LAST UPDATED ON July, 2nd, 2006
Now, I've seen tens of threads made about Microphone Recommendations. People drop a budget, Opey comes in, and drops the mic recommendation. A few minutes later, another thread is made about the same subject. They are useless threads, so i've made a microphone recommendation thread to help Opey out. I've gathered information from Opey and others, and came with the best microphones to get from as low as $50 to as high as $700. I haven't seen people with 700+ budgets, so i didn't bother to go any further.
Microphones
Introduction:
Microphones are transducers which detect sound signals and produce an electrical image of the sound, i.e., they produce a voltage or a current which is proportional to the sound signal. The most common microphones for musical use are dynamic, ribbon, or condenser microphones. Besides the variety of basic mechanisms, microphones can be designed with different directional patterns and different impedances.
Types Of Microphones:
Dynamic Microphones
This kind of Microphone converts acoustic energy to electrical energy by using a moving coil and a permanent magnet. This kind of microphone does not require any external power to be applied. This type of microphone is best for live performance.
Advantages:
- Relatively cheap and rugged.
- Can be easily miniaturized.
Disadvantages:
-The uniformity of response to different frequencies does not match that of the ribbon or condenser microphones
Ribbon Microphones
A type of dynamic microphone that uses a thin metal ribbon placed between the poles of a magnet. Ribbon mics are typically bidirectional, meaning they pick up sounds equally well from either side of the mic. This type og mic is most commonly used for studio recording drumkits.
Advantages:
- Adds "warmth" to the tone by accenting lows when close-miked.
- Can be used to discriminate against distant low frequency noise in its most common gradient form.
Disadvantages:
- Accenting lows sometimes produces "boomy" bass.
- Very susceptible to wind noise. Not suitable for outside use unless very well shielded
Condenser Microphones
A type of microphone in which the diaphragm is one plate of a capacitor (condenser) containing an electrical charge. An electrical output signal is generated by detecting the variations in the charge present in the capacitor resulting from movement of the diaphragm by sound waves. Some are called capacitor microphones. This type of mic is most commonly used for studio recording a wide range of instruments, including vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, drum overheads, etc.
Advantages:
- Best overall frequency response makes this the microphone of choice for many recording applications.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- May pop and crack when close miked
- Requires a battery or external power supply to bias the plates (Phantom Power)
Types Of Microphones; By TheUnderRated
Dynamic
The dynamic microphone is by far the most durable and least accurate of all the microphone types. It uses a tightly wrapped core of wire suspended in a high-level magnetic field. When acoustic pressure i.e. sound waves hit the face of the diaphragm the coil cuts across the magnetic field in exact proportion to the amplitude and frequency of the wave. This cutting of the magnetic field produces analogous electrical signal at the output leads. Dynamic microphones require no phantom power and benefit in no way from the use of such voltage. They are especially known for being able to handle high SPL and shotty treatment. For this reason they are used most often as performance microphones. Three uses include: Acoustic Guitars, Live Performance, and Bass Cabinets.[/CENTER]
Ribbon
By far the most the delicate of all microphones the ribbon microphone uses an extremely thin aluminum ribbon suspended in a strong field of magnetic flux. When pressure hits the ribbon the ribbon fluctuates to the amplitude and frequency of the wave again causing the magnetic field to by disturbed. Electrical signal analogous to the pressure produces the acoustic waveform representation and sends it out the output leads. Applying phantom power to a ribbon microphone will often destroy it. Although the Royer 122 needs phantom power to operate so make sure you know whether or not to apply phantom power to your ribbon microphone. After you apply phantom power do not place the ribbon microphone in front of high SPL instruments as the pressure can deform the ribbon and ruin the microphone itself. Three uses include: Acoustic Guitars, Vocals, and Overheads and Room microphones.
Condenser
Condenser microphones operate on an electrostatic instead of an electromagnetic principle. The capsule of the condenser microphone consists of two plates one movable and one fixed. These two plates together form a device that is capable of storing an electrical charge known as a capacitor. The capacitor can store an amount based on its capacitance. The plates are connected to opposites sides of a DC power supply. Electrons are drawn from the positive plate to the negative plate. This process continues until the charge on the capsule is equal to the capacitance times the polarizing voltage. If the microphone is fed a sound pressure wave the capacitance will change. When the distance between the plates decreases the capacitance increases and when the distance between the plates increases the capacitance decreases. So if the charge is constant (phantom power) and the sound pressure changes the capacitance, voltage changes in an inverse proportion as well. Since you now have a voltage that proportionately changes with the sound wave you have your condenser microphone (Modern Recording Techniques, Huber). Note that phantom power is a must to run this type of microphone. Three uses include: Vocals, Acoustic Instruments, and Drums.
Microphones To Fit You're Budget
Budget Under $100
Marshall MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount
Manufacturer Description:
Large diaphragm, little price.
The MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount has a silky, sweet high-end while retaining tight, solid low and midrange reproduction. The 3/4" gold-sputtered diaphragm creates a professional sound suited for digital and analog recording. Attractive vintage body style with champagne finish. 30Hz-20kHz frequency response. 130dB maximum SPL. Includes custom shockmount, mic stand adapter, and case.
Features:
- 3/4" gold-sputtered diaphragm
- Attractive vintage body style with champagne finish
- 30Hz-20kHz frequency response
- 130dB maximum SPL
- Sensitivity: 15MV/pa
- Equivalent noise: 20dB (A-weighted)
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount Includes:
custom shockmount, mic stand adapter, case
Voice Type:
The only voice this mic will record very well is a perfectly midrange voice because the frequency response is extremely weak on the low end and slightly weak on the high end.
Opey's Bottom Line:
This mic is the cheapest of the cheap. It's the best mic for the absolute beginner that has never recorded before. I recommend this mic to anyone that wants to try out home recording as a hobby and isn't sure if they'll continue their interest after a short time.
Samson C01U USB Microphone
Manufacturer Description:
USB Condenser Mic Connects Directly to Your Computer!
Musicians who record music on computers now have a simple, affordable way to capture high-quality vocal and acoustic instrument performances. Say hello to the C01U, an affordable studio condenser mic with a direct USB output!
Samson C01U USB Condenser Mic at a Glance:
- Plugs straight into computer - no interface needed!
- Quality mic based on popular C01
- Compatible with any Mac or PC recording software
Plugs straight into computer - no interface needed!
The Samson C01U makes recording on the fly or in the field so much easier. It connects directly to your computer's USB port, with absolutely no need for a preamp or audio interface. Seamless integration is the idea, and it has been obtained by creating a great performing condenser microphone that can be plugged into any computer with just a USB cable.
Quality mic based on popular C01
The C01U microphone is based on Samson's successful C01 condenser mic. It features a 19mm internal shock-mounted diaphragm with a cardioid pickup pattern ensuring quality recordings.
Compatible with any Mac or PC recording software
The C01U works perfectly on any computer, Mac or PC, and with any DAW software program. It immediately solves a huge problem for users of many laptops, many of which have no other input method for audio devices.
Features:
- Large-diaphragm condenser with USB digital output
- Compatible with any computer based Digital Audio Workstation
- Extremely detailed sound reproduction ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and just about any other sound source
- High-quality A/D convertor with 16-bit/48kHz sampling rate
- Software drivers for MAC and PC provide additional features like programmable gain, LED input metering, low-cut Filter, and phase
- 19mm Capsule with 3-micron Diaphragm
- Hyper Cardioid pick-up pattern
- Solid Die Cast construction
- Swivel stand mount and 10-foot USB cable included
Voice Type:
This microphone is surprisingly flat so it's ok for a wide range of voices.
Opey's Bottom Line:
I would hardly ever recommend this mic but I think it's worth mentioning. The mic itself has a wide frequency response, which will suit a wide range of voices. The high end is harsh so a deEsser is a must for this mic. This mic is only recommended for the absolute tightest budget. If you have no interest in investing in a recording soundcard and preamp then this mic is for you. Don't expect miracles tho. While the mic itself sounds half decent, the vocal quality will depend on the quality of your motherboard. The USB mic connection has been known to pick up CPU noise and static caused by the inside of the PC. This will almost always be the case, and you will be forced to use noise reduction to help remove the static. Another downfall of this mic is the inability to use a preamp which makes the vocals sound very dry and dead. You will also be limited to working in 24bit/48khz, but if you're pinching pennies you're probably not going to care.
Budget Between $100-$200
Audio-Technica AT2020
General Microphone Information
The standard in affordable side-address, studio-quality condenser mics.
With its remarkably low price, cardioid pattern, and specs that put it in the big leagues, the Audio-Technica AT2020 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone is the ideal mic for project and home studio applications. It features a custom-engineered, 16mm low-mass diaphragm and smooth 20Hz-20kHz frequency response. Its low self-noise is suited to digital recording, plus it has a high 144dB SPL handling. If you need a microphone with rugged construction, this is it.
Audio-Technica AT2020 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Features:
Condenser
Cardioid pattern
Side address
16mm low-mass diaphragm
20Hz-20kHz frequency response
144dB SPL handling
Rugged body
Pivoting, threaded stand mount
Audio-Technica AT2020 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Specifications:
Element: Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
Polar pattern: Cardioid
Frequency response: 20-20,000Hz
Open circuit sensitivity: -37 dB (14.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
Impedance: 100 ohms
Maximum input sound level: 144dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% THD
Noise: 20dB SPL
Dynamic range (typical): 124dB, 1kHz at Max SPL
Signal-to-noise ratio: 74dB, 1kHz at 1 Pa
Phantom power requirements: 48V DC, 2 mA typical
Weight: 12.1 oz.
Dimensions: 6-1/3" long, 2" diameter
Output connector: 3-pin XLRM-type
Included accessories: Stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch
Audio-Technica case style: R7
Audio-Technica AT2020 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Rating 4.0/5.0
Secondary Choice - Behringer B-1
Budget - $200
RODE NT1-A
General Microphone Information
Low-noise, big-sound studio condenser mic.
The RODE NT1-A Anniversary Model Microphone is a complete redesign of the now legendary classic NT1 studio microphone. From the new nickel-plated body to the state-of-the-art surface-mount electronic circuitry, you'll love using it. With a self-noise figure of 5dB, the NT1A is one of the lowest noise studio microphones in the world, regardless of cost. Unrivaled low distortion, higher SPL capability, and extended dynamic range make it well-suited for even the most demanding digital recording applications. Includes shockmount.
R0DE NT1-A Anniversary Model Microphone Features:
Nickel plated body
Unrivaled low distortion
Ultralow self-noise (5dB)
High SPL capability
Extended dynamic range
Rating 4.5/5.0
Secondary Choice - None
Budget - $300
Shure KSM27
General Microphone Information
Superb recording quality at a modest price.
The Shure KSM27 Studio Microphone is a side-address condenser mic with a cardioid polar pattern. Designed for studio use, yet rugged enough for live applications, the KSM27 has an externally biased, 1" ultrathin, gold-layered, low mass Mylar diaphragm to provide superior transient response. An extremely low self-noise level and selectable frequency response deliver superb recording fidelity no matter what the source.
Shure KSM27 Studio Microphone Features:
Externally biased condenser
Cardioid pattern
20-20kHz frequency response
150 ohms impedance
15dB attenuation
Selectable frequency response: flat; -6dB/octave below 115Hz; -18dB/octave below 80Hz
14dB self-noise
138dB maximum SPL (133dB attenuated)
81dB signal-to-noise ratio
Phantom power
Shure KSM27 Studio Microphone Specifications:
Very low self-noise (14 dB A)
Wide dynamic range (>124 dB into 2.5K)
Very low self-noise (14 dB A)
Very high max imum SPL (>138 (153) dB into 2.5K)
Rating 4.5/5.0
Secondary Choice - AKG C 3000 B
Budget - $400
RODE NT2-A
General Microphone Information
Great versatility, creative control, and sweet sonics
The RODE NT2-A Large-Capsule Studio Condenser Microphone is a professional, one-inch condenser microphone with variable pick-up patterns, high-pass filter, and pad.
3 - 3-position switches located on the mic body provide selection of figure 8, cardioid, or omni polar pick-up patterns; from a flat response to either 80Hz or 40Hz high-pass filter; and pad adjustments of 0dB, -5dB, or -10dB attenuation.
The heart of the NT2-A is the Australian-designed and manufactured Type HF1 dual-diaphragm capsule. The frequency and transient response of this new transducer has been voiced to complement today's modern recording techniques and yet still evoke the silky smooth character of the legendary microphones of the '50s and '60s. Includes a soft pouch and clip.
The R¯DE NT2-A represents an uncommon technical achievement. Many mics today look similar, with 1" capsules, a mesh head, and a cylindrical body. It is only when you look a little deeper and listen carefully that the major differences become apparent. If there weren't differences, we would all buy $50.00 mics, and be very happy! Many microphones in the same category sell for thousands of dollars. The difference is that the costlier mics are made with the best parts and precision engineered. While these mics are superb, their smaller production volume makes them expensive. They're hand assembled with parts bought in small quantities
R¯DE has changed the industry by pioneering high quality volume production, investing in more design and tooling using the very finest components and capsules. R¯DE still offers the NT2-A at a price that would be impossible using older techniques and technologies.
Designed and manufactured at R¯DE's new $10,000,000.00 facility in Sydney, the NT2-A incorporates the latest innovations in transducer design, coupled to R¯DE's surface mount electronics, offering pure signal quality and the lowest noise levels of any microphones with the same features. R¯DE is so proud of the NT2-A that they now offer a full 10-year parts And labor guarantee.
R0DE NT2-A Large-Capsule Studio Condenser Microphone Features:
Australian designed and manufactured HF1 1" edge terminated, gold sputtered, dual 5 um diaphragm capsule
3-position variable polar pattern: Omni, Cardioid & Figure 8; all controlled on the mic
3-position variable high-pass filter: Flat, 80Hz or 40Hz
3-position variable pad: 0dB, -5dB, or -10dB
Ultra low noise, transformerless SMT circuitry
Wide dynamic range
High-strength heat-treated steel mesh head
Durable satin nickel finish
Internal capsule shockmounting
Supplied complete with soft pouch and clip
Designed and manufactured in Sydney, Australia
R0DE NT2-A Large-Capsule Studio Condenser Microphone Specifications:
Acoustic principle: Externally polarized 25 mm (1 in.) dual diaphragm
Directional pattern: Multi-pattern
Frequency range: 20Hz-20,000Hz
Output impedance: 200
Signal /Noise ratio DIN/IEC 651: 87 dB (1 kHz rel 1 Paper IEC651, IEC268-15)
Equivalent noise: 7 dBA SPL (per IEC651, IEC268-15)
Maximum SPL: 147 dB (@1%THD into 1k) 157 dB (@1%THD into 1k) - pad at maximum
Sensitivity at 1 kHz into 1k: -36 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (16 mV @94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB
Maximum output voltage: +16 dBu (@1%THD into 1k)
Dynamic range of the mic amplifier: DIN/IEC 651 140 dB (per IEC651, IEC268-15)
Power (Supply voltage): 48 Volts (P48)
Output Connection: 3 pin XLR, balanced output between pin 2 (+) and pin 3 (-). Pin 1 ground
Weight approx.: 860 grm (4.23 oz)
Rating 5.0/5.0
Secondary Choice - None
Budget - $500
AT3060 Condenser Microphone
General Microphone Information
Technical excellence and tube design in an affordable microphone.
Requires no dedicated power supply. Operates on standard 48V phantom power providing easy setup, the only tube mic with this capability. Provides high sensitivity and smooth reproduction with low noise. Features a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser element and hand-selected tubes. A large coupling transformer provides superior low-frequency stability. Mic snaps into mount for secure mounting regardless of position. 50Hz -16kHz frequency response. -32.0dB open CCT sensitivity. 77dB signal-to-noise ratio. 117dB dynamic range. Includes suspension mount.
Audio-Technica AT3060 Tube Condenser Mic Features:
Requires no dedicated power supply or special cable
Operates on standard 48V phantom power providing easy setup
Provides high sensitivity and smooth reproduction with low noise
Features a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser element and hand selected tubes
A large coupling transformer provides superior low-frequency stability
Mic snaps into mount for secure mounting regardless of position
50Hz-16kHz frequency response
-32.0dB open CCT sensitivity
77dB signal-to-noise ratio
117dB dynamic range
Includes suspension mount
Rating 5.0/5.0
Secondary Choice - None
Budget - $600
AT4050
General Microphone Information
Ideal for the most critical digital recordings!
This exceptionally versatile mic features switchable cardioid, omnidirectional, or figure-8 operation; low noise; and transformerless electronics. It utilizes dual gold-plated, aged, large-diaphragm condenser elements for extended frequency response from 20Hz-20kHz. It has a dynamic range of 132dB without the built-in attenuator and accepts up to 149dB SPL without capsule or electronic system distortion above 1% T.H.D. Includes shockmount and protective carrying case.
Audio-Technica AT4050/CM5 Condenser Mic Features:
Cardioid, omnidirectional, or figure-8 operation, switchable
Low noise
Transformerless
Dual gold-plated, aged, large-diaphragm condenser elements
20Hz-20kHz response
132dB dynamic range
High SPL handling
Audio-Technica AT4050/CM5 Condenser Mic Product Downloads:
PDF Specs (105 k)
Rating 4.5/5.0
Secondary Choice - BLUE Baby Bottle
Budget $700
Rode K2
General Microphone Information
Super-quiet and very versatile!
The Rode K2 Variable-Pattern Tube Mic delivers richly detailed tube sound with super-low 10dBA self-noise, huge 162dBA SPL, and a mega-wide dynamic range of 150dB. Totally variable polar pattern control makes it flexible enough for just about any studio task. Coupled with Rode's high-output tube circuitry, the K2 brings out every nuance while handling the loudest sources from cranked-up stacks to screaming vocals. Includes plastic molded travel case, power supply with 30' cable, and SM2 shockmount.
R0DE K2 Variable-Pattern Tube Mic Features:
Richly detailed tube sound
Super-low 10dBA self-noise
Huge 162dBA SPL
Mega-wide dynamic range of 150dB
Totally variable polar pattern control
Rating - 5.0/5.0
Secondary Choice - None
NOTE::The Rode K2 does not require phantom power, the power supply that comes with the microphone is enough to power it. It is preferred that a pre-amp should be used, but it is not needed.
All Microphones Can Be Purchased From Ebay Or www.musciansfriend.com Or www.zzsounds.com
http://www.tweakheadz.com/microphone...ome_studio.htm will help you in choosing the right microphone for you.
All above microphones require a pre-amp!
Some General Information About Pre-Amps & Phatom Power
WHY DO YOU NEED A MICROPHONE PREAMP?
A condenser microphone works by actually converting sound energy into an electrical voltage, but this voltage is much lower than the voltage coming out of your keyboard or other line level sources. If you plug a condenser microphone in to audio interface then the signal it generates will be very quiet unless the signal is boosted. This is why you will need for a preamp.
On a consumer sound card you will have a mic preamp, but it's only designed for speech and cheap mic--totally unsuitable for audio recording.
You can add a Microphone Preamps to your set up via:
- Mixer
- Sound Card with built in Preamp
- Mic Pre
Bear in mind that the Mic Pre is one of the most important links of the chain that will effect the sound quality of your recording system.
Phantom Power
"Phantom powering" is a method of providing power to microphones by applying a voltage to the same wires that carry the audio signals. Phantom power can be generated from mixing consoles, mic preamplifiers, or in-line phantom power supplies.
In general, phantom voltages are used to power electronics within condenser microphones. Condenser microphones require power for various parts of their operation, including impedance converters, preamplifier circuitry and, in some cases, to polarized microphone capsules. Phantom is usually a DC voltage ranging from 12 to 48 volts. Microphones draw current from this voltage based on their needs.
Thanks to Opey & Brandon Heat for reviewing and making suggestions towards this thread.
- I Am..