Introduction
When it comes to performing on stage or recording music, the use of the right equipment can make all the difference. One important aspect to consider is the microphone being used, as it can greatly affect the quality and clarity of the sound being captured. It is important for the performer to feel free and unrestricted, and the use of cords and complicated equipment can cause anxiety and hinder a person’s performance. This is especially true for vocal performances, where the atmosphere of freedom can greatly impact the quality and emotion of the performance. Even in a studio setting, many people prefer to use cordless solutions to avoid the hassle of tangled wires and focus on delivering their best performance.
When shopping for a microphone to record music, it is important to take into account a range of factors such as the type of source being captured, the space where the device will be used, and the recording quality. The form factor of the microphone, whether handheld, headset, or lav, is also important to consider, as it can affect the comfort and ease of use for the performer. The price range of the microphone can vary significantly, with high-end options costing several hundred dollars and budget options available for under $40. It is important to define your goals and consider all these factors before making a purchase.
It’s important for the performer to experience freedom when moving onstage. The devices with cords and complicated equipment may cause anxiety and interfere with a person’s performance.
Vocal performance
Vocal performance is more successful, as a rule, when cordless technologies are involved. No matter what the person is singing: rap or pop music, the atmosphere of freedom affects the quality of result. Though studio work differs from live performance on the stage, its owners often prefer cordless solutions. People are tired of walking on wires and want contemporary and efficient recording gear.
How to select a microphone?
Shopping for microphone to record music, one should regard different factors such as the type of source the person is going to capture and the space where the device is used. If the person needs a budget microphone for singing, then the list will differ, especially if live performance is planned. Define the goals first and then set off shopping.
Recording quality
It is essential to understand how the mics function. Directional condensers pick up sound differently in comparison with omnidirectional devices and this affects the clarity of sound. Consider all issues thoroughly when you select the budget microphone for singing.
Adaptability
Buying the microphone to record music, don’t neglect adaptability of purchased devices. The mics should be fitted to the devices without additional adapters required. The person connecting the mic to PC to transfer the performance to digital format, should acquire the device with USB port. XLR-type mics are harder to handle as most of them need additional cables for connection and further post-production process. As a result, the budget singing microphone can turn out to be costlier than customers think. Don’t ignore this factor.
Form factor
The vocalists prefer to use handheld mics for the most part. Such form is necessary in case the device is transferred from one person to another. Headset and lav mics are good when the person wants to have free hands during the performance. The first one is worn on the head, while the other is attached to the clothes.
Price
The pricetag can differ considerably. Those who want to acquire the product of topmost quality will have to pay several hundred for the mic. At the same time, it is possible to acquire the budget microphone for singing within the price range $20-$40.
Top 18 microphones for singing and record music
Look through the descriptions of top mics designed for vocal performance on the stage or at home studio. We described the devices that earned international recognition so that the reader could select the option meeting his requirements most of all.
AKG Pro Audio C214
The model enters the group of advanced devices produced by the famous Austrian brand. Like their other mics it was made on Vienna-based factory. It is delivered in excellent configuration provided additionally with a case for storage and transportation and a spider shockmount.
The device is valued much by the consumers for natural sounding. It’s universal in use and considered to be the best microphone to record music, voice. Though it’s one of the best, it can’t be called the cheap microphone for singing. The pricetag reaches $400, but it’s the most affordable mic in the line. Made on the basis of a huge capsule it has only one pattern, consequently, there’s no necessity in switching of patterns, so it lacks this feature as many inexpensive mics.
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII
Being a legend in the world of condensers, C414 is a long-liver. Any person working in the sphere of sound recording, concert activities and broadcasting is aware about it. It is the best music recording microphone used to capture solo vocalists, musical groups and instruments. The version XLII was released in 2004, after multiple previous releases of the legendary mic:
- It was first introduced in 1971,
- then in 1980,
- 1986,
- and 1993.
Interestingly, with the release of each new model, more and more modern materials were used, which made it possible to make the size of the membrane thinner without losing its strength.
It had a positive effect on the sound – the sensitivity increased, reducing distortion simultaneously. The model described is a direct heir to C414 loved by the founder of the New York studio, who worked with Eminem, Jenifer Lopez, P.Diddy, Jay-Z, Bjork and other famous performers. intentionally decorated in retro design. It is a good acquisition for studios, which are looking for exceptional microphone to record music.
AKG P220
If two previous models are too expensive, select a more affordable P220, which is a unidirectional condenser. They resemble studio mics in some features such as self-noise, so it performs as professional in this aspect. It’s able to reproduce sounding accurately and resembles a live sound when listening to recording. It’s electret providing us warm and open result. Being a perfect microphone for male vocals, it suits female singing as well.
A music recording microphone of supreme quality-level should not lose any detail. P220 copes with such task.
The diaphragm’s flexible gold-covered foil deals with SPLs well.
The spider shockmount delivered with the mic helps to hold the item tightly, without any wobbling. The rigid case protects the set and increases its durability.
The microphone is useful in filmmaking (sound, dubbing), as well as in professional recording studios for recording live strings, guitar, concert grand piano, solo vocals, and speech.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Audio-Technica AT2020USB + condenser microphone for singing
The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ condenser microphone is a remarkable choice for…
It’s suitable for daily use and can be applied for different purposes. The consumers love the sounding recorded with device. The capability of mixture with previously recorded performance is very helpful for musicians and amateurs. It’s good for recording voices and instruments. The feature attracting the wide audience to the model is its ability to be connected to computer and other devices with USB cord. It comes with a stand and other accessories that is a nice surprise for consumers buying this microphone for singing.
Audio-Technica AT4040
The company produces really fabulous condensers and AT4040 just proves the statement. The unidirectional mic presents the components delivering fantastic sound smoothly without any distortions. It can be used for capturing male and female singing. It works with highs and lows well. The mic deals with high SPLs. It’s known for its stable and clear sound thus turning it into the best microphone for vocals, though it’s not a budget alternative. If it’s costly, the brand offers other models which also perform well.
It has a robust build. It also looks stylish but the design may seem massive for some customers. Making a purchase, the consumers will also get a shockmount – an excellent addition despite the fact that it’s confusing a bit to install it.
Audio-Technica AT2035
This is a fantastic mic for use on the move. The target group includes the beginning professionals. The musicians produces can start using the product without durable setup procedures. It’s ready for work right after purchase. It’s able to withstand high sound pressure. The set includes a popfilter with stand clip making the device more versatile and XLR cable. The item is durable but, probably, not easy to use for common users as it does not have USB. Probably, this is the reason why the company decided to alleviate the task for newbies and created the pack along with a new partner of the company – Audient.
AT2035-studio includes best budget interface as well that provides the microphone for singing with all essential things. It means that users don’t have to search for additional components to start the creative process and can being working right out of the box. Apart from the mic described, the kit includes the iD4 budget sound USB interface, the headphones ATH-M40x and the software Cubase LE and Cubasis LE2 from Steinberg. Taking into account the comprehensiveness of the kit, its cost is rather affordable and doesn’t exceed 600 euros.
Blue Yeti USB
There are a lot of manufacturers which produce microphones now. For instance, all manufacturers of computer accessories entered the segment with their models. However, the world of sound is rather challenging and it’s hard to produce premium device without any experience. Sometimes it takes decades to achieve the goal. Blue Microphones has much experience under the belt to deliver the quality needed. The brand creating professional mics now provides common users with its excellent devices. When USB port was added to the high-end recording device the model became highly competitive. Excellent sound at affordable price! Those who dreamt of the best budget vocal recording mic can rejoice!
The famous manufacturer has answered their prayers! The device is really rich in functionality for the pricetag. It’s not flawless though and has its shortcomings. With three capsules included, the condenser can boast of 4 pickup patterns. At this, the sensitivity is incredible, therefore the users have to care about the environment when using the device. It isn’t miniature. On the contrary, it’s substantial and requires space. Some may think that it’s not ergonomic. Those who like the design don’t mind it, especially in the treated space. Microphones for vocals should deliver rich sound and this is easily attainable with this model.
MXL 770
The company producing 770 creates diverse recording equipment so there are options for different categories of customers. Apart from the models for podcasting, studio, field recordings, it also manufactures exceptional microphone for singing customers, which is delivered with a special rigid case for portability, consequently, is good for people on the go who perform at different places.
The sleek black device has excellent characteristics enabling unsurpassed purity of sound without echo as it often occurs. At this the performance is natural. It can be named a budget microphone for vocals. The beginning musicians highly evaluated the device with a reasonable pricetag. It doesn’t pick up all noise around and this elevates the level of performance.
Neumann TLM 102
Those who were eager to acquire the best cheap singing microphone, hoping to find something manufactured by big names, obtained a brilliant solution with TLM102. Who might have thought that legendary brand producing very expensive equipment would agree to construct a budget model? Nevertheless, it did and produced an amazing singing microphone with a quality-level exceeding its predecessor and a lower pricetag. It attracted the interest of music lovers at once. The model is produced in Germany. The company managed to cut the budget for vocal recording mic due to automation of processes at the plant. Besides, less material is used (2 times less!) for production. The engineers actually re-developed the device from scratch. It is not as big as before. Consequently, it makes the device suitable for broadcasting. However, its main purpose still remained the same – this is a microphone for vocals and speech.
Pyle PDMICR42SL Classic Retro
Those who are fond of retro style and need a cheap singing microphone, are surprised to find it at ridiculously low price. PDMICR42SL is a great solution for customers who are not ready to pay tons of money for such item. The range is good enough to have 2 singers on one mic when the band performs. Even skeptical consumers are astonished when they hear the result.
It comes in red, black and silver color. A good vintage cheap microphone creates an old-fashioned stylish vibe and is able to contribute to excellent atmosphere.
Rode NT1A
Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
The Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone is a versatile and…
The original NT1 was the first microphone the company started with. It was highly assessed but some users thought that it sounded a bit harsh. Everything changed with the release of the microphone NT1-A. The first devices were manufactured partly in China but then the company built its own factory in Australia, where all mics are produced at present.
The NT1-A retains the basic configuration of the NT1: a large diaphragm, a phantom-powered condenser microphone with a fixed cardioid pattern. It sounds quite rich and warm, so it’s an amazing microphone for vocals. It is lightweight and has a lot of accessories. An excellent choice!
Rode NTK
RODE NTK has gained professional recognition globally, being a holder of prestigious awards. There’s a special extraordinary capsule in its core.
The circuit design is based on the ultra-sensitivity of some components. As a result, the customers get the richest sound with warmth, which is irreplaceable for recording vocals. However, it is not an ideal microphone for singing only. It’s a wonderful solution for drums, keyboards, etc.
Sennheiser MD421
A genuine timeless classic is one of the most sought-after dynamic microphones for approximately 35 years. It’s elements can withstand a significant sound pressure level. It’s optimal choice for recording drums and guitars. The special characteristics make it an superb solution for different situations. Moreover, it is a great microphone for singing and spoken narrations.
Shure PGA48-XLR
This is one more mic from a large family of recording gear produced by the manufacturer. PGA48-XLR is marketed as a budget microphone for singing. The product is designed to transmit different types of performance and, according to the manufacturer, provides unsurpassed quality-level. It’s also claimed to be a cheap singing microphone for public speaking and such popular entertainment as karaoke.
The device is dynamic and no phantom power is required. The unidirectional pattern will care about clear speech reproduction. It comes with rigid case that contributes to durability of the model. The set includes also other accessories for extra protection. The best budget singing microphone deserves the price paid with XLR cable included.
Shure SM57-LC
The model doesn’t impress with its look but sounds amazing. The cardioid mic is very simple and doesn’t offer extra features we don’t need charging tons of money for their addition. This is, first of all, a music recording microphone and was designed by engineers to record instruments. It can also be a cheap microphone for singing but one shouldn’t forget about its main intended use. In case the person needs a cheap singing microphone, it’s better to find other option.
A very democratic device available for consumers with any budget. It is irreplaceable in case the person plays the electronic bass guitar or percussion. It perfectly suppresses the noise making the sound clean and pure.
Shure SM58
The mic developed more than 50 years ago has become an industry standard in the world for live performances. It was created to offer a clean and warm sound. It is known for low self-noise, ability to cancel out surrounding noise and fabulous quality. This is an ideal solution when the person needs a budget microphone for vocals. The professional users working in the clubs highly evaluate the model. It comes with a mic holder and a zip cover.
In 2016 the SM58-50A was released to celebrate the anniversary of a legendary cheap microphone for singing. In terms of design and technical characteristics, it didn’t differ from the original, but provided with a silver finish and “50th Anniversary Edition” written on the case.
Shure SM7B
Those who are going to buy a budget microphone for vocals recorded in the studio should pay attention to this model. It is produced in Mexico.
It enters the collection of mics in any studio and considered to be unofficial industry standard. Being a unidirectional mic with smooth sounding the budget vocal recording mic is frequently used on television. It features effective built-in windscreen and is easily installed in different configurations.
sE Electronics sE2200a II
sE Electronics sE2200a II Review
The sE Electronics sE2200a II is a great microphone that’s…
The company sE Electronics was launched not long ago, only in 2000. But now the line of its products includes about 20 different microphones. All of them are condensers or ribbon microphones that are produced and assembled in China. Some of the top and accessible models were awarded for quality.
A budget vocal recording mic has a traditional design. It comes with a spider hold and the case. It is advised to use the pop-filter for close recordings.
Conclusion
The person can achieve excellent results in vocals with the right equipment. It is possible to obtain a clean and clear performance even with the budget singing microphone. The list presented above will help to determine which variant is better for your particular case. The person should ask himself concerning the goals. There are so many devices on the market. The customers feel dizzy when they start shopping, but the task isn’t so challenging with the right scheme. The customers need guidance for shopping not to get lost in the huge assortment offered by diverse brands. The guide will narrow down the extensive selection considerably. Besides, it’s useful to find the product meeting all your requirements.
In conclusion, selecting the right microphone for singing and recording music involves taking into account a range of factors such as the type of source being captured, the intended use of the device, and the recording quality. It is important to understand the different functions of different microphones and to choose one that is adaptable to the devices being used. The form factor and price range are also important considerations, and it is essential to define your goals before making a purchase. A list of 18 top microphones for singing and recording music is provided, with descriptions of each device’s features and performance, to help guide your decision-making process.
So, you’re on the hunt for the perfect microphone to capture your melodic masterpieces or bring your vocal talents to life on stage. Fear not, aspiring songbirds and seasoned crooners alike, for the world of microphones is vast and varied, offering a plethora of options to suit every budget and vocal style.