Whenever someone starts a new home recording studio one of the first questions they always ask is:
What is the best microphone for recording vocals?
If you really want the best studio microphone for recording vocals then you can spend upwards of $3000.
But here I will share a few cheaper options for under $1000, which are still really good quality mics. I will also try and help you to figure out what is the best microphones for you and your home recording studio.
Types of Microphones
In the world of audio recording and sound reinforcement, different types of microphones serve various purposes and excel in specific applications. Understanding the distinctions between these microphone types is essential for capturing high-quality audio. Let's delve into three primary types of microphones: dynamic microphones, condenser microphones, and ribbon microphones.
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are one of the primary types of microphones used in various applications due to their durability and versatility. These microphones employ a different method of sound capture compared to other types, making them suitable for specific purposes.
Construction and Working Principles
Dynamic microphones consist of a diaphragm, a voice coil, and a magnet. When sound waves enter the microphone, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted to the voice coil, which is attached to the diaphragm. The voice coil is surrounded by a magnetic field created by the magnet, resulting in the generation of an electrical signal proportional to the sound waves.
Applications
Dynamic microphones are commonly used in live performances, broadcasting, and recording situations where durability and reliability are crucial. They are well-suited for capturing high sound pressure levels (SPL) and handling loud sound sources without distortion. Dynamic microphones are often used for vocals, drums, guitar amplifiers, and other instruments.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones, also known as capacitor microphones, offer exceptional sensitivity and accuracy, making them a popular choice in professional audio recording and broadcasting. These microphones employ a different designand operating principle compared to dynamic microphones.
Construction and Working Principles
Condenser microphones consist of a thin diaphragm, a backplate, and an electrical circuit. The diaphragm is typically made of a conductive material and is placed close to the backplate, which also acts as an electrode. The diaphragm and backplate form a capacitor, and when sound waves hit the diaphragm, it vibrates, causing the distance between the diaphragm and backplate to change. This variation in distance alters the capacitance, generating an electrical signal.
Applications
Condenser microphones are widely used in studio recording, podcasting, and broadcasting due to their exceptional detail and clarity. They are highly sensitive and can capture a wide frequency range, making them suitable for capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and capturing nuanced sounds. Condenser microphones require phantom power to operate, which is often provided by audio interfaces or mixers.
Ribbon Microphones
Ribbon microphones are a unique type of microphone known for their smooth and natural sound reproduction. These microphones utilize a delicate ribbon element as the primary component for sound capture, offering a distinct sonic character.
Construction and Working Principles
Ribbon microphones feature a thin metal ribbon suspended within a magnetic field. When sound waves hit the ribbon, it vibrates, generating an electrical signal through electromagnetic induction. The ribbon's movement within the magnetic field produces a voltage proportional to the sound waves' velocity, capturing the audio signal.
Applications
Ribbon microphones are commonly used in studio recording and broadcasting applications where a vintage or warm sound character is desired. They excel at capturing the subtleties of acoustic instruments, vocals, and capturing room ambience. Ribbon microphones are delicate and require careful handling due to their sensitive ribbon element. They are often used in controlled studio environments.
These are the three most popular types of microphones for recording vocals, but in this post, I’m just going to focus on the first two types of mics: Condenser microphones and Dynamic microphones. As these are the most commonly used and generally cheaper than Ribbon microphones.
Top 8 Vocal Microphones - Comparison Table
Here's a comparison chart of our top 8 vocal microphones:
| Microphone Model | Polar Pattern | Frequency Response | Sensitivity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica AT2020 | Cardioid | 20Hz - 20kHz | -37 dB (14.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa | $99-$149 |
| Shure SM58 | Cardioid | 50Hz - 15kHz | -56 dBV/Pa (1.88 mV) | $99-$129 |
| Rode NT1-A | Cardioid | 20Hz - 20kHz | --32 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (25 mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz | $199-$229 |
| Shure SM7B | Cardioid | 50Hz - 20kHz | -59 dBV/Pa (1.12 mV) | $399-$499 |
| Aston Spirit | Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 | 20Hz - 20kHz | 23.7 mV/Pa (-32.2 dBV) | $299-$399 |
| Sennheiser MD421 II | Cardioid | 30Hz - 17kHz | 2 mV/Pa (–54 dBV) ± 2 dB | $379-$449 |
| Neumann TLM 102 | Cardioid | 20Hz - 20kHz | 11 mV/Pa (–40 dBV) ± 1 dB | $699-$799 |
| Electro-Voice RE20 | Cardioid | 45Hz - 18kHz | 1.5 mV/Pa (-56 dBV) | $449-$549 |
8 Best Microphones for Recording Vocals in Home Studio
Here is our list of the best condenser and dynamic vocal mics for a home studio:
Under $100
Audio-Technica AT2020
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
This mic was one of the first microphones I ever used in my home studio. This microphone is actually the cheapest condenser microphone on this list but you get a lot of microphone for the price, as it’s a really great microphone. Don’t just take my word for it, take a look at the reviews.
The audio quality on this bright-sounding mic is excellent and you can easily achieve that radio-ready sound. Of all the popular condenser mics for recording vocals under $200, I think this is probably the best option.
If you are searching for an affordable solution to record your own music at home then you can't go wrong with the AT2020.
Specifications:
- 16 mm diaphragm
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Max. SPL: 144 dB
- Requires 48V phantom power
- Dimensions 162 x 52 mm
- Weight 345 g
- Incl. mount and pouch
https://www.audio-technica.com/
Shure SM58
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
The legendary Shure SM58 is the most popular vocal microphone in the world. It is best known for its use in live performances as it has such a solid build and it’s great at feedback rejection.
It's a dynamic microphone and it has a cardioid polar pattern and it is designed for handheld use. The SM58 is durable, has a built-in windscreen, and it produces a natural sound.
You may think that a $100 mic wouldn’t be used in pro studios to record vocals. However, it actually happens quite often. That is why it makes it a great choice for a home studio on a small budget.
Specifications:
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Integrated effective wind and pop filter
- Frequency response: 50 Hz - 15 kHz
- Dimensions: 23 x 162 x 51 mm
- Weight: 298 g
- Incl. microphone storage bag, microphone clip
Under $500
Rode NT1-A
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
In the mid-price range, this is, without doubt, one of the most popular and best condenser mics for vocals. This microphone is perfect if you are looking for something that has that professional sound.
The Rode NT1-A is a condenser microphone that was designed for recording vocals. It has a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. It has a max SPL of 137 dB, making it quite capable of capturing vocals in a home studio. This microphone also requires phantom power, so make sure you have a compatible preamp or audio interface.
This mic has been used in top recording studios around the world and for good reason. I would say that it is quite an investment for a home studio but not overpriced considering what comes with it. This microphone comes with a pop filter and shock mount included and it’s just a great package overall.
Specifications:
- 1" Large-diaphragm microphone
- Polar pattern: cardioid
- Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Max. SPL: 137 dB
- Requires: 48V Phantom power
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 190 x 50 x 50 mm
- Weight: 326 g
- Incl. shock mount, pop filter & dust cover bag
Shure SM7B
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone that has been designed for studio use. It’s a cardioid microphone and it has been specifically optimized for vocal use. The microphone has a built-in bass roll-off and it also has a mid-range emphasis that has been tailored for vocals.
With its dynamic design, the SM7B can handle a max SPL of 180 dB. This makes it a great choice for loud vocals like rock or rap.
Its three most common applications include:
- Studio Vocals (most commonly rock vocals)
- Podcast / Voiceover
- Broadcast / Video
As many people know the SM7B was famously used for recording Michael Jackson’s legendary Thriller album.
And if it’s good enough to be used on Thriller then it’s surely good enough for us as well.
Specifications:
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Mid-range presence boost and bass roll-off controls
- Frequency response: 50 Hz - 20 kHz
- Dimensions: 190 x 64 x 96 mm
- Weight: 765 g
- Incl. Switch cover plate and detachable pop filter protection
Aston Spirit
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
Aston is the newest company on this list but by no means the least. I’m starting to see Aston microphones pop up in a lot more studios and they seem to be gaining a lot more popularity.
Aston is a UK-based company and they also build their microphones in the UK. The build quality of Aston microphones is excellent. The Spirit has a wave-shaped grill that helps to protect the capsule and behind the grill, it has a type of wire wool mesh that works as a built-in pop filter which is useful. The Spirit also has a built-in shock mount. This is a great all-round microphone as it has switchable polar patterns.
Specifications:
- Switchable polar pattern: Cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8
- Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (+/- 3dB)
- Max. sound pressure level: 138 dB
- Pad switch (-20 / -10 / 0 dB)
- Low-cut filter 80 Hz
- Requires 48 V phantom power
- Integrated pop filter
- Stand thread in the housing
- Integrated shock absorption of the microphone capsule
- Dimensions (L x W): 174.5 x 54 mm
- Weight: 0.547 kg
If you can't afford the Spirit then you may want to take a look at the cheaper Aston Origin. It's not quite as versatile as the Spirit as it only has a cardioid polar pattern. But maybe that is all you need if you're just recording a solo vocalist.
Sennheiser MD421 II
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
Although this microphone is not typically known as a vocal microphone, it is one of the best all-around dynamic microphones available.
Although most people think that dynamic microphones don’t work well on vocals, the Sennheiser MD 421 actually does a great job at rejecting background noise. So if you record in a noisy environment then this microphone will do the trick
It is fantastic on vocals, but not only that, it’s also great on:
- Electric guitar
- Drums & percussion
- Bass
- Brass instruments
- Wind instruments.
And basically, any loud instrument that you want to use a close mic on. So if it’s the versatility that you’re looking for then this may be the choice for you!
Specifications:
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- 5-Stage switch Bass
- Frequency response: 30 Hz - 17 kHz
- Dimensions: 215 x 46 x 49 mm
- Weight: approx 385 g
- Incl. microphone clamp for 3/8 "thread
https://www.sennheiser.com/microphones
Under $1000
Neumann TLM 102
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
If you’ve been in the pro audio industry for any length of time, then you’ve probably heard about Neumann microphones. Neumann is known for its U87 and U47 microphones which are the industry standard in most pro recording studios.
Most home studios, However, aren’t going to be able to afford either of these microphones, but there are cheaper options. This is where the TLM 102 comes in, this microphone has the classic Neumann sound and you can pretty much say that about any Neumann microphone!
Neumann just seems to know how to design microphones that record vocals really well. If your budget can stretch then I highly recommend buying this as a first studio condenser mic as it will deliver high-quality vocal recordings for years to come.
Specifications:
- Pressure gradient transducer
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Peak SPL: 144 dB
- Requires: 48V Phantom power
- Diameter 52 mm
- Length 116 mm
- Weight approx. 260 g
If you have a bit more money to spend there is also the model up, the Neumann TLM 103 which worth taking a look at.
Electro-Voice RE20
Compare Prices at:
Thomann | Amazon | Guitar Center
The Electro-Voice RE20 is the industry standard when it comes to broadcast voice recordings.
The RE20 is a dynamic microphone that has been designed for studio use. The microphone has an extremely robust design that makes it very rugged and durable. It’s perfect for vocals as it can handle high SPL’s. But also its frequency response helps with creating the right tone needed to make your recording audio shine.
There are a few other features on this mic that make it stand out from the crowd:
- It has a windscreen built into the grille to help reduce popping and sibilance.
- It has a technology called “Variable-D” which helps to reduce the proximity effect.
- The “Variable-D” technology also helps to give a consistent frequency response at any angle.
To put it simply, it sounds good even on people with very little experience behind a microphone.
Specifications:
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Bass roll-off switch
- Frequency range: 45 Hz - 18 kHz
- Dimensions (diameter x length): 49 x 54 x 217 mm
- Weight 1474 g
- Incl. clamp and storage box
https://products.electrovoice.com/na/es/microphones/
Related:
Condenser vs Dynamic mic for Vocals
Dynamic microphones are typically not as accurate or as sensitive as condenser mics.
For this reason, a lot of beginners think this makes condenser mics better than dynamic mics for studio recording.
However, the truth is neither mic is better overall and no mic is good for everything. That is why recording studios use a wide range of mics, each one tailored for specific tasks.
Reasons to use Dynamic microphones for vocals:
- If you’re recording in a room that has less than perfect acoustic treatment then it may be better to record vocals using a dynamic microphone as they don’t pick up so much of the room sound or external noises as Condenser microphones do.
- If you are recording a loud vocal such as rock or rap then you may find that the less sensitive dynamic mic works better for your voice.
- They are less harsh and generally need less de-essing compared to condenser microphones. Dynamic mics don’t capture all the high frequency sounds like condenser mics do, and they tend not to need a de-esser at all, even with heavy compression.
- Dynamic mics are less likely to get damaged at high Sound Pressure Levels (SPL). Compared to the lighter and more sensitive diaphragms of condenser microphones.
Reasons to use Condenser microphones for vocals:
- Condenser mics have extremely thin diaphragms, which make them very good at capturing much more detail than dynamic mics. This makes condenser mics the perfect choice if you're recording a more detailed vocal such as a ballad for example.
- The output level of condenser mics is a lot higher than dynamic mics. Therefore, you don’t need as much gain on your preamp to get the signal to a useable level. Cheaper preamps often don’t have enough gain for some dynamic mics, which is a problem you don't tend to get with condenser microphones.
- Condenser microphones also have more high-frequency definition. So if you're looking for a breathy vocal sound then you'll probably want a condenser microphone.
Other microphone alternatives
All the microphones mentioned in this article are XLR microphones. So you'll need an audio interface to connect them to your computer.
If you haven't got an audio interface or don't want to buy one. Then you might be interested in buying a USB microphone instead. A USB microphone can connect directly to your computer via USB without the need for an audio interface.
Preamps for Dynamic microphones
One other thing to keep in mind. Dynamic microphones, especially the more expensive models, tend to need a lot of gain to record good amounts of level.
This may introduce noise on some cheaper preamps (and some preamps may not even have enough gain to record). So I would recommend investing in an external preamp like the DBX 286s or if you want a cheaper fix you could go for the Cloudlifter CL-1 (it will give your passive microphones an extra 25dB of gain using phantom power from your audio interface). Just remember to get an extra XLR cable.
Pop Filters
One last thing to consider getting, especially if you are using a large-diaphragm condenser microphone is a pop filter. A pop filter is used in front of the microphone to reduce plosives. A plosive is caused by a puff of air from your breath that causes the mic's diaphragm to overload, making a large bass pop or thump sound.
Some microphones on this list come with a pop filter included. If your microphone doesn't have a pop filter though then you might find these other articles we've written quite useful:
If you're interested in finding more equipment for your home recording studio, then check out this other article we wrote: Home Recording Studio Equipment List Essentials.
If you want help with mixing your vocal tracks check out our guide: How to EQ Vocals in 4 Easy Steps
Last update on 2026-08-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
