Contact microphones are an essential tool for musicians, sound designers, and audio engineers. They are designed to capture vibrations and sounds from surfaces and objects, which makes them ideal for recording acoustic instruments such as guitars, pianos, and percussion. Unlike traditional microphones that capture sound waves in the air, contact microphones pick up vibrations directly from the source, resulting in a unique and often more natural sound.
When shopping for the best contact microphones, it’s important to consider the type of instrument or object you’ll be recording. Some contact microphones are designed for specific instruments, while others are more versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces. You’ll also want to consider the size and shape of the microphone, as well as the type of connector it uses to connect to your recording device.
One critical thing to pay attention to is the sensitivity of the microphone. Some contact microphones are more sensitive than others, which can result in a more detailed and nuanced sound. However, this increased sensitivity can also make the microphone more prone to picking up unwanted background noise or feedback. It’s essential to find a balance between sensitivity and noise reduction that works for your specific recording needs.
Overall, a high-quality contact microphone can make a significant difference in the quality of your recordings. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the best contact microphones on the market and what makes them stand out.
Best Contact Microphones
If you’re a musician or a sound engineer, you know that the right microphone can make all the difference in capturing the perfect sound. Contact microphones are a great tool for recording acoustic instruments, amplifying sound from a surface, or even picking up vibrations from everyday objects. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best contact microphones on the market. From affordable options for beginners to high-end models for professionals, these microphones offer exceptional sound quality and versatility.
TIMESETL Piezo Contact Microphone Pickups – 5 Pack
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile set of pickups for your acoustic instruments, the TIMESETL Piezo Contact Microphone Pickups are worth considering.
Pros
- Captures clear and accurate sound with professional piezo contact microphone pickup components.
- Easy to install with a standard 1/4-inch female jack and 10 inch cable, including fixing clip, for easy connection.
- Reduces external sound interference and is not affected by sound reflections from nearby objects.
Cons
- The position where the pickup is installed is not fixed, so you may need to experiment to find the most suitable position.
- The 3M glue may not be so stable after tearing it off, so be sure of the installation position before using the adhesive.
- Some users have reported issues with the sound quality when used with certain instruments or setups.
The TIMESETL Piezo Contact Microphone Pickups are a great option for musicians who want to amplify their acoustic instruments without spending a lot of money. These pickups are easy to install and can be used with a variety of instruments, including guitars, violins, mandolins, and more. They are also battery-free, which means you don’t need to worry about running out of power during a performance.
One of the biggest advantages of these pickups is their ability to eliminate external sound interference and not be influenced by sound reflections from nearby objects. This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments or when recording in a less-than-ideal acoustic space.
While the position of the pickup is not fixed, you can choose the most suitable position for your instrument. The package includes fastening tape for easy attachment, but be sure of the installation position before using the adhesive, as the 3M glue may not be so stable after tearing it off.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and versatile set of pickups for your acoustic instruments, the TIMESETL Piezo Contact Microphone Pickups are definitely worth considering. Just be sure to experiment with the installation position to find the best sound for your instrument.
TraderPlus Contact Microphone Pickup
If you’re looking for an affordable contact microphone pickup, the TraderPlus Contact Microphone Pickup is a great option.
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Can be mounted on any acoustic instrument
- Comes with double-sided tape and self-adhesive velcro for multiple mounting options
Cons
- Low output, requires a preamp for optimal sound quality
- Sensitive to external sounds
- No clear installation instructions included
The TraderPlus Contact Microphone Pickup is a professional piezo contact microphone pickup that comes with a 1/4″ jack and a 10.6″ cable. It can be directly bonded to the instrument panel, making it durable and not harmful to the instrument. It can be removed at any time and repositioned with ease. The pickup has the advantage of being able to eliminate interfering external sounds and not be influenced by sound reflections from nearby objects.
The pickup can be mounted on any acoustic instrument, including guitars, violins, mandolins, ukuleles, dulcimers, pianos, horns, and harmonicas. It comes with double-sided tape and self-adhesive velcro for multiple mounting options. The contact microphone pickup is easy to install and use, making it a great option for beginners.
However, the pickup has a low output and requires a preamp for optimal sound quality. It is also sensitive to external sounds, which can be heard through the amp. Additionally, no clear installation instructions are included, which can make it difficult for some users to install correctly.
Overall, the TraderPlus Contact Microphone Pickup is a great option for those looking for an affordable contact microphone pickup that is easy to install and use. However, if you’re looking for higher sound quality, you may need to invest in a preamp.
Flanger Clip-on Microphone for Tuner
If you are looking for an accurate and compact clip microphone for tuning acoustic guitar, wind instruments, and other instruments, then the Flanger FA-01 Clip-on Microphone for Tuner is a great option.
Pros
- The cable is 33 inches long, which is long enough for most instruments.
- The clip-on design makes it easy to attach to your instrument.
- The microphone is very accurate, even in loud and noisy environments.
Cons
- The 33-inch cable may be too short for some instruments.
- The strain relief on the clip-on end could be better.
- The microphone may not work as well with some preamps.
This microphone is a simple and inexpensive option for multi-instrumentalists who need a reliable pickup for tuning their instruments. It is easy to use and works great with most tuners. The 33-inch cable is long enough for most instruments, but it may be too short for some. The clip-on design makes it easy to attach to your instrument, but the strain relief on the clip-on end could be better. Overall, this is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate clip-on microphone for tuning their instruments.
Korg TM-60C Combo Tuner Metronome + Contact Microphone Bundle with Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth – White White w/ Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-precision tuner and metronome that can be used simultaneously, the Korg TM-60C Combo Tuner Metronome is a great option. It comes with a contact microphone and polishing cloth, making it a complete bundle that offers everything you need to start playing immediately.
Pros
- Equipped with high-precision tuner function and metronome function. The two functions can be used simultaneously.
- Backlit LCD ensures excellent visibility even in dark locations.
- Long-life design with approximately double the battery life. (Compared to the KORG TM-50, in tuner mode with backlight off)
Cons
- The contact microphone may not be as immediately responsive as advertised.
- The tuner may not be able to identify the root note of some chords.
- The design may be slightly larger than some other tuners.
The Korg TM-60C Combo Tuner Metronome is a great choice for musicians who need both a tuner and a metronome. The backlit LCD ensures excellent visibility even in dark locations, and the long-life design means you won’t have to worry about running out of battery power during a performance.
The tuner section features a 12-note equal temperament scale, a detection range of C1 (32.70 Hz)–C8 (4186.01 Hz) with sine wave input, and a reference tone generation range of C3 (130.81 Hz)–C6 (1046.50 Hz). It also offers three tuning modes (meter mode, sound out mode, sound back mode), a calibration range of A4=410–480 Hz (1 Hz units), and detection accuracy better than +/-1 cent.
The metronome section features a wide tempo range from 30 to 252 beats/minute, with three types of tempo settings and 15 rhythm variations. The tempo precision is +/-0.3%, and the metronome can handle 15 types of time signatures.
Overall, the Korg TM-60C Combo Tuner Metronome is a reliable and versatile tool that can help you improve your pitch training and rhythm training. With the included contact microphone and polishing cloth, it’s a complete package that offers great value for the price.
HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use contact microphone pickup for your musical instrument, the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is very easy to install and use, and it comes with double-sided tape and self-adhesive Velcro for a variety of installation options.
- This pickup can work well on a range of musical instruments, including acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin, kalimba, Idiopan drum, cello, banjo, and ukulele.
- The HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is pocket-sized and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and use on the go.
Cons
- The sound quality of the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup can be affected by the quality of the speakers you’re using, so you may need to experiment a bit to get the best results.
- Some users have reported that this pickup can be a bit too loud, so you may need to adjust your amplifier settings accordingly.
- The cable length of the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is only about 10.8 inches, which may be a bit short for some users.
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use contact microphone pickup for your musical instrument, the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is definitely worth considering. This pickup is very easy to install and use, and it comes with double-sided tape and self-adhesive Velcro for a variety of installation options. Additionally, the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is suitable for a range of musical instruments, including acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin, kalimba, Idiopan drum, cello, banjo, and ukulele.
However, it’s worth noting that the sound quality of the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup can be affected by the quality of the speakers you’re using, so you may need to experiment a bit to get the best results. Additionally, some users have reported that this pickup can be a bit too loud, so you may need to adjust your amplifier settings accordingly. Finally, the cable length of the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is only about 10.8 inches, which may be a bit short for some users.
Overall, the HOYUJI Contact Microphone Pickup is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use contact microphone pickup for their musical instrument.
Korg CM200BK Clip-On Contact Microphone
The Korg CM200BK Clip-On Contact Microphone is a great choice for musicians who need to directly capture the sound of their instrument.
Pros
- The piezo clip-on microphone is designed especially for tuners and can be attached to the bell of a brass instrument, the bridge of a violin, or even to a guitar or ukulele.
- The cable is 1.5 m long, transmits sound more efficiently, and is more flexible than previous models.
- The clip opens up 7 mm wider than the previous model, providing more space to attach to your instrument.
Cons
- The microphone is designed specifically for use with Korg tuners.
- The microphone is unidirectional, which means it only captures sound from one direction.
- The product is relatively expensive compared to other contact microphones on the market.
The Korg CM200BK Clip-On Contact Microphone is a great choice for musicians who need to directly capture the sound of their instrument. The microphone is designed especially for tuners and can be attached to the bell of a brass instrument, the bridge of a violin, or even to a guitar or ukulele. The cable is 1.5 m long, transmits sound more efficiently, and is more flexible than previous models. The clip opens up 7 mm wider than the previous model, providing more space to attach to your instrument.
However, the microphone is designed specifically for use with Korg tuners. This limits its versatility and may not be suitable for musicians who use other brands of tuners. Additionally, the microphone is unidirectional, which means it only captures sound from one direction. This may limit its effectiveness in certain situations. Finally, the product is relatively expensive compared to other contact microphones on the market.
In summary, the Korg CM200BK Clip-On Contact Microphone is a great choice for musicians who need to directly capture the sound of their instrument. It is versatile and easy to use, but may not be suitable for musicians who use other brands of tuners.
DZS Elec 15PCS Contact Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile contact microphone, the DZS Elec 15PCS Contact Microphone is worth considering.
Pros
- Suitable for various DIY projects.
- Comes in a package of 15 pieces.
- Made of durable brass material.
Cons
- The lead length is only 10cm.
- The wire connections are fragile.
- Some customers reported receiving damaged or poorly constructed piezos.
This contact microphone is perfect for those who enjoy DIY projects. Whether you’re building cigar box guitar pickups, touch sensors, drum triggers, homemade speakers, buzzers, or any other project that requires a contact microphone, this product is a great choice. The package contains 15 pieces, which is more than enough for most projects.
Made of high-quality brass material, this contact microphone is built to last. However, some customers reported that the wire connections are fragile and can break easily. Additionally, the lead length is only 10cm, which may be too short for some projects.
Overall, the DZS Elec 15PCS Contact Microphone is a great choice for those who need a versatile and affordable contact microphone. Just be careful with the wire connections, and you should be good to go.
Imelod Contact Microphone Piezo Pickup Violin Microphone Pickup Cello Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Guitar Microphone Pickup Mic Acoustic Guitar Pickup black
If you’re looking for an affordable contact microphone for your acoustic instrument, the Imelod Contact Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Suitable for a wide range of instruments, including acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin, kalimba, idiopan drum, cello, banjo, and ukulele.
- Made of high-grade ABS, braid nylon, and double shield oxygen-free copper cable for durability.
- Comes with a mini bag, double-sided tape, and self-adhesive velcro for easy mounting.
Cons
- Some users report difficulty removing the microphone from their instrument.
- May not work well with overdrive.
- Cord can make noise when touched.
The Imelod Contact Microphone is a versatile and well-designed product that is perfect for musicians looking to amplify their acoustic instruments. The microphone is made of high-quality materials, including ABS, braid nylon, and double shield oxygen-free copper cable, which ensures that it is durable and long-lasting. Additionally, the microphone comes with a mini bag, double-sided tape, and self-adhesive velcro, which makes it easy to mount on your instrument.
One of the best things about the Imelod Contact Microphone is that it is suitable for a wide range of instruments, including acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin, kalimba, idiopan drum, cello, banjo, and ukulele. This makes it a versatile and practical option for musicians who play multiple instruments.
However, some users report difficulty removing the microphone from their instrument, so it may not be the best option if you need to frequently move the microphone from one instrument to another. Additionally, some users report that the microphone may not work well with overdrive, so it may not be the best option if you need a lot of distortion in your sound.
Overall, the Imelod Contact Microphone is a great option for musicians looking for an affordable and versatile contact microphone. With its high-quality materials and easy-to-use design, it is a practical and reliable option for amplifying your acoustic instrument.
Dilwe Clip-on Pickup
If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile contact microphone for your musical instruments, the Dilwe Clip-on Pickup might be worth considering.
Pros
- High-quality materials for durability
- Wide compatibility with various instruments
- Professional-level pickup with broad timbre and good reduction effect
Cons
- May pick up unwanted noise if touched
- No volume control
- Cable may be too long for some users
The Dilwe Clip-on Pickup is made of qualified plastic and electron material, ensuring its durability and longevity. This clip-on pickup transducer offers a large compatibility, making it a great accessory for various instruments, such as acoustic guitar, folk guitar, ukulele, and violin. It is also designed for vocal/voice pickup, making it a versatile tool for musicians.
The microphone used in the Dilwe Clip-on Pickup is of high quality, with a condenser mic element that provides a professional-level pickup with broad timbre and good reduction effect. This ensures that your instrument’s sound is captured accurately and with great detail.
While the Dilwe Clip-on Pickup is easy to use with its 6.2mm interface and super long cable, it may pick up unwanted noise if touched, so it’s important to be careful when handling it. Additionally, there is no volume control, which may be inconvenient for some users. Lastly, the cable may be too long for some users, but it can be easily managed with a cable tie or clip.
Overall, the Dilwe Clip-on Pickup is a reliable and affordable option for musicians looking for a contact microphone that can capture the nuances of their instruments. With its professional-level pickup and wide compatibility, it’s a great addition to any musician’s toolkit.
Korg TM60C Combo Tuner Metronome
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile tuner and metronome, the Korg TM60C Combo Tuner Metronome is a great choice.
Pros
- High precision pitch detection
- Large, backlit LCD display
- Wide detection range for a variety of instruments
Cons
- Screen can be difficult to read in certain lighting conditions
- Contact microphone can be sensitive to external noise
- Battery life could be longer
The Korg TM60C Combo Tuner Metronome is a convenient and easy-to-use tool for practicing and performing. The large display allows for simultaneous viewing of the tuner and metronome functions, and the device can detect notes and pitches for a wide range of orchestral and other instruments. The TM60C also features Korg’s proprietary technology for accurate pitch detection without any time lag.
The excellent response meter can detect pitch drift before it happens, making it easier to train yourself to produce unwavering tone with stable pitch. The device also includes 15 rhythm variations and 3 types of tempo settings, making it a versatile tool for a variety of musical styles and genres.
While the screen is generally easy to read, it can be difficult to see in certain lighting conditions. The contact microphone can also be sensitive to external noise, which can affect the accuracy of the pitch detection. Additionally, while the battery life has been improved in the newest model, it could still be longer.
Overall, the Korg TM60C Combo Tuner Metronome is a practical and precise tool for musicians of all levels.
Buying Guide
When choosing a contact microphone, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a contact microphone refers to its ability to pick up sound vibrations. A higher sensitivity microphone will be able to pick up quieter sounds, while a lower sensitivity microphone may not be able to pick up as much detail. Consider the type of sound you will be recording and choose a microphone with an appropriate sensitivity level.
Frequency Response
Frequency response is the range of frequencies that a microphone can pick up. A wider frequency response will allow for more accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Look for a microphone with a frequency response that matches the type of sound you will be recording.
Durability
Contact microphones are often used in rugged environments, so it’s important to choose a microphone that is durable and can withstand wear and tear. Look for microphones made with high-quality materials that are built to last.
Size and Shape
The size and shape of a contact microphone can also be important factors to consider. Some microphones are designed to be small and discreet, while others may be larger and more visible. Consider where and how you will be using the microphone and choose a size and shape that is appropriate for your needs.
Accessories
Finally, consider any accessories that may be included with the microphone. Some microphones may come with mounting options or additional cables, while others may require additional accessories to function properly. Make sure to choose a microphone that includes all necessary accessories or that has compatible options available.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
