Best
Vocal Mic for Recording Vocals
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Overall: For Vocalists, musicians, and content creators
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Best Feature: Shockmount with detachable pop filter
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Vocal Mics Overall
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Overall: For Recording vocals and instruments
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Best Feature: Provides natural sound production and smooth vocal delivery
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Vocal Mic for Live Performance
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Overall: For Vocals and Instruments
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Best Feature: Outstanding dynamic range
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TedScore™: 10/10
Finding the right vocal microphone feels a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack, doesn’t it? With so many options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of choices, particularly if you’re watching your pennies. There are indeed high-quality microphones that won’t break the bank, and the good news is that many users online have shared their personal gems on forums and review sites. Imagine stumbling upon a mic that has both fantastic sound and a budget-friendly price tag, making it a top pick for aspiring musicians and seasoned performers. With a world brimming with choices, patience and a bit of research will lead you to the perfect mic treasure. Stay tuned to discover what voice-enhancing secrets await!
You can find many budget-friendly mics that are excellent for recording vocals. In this article, we will review the best vocal mics under £/$500 and discuss the different types of mics available for purchase.
Types of vocal microphone
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic mics are affordable, durable, and very versatile. They are less likely to distort while handling loud noises than condenser mics.
Given their low sensitivity, a dynamic mic can handle high SPL. They are also less likely to create distortion when capturing high SPL sources. But what is SPL? SPL stands for ‘sound pressure level‘, which means the highest sound level a microphone can handle before distorting.
How dynamic mics work
Dynamic mics work by electromagnetic induction and convert sound waves into electric signals. In other words, a dynamic mic has a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire.
When the sound waves hit the diaphragm, it then vibrates, making the coil move back and front. The movable coil of wire vibrates with the magnet and induces an AC voltage. For this reason, they are also known as moving coil microphones.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser mics are more sensitive to lower and higher frequencies.
Out of the other mic types, the condenser mic provides the best high-frequency audio reproduction.
How condenser mics work
Condenser mics use electrostatic technology to work. Their metal diaphragm is attached to a metal plate, and both of them have electrodes attached to them. The sound hits the diaphragm, changes the distance between the two, and creates something called capacitance.
Condenser mics come into two categories: large diaphragm condenser microphones and small diaphragm condenser microphones. The small and large diaphragm condenser microphone have a high sensitivity rating.
Ribbon Microphones
Ribbon microphones were commonly used among presenters in the early days. They provide a warm and vintage tone and work ideally when taming harsh high-end sounds. Such mics are fragile, so you must use them carefully and position them correctly.
The ribbon microphones make both vocals and instruments sound very clear, and they are also a good option for guitar amps and drum overheads.
How ribbon mics work
In comparison to their counterparts, the ribbon microphones work differently. They feature an extended rectangular diaphragm of thin aluminum and magnets on each end. Hence, when the sound waves hit the diaphragm, they vibrate and create an electric current.
Things to consider when selecting a vocal microphone
Frequency response
As the name suggests, the frequency response refers to the range of frequency the mic can detect. It shows how well the mic can reproduce the signals it picks up.
The frequency response is typically measured in Herz, with the ideal frequency response for recording vocals at 80Hz-15Hz.
Transient response
A transient response refers to the mic’s ability to capture short peaks. The mic can accurately recreate transient sounds within its audio signal when it has an accurate transient response.
Generally, a faster transient response is preferred. However, when performing metal and rock, a slower transient response is more beneficial for dirtier vocals.
Polar Pattern
The polar patterns in a microphone determine which sounds will be recorded and which will be rejected. The most common polar patterns include cardioid, hyper-cardioid, omni directional, bi-directional, shotgun, and multi-pattern microphones.
The cardioid polar pattern captures sounds from the front and blocks any other sounds. That said, the hyper-cardioid pattern features an even narrower area of sensitivity and is intended for loud sound sources.
Compared to cardioid mics, omnidirectional mics capture sounds from anywhere in the room. Therefore, they are often used as studio microphones.
The bidirectional (Figure 8) mics capture the sounds from the front and the back, blocking any sound waves from the sides.
Finally, multi-pattern mics are more versatile than other mics due to their ability to switch patterns.
Sensitivity
In terms of vocals, getting a mic with higher sensitivity is recommenced recording environment plays a big role in which mic to opt for.
If you are recording vocals in an untreated room for instance, a mic with lower sensitivity is a good option, as it will not pick up unwanted noise. But if you’re in a controlled space or treated room, like a recording studio, then a higher sensitive mic would work wonders.
Diaphragm size
As mentioned, vocal mics pick up sounds through the diaphragm capsule, which vibrates when in contact with the sound. Hence, diaphragm size affects how the mic deals with sound pressure, dynamic range, etc.
Mics with a small diaphragm size are known as pencil mics, and they can handle high-pressure sound levels, making them perfect for an acoustic guitar and other acoustic instruments.
The mics with large diaphragm sizes can easily capture the differences in sound levels and are used in studios for recording vocals and instruments. The mics with middle diaphragm size combine both specifications and are used for live performances.
What do you want to use the microphone for?
The type of microphone you need can be determined by what you plan to record. Whether you are using a mic for live vocals or looking for a mic for your podcast, you need a versatile one with incredible quality.
The type of mic to use for a vocal performance also depends on the genre of the music you will perform, the mic placement, and your vocal style.
Budget
Although it is a no-brainer, we must mention that a mic’s price point is also important to consider. Nowadays, you can find an impressive vocal mic for you for an affordable cost without compromising the sound quality.
The microphones we really like are:
DESIGNED FOR: Recording vocals and instruments
COMES WITH: Detachable Windscreen and RPM602Switch Cover Plate
FEATURES: Provides natural sound production and smooth vocal delivery. A frequency response range from 50Hz to 20kHz The mic has a sensitive pop filter for any unnecessary sounds
Shure SM7B
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- The mic is suitable for studio and home recording, podcasts, and voiceovers
- Offers incredible sound production
- Provides natural reproduction of music bass roll-off and mid-range-emphasis controls
- Not ideal for novice users
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Vocalists, musicians, and content creators
COMES WITH: An pop shield, XLR cable, and a dust cover
FEATURES: Shockmount with detachable pop filter The NT1 mic captures smooth high frequencies Features a bipolar output buffer and JFET impedance converter
Rode NT1-A
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A condenser microphone with a neutral frequency response, allowing you to adjust when mixing the vocals
- Features external shock mount and pop filter
- The recording pack comes with a dust cover
- Requires device for phantom power
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Live vocal performances, backup singers, and public speakers.
COMES WITH: Zippered storage bag and a microphone clip
FEATURES: Isolate vocals and cuts background noise. The Shure SM58 reduces noise from the background and has excellent built-in quality An affordable vocal mic providing vocal clarity.
Shure SM58
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Low-end and high-end frequency response
- Provides warm audio quality
- Sturdy all-metal construction
- One of the best vocal microphones for live performance
- Requires external pop filter
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Solo and group recordings
COMES WITH: Microphone clamp for 3/8" thread
FEATURES: Five-position bass control. A vocal microphone designed for vocals, acoustic guitars, and drums Quality audio that is pleasant on the ears
Sennheiser MD 421 II
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Versatile microphone for studio recordings and live performances
- Impressive audio production
- Picks up low noise
- The mic's clip is fragile
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Vocals and guitars
COMES WITH: Premium protective case
FEATURES: Custom shock mount. The Audio Technica AT2035 provides detailed high-end and low self-noise Equipped with a switchable high pass and low cut filter.
Audio Technica AT2035
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A mic tailored for various applications, offering warm sounds pleasant to hear
- The mic reduces low-frequency distortion and proximity effect at the source
- Handles high sound pressure level
- Lovely warm sound
- The mic doesn't have a carry case
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Vocals and subtle acoustics
COMES WITH: Mounting brackets and a mic thread adapter
FEATURES: Built-in pop filter. A multi-pattern condenser providing plosive-free recordings A versatile mic offering clear audio production
Aston Microphones Spirit
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- The mic features an adjustable microphone thread adapter
- Delivers an open sound with a slight high-frequency boost
- The mic has a Robust mechanical design
- Usual high quality standard from Aston Microphones
- The mic is a little heavier than other mics
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Vocals and instruments
COMES WITH: Spider-type shock mount and a metal carry case
FEATURES: Outstanding dynamic range. The AKG C414 provides distortion-free recording and crystal-clear audio A dual-capture system delivering excellent highs and defined lows
AKG C214
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight and durable microphone capturing every nuance of the audio.
- Incredible transient response
- Wide range frequency response
- It handles vocal sibilance enabling you to record louder sources without distortion.
- It can make certain voices slightly harsh
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Vocal Mics Under 500
Summary
As can be seen, there are many microphones under £/$500 to choose from online. Hopefully, after reading this post, you will be able to find the best vocal mic that perfectly fits your needs.
Therefore, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option and a versatile mic for a professional or home studio, the options above are excellent choices for performers and musicians.
While I appreciate the effort to include budget options, high-end mics often offer a tangible difference in clarity and fidelity. It’s an investment in your audio quality that shouldn’t be overlooked.
ever wonder how a microphone would sound if it recorded the colors of the wind? the frequency response section got me thinking about capturing the inaudible. wild.
Not sure I agree with all your mic picks under 500. Some of those models lacked the warmth needed for deep vocals. Missed a few key players.
love the idea of finding a good mic for karaoke nights. never knew so much went into picking one. thanks for the info!
Great article! Your section on polar patterns is crucial for beginners to understand. Selection of cardioid, omnidirectional, or figure-8 can hugely impact recording quality depending on environment and application.
anyone got tips on reducing feedback when using condenser mics at home? struggle is real.
This article is exactly what I needed. Been in a rut trying to find the right mic for my jazz performances. Understanding the sensitivity and frequency response aspects will definitely help in my search!
The technical details about how each type of microphone works were on point. However, I believe there was a slight oversight in not discussing the impact of the preamp quality on condenser mics’ performance.
Looking at the section ‘Best Vocal Mics Under 500’, I’m wondering if there are any hidden gems not listed. Always looking for that balance between quality and cost without breaking the bank.
Imagine if microphones could talk back. What do you think they’d say about our singing? Probably asking for a break, lol.