5 Best XLR Microphones in 2024

By Robin Owens 15 days ago, Microphones

Affordable and high-quality XLR microphones.

best xlr microphones

While USB microphones are more affordable and easier to use, XLR devices can minimize distracting noise and have replaceable components. They are used for professional purposes such as recording vocals and sound reinforcement during live performances.

Top 5 Best XLR Microphones

  1. Shure PGA48-XLR - Budget
  2. Stellar X2 - Condenser
  3. Movo VSM-7 - Studio
  4. Shure PGA58-XLR - Dynamic
  5. Shure SM58-CN - Small

If you are on the lookout for the best XLR microphone, this article will be useful to read. It outlines the best models at different price points. Whether you are new to the music industry or a professional searching for a first-class mic to complement your setup, you will definitely find a model that meets all your requirements.

1. Shure PGA48-XLR

Budget
shure pga48-xlr xlr microphones

Power Source: 12V | Polar patterns: Cardioid | Connectivity: XLR | Frequency response: 70 Hz - 15 kHz

  • ✚ Affordable price
  • ✚ Lasting
  • ✚ Crisp and clear sound
  • No isolation, hand noise transmitted
Rating

The latest Shure PGA 48 XLR cardioid microphone models are highly refined in the design of the diaphragm and feature an updated two-stage low noise rejection system which has greater accuracy than previous models. This ensures that voice signals from the source are accurately recorded and processed while eliminating undesirable effects of sound propagation. The new industrial design with a black metallic finish and grille featuring classic silver ball grille provides a sturdy and reliable platform on which to record high quality vocals and vocal tracks.

The Shure PGA 48 XLR cardioid microphone features a standard cardioid response with a frequency response ranging from 70 hertz. The microphone utilizes a novel polar pattern which renders it particularly effective for picking up quiet but high quality vocals. The large polar pattern is also effective at preventing feedback induced phase shifts which can result in increased signal distortion.

2. Stellar X2

Condenser
stellar x2 xlr microphones

Power Source: 48V | Polar patterns: Cardioid | Connectivity: XLR | Frequency response: 20 Hz - 18 kHz

  • ✚ Excellent build quality
  • ✚ Good sound
  • ✚ Attractive appearance
  • High price
Rating

The new X2 Microphone from Stellar is a great mic for both amateur and professional recording studios. It has an intuitive interface that makes it easy to use. With its many features and ease of use, the X2 is a definite winner.

The mic uses a cardioid polar pattern for excellent sound isolation. Its cardioid polar pattern is great for condenser microphones and engineers that work in a noisy environment. With an easy to use dialing system, the mic uses high sensitivity to isolate the background noise and is also great for live performance. It has a balanced, predictable sound with just the right amount of bass and treble. Another feature that sets this microphone apart from most others is the addition of phantom power. This feature allows the engineer or singer to apply heavy amounts of reverb or vocal effects without getting their vocal cords wet or dirty.

3. Movo VSM-7

Studio
movo vsm-7 xlr microphones

Power Source: 48V | Polar patterns: Cardioid/Bi-directional/Omnidirectional | Connectivity: XLR | Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz

  • ✚ Attractive appearance
  • ✚ Clear and crisp sound
  • ✚ Good value for money
  • Setting problems
Rating

The Movo VSM-7 features an aluminum diaphragm with a one-sided rotary clip system for more dynamic sound clarity and sound control. The powerful condenser microphone attached to the diaphragm provides professional sound quality, thanks to the large diaphragm. With three different polar patterns to choose from, the VSM-7 can optimize the perfect sound for any recording.

In addition to the standard one-sided diaphragm pattern, the VSM-7 comes with the award-winning Pop Filter, a variable resonance microphone for deeper bass sounds. The Pop Filter also works great with the VSM-7 XLR, so you get all of the standard functions of a microphone set at the best price with the XLR version. The Pop Filter can even save your recordings to help you recall exactly what you want to do with the recording later. Another great thing about this mix is the two-way rotary pad, which is great for both recording and monitoring. Recording using this mic has never been so easy.

4. Shure PGA58-XLR

Dynamic
shure pga58-xlr xlr microphones

Power Source: 12V | Polar patterns: Cardioid | Connectivity: XLR | Frequency response: 70 Hz - 15 kHz

  • ✚ Good build quality
  • ✚ Professional appearance
  • ✚ Affordable price
  • Poor voice pickup
Rating

The Shure PGA58-XLR Cardioid Microphone is a cardioid condenser microphone made by Shure. This microphone offers professional settings for recording podcasts, concerts, meetings, seminars and events. The microphone has a cardioid pattern that is similar to that of a cardioid condenser microphone. These microphones are very sensitive and provide high quality output. They have a large diaphragm that is extremely lightweight, making the microphone easy to handle and transport.

The Shure PGA58-XLR cardioid polar pattern microphone has an ultra-light diaphragm design. This is combined with a modern and robust transmission design that delivers an incredibly crisp sound. The microphone is extremely lightweight and also provides high levels of durability and functionality. The microphone is housed in a moisture-sealed box to prevent moisture from leaking out and affecting the microphone's performance.

5. Shure SM58-CN

Small
shure sm58-cn xlr microphones

Power Source: 12V | Polar patterns: Cardioid | Connectivity: XLR | Frequency response: 50 Hz - 15 kHz

  • ✚ Great sound
  • ✚ High-quality assembly
  • ✚ Stylish
  • The cord is too short
Rating

With Shure SM58-CN XLR microphone the user can record high quality vocals and also get a full range of powerful sounds. This mic has several types of capsules, which are chosen based on their sound reproduction capabilities and sensitivity to reproduce the recording environment. This microphone features a unique construction that provides an outstanding sonic performance. This microphone is extremely lightweight and easily carried from one location to another.

This microphone is great for live performance as it permits the user to control how far the sound waves are carried. Another benefit of using this microphone is that there is a good reproducing of volume from the front or the back of the vocalist.

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
shure pga48-xlr xlr microphones
Shure PGA48-XLR
Budget
  • Affordable price
  • Lasting
CHECK PRICE
stellar x2 xlr microphones
Stellar X2
Condenser
  • Excellent build quality
  • Good sound
CHECK PRICE
movo vsm-7 xlr microphones
Movo VSM-7
Studio
  • Attractive appearance
  • Clear and crisp sound
CHECK PRICE

How to Choose the Best XLR Microphones?

how to choose best xlr microphone

Consider the following aspects when shopping for the best XLR microphone.

Type of Microphone

The most important factor to consider before making a purchase is whether you need a condenser or dynamic microphone.

  • Dynamic microphones produce directional sound and have a cardioid polar pattern. The strongest advantage of these microphones is that they offer excellent background noise cancellation and deliver rich sound without coloration. Dynamic microphones are popular among home studio owners, who want to eliminate background noise. Also, this type of microphone is a good choice for live performance. Besides, dynamic mics don’t require phantom power.
  • Condenser microphones usually offer much higher sensitivity. They have improved frequency response and deliver accurate and detailed sound. This type of microphone works great for professional studios without background noise. However, it requires an external power source for functioning. Fortunately, for the majority of digital audio interfaces, it is not a problem to supply a microphone with phantom power.

Polar Pattern

The inherent directionality of the microphone depends on its polar pattern. It is advisable to choose a polar pattern based on how you are going to use your microphone. If you are going to record vocals in a studio, opt for a Cardioid pattern. In case your work requires a more directional microphone, you can choose a super-cardioid pattern. Since the cardioid pattern has excellent noise rejection, your recording will have less noise.

Multi-pickup Pattern

xlr microphones

If you need a universal microphone for numerous tasks, you can consider a model with a multi-pickup pattern. Based on the situation, you can choose between omnidirectional, figure 8, or cardioid patterns. AKG Pro Audio P420 is an excellent example of an XLR microphone that offers multiple polar pattern switches.

Aesthetics

If you are a blogger, who records videos, pay special attention to the design of your microphone. It should complement the interior of the studio and improve its aesthetic appeal.

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