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Here's our StudioPros producer's top 10 list of vocal microphones for home studios. Keep in mind that if you are on a budget, there also great resources for buying used microphones online.
StudioPros Producer's Top 10 Vocal Microphone List
In no particular order...
1. Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone ($399)
As producer Courtney Jones says, "You have to mention the SM7B as it's an overall work horse of a microphone." The SM7B is a dynamic microphone has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response .
2. Rode NT1-A ($229)
For that vintage tube mic sound without breaking the bank! The Rode NT1-A is a popular choice and I've found it on almost every top 10 mic list while doing my research on this topic. The Rode NT1-A is a cardioid condenser microphone has become an industry standard; delivering the warmth, extended dynamic range, and clarity.
3. AKG C 414 ($2200)
The AKC 414 is a large-diaphragm multi-pattern condenser microphone. The multi-pattern feature makes it versatile for different recording situations. I personally use this microphone for my own sessions as a singer songwriter due to it's versatility as a pro condenser microphone and being able to track my acoustic guitar and my vocals. Highly recommend!
4. Sennheiser MD 421 II Cardioid Dynamic Mic ($380)
The large diaphragm, dynamic element handles high sound pressure levels, making it a natural for recording guitars and drums. The MD 421's full-bodied cardioid pattern and five-position bass control make it an excellent choice for most instruments, as well as group vocals or radio broadcast announcers.
5. Neumann TLM- 102 or Neumann TLM- 103 ($699)
Neumann has been a mainstay in recording studios and any engineer would agree this will always be a great option for a cardioid condenser microphone.
6. Blue Microphones Bluebird ($299.99)
Another large diaphragm condenser microphone, this is a great option for home recording studios and vocal tracking.
7. Behringer C - 1 ($49.99)
This is ultra affordable for musicians on a budget that want to experiment with their home studio set up and are just getting into home recording. The recording mic delivers an exceptionally flat frequency response, ultra low-noise transformerless field-effect transistor (FET) input circuitry, and incredible audio transparency.
8. Audio- Technica AT2035 ($149)
Designed for critical home/project/professional studio applications and live performance, this side-address cardioid studio condenser delivers exceptional detail and low noise.
9. Neumann U87 ($3200)
Every producer knows this mic for tracking warmth and professional vocals. If you have the budget to invest in this, this is going to be a professional choice all around and you won't be disappointed.
10. Audio -Technica AT2020 ($99)
Another great option for an entry level microphone to build up your chops and home studio. Affordable, but still offering professional quality. This mid- diaphragm condenser mic is a great option without breaking the bank.
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