While high-quality microphones may seem to be out of reach for a home studio, nothing could be further from the truth.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most highly sought-after and popular choices on the market right now, as well as the features that make them effective in a home studio environment.
5 Awesome Microphones That Will Have You Singing
Microphone | Price | Rating | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| M-Audio Nova | $84.95 | Amazon | |
| Shure SM57 | $99.99 |  | Amazon |
| Rode NTK | $529.99 | Amazon | |
| Audio Technica AT2020 | $129.99 | | Amazon |
| Shure Beta 58 | $159.99 | Amazon |
1. M-Audio Nova
Featuring a Class A design that’s been specifically tailored for low noise, distortion, and coloration, the Nova condenser microphone encapsulates an ideal first-time buy for aspiring audio engineers, producers, and musicians looking to take their recordings to the next level.
The microphone consists of an evaporated gold diaphragm mounted inside of a solid brass capsule, and also includes a mic cable, hard-mount, and soft case. At $84.95, it is certainly not a bargain to scoff at!
2. Shure SM57
As one of the most commonly well-known and respected microphones in the industry, the Shure SM57 is a solid choice for vocals and instruments alike.
Its uniform cardioid pickup pattern is designed to effectively isolate the main source while reducing background noise, making for an excellent signal-to-noise ratio. Additionally, its contoured frequency response is clean and tweaked for the utmost in rich, high-fidelity sound quality in recording instrumental and vocal performances.
Additionally, its astonishingly durable design makes it the mic of choice for live sound applications and usage. At a mere $99.00, you can’t go wrong!
3. Rode NTK
If you’re thinking about getting a Neumann U87 and having second thoughts due to the hefty $3,599.95 price tag, then you may want to consider setting your sights on the Rode NTK Tube Condenser Microphone.
This mic has received rave reviews from nearly both beginner and advanced producers. Features include a very wide dynamic range, Class A valve circuitry, a hand-selected and graded twin-triode valve, and an extremely low noise floor.
This is an ideal choice for engineers who are looking for a mic that can seamlessly capture the subtlety and depth of an instrumental or vocal performance in vivid detail.
4. Audio Technica AT2020
For home studio owners looking for an even less expensive option than the previous offering, the Audio Technica AT2020 is a definite must for any budget-conscious recordist.
It’s widely renowned for its crystal-clear, naturally high-fidelity sound, which makes it an ideal choice for recording podcasts, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover applications.
Additional features include a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm sporting an expanded frequency response and superb transient response as well as a cardioid polar pattern that reduces pickup from the sides and rear end of the microphone, enhancing isolation of the target sound source.
5. Shure Beta 58
Last but definitely not least is the Shure Beta 58, which is the quintessential vocal mic of choice for many artists and groups including:
- James Blunt
- Coldplay
- David Bowie
- Elton John
It is particularly favored for its super-cardioid pickup pattern, which makes it an excellent mic for live sound performances. Other features include a reinforced grille and reduced handling noise.
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