🎙 Best Studio Microphones for 2020

It doesn't matter if a person creates his own studio, conducts streams or records videos for YouTube, it is necessary to select a high-quality microphone in all cases. Without it, it is impossible to convey the voice normally.

Beginning creative people save on recording equipment, they use a smartphone dictaphone or a built-in micro camera. But this decision is wrong, it is better to buy the appropriate device in advance. Moreover, some models are sold at low prices.

The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best studio microphones for 2020.

Varieties and their differences

In professional studios, expensive equipment is used that not only transmits a normal human voice, but also slightly improves it. Today there are 4 popular varieties:

• Dynamic;
• Tape;
• Electret;
• Condenser.

The latter are more popular almost all over the world. The principle of operation of a condenser microphone is simple: there are two plates inside, one of them reacts to the oscillation of the membrane, due to which certain sound signals are created. Such specimens are used not only for voice recording, but also for vocals and musical instruments, since they transmit signals with high accuracy. The only thing to remember is that these devices require phantom power. Without this, normal work is impossible.

The next variation is dynamic microphones. The main difference here is that a special coil is used, not capacitor plates. The movement of the element is due to a magnetic field that converts the received sound into electrical signals. In recording studios, such devices are popular for recording guitars or drums. It does not require any phantom power.

Ribbon models, like electret models, are rarely used in professional studios, since for a number of technical reasons they are not suitable for working with an instrument or vocals. In addition to them, there are carbon microphones, but they are used in cases where it is required to process the sound of a harmonica and similar musical equipment.

But the differences are not only in the type of converter used. In addition to this parameter, most of the equipment is also divided according to the directional pattern. Its importance is that it reflects the sides where the microphone records sound best. Today there are 3 diagrams:

• A circle. A feature of such a device is the ability to record sound waves from all sides; there are no restrictions here. The product will be needed for those who record voice with the effect of space.
• The cardioid is found in all professional studios, the reverse side is insensitive, so it won't be possible to record sound, however, the front part perfectly converts waves. This option is considered the best solution for recording vocals.
• The latest model is the figure eight. It is suitable for recording sound from the front and back, while no noise on the sides will interfere with normal operation. The device is perfect for recording backing vocals.Therefore, it is also actively used.

Criterias of choice

When a person begins an independent search for professional equipment, you need to know what to look for. This will help eliminate mistakes when choosing and choose a quality option.

First, the frequency range is determined. The parameter is important not only for expensive models, but also for the most common household appliances. It indicates to the user what frequencies the device is capable of working with. It is important to understand that the wider the range, the better and more spacious the sound. If you buy a product of a capacitor type, then here the range is within the limits of human perception - 20 Hz ... 20 kHz. Other electret and dynamic options have lower values.

Once an acceptable range has been found, attention is paid to the preamp circuit. The parameter is important, so you should approach it responsibly. It can be assembled using several technologies:

• Hybrid;
• Lamp;
• Transistor;
• Transformer.

The second option is considered one of the best, as it provides a soft and pleasant sound. Semiconductor models (transistor) guarantee the user a transparent sound. The choice here depends entirely on the preferences of the person himself, and in order to better choose, it is worth testing all these options in the store.

The last thing to consider is the maximum sound pressure. It allows you to determine how much pressure the diaphragm can withstand before the beeps begin to deflect. Some manufacturers set the parameter above the human pain threshold so that when it goes beyond it, the recording continues at a good level. This is important to consider when working with opera vocals or drums. Since the device will experience high pressure and so that it does not break, condenser microphones should be discarded first.

Microphone for vocals. Selection features

So that the voice does not get lost in space, and no echo interferes with normal operation, it is recommended to select models of the cardioid type, while the diaphragm should be high. Then the user will be able to convey every nuance. Some professionals, after buying a good model, specially cut the lower range, which allows you to eliminate extraneous noise.

Condenser microphones such as the Soyuz are suitable for professional vocal recording. It is used not only in Russia, but also in the USA and Europe, since the device provides high-quality sound. The only drawback is the high cost. But if a person works with complex vocals - screaming, growling, it is better to buy dynamic versions. They will best convey aggression.

Most instruments will require a preamplifier to function correctly. In part, the built-in preamplifier of the sound card does an excellent job with these functions, if you buy good equipment. When you don’t have to constantly try something new, it’s enough to deliver a clean sound. In cases where a person needs to express his voice and make it brighter, then it is best to use an external setting.

The last item is the mixing console. This is another useful attribute. After all, when buying a standard product, you should not expect that the vocals will get better. Therefore, after recording, it is processed. But you still need to get into the notes, since no device can correct flaws, but on the contrary will show flaws, which will allow you to carry out high-quality work on mistakes.

What is the best choice for recording musical instruments

There is nothing complicated here. Small microphones are used to record sound, while they should be located directly at the sound source, no further. Because there may be extraneous noise or interference, resulting in distortion. If you plan to record both vocals and voice at the same time, then a special stereo pair is purchased. Of course, you can find a professional device that can perform both functions at the same time, but this is too expensive.

For drums to sound good, condenser devices must not be used.They will only make things worse, it is better to give preference to dynamic models that provide good sound even when played aggressively. Also, we must not forget about the mount, here it will be slightly different from the standard one. There is nothing difficult in choosing it, the main thing is that the fixation is reliable.

Things to remember

If a person is just starting their musical career or plans to become a sound engineer, it is important to know one thing - a microphone is not a troubleshooting tool. It masks some studio flaws, but the noise will be heard both on a budget device and on an expensive one. Even if the recording will be done in a soundproofed room. It's just that somewhere there will be more extraneous sounds, but less in premium equipment. This is due to the fact that the microphone has its own noise, which cannot be eliminated without special programs.

Pay attention to the operating conditions. If a person rents a room where he created a good studio, then it is better to buy good and high-quality equipment. It is better to purchase in the respective stores, and not on AliExpress. When recording a voice in an apartment, it makes no sense to buy expensive devices, since the potential of the product may not be revealed.

Rating of the best dynamic micro

Shure SM7B

A good device that is in the middle price segment. The device is suitable for daily podcasts, radio or television. The directional pattern is cardioid, which is an excellent solution for voice recording.

There is phantom power, which should be considered when buying. The frequency range is 50 Hz… 20,000 Hz. There is a low pass filter. The structure is stationary. The sensitivity of the device is -59 dB. Includes protective cover and windscreen.

The average price is 31,000 rubles.

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Audio-Technica BP40

A quality studio microphone for power users and hobbyists alike. The connector used is mini XLR. The impedance is 450 ohms, which is a good indicator. The frequency range here is slightly lower than that of the previous model and is 50-16000 Hz. The kit contains all the necessary adapters and mounts, in addition, there is a soft protective case. The mass of the device is 632 g. The directivity pattern is hypercardioid.

The average price is 32,550 rubles.

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Sennheiser E 965

A quality studio jersey designed for professional vocal recording. For greater convenience, the diagram is switchable, which allows working in any mode. The device is capable of withstanding a sound pressure of up to 142 dB, which is an excellent result when recording difficult parts with aggressive feed. The body is made of durable metal. The weight is small and amounts to 400 g. The connector here differs from the previous one - XLR 3 pin (M).

The average price is 40,300 rubles.

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Top Reliable Condenser Microphones

Samson Meteor USB

A versatile solution that works well both for recording vocals and for streaming and podcasting. The connection is via a USB connector. Withstands pressure up to 120 dB. The minimum and maximum frequency is 20 ... 20,000 Hz. Power is supplied via a connection cable, which is an advantage. There is a power button for easy use. The body is made of metal.

The average cost is 7,000 rubles.

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Maono AU-A04T

A convenient model that is in demand among video bloggers. The structure is placed on the table, which is a convenient solution, but you need to prepare the place in advance. The microphone is perfect for a variety of purposes, including streaming. The maximum sound pressure is the same as the previous version. Sensitivity -38 dB. The signal-to-noise ratio is 70 dB. Power is supplied via USB. Another advantage of this design is the long wire (2.5 meters).

The average price is 5,000 rubles.

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AKG P120

A good all-round device that will improve sound transmission compared to cheap Chinese models. Impedance 200 ohms. Sensitivity -32.5 dB. The power is phantom, which can cause some problems. There are two filters - HF and LF, as well as an attenuator. The body is made of durable metal. The kit contains the necessary mounts for the rack.

Sold at a price of 6,900 rubles.

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Popular ribbon microphones rating

sE Electronics VR2

A reliable device designed for recording vocals and musical instruments. In addition to studio use, the device is suitable for organizing concerts. The sensitivity of the device is -37 dB. The food is phantom. The signal-to-noise ratio is 76 dB. Directional pattern - bidirectional. The structure is stationary, therefore it is located in a certain place. Withstands pressure of 135 dB.

The average cost is 32,000 rubles.

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RODE NTR

A versatile model that reproduces natural-sounding voices well. Suitable for professional studios or amateur radio broadcasting. Withstands pressure up to 130 dB. Frequency response: 20-20000 Hz, which is the optimal solution. The kit contains all the necessary components for a secure fit.

The average cost is 52,400 rubles.

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Aston Microphones Stealth

Reliable instrument for stages and studios. In addition, the device is often used for voiceover of cartoons or games. There are 4 switchable modes, which ensures high-quality sound in any situation. For added reliability, there is a built-in preamplifier and an anti-vibration mount that prevents noise generation. The assembly is performed at the highest level, which has a positive effect on the service life.

The average cost is 30,000 rubles.

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Finally

It is not so easy to find a high-quality microphone, but if a person plans to record a voice or instruments, then this problem must be solved immediately and preferably on his own. If you have experience using the models described in the rating or more interesting models, tell us about it in the comments.