Affordable and high-quality microphone brands.
You might not find it easy to determine the best microphone brands among the 44 currently active manufacturers, not to mention finding a model that suits you most. The variety is so great and the difference in quality can be so big that customers often rely on the few largest brands to equip them. This is a working approach so you’re right to try to find out the names that can be relied on.
Naturally, with such a great number of companies busy in production, the selection of models is even more striking. However, if you need something professional or at least close to that, it might be hard to find. Here are the most well-made models of the top companies.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Unidirectional | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
The AKG Pro Audio Lyra microphone which is considered as the best microphone for both recording and mixing. The main reason behind this being, the microphone is actually a condenser microphone. With this, all the sounds that will be recorded will come out clearly without having to have any problems with echoes or sounds that are distorted.
Another thing about this particular microphone is the fact that it is designed in such a way so as to provide a clear and audible output even if there are noises that are occurring in the background. So, if you are looking for a good microphone to record vocals from your band or vocalist, then the microphone is one that you should get.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Unidirectional | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 20 Hz - 16 kHz
The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB microphone promises to make recording any sort of music a snap. In fact, with its one-touch ""record"" function and the built-in high-definition video display, the AT2020 might even end up being more popular than the many multi-effects sound processors that are currently on the market. In fact, this is probably for good reason. At any rate, if you want to make your recordings as stupendous as possible, you might as well get the most bang for your buck with the AT2020.
This is definitely one impressive little microphone. It has a cardioid pattern that will make all of your recordings very clear and crisp, no matter what kind of sound you are dealing with. What's great about this particular mic is that it can handle a huge range of sound sources without getting blown out in any way, which is just another reason it's so popular among sound editors and musicians.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Cardioid/Omnidirectional/Stereo/Bidirectional | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
HyperX QuadCast microphone is the perfect standalone microphone for sound system streamers that need high quality sound from their system. The HyperX Quadcast has a built-in pop filter, internal anti-vibration pad, and an easily-accessable adapter for all standard stands. The microphone itself is very lightweight even for its eight pounds packed; however, if you are planning on operating the microphone from a distance, the lightness may prove to be an issue.
Most of the other features provided with the HyperX microphone include a variable-voltage preamp; cardioid, omni-directional mic; and an intentional muffle function. The intentional muffle function uses five different levels of compression for extra body sound dampening, while the cardioid microphone works great for live performances. It has an automatic gain control with a user-accessible volume knob. All the controls are easily accessible and assignable, with an included stand mount carrying case for ease of transportation.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Unidirectional | Connectivity: Wired/Wireless | Frequency response: 70 Hz - 17 kHz
The Electro-Voice ND76 microphone is a great tool for recording vocals anywhere you need them most. Ideal for both studio and performance, the microphone features built-in diaphragms that make it simple to obtain the best quality result every time. The patented Soft Dome Filter minimizes feedback and produces a quiet yet powerful output, while the patented Loudness compensator minimizes any excessive noise from the mic, thus producing clean, balanced audio. In addition, the microphone is designed with an easy-to-use user interface that even the most inexperienced users can quickly get used to.
With its cardioid, frequency response, and tone control capabilities, this microphone is ideal for vocalists, sound engineers, music producers, radio hosts, and anyone else who need a solid, reliable, and versatile microphone. The powerful High Definition Microphone condenses much of the tiny size of a standard microphone into a small, convenient design.
Power Source: 5V | Polar patterns: Unidirectional/Omnidirectional | Connectivity: USB | Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
The Blue Yeti Nano Premium microphone is designed specifically for professional podcasting, game audio streaming, phone calls and voiceovers. Yeti Nano has an optimized yet durable design that can handle a wide range of uses. Its professional sound quality makes it ideal for podcasting and game audio streaming.
The basic specifications include total blend microphone architecture, high-gain connector, USB interface, firmware updates, octa-core processing, programmable interface for easy programming and unique product color. The device's lightweight and compact size allows for easy transportation and assembly. With a total harmonic distortion of just 0.35%, the Blue Yeti Nano Premium microphone is highly reliable and highly effective. Furthermore, the microphone's excellent durability makes it suitable for professionals at all stages of podcasting and audio broadcasting.
| IMAGE | NAME | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
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AKG Pro Audio Lyra
For recording
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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Audio-Technica AT2020USB
Afforable
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CHECK PRICE → | |
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HyperX QuadCast
Gaming
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CHECK PRICE → |
The less you need to dance about to make a device work, the more actual work you will be able to do. When doubting between several similar options, see which one has fewer setting up steps and can start recording sound quickly.
Even the best microphone brands cater to different types of users so you should determine what polar pattern should be used for your activity. For instance, if you record voice, the outcome will be clearer if you use a mic with a more directional pattern, like a cardioid or a hypercardioid. These devices are calibrated to cut off any ambient sounds and concentrate on the ones that are closest to its front.
When you record voice, even a very good mic will be susceptible to sibilance, plosives and other such effects that occur naturally. As you speak, little bursts of air might enter the microphone capsule now and then because there is nothing to prevent them. A pop filter is meant to block that air and only let the sound travel through. Many users who work with voice install these but not all, and you should check what exact benefits this accessory gives.
This interesting mount suspends a microphone on elastics and holds it steady. It might sound weird, but if you have a powerful PC tower under your table, the vibration of its fans can travel through the regular mount and get recorded. Similar noises can create a shock wave that will distort your recording if it doesn’t get absorbed.
Even though the best microphone brands guarantee the high quality of sound, the way they record it can vary slightly. Borrow some models from your friends or colleagues, find interesting models in shops and test them, or even rent equipment. If you plan to spend a few thousand on a pro-level device, a couple hundred that renting several mics will cost you is a sensible expense.
