Let Us Help You Find The Best Vocal Mic On The Market

Whether you record podcasts, radio shows, voiceovers or music, having the right microphone is key when it comes to vocals. The wrong microphone will pick up on noises and distortions that hinder the sound quality and make the record sound unprofessional.

AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone	Our favorite for 2020
MXL GENESIS II Dual Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone with High-Isolation Shockmount	A very close runner-up
Shure KSM42 Large Dual-Diaphragm	A fantastic microphone

But finding the right vocal mic is no easy task. We’re going to help you find the ideal microphone for your needs. Here are some things to consider when comparing models:

• Size: The size of the mic is important, and you’ll need to consider how large or small your studio is. If you’re performing on stage, size isn’t as much of a concern, but if you plan on recording in a studio or your home office, you’ll need a mic that will fit in your workspace. The mic’s size will be located in the product description.
• Sound Quality: The sound quality is of the utmost importance. Pay attention to the SPL, frequency range and sensitivity to ensure you choose a mic that will deliver the best sound quality possible.
• Durability: You want a microphone that will last. Make sure the model you’re considering is durable enough to handle the rigors of the stage or heavy studio use. Even if you don’t plan on putting the microphone through too much abuse, you still want to make sure it will give you years of use with proper care.
• Ease of Use: Microphones are simple, and using one should be simple, too. If the microphone is too complicated, you won’t ever want to use it. Look for information on how to set up the mic and how to use it, so you have an idea of how complicated it will be.

The Top High End Condenser Microphone Reviews for 2020

AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII – The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII is a professional-level vocal mic with the sonic character the AKG C12 is known for. This mic is designed to deliver superior sound quality for vocals and single instruments.

The mic features nine selectable polar patterns designed for use with every application. Three attenuation levels are also available for both close-up and high-output sources.

Three bass-cut filters are built-in that can be adjusted to minimize wind noise and vibrations from the stage.

To keep sound quality at its best, an overload warning is available as well as an audio peak hold LED to pick up on the shortest audio peaks.

MXL Genesis II – The MXL Genesis II is a dual diaphragm microphone and one of the best preamp for vocals out there. The dual-capsule design allows for two different tones: cool and warm.

The Genesis II is an enhanced version of the previous Genesis mic for even better audio quality.

The vintage 12AT7 tube allows for classic tonality, and the Mogami wiring and cable delivers superior audio fidelity.

The Genesis II features a six micron gold-sputtered diaphragm, and the penetrating vocals stay above other tracks.

From one of the leading brands in the audio industry, the MXL Genesis II is a top-of-the-line mic for serious professionals.

Share KSM42 – The Share KSM42 is a dual-diaphragm microphone engineered to withstand the rugged stage environment while capturing the sonic nuance of studio performances.

The KSM42 delivers a superior level of control and clarity for high-quality performances every time.

In the technical department, this mic features high output level, high input SPL capability, ultra-low distortion, superior common mode rejection, uniform polar response and suppression of radio frequency interference.

This mic comes with a shock mount, shurelock, popper stopper, velveteen pouch, magnetic pop-filter and an aluminum case.

If you’re looking for a mic that comes with a slew of accessories, the KSM42 is a great choice.

Sennheiser e 965 – The Sennheiser e 965 is a large, one-inch diaphragm condenser microphone that’s ideal for amateurs or professionals who are just getting started.

The e 965 features a switchable pick-up pattern and a low-cut switch that minimizes ambient, wind and rumble noise. A switchable pre-attenuation can also accommodate users with more powerful voices.

The shock-mounted capsule delivers crystal clear sound and keeps handling noise to a minimum, so all you hear is the vocals.

Backed by a ten-year warranty, the e 965 is a durable and reliable microphone with mid-range sound quality. And with a durable design, this microphone is built to last.

Neumann TLM 102 MT – The Neumann TLM 102 MT is a condenser microphone with a large diaphragm and cardioid directional characteristic. Featuring a high maximum sound pressure level of 144 db, this mic is great for people with more powerful voices.

With this microphone, even drums, percussion and amps can be recorded in exceptionally high quality.

The compact design of this microphone makes it ideal for studio use, and the mic features a presence boost above 6 kHz.

The TLM 102 MT comes in two finishes: matte black and nickel.

Whether you need a mic for voiceovers, broadcasting or recording music, the TLM 102 MT is an excellent option.

Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Right Vocal Mic Under $1000 For You

A good quality vocal mic is an investment, but it’s worth the cost if you’re a serious amateur or professional. No matter whether you’re singing or talking, the right vocal mic will take your sound quality to the next level.

We talked about some important things to consider earlier. Here are some other things to keep in mind when shopping for a mic:

• Polar Patterns: Most vocal mics are unidirectional, and they offer three polar patterns: hypercardioid, supercardioid and cardioid. All of these patterns reject off-axis and rear-axis sounds that come from behind and from the sides of the mic.
• Sensitivity: Sensitivity levels play a role in a mic’s overall sound quality, and refers to how quiet of a sound the microphone can detect. Typically, large diaphragm microphones (like the ones we reviewed) are very sensitive and usually require suspension mounting as well as external power to isolate the mic from any external vibrations.
• SPL: SPL refers to “sound pressure level,” which determines the maximum volume that a microphone can handle. This metric is especially important if you plan on using the mic to record loud instruments, like the drums. Average SPL is about 100 dB, while high SPL is around 130 dB.
• Price: The cost of the mic is very important and will probably be one of the deciding factors when choosing a mic. You already know what your budget is: under $1,000. But that doesn’t mean you should choose the cheapest mic you can find. If you’re a serious professional, go with the best quality microphone in this price range and the one that meets all of your sound quality needs.