Microphones are essential tools for musicians, whether they’re recording in a studio or performing live. A high-quality microphone can make a significant difference in the sound quality of a performance or recording. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to know which microphone is the best fit for your needs.
When it comes to selecting the best microphone for music, there are several critical factors to consider. The type of microphone, polar pattern, and frequency response are all essential considerations. The type of microphone you choose will depend on the application, whether it’s for recording vocals, instruments, or live performances.
Additionally, the polar pattern of a microphone determines how it picks up sound, with options ranging from directional to omnidirectional. The frequency response of a microphone is also essential, as it determines the range of frequencies that the microphone can accurately capture.
When selecting a microphone for music, it’s crucial to find one that provides excellent sound quality, durability, and versatility. In this article, we’ll explore the best microphones for music, considering all of these factors and more.
Best Microphones For Music
A high-quality microphone is an essential tool for any musician, whether you’re recording in a studio or performing live on stage. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which microphone is the best fit for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best microphones for music, so you can make an informed decision and take your music to the next level.
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
If you’re looking for a versatile microphone that is trusted by leading vocalists, podcasters, and streamers, the Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The SM7B is a dynamic microphone that produces a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response, making it suitable for music and speech in all professional audio applications.
- The microphone features excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum generated by computer monitors, neon lights, and other electrical devices.
- The SM7B includes both a standard windscreen and the A7WS windscreen for close-talk applications, making it versatile for various recording needs.
Cons
- The SM7B is a bit on the pricey side compared to other microphones on the market.
- The microphone is relatively heavy, which may make it challenging to position correctly.
- Some users have reported that the microphone requires a lot of gain to get the best sound quality.
The Shure SM7B is an excellent microphone for studio recording, home recording, podcasting, and streaming. The dynamic cartridge produces clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech, making it ideal for various professional audio applications. The microphone’s air suspension shock isolation and pop filter eliminate both mechanical noise and breathiness, ensuring that words get through, while the rest stays out of the mix.
The SM7B’s cardioid pattern is designed to reject off-axis audio, so you can sing or speak at a comfortable angle, and it captures the sound just as you want it, with minimum coloration. The microphone features advanced electromagnetic shielding to defeat hum from computer monitors and other studio equipment.
The SM7B is compatible with XLR connections and audio interfaces, allowing you more control over the sound and, thus, better overall sound quality. The microphone also features a bass rolloff and mid-range emphasis (presence boost) control with a graphic display of response setting.
Overall, the Shure SM7B is a high-quality microphone that is built to last. It comes with a detachable close-talk windscreen and switch cover plate, and a free 2-year warranty is included. If you’re looking for a professional-grade microphone that can handle a wide range of recording needs, the Shure SM7B is an excellent choice.
MAONO XLR Condenser Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that can record your music, podcast, or voice-over with clarity and precision, the MAONO XLR Condenser Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- The custom-designed 34MM Large-diaphragm gold spluttered condenser capsule offers unmatched clarity and ultra-precise cardioid polar pattern.
- The cardioid pattern shows excellent off-axis sound suppression capability, reducing background noise and accurately capturing sound details.
- The premium metal structure is sturdy, durable, and functions as an electromagnetic shield to give a purer audio signal.
Cons
- An external power source is required, and the microphone needs a phantom power supply or sound card that can provide 48V voltage.
- The microphone is not compatible with Windows laptops/IOS/Pad/phone without phantom power.
- The microphone is a bit sensitive and unforgiving of extraneous noise.
The MAONO XLR Condenser Microphone is a high-specification microphone that is ideal for vocalists, music instrument performers, podcasters, live streamers, broadcasts, ASMR, and studios. The kit comes with a metal pop filter, shock mount, and desktop stand that can protect the microphone all-around, isolating the mic from physical vibration.
The PM500 XLR microphone with custom-designed 34MM Large-diaphragm gold spluttered condenser capsule offers a wide dynamic range of 20Hz – 20KHz, unmatched clarity, and ultra-precise cardioid polar pattern. The cardioid pattern shows excellent off-axis sound suppression capability of reducing the sound pickup from the side and rear, thus eliminating background noise. Accurate capture of sound details, silky top end, detailed midrange, and warm bass make it ideal for recording a wide range of instruments as well as vocals, from drums and percussion to acoustic instruments and guitar cabs.
The microphone features an XLR interface, and you need a phantom power supply or sound card that can provide 48V voltage (not included in the package). If you need to connect the mic to Windows laptops/IOS/Pad/phone, please make sure to have phantom power ready. The circuit design utilizes premium components from top-tier manufacturers and a tailor-made permalloy audio signal transformer to provide low self-noise and exceptional sound capturing.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that offers studio-quality sound, accurate capture of sound details, and a premium metal structure, the MAONO XLR Condenser Microphone is a great choice.
Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone
If you’re looking for a portable microphone that’s compatible with your Apple device, the Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The microphone has an innovative mid-side architecture for clean, clear stereo sound.
- It’s pocket-friendly and easy to carry around, making it perfect for recording on the move.
- The microphone element is mounted to a unique 90-degree hinge with built-in rotation that allows for highly flexible microphone position, even in video applications.
Cons
- The microphone is only compatible with iOS devices, so Android users will have to look elsewhere.
- The microphone is not suitable for professional studio recording, as it is designed for on-the-go recording.
- The microphone is not compatible with all iPhone cases, so you may need to remove your case before using it.
The Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone is a great choice for those who want to capture high-quality recordings on the go. The microphone’s mid-side architecture ensures clean, clear stereo sound, and its pocket-friendly design makes it easy to carry around. The microphone is fully adjustable, allowing you to tilt, flip, and rotate it up to 90 degrees to get stereo clarity, whatever your sound source.
The microphone also comes with two free apps, ShurePlus MOTIV Audio and ShurePlus MOTIV Video, which allow you to customize the performance and set-up of the microphone for professional audio and video capture. The apps can be downloaded directly from the App Store.
Overall, the Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone is a great option for those who want to capture high-quality recordings on the go. Its innovative mid-side architecture, pocket-friendly design, and flexibility make it a great choice for musicians, vloggers, filmmakers, and journalists alike.
TONOR USB Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable microphone that delivers clear and smooth sound, the TONOR USB Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- Plug and play, no additional driver required
- Cardioid pickup pattern captures clear sound and suppresses unwanted background noise
- Easy to install without any assembly required
Cons
- Shock mount may need to be unscrewed and attached to a boom stand with 5/8” threaded insert directly
- Not compatible with Xbox
- Some users may experience feedback in the background of the microphone
The TONOR USB Microphone is ideal for conference, distance learning, streaming, chatting, podcasting, recording, Zoom, Skype, and YouTube video. With a USB 2.0 data port, it’s easy to set up and use. The cardioid pickup pattern captures clear, smooth, and crisp sound in front of the microphone while suppressing unwanted background noise.
This microphone is easy to install without any assembly required. Simply unfold the three-legged stand and adjust the position of the pop filter, and it’s ready to use. The shock mount can be unscrewed and attached to a boom stand with 5/8” threaded insert directly.
In the package, you’ll get the microphone with power cord, a foldable mic tripod, a mini shock mount, a pop filter, and a manual. However, note that this microphone is not compatible with Xbox.
Overall, the TONOR USB Microphone is a versatile and affordable option for those looking for a high-quality microphone for streaming, podcasting, and vocal recording.
FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable microphone that delivers excellent sound quality, the FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Provides a direct plug-and-play connection to your PC or laptop via USB
- Offers a wide frequency response and handles high SPLs with ease
- Comes with a versatile and sturdy broadcast suspension boom scissor arm and a double pop filter
Cons
- Incompatible with Xbox and phones
- May not be suitable for professional recording applications
- Some users have reported issues with the mic disappearing from their mic inputs
This USB microphone kit is ideal for recording vocals, podcasts, and Skype calls. The cardioid condenser capsule offers crystal-clear audio for communicating, creating, and recording. The desktop mic boom arm stand and 8.2ft USB cable make it easy to set up and use.
The FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone bundle also includes a studio-grade shock mount, a user manual, and friendly technical support. The low-profile, table-hugging design allows on-air talent to perform without facial obstruction to record in podcasting or make dubbing sounds for videos, use voice chat in Discord, or online conference on Zoom or Skype.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly USB microphone with a durable arm set and excellent sound quality, the FIFINE Studio Condenser USB Microphone is a great choice.
MAONO USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a professional-quality USB microphone, the MAONO USB Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- Professional sound chipset for high resolution sampling rate
- Plug and play USB 2.0 data port
- Strong bass response with 16mm electret condenser transducer
Cons
- May not be as loud as other microphones
- Pop filter mount could be better
- Arm may break after a year of wear and tear
This microphone is perfect for recording music, podcasts, and voiceovers. The professional sound chipset ensures high resolution sampling rate, while the plug and play USB 2.0 data port makes it easy to connect to your computer. The 16mm electret condenser transducer provides a strong bass response, and the included pop filter and foam windscreen ensure crystal clear audio. However, the microphone may not be as loud as other options on the market, and the pop filter mount could be better. Additionally, the arm may break after a year of wear and tear. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone, the MAONO USB Microphone is a great choice.
Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a professional USB microphone that produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for music, podcasts, Twitch streaming, YouTube videos, and Zoom calls, the Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- The custom three-capsule array produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for a variety of uses.
- The Blue VOICE software elevates your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and enhanced effects.
- The four pickup patterns offer incredible flexibility, allowing you to record and stream in ways that would normally require multiple microphones.
Cons
- Some users have experienced slight feedback issues.
- The microphone is heavy and may require a sturdier stand.
- The price point may be higher than other USB microphones on the market.
The Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a versatile and powerful tool for anyone looking to improve their audio quality. With its advanced Blue VOICE software and four pickup patterns, this microphone is perfect for streaming, gaming, podcasting, and more. While some users have reported slight feedback issues and the microphone may require a sturdier stand, the benefits of this microphone far outweigh any potential drawbacks.
NAHWONG USB Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly microphone, the NAHWONG USB Microphone is worth considering.
Pros
- The microphone records sound with excellent quality due to its 192KHz/24Bit high-resolution sampling rate and 16mm large diaphragm.
- It’s easy to use because it’s a plug-and-play device that doesn’t require driver software installation.
- The microphone’s metal case and cardioid pickup pattern design make it durable, and it can capture sound directly in front of it, reducing unwanted background noise.
Cons
- The microphone is sensitive, and it can pick up talking from the surrounding area.
- The sound quality can be improved with the use of equalizers, as there is no software that comes with it.
- The USB cable is not very long, so you may need to use an extension cord.
The NAHWONG USB Microphone is a great option for those who are starting out with podcasting or streaming. It comes with a kit that includes a shock mount, suspension scissor arm stand, desk mount clamp, pop filter, foam mic cover, and USB A to B cable. Additionally, it offers a 1-year warranty, and the after-sales customer service center is always available to help you with any problems you may encounter.
ZealSound USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for gaming, podcasting, streaming, or recording, the ZealSound USB Microphone is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Easy Plug&Play Setup
- Precise Mic Gain Control
- Superb Sound Quality
Cons
- May pick up some background noise
- The stand is a bit heavy
- The included foam windscreen is thin
This USB gaming microphone for computer is ready to use with Computer, Laptop, PC, Windows, Mac OS, PS4, and PS5 right out of the box. Connect it easily to your iPhone, Type C Phone, iPad, or Android Tablet using the included USB IPHONE ADAPTER and Type C to USB adapter. With this plug-and-play gaming streaming microphone set and podcast equipment bundle, there’s no need for additional setup steps. It’s simple to start creating video content and engage with platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Zoom, TikTok, Twitch, and podcasting.
Enhance your recording experience with the professional gain knob on this USB podcast microphone. Easily adjust the microphone volume and sensitivity to achieve optimal sound quality during your recordings. Dial the gain down to effectively minimize room noise pickup, and turn it counter-clockwise for increased sensitivity. The Echo function can be adjusted using the dedicated level control and deactivated as desired. The LED mute reminder ensures you never forget to unmute yourself during important moments.
This stereo studio microphone ensures exceptional audio quality, delivering crystal-clear and well-balanced reproduction across a wide frequency response. It can handle high sound pressure levels (SPLs) without distortion, providing detailed and faithful sound for both studio and on-the-go use. With its Cardioid polar pattern, it minimizes background noise and offers excellent feedback control. The built-in noise-canceling chipset ensures pristine and accurate capture of your voice. This microphone is ideal for presentations, podcasts, Zoom and Skype meetings, recordings, instant messaging, gaming, and streaming on platforms like Twitch.
This podcast microphone features a 3.5mm headphone interface that allows for direct and latency-free monitoring. It’s especially useful for video creators who want to ensure they’re not cutting off or experiencing excessive noise. Adjust the desired monitoring level using the volume control, whether you’re gaming, recording content for TikTok, YouTube, Zoom, or Facebook live streams. With this microphone for your computer and iPhone, you can achieve an optimal volume level, capture background sounds perfectly for your film, and ensure error-free audio recording.
This microphone for iPhone is designed to be top-addressed, meaning that you should position it with the top of the microphone facing towards the sound source during use. For optimal sound quality, it’s important to speak directly into the top of the microphone. The microphone is equipped with a 360-degree rotation feature, allowing you to adjust its position as needed. It also comes with an integrated heavy-duty all metal construction desktop base for added stability.
Included in the package are a solid built metal construction and anti-vibration stand base (avoid moving), a durable and professional-grade k66 series black microphone, a 70.87 inch USB Audio Cable, a Type C Adapter for compatibility with the newest MacBook and other Type C devices (phones, tablets, and PCs), a USB Adapter for iPhone and iPad, a Microphone Foam Windscreen, and a user manual. Free technical support is also available for assistance with any inquiries or issues.
Behringer TM1 Complete Microphone Recording Package
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly microphone that provides high-quality sound, the Behringer TM1 Complete Microphone Recording Package is worth considering.
Pros
- The shock mount with pop shield helps to reduce unwanted noise and provide clear sound.
- The package includes a 20′ XLR cable, making it easy to connect to your recording device.
- The dust cover helps to protect the microphone when not in use.
Cons
- The microphone may not be as durable as higher-end models.
- It may not be suitable for professional recording studios.
- Some users have reported issues with the shock mount’s adjustability.
This microphone is a great option for anyone looking to record music or vocals on a budget. The shock mount with pop shield helps to reduce unwanted noise, while the 20′ XLR cable makes it easy to connect to your recording device. The dust cover also helps to protect the microphone when not in use.
While the Behringer TM1 may not be as durable as higher-end models, it still provides high-quality sound at an affordable price. However, it may not be suitable for professional recording studios, and some users have reported issues with the shock mount’s adjustability.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly microphone that provides quality sound, the Behringer TM1 Complete Microphone Recording Package is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a microphone for music, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you are getting the best product for your needs. Here are some important features to look at when choosing the best microphone for music:
Microphone Type
There are several types of microphones available, including dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones. Dynamic microphones are typically more durable and can handle loud sounds well, making them a good choice for live performances. Condenser microphones, on the other hand, are more sensitive and can capture more detail, making them a good choice for recording in a studio. Ribbon microphones are also sensitive, but they have a unique sound that can be ideal for certain types of music.
Polar Patterns
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the direction from which it can pick up sound. Some microphones have a cardioid pattern, which means they pick up sound from the front and reject sound from the sides and rear. Others have an omnidirectional pattern, which means they pick up sound from all directions. There are also microphones with a figure-8 pattern, which means they pick up sound from the front and rear but reject sound from the sides.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it can pick up. A microphone with a flat frequency response will capture all frequencies equally, while a microphone with a boosted or cut frequency response will emphasize or de-emphasize certain frequencies. The frequency response of a microphone can have a significant impact on the sound it produces, so it’s important to choose a microphone with a frequency response that works well for your needs.
Sensitivity
Microphone sensitivity refers to how much sound it can pick up. A more sensitive microphone will pick up quieter sounds, while a less sensitive microphone will require louder sounds to be picked up. The sensitivity of a microphone can also impact the amount of noise it picks up, so it’s important to choose a microphone with an appropriate sensitivity level for your needs.
Other Features
Other features to consider when choosing a microphone for music include the type of connector (XLR or USB), the size and weight of the microphone, and any additional features such as built-in filters or shock mounts.
By considering these factors when choosing a microphone for music, you can ensure that you are getting a product that will meet your needs and produce high-quality sound.
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.
