preamp. Although it is a primary microphone, I used it and still got reliable sound, and the simple features don’t affect its excellent sound and output is amazing for me.
Benefits
- The sound is very clear and crisp.
- Build quality is reliable and excellent.
- Transient response is outstanding.
- Low mass diaphragm and also low in price.
Drawbacks
- It requires a pop filter.
- For live recordings, it may give poor results.
2) Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Best Microphone For Recording Vocals On Phone
| Microphone type | Condenser microphone |
| Frequency response | 60 Hz – 18KHz |
| Sensitivity | -35.0dB |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Impedance | 3k Ω Typica |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces |
Most video journalists and vloggers prefer the best microphone for recording vocals on phone. If you are one of them, then the Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier is for you. Due to its features, it gives good recording, which is clear and audible. They are on this list because of the quality of recording vocals on the phone.
Small Mic
After testing, I find that its ultra-small mic works well, and I can attach it with a 3.5mm audio cable. It will terminate into a connector because it is specially designed for fitting a headphone jack.
Easy to Handle
I used it as it could easily hide this microphone under my shirt and clip it toward my mouth after connecting it via my smartphone. This audience cannot see the cable and can easily hide your mic if you wear darker clothing.
Wind Protection
These microphones come with a windscreen, and this feature is amazing for me because it prevents wind from interfering with my outdoor recordings. I tested it, and it can also reduce the effect of sibilance when you say “S.”
Best for On-Camera Recordings
I found Lavalier microphones best for on-camera audio recording but not for musicians and recording in-person interviews. But they are compatible with phones, laptops, and tablets.
Hum Free Recording
I find the compatibility with USB-C headphone adaptor and lightning best, and the RODE AI-Micro makes it more prominent than the other Lavaliers microphones. It provides hum-free recording due to the shield against the RF interface.
Benefits
- Its thin cable hides easily.
- Small microphones prevent sound from leaking.
- Provide hum-free recordings.
- Windscreens prevent wind from interfering with your recordings.
Drawbacks
- Not good for off-camera recordings.
Top Microphones: Best Karaoke Microphone With Speaker
3) Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Best Microphone For Recording Vocals
| Microphone type | Dynamic microphone |
| Frequency response | 40 – 15,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | Open Circuit Voltage: -56.0 dBV/P |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Impedance | 150 ohm |
| Weight | 10 ounces |
There are various microphones of different types, some of the best for vocal recording and some for instrument recording. The Shure SM57 Cardioid is the best microphone for recording vocals and guitar on this list. It can record your guitar performance with great accuracy.
Good Construction
The Shure brings long-lasting products so that they can withstand for years. I drop them ten times from a considerable height but don’t notice any input quality loss. I used it, and I am very confident about its durability and will give you a great performance for your outdoor sessions.
Great Feedback
Shure SM57 is the best microphone for recording vocals and guitar extremely good for live performances as I didn’t notice any sound imbalance. You can place the mic wherever you like, and it will still give you the best feedback. Its Cardioid pickup pattern makes it isolate and also reduces background noise.
Frequency Response
After testing, they make me confident even after the heaviest use. The frequency response from 40 to 15000Hz gives a clear instrumental reproduction.
Vocals On Guitar
It is an unreal dynamic microphone, and I love it because it works best for guitar amp cabs. They can capture your guitar and other instrument vocals. I find this mic hard as nails.
Dynamic Mic & Sound
Although they don’t need any phantom power, I need to power them properly to get the right performance from its audio interface. Its dynamic mic is great, but I used it, and they create some noise due to cranking.
SM58 has a sweet sound, and I prefer it due to its flat lower mid-range, and due to high frequency. Their output sound gives a sweet audible hearing. But the lack of a windscreen makes it prone to ‘p’ and ‘b’ sounds.
Benefits
- Work for a definite rockier style.
- It is worthy of performance and gives versatility to you.
- Best for instrumental recordings.
- Low in price range but excellent in build quality.
- It can easily work in noisy surroundings.
Drawbacks
- It needs a windscreen for the p and b sound.
- Produce a bit of self-noise.
4) Blue Yeti X Best Microphone For Recording Vocals On MacBook
| Microphone type | Condenser microphone |
| Frequency response | 20 – 20000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 4.5mV/Pa |
| Connectivity | USB cable |
| Impedance | 13 Ohms min, 16 Ohms typical |
| Weight | 2.80 pounds |
Blue Yeti is one of the well-known studio mics for recording vocals. It is the best microphone for recording vocals on MacBook with a USB condenser microphone. Due to their excellent features, they can make a place in the best microphones for recording vocals. There are many reasons, so look at its features for a better understanding.
Audio Interface
Blue Yeti has its computer or MacBook preamp and audio interface. I find them very easy to set up as they work with a USB cable and don’t require any extra gadgets beyond a pair of earphones and a laptop.
Multifunctional Knob
It is a condenser microphone and has an array of four capsules to record sound. I have tested that there is an option to change the sound pattern with a knob on the rear. I find the multifunctional knob on the front very productive, as you can adjust volume, signal blend, and input gain. This knob surrounds by 11 LED lights, and due to them, I can get a visual indication of overloads and levels of audio.
Frequency Response
Blue Yeti X has a frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. I find it a slightly pronounced presence bump, which requires an excellent and natural vocal sound.
Compact and Versatile
It has a compact and versatile build but needs a bit of setup for software. I used it and found that users can access microphone controls and broadcast effects because it is compatible with two downloadable interfaces.
The Blue Yeti X can stand alone due to the integrated desk stands. But it doesn’t have any carrying case or windscreen with it, and if you want optimal sound, then you need to add these accessories to handle good sound quality safely.
Benefits
- Easy to set up due to its one cable design.
- Comes with visual LED metering.
- Contains four polar pickup patterns.
- It has a built-in desk stand.
Drawbacks
- The multifunctional knob has a learning curve.
- Lack of software for functionality.
5) MXL 770 Best Microphone For Recording Vocals Under 100
| Microphone type | Condenser microphone |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 15mV/Pa |
| Connectivity | XLR |
| Impedance | 150 ohms |
| Weight | 1.00 pounds |
There are various best microphones for recording vocals, but when it comes to the best microphone for recording vocals under 100, the 770 MXL is at the top of the list. Although 770 MXL is a budget microphone, it has a sturdy professional design. I find them very good at working and give lots of features at this price tag due to this 770 MXL on this list.
FET Preamp
It has a built-in preamp which provides warm recordings for your vocals. I find an excellent dynamic range and low noise due to the quality transformer’s less balanced output and FET preamp after testing. No microphone has a FET preamp in this price range, and this quality makes the sound of the mic much more expensive.
Frequency Response
I like the 770 MXL best microphone for recording vocals on computer due to its multifunctional mic, which attracts most vocalists for its low-frequency response and clean high ends. There is a low-frequency roll-off that can reduce unnecessary rumblings. I find that the a-10db pad also gives a wide range of sources for sound.
Fewer Vibrations
There is a shock mount with 770 MXL which reduces the mechanical vibrations, and a rugged case protects my microphone from any damage. I want a combination of flexibility, quality, and something that can work for professional and home studios at a low price, and the 770 MXL makes my day due to all of these qualities.
Build Quality
The overall build quality of the 770 MXL best microphone for recording vocals cheap, is not remarkable as its construction gives a fragile feel, especially since the outer material is unreliable. But I find this microphone good enough for home studio use, with less chance of drop and fall.
Benefits
- Comes in a wide range of colors.
- Unlike the other microphones, it has a FET preamp.
- The transformerless output of the mic gives true and consistent sound.
- Comes in a storage case.
- Low in the price range.
Drawbacks
- The outer case has cheap metal making it less durable.
Whether you want to consider a condenser or dynamic microphone for vocal recordings, they greatly impact your recordings. The key to a successful and lifelike recording is to pick up the right microphone for getting vocal accuracy so that the results are amazing and clear for your ears. Dynamic microphones are best for recording in any acoustic space because they have a smooth transient response, excellent noise rejection, and low sensitivity. While on the other hand, the condenser microphones provide good details and are designed for critical vocal applications. In my recommendation, the Shure SM57 is one of the best microphones for vocal recordings. It can give you detail, noise rejection, and sensitivity so that you can do your best in your performance everywhere. It is a most versatile mic which is excellent for studio and stage.
Product Recommendation
Types Of Microphone is Best for Recording Vocals
Various microphones are readily available for performing live to recording vocals. This guide is for you if you also want to know the type of microphone is best for recording vocals. Different audio companies manufacture gaming and podcasting microphones and microphones for recording music.
Types Of Microphones for Recording Vocals
Dynamic, condenser, and ribbon are the main microphones. They convert sound waves to electric signals with different technologies. The type of microphone that is best for recording vocals are following:
1) Dynamic Microphones
These microphones convert sound waves to electrical signals through electromagnetic induction. A Mylar diaphragm inside the capsule and a conductive coil creates a magnetic field when the diaphragm vibrates and produces AC voltage.
Dynamic microphones are durable and don’t overload or distort. Due to the less soft capsules, they are best for live performances. With low sensitivity and high sound pressure, they need a louder source to operate.
2) Condenser Microphones
They work on electrostatic technology and have a moveable diaphragm fixed with a metal plate and attached with charged electrodes. The distance between the diaphragm and plates changes when sound waves hit and, as a result, generates a small voltage change, mimics the original waves, and requires an external source to charge.
The condenser mics have two categories: Large diaphragms are 1 inch larger and give good frequency response for recording. But the small diaphragm gives a high-end response and is best for the instrument’s recording.
3) Ribbon Microphones
They are a form of a dynamic microphone but are considered different due to their features and sound difference. These microphones have extended rectangular diaphragms and aluminum construction along the magnets at the end. Most of the ribbon microphones are based on the bi-directional polar pattern.
The ribbon mics bring natural sound reproduction, and the audio from these microphones is less bright than the dynamic and condenser mics produce. But they are best for recording vocals and instruments. They are very delicate compared to the other mics, and due to this, they are best for studio recording because they need the right position for protection.
What is the Best Microphone for Recording Vocals?
The following microphones are best for recording vocals:
- Audio-Technica AT2020
- Rode NT1-A
- MXL 990
- Shure SM7B
- Electro-Voice RE20
- AKG C414 XLII
What is the Best Microphone for Recording Rap Vocals?
The following are the best microphones for recording vocals:
- Audio-Technica AT4033a
- Lewitt LCT 440 Pure
- Aston Element
- Røde PodMic
- Shure SM7B
- Audio-Technica AT2020
Most singers use a wide range of mics when they record in the studio and prefer condenser mics because they pick up vocals correctly. These microphones can give a detailed sound to whatever you record.
Dynamic and condenser mics are excellent for vocals. Condenser mics can pick up details because they are very sensitive, but you may need to place them in an isolated, sound-treated room. So go for the dynamic mics. They are good for use.
You can get a good result with a USB mic, but not as excellent as you expect. Mics powered through USB cables lined toward the weak sound have a very short frequency response which is not perfect for professional vocal recordings. So it is good to buy a quality interface to connect the mic.
Dynamic microphones are the most common and best for live performances. At the right position, they gain before feedback and give the best sound isolation. At the same time, condenser mics are also the best microphones in the world due to their many applications and features. However, the type of microphone best for recording vocals depends on your performance requirements, so consider the use and then pick the right type.
Final Words
