Best studio microphones for 2024

Humanity has entered an amazing era of total growth in entertainment and media. The forecasts of experts say that the volume of the global industry will be $ 2.5 trillion by 2023.

The leading trends in the region include:

1. digitalization;
2. growing user consumption through mobile devices;
3. merging of business lines at key points of client bases;
4. vertical integration.

The list of radio stations, recording studios, TV broadcasting centers is updated daily. The quality of sound transmission is completely different from the previous century. In addition to processing and storing data, acoustic systems play an important role in the vanguard of receiving sound vibrations.

Studio microphones

Modern systems are installed not only in professional radio and television studios, recording companies, but also in home and amateur centers.

The main task of a microphone is to convert an acoustic wave into an electronic signal. The main role is assigned to the membrane, which is responsible for the perception of sound air vibrations. An electrical vibration is transmitted from the membrane, which forms a signal.

Studio acoustics differ in the type of transducer and can be:

1. condenser;
2. tape;
3. dynamic;
4. electret.

How to choose the right microphone

The focus on functional compliance with the task and conditions of use is a priority. What criteria should be adhered to, or are the recommendations enough?

Frequency range

The characteristic determines the width of frequencies that the microphone can pick up. The volume of sound and expression depends on the width of the range. In capacitor models, the boundaries are determined by the perception of the human ear - from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Dynamic type equipment has a narrower range.

Preamplifier

The following circuit technologies are distinguished:

1. lamp;
2. transistor;
3. transformer;
4. hybrid.

It is believed that soft sound is provided by tube preamplifiers. To obtain a transparent sound, a semiconductor type of acoustics is more suitable.

Maximum sound pressure

At a certain pressure level, the diaphragm begins to distort the sound. The maximum characteristic indicates the ability of the equipment to withstand the load. Manufacturers of our time set the threshold at the level of painful anatomical perception. When the ear is already hurting from the playback power, the microphone continues to work without overloading. However, not all condenser microphones can handle drum recordings.

Cardioid model

There is a wave of amateur and professional vocal recordings all over the world in all kinds of formats. The cardioid will allow you to exclude extraneous noise, limit the sound coverage, cut the lower threshold, and give the optimal sound of the voice.

If we are talking about screaming and growling, then it is worth stopping at the dynamic version of the equipment, which more effectively conveys aggressive vocals.

Hybrid type

Acoustics that can add expressiveness, enrich the voice with a third-party "charm", as a rule, have a hybrid circuit with an external amplifier.

Selection errors

The opinion that it is possible to hide flaws in the voice and tonality by studio processing is highly doubtful. Undoubtedly, “digital” will emphasize the advantages and enhance the effect. However, the mic model will not affect the performance talent.

Ranking of the best studio microphones

Condenser models

AKG C12 VR

Acoustics is designed for recording instrumental music and vocals.

• excellent "removal" of the voice;
• gives softness to sound;
• tube preamplifier for heat transfer;
• directional pattern switch - circle, figure eight, cardioid;
• with power supply included;
• the presence of wind protection;
• Constructed with 1 ”capsule and double gold plated diaphragm;
• proximity reduction function by means of a high-pass filter with a double cut-off type;
• silent way of switching charts through the N-Tube block;
• 12-pin connector;
• minimization of distortion at low frequencies due to the special winding of the output transformer;
• holder type anti-vibration.

• also suitable for outdoor recordings.

AKG C414 LII / ST

The stationary set of two microphones is equipped with wind protection, holders, filters, and can be placed in a convenient Soundtool case.

• in addition to the standard directions of the diagrams, it has a hypercardioid and a supercardioid;
• a wide range of applications - stage, filming, radio, studio;
• also recommended for recording brass, strings and woodwind parts;
• smooth acoustic-frequency characteristics;
• the design is equipped with transformerless Ultra Linear electronics of superlinear range, with protection against distortion;
• compliance with digital recording standards;
• subtle transmission of vocals;
• recommended for recording live concerts, classical music, choirs, ensembles;
• precise computer selection of a stereo pair;
• Austrian quality of the Vienna brand.

• not.

Shure SM 81

The wireless capacitor model is produced under the famous American brand.

• the presence of a swivel holder;
• with PAD attenuator blocker;
• accurate detailed sound transmission;
• with durable steel body and vinyl covering;
• extended frequency response;
• own noise at a minimum level;
• with active protection against electromagnetic interference;
• switch of linear characteristics;
• with cardioid and symmetric directionality;
• recommended for recording acoustic guitars, pianos, cymbals, plucked instruments, stage work, in studios;
• with phantom power;
• the presence of low-pass filters;
• flexibility when recording loud sounds;
• elimination of operational noise;
• with 3-pin XLR connector;
• does not perceive radio frequency radiation.

• non-removable cartridge.

RODE NTK

The novelty on the acoustic market belongs to the class of professional equipment and has its own power supply.

• used when recording vocals and parts of single musical instruments;
• stationary type of construction;
• ten-year manufacturer's warranty;
• high sensitivity and a wide range of dynamics are provided by means of a gold-plated diaphragm;
• with vibration protection by fixing the membrane to the suspension;
• low noise level;
• high sound quality;
• the presence of a tube amplifier;
• cardioid orientation;
• laureate of exhibitions of musical equipment.

• not found.

Audio-Technika AT 2024 USB +

Acoustics belongs to class A, has many prestigious awards from professional exhibitions.

• Australian HF2 capsule;
• 6922 high sensitivity lamp;
• used in the field of acoustic instruments, keyboards, vocal recordings, percussion instruments;
• the diaphragm is gilded;
• the presence of a special power supply;
• minimum of own noise;
• with an ultra-strength protective steel mesh;
• not sensitive to radio interference;
• wide grip and clarity of sound;
• modern design;
• with power on indicator;
• the best model in this price range;
• sufficient wire length;
• the presence of a stand in the form of a tripod;
• excellent value for money.

• there is no mute button on the microphone.

Neumann TLM 102

The microphone, made according to special German technologies, combines the splendor of proportions, classics of design and a striking characteristic element in the form of a ring on a protective grill.

• works easily with loud sources - percussion, drums, guitar amplifiers;
• midrange boost> 6 kHz provides vocal clarity in mixes;
• cardioid type;
• bass registers receive a clear cut and a minimum of color, thanks to the frequency response up to 6 kHz;
• with pressure gradient transducer;
• elastic fastening of the capsule to the body guarantees a minimum of structure-borne noise;
• the protective grill is equipped with a pop filter to filter out shocks from consonants;
• ideal for use by low-budget broadcast studios;
• power supply 48V +/- 4 V.

• not detected.

Condenser models
Model	Signal / noise, dB-A	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV / Pa * dBV	Pressure, sound, max, k 3%, dB	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, gram	Impedance, Ohm
AKG C12 VR	72	10*-40	128	30-20000	680	200
AKG C414 LII / ST	88	-34	158	20-20000	-	200
Shure SM 81	78	-45	136,146,128	20-20000	230	150
RODE NTK	82	-38	158	20-20000	760	200
Audio-Technika AT 2024 USB +	>82	-38	158	20-20000	386	32
Neumann TLM 102	73	11	144	20-2000	262	50

Dynamic microphones

The transducer in this class of acoustics is not a plate, but a diaphragm attached to a rigidly fixed coil of a thin wire. When exposed to sound waves, the diaphragm oscillates, the movement of the coil in a magnetic field perturbs the space and creates an electrical signal. The basis of the process is the release of tension from the coil created by an external stimulus.

• high overload capacity;
• minimal risk of damage upon impact;
• low level of perception of extraneous noise;
• low sensitivity to the process of creating feedback.

Sennheiser MD 421-II

An updated version of the now legendary MD 421, the MD 421 is very popular among sound designers, sound engineers and musicians around the world.

• a range of applications from broadcasting a radio station to recording vocals and instrumental music;
• suitable for recording drums, percussion sound sources;
• famous German quality;
• adjustment of bass characteristics with a spread of five positions using the built-in switch;
• robust housing with rack mount with its own removable holder;
• with phantom power;
• orientation is cardioid;
• also recommended for TV, radio and podcasts;
• with effective feedback suppression;
• pronounced focus;
• fine tuning of parameters.

• absent.

Electro Voice RE 20

A novelty in the class of dynamic acoustics, it has a stationary and suspended structure.

• standard for recording vocals;
• built-in screen protects against vibrations of applause, whistling;
• removed the effect of proximity thanks to the "Variable-D" technology;
• cardioid orientation;
• filtering noise;
• maintaining a constant frequency range;
• the presence of a large membrane;
• with bass switch;
• passive power supply;
• a solid favorite in the broadcasting class;
• preference for sound engineers.

• not found.

Samson Q8X

A novelty among acoustic models for concert and studio activities.

• flagship studio and live vocals;
• wide grip range;
• with a high gain before feedback;
• pneumatic capsule;
• stylish design;
• supercardioid direction;
• captures the subtleties of sound without reducing volume and clarity;
• suppression of hum, noise vibrations;
• Provides a powerful mix with clear sound
• low resistance;
• the kit includes a mount, case;
• the presence of a multi-axis damped element;
• with gold plated connector.

• not.

Shure SM58S

The impressive acoustics characteristics have brought the model to the flagship position.

• transmission of voice nuances;
• the windscreen puts the block on the breathing volume;
• the presence of a capsule damper allows to reduce mechanical noise;
• anti-shock properties of materials of manufacture;
• with phantom power;
• build quality;
• connector type - the widespread XLR standard will not create problems with finding a cable;
• cardioid orientation;
• the kit includes a holder, a case;
• sound distortion is reduced to zero.

• not detected.

Dynamic models
Model	Pressure, maximum, dB	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV / Pa * dBV	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, gram	Impedance, Ohm
Sennheiser MD 421-II	-	2	30-17000	385	200
Electro Voice RE 20	-	1.5	45-18000	737	150
Samson Q8X	150	-54	50-16000	440	300
Shure SM58S	-	-54	50-15000	350	150

Electret microphone models

If we exclude the plastic case and leave only the "filling", then the acoustics is a condenser. An electret film with polarization with a thin layer of metal is a diaphragm, while simultaneously serving as a plate. The capacitance of a condenser changes under the influence of acoustic pressure acting on the diaphragm. Such devices are simple and inexpensive, therefore they are recognized both among professionals and in the amateur music environment.

Maono AU-100TC

The lavalier design of the circular diaphragm model is used in radio and television studios.

• refers to the price category up to 3000 rubles;
• good sensitivity;
• super-flat gear characteristics;
• long-term stability;
• circular orientation;
• simple wiring diagram for computers and laptops;
• long cable 6 meters.

• do not have much popularity among sound engineers.

SVEN MK 490

A phantom powered desktop microphone is recommended for use in hobby studios with a PC connection.

• plastic case;
• with shutdown button;
• suitable for home studio;
• recommended for recording lessons and video lessons;
• with step-by-step connection instructions;
• affordable price;
• online order is available.

• some users report increased noises.

Sennheiser E 865 S

The renowned German quality of an acoustic device with a wide frequency range is considered the best among the models designed for loud sound.

• with soft tone transmission;
• excellent noise suppression;
• supercardioid chart;
• lack of distortion;
• no feedback effect;
• the presence of vibration protection;
• attractive ergonomics;
• balance of the body;
• with two-way switch;
• universality of application;
• the best price / quality ratio.

• not found.

Electret models
Model	Pressure, maximum, dB	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV / Pa * dBV	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, gram	Impedance, Ohm
Maono AU-100TC	120	-32	65-18000	75	-
SVEN MK 490	-	-58	30-16000	146	32
Sennheiser E 865 S	150	3	40-20000	311	200

Ribbon microphones

One of the types of dynamic equipment is the tape version of the acoustic device. The diaphragm has been replaced with a thin tape and is able to add warmth to the sound. Models of this type are not afraid of getting closer to the sound source.

Royer Labs R 101

Passive speakers have a bi-directional circuit.

• high threshold sensitivity 3.9 mV / Pa;
• lack of bass accumulation at short distances;
• Special durable, off-center aluminum tape for vibrant responsiveness
• three-layer windscreen;
• shockproof transducer;
• compactness;
• special patented author's shirring;
• minimization of standing waves;
• detailing of high frequencies;
• with a smooth frequency response;
• small membrane;
• moisture protection.

• not.

MXL R77

The flagship ribbon model delivers unique, highly realistic live sound.

• recommended for vocal and instrumental recordings;
• high-quality materials of manufacture;
• stylish catchy design;
• complete with mount, stand, long cable more than 7 meters;
• online ordering via the Internet.

• not found.

Ribbon microphones
Model	Pressure, maximum, dB	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV / Pa * dBV	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, gram	Impedance, Ohm
Royer Labs R 101	135	-48	30-15000	483	300
MXL R77	135	-	20-18000	222	270

Conclusion

The popularity of microphones is growing with the opening of new blogs, home video archives and the development of media. The need for good sound has become a necessity. Price categories can satisfy the demand of the most unpretentious and professional consumers. Sound transmission of voice and music in high-quality format never ceases to amaze with its originality and miracles.