So, you are going to record a voice-over. The first thing you got to keep in mind is that the overall success of your voice-over depends on the quality of the mic you choose. So it is better to approach this choice more consciously! The list below consists of the best microphones perfectly suitable for home recording. Just scroll through it and choose the one you like most.
First things first, however, beware that there are two types of microphones – condenser ones and dynamic ones. The first type requires a sound-proof studio or at least an introvert home where everything’s quite! If there’s constant noise around you, don’t go for this type! Or, at least, read about filters or a model’s peculiarities. Dynamic microphones are the most widespread type – it is used by singers, celebrities, etc. However, the sound quality may leave you unsatisfied. It won’t capture surroundings, no, but with that, it won’t capture specific intonations of your voice, trembling, and other elusive details. It is up to you to decide, of course! We’ll dig deeper into the differences between the two while reviewing the models. So, read on, my dear reader!
Professional Studio Condenser Microphone
It’s relatively inexpensive when compared to studio microphones. Due to the low price, the device has a discreet appearance. But behind the metal case hides modern components, thanks to which the microphone and was in this rating.
The product can boast a large diagram, which provides a low noise level and smooth natural sound. The microphone comes with a mount that allows you to place it right at the source of the sound, whatever it is.
The device is mainly designed for recording vocals. But you can also write musical instruments, including guitar if you need them. This model includes a switchable bass cut-off filter, which may well come in handy.
That is, you can set the bass cutoff here, and as a result, blowing off at close vocals will be completely eliminated, as you can’t hear other foreign low-frequency noises. And the usual XLR is used here as a connector.
AKG Pro Audio C214
The only microphone in our rating that comes in a special case. This greatly simplifies transporting the device from, say, one studio to another.
This device is, like many of the microphones considered here, cardioid. The operating frequency range here is between 20 MHz and 20 kHz. Sound is captured by an inch diaphragm. And it’s doing a pretty good job of that. It’s not easy to use this model by some popular musicians. Returning to the subject of bundling, it is necessary to mention the presence of wind protection. This simple accessory allows you to use the microphone in the open air, without worrying about sound quality. You also get a holder with which you can adjust the tilt of the device. When developing the AKG C214 German manufacturer has applied a completely new electronic circuit. This allowed you to significantly increase the dynamic range. Curiously, the microphone can withstand almost any sound pressure. This is facilitated by a special design of the capsule, eliminating the closure of the membrane with the rear electrode.
Audio-Technica AT2020 USB PLUS
Audio-Technica AT2020 is a famous mic that is totally suitable for producing home-made voice-overs! We have a separate review on this one – Audio-Technica AT2020USB Full Review – but I will try to cover all the essential details anyway.
The mic uses a USB cable to connect to a PC or Mac. On the one side, it is very convenient since you don’t need any additional equipment, whereas, on the other, you might find that the quality is not so perfect as in the cases above, for example. However, nobody banned recording software that is nowadays able to do a real sweetie out of nothing! Don’t get me wrong though – the quality is still very good. Plus, it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Audio-Technica provides lots of possibilities – you can record your voice with the music on, meaning simultaneously talking (or singing) and listening to the background soundtrack. So, no tracks are really necessary, just make all the preparations and you’ll get a ready record! One more feature is regulating volume while recording. And another one is connecting to your headphones.
So, as we can see, this is truly great equipment for making voice-overs! As well as for singing, podcasting, and lots of other different activities. Its two biggest advantages are user-friendliness and an average price.
Behringer C-1
It’s one of the cheapest condenser microphones. The price of Behringer C-1 is $29.14. This price allows you to think about buying this device. Even for an average consumer who is not going to make money by recording audio or shooting video.
The microphone has a relatively good metal case and a gold-plated XLR connector. Despite the low cost, the device pleases the almost complete absence of its own noise. Namely, noise is a problem for Chinese models that also use phantom power.
Of course, the quality of sound written with Behringer C-1 cannot be called studio sound. But, the possibilities of such a microphone are quite enough to add to the video about the trip of his family on vacation. Or some story dictated by the installation. It’s also a great choice for people writing podcasts. They’d be fine with a medium-sized aperture. You’ll also be pleased with the cardioid directionality diagram. It excludes the recording of external noise.
Samson Meteor Mic
Samson Meteor Mic is an amazing choice for beginners or for those who need a mic for general purposes such as talking via Skype or recording something for oneself. But! It is suitable for bigger purposes as well. Despite the fact that the mic works through a USB cable, it is able to capture a wide range of sounds. This is a condenser mic and it has a cardioid pattern, which already tells a lot about the quality.
Of course, the quality may not be the best if we compare it to what professional condenser microphones produce, but it is still great – on its own level the mic does a great job. Besides, it is portable and way more convenient than high-quality mics. It has legs, so you can just place the mic on your table next to a laptop. No prearrangements – everything’s easy as a piece of cake.
Some people are trying to record sounds using embedded mics of their devices – this is no way to do it! – don’t hurt people’s ears. Instead, it is better to acquire something like this – the mic will not only give you an opportunity to create voice-overs but also will improve the quality of your talks with friends and other experiences connected with making sounds. Go on – check the price!
Rode NT-USB Condenser Microphone
Now, we have a true home-recording vibe! Here’s one more good USB condenser microphone. This one combines the convenience of USB input and high-quality. All as usual. The mic is used for singing, podcasting, creating lots of different kinds of materials. It has regulating buttons on the sides and, well, the overall look and functionality are great.
Rode NT-USB can be placed on a desk or used with a special tripod stand that comes with it. Apart from the stand, the package contains a pop shield that prevents P-sounds from ruining a record and a desk mount.
The producers promise to ensure low noise levels. Why not trust them? After all, Rode is a leader in mics production, so it won’t let you down! One more option to consider.
MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
MXL 770 is a multipurpose microphone originally meant to serve musicians and singers but eventually ended up serving voice artists including voice-overs creators. So, it is for everyone! FET preamp and balanced output make up for a wide range of sounds and this means a more natural voice flow.
The price of this piece of equipment is not high at all – in fact, it falls within the budget category. So, if you are looking for a cheap but still good mic, this might be the one!
As always, there is protection against unpleasant background noises. And, of course, the look of the mic is so so cool!
Newmann TLM 102
TLM102 is a NEUMANN studio condenser microphone that delivers clear, unpainted sound. The microphone can be used in professional and semi-professional installations.
The large aperture diameter provides an even amplitude in the lower and middle parts of the range, up to 6 kHz. These characteristics are obtained without any extra amplitude correction devices. So the capsule provides an excellent detailed signal. The large aperture size also allows significant sound pressure levels, up to 144 dB. This makes it possible to record loud instruments such as a drum set or guitar combo amplifier without fear.
At the same time, the microphone can also handle the sound transmission from instruments perfectly. If they have saturated harmonics in the high-frequency area and do not create high sound pressure. The microphone handles the recording of vocals and text, both male and female, in an amazing way. The use of protective accessories is recommended to avoid transmission problems with unwanted bass. For example, a soft suspension for the EA4 microphone and the PS15 or PS20 pop filters.
Electro-Voice RE20
The first dynamic microphone on our list – something that is suitable for all kinds of environments, even the noisy ones. So, if there are a hustle and bustle in your neighborhood, this is for you!
Electro-Voice RE20 is a good quality mic that is able of producing clear sounds. It has several filters in it – against blast, against the wind, internal pop-filters (nobody needs unpleasant P-sounds on the record). The mic connects to PC through XLR cable – yeah, it is quality over convenience. The frequency response is 45Hz – 18kHZ, which is more than enough to capture even small details of your pronunciation.
There is additional equipment you’ll need to acquire in order to be able to use the mic, like a stand, a shock mount, and others. You can find all of these things on Amazon as well.
Blue Yeti Nano
Blue Yeti Nano looks really stunning. Both in the video sequence during streaming and when permanently placed in the workplace.
The microphone is initially secured to the leg with a pair of thumbscrews. It is possible to rotate the microphone in relation to the axis of attachment. The selected position does not spontaneously shift.
The bottom part of the stand is rubberized to ensure that it does not slide when placed on a flat surface.
There is a groove in the base that allows for a neat USB cable connection. For connection here is used a common micro USB connector.
In addition to the micro USB connector and screw mounting, an audio jack for headphones is available on the bottom edge. It provides real-time voice quality control.
Conveniently implemented control of the microphone. On the front panel is a button to turn off the microphone with circular backlighting. During the streaming, you can visually control the working state: green means the voice is transmitted, red means the voice is not transmitted.
On the backside, there is another button responsible for switching operation modes. Next to it, there are a couple of LED indicators.
Blue Yeti X
Blue Yeti X is a professional microphone for streaming. It is ideal for YouTube, streaming, creating audio podcasts, musicians, and vocalists.
Featuring a new condenser with four 14mm caps and 4 recording modes, the microphone delivers sound with clarity and focus. A multi-function smart LED switch button allows you to check and adjust the voice level in real-time. It provides precise control over the audio stream.
The microphone is redesigned in one color, black, but LED can be customized through the Logitech G HUB app to personalize your microphone.
The LED will help visualize your voice recording level in real-time. It will save you from overloading, or showing that the signal is too weak. Its color can be adjusted with the Logitech G HUB, which can be used for deeper microphone settings.
Blue Snowball USB Microphone
If you are hard on money these days, it is okay! You can still buy a decent mic and make progress in your work. This Blue microphone, for example, doesn’t cost much. With that, however, it provides high-quality recordings, pristine sounds and all that is so appreciated in good voice-overs.
Thanks to the Blue Microphones USB Snowball Microphone presented here, you can achieve heights of sound quality that have never been dreamed of by the built-in microphone of your laptop! Due to the unique condenser capsule with the ability to switch the direction of sound (cardioid, cardioid with -10 dB and omnidirectional), the compact and stylish microphone will provide crystal clear sound.
All in all, one more great choice that will not only increase the quality of your voice-overs but also will contribute to better online-conversations and other activities of this kind!
Shure SM7B
Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone. It is a good choice for singers. You see, sometimes dynamic mics are more preferable because they make your voice smoother and more pleasant. If you have a screechy voice, this is what you need (just a joke, all voices are wonderful if used in the right manner).
Shure SM7B is a very popular model. It costs less than some condenser mics, but it is able to reproduce speech or music just like them. Natural and precise sounds are guaranteed.
The mic uses a cardioid polar pattern – the most popular one. The package includes three items besides the mic itself – foam filter, close-talk filter, and locking yoke mount. So, one more professional microphone to take a look at.
THRONMAX MDRILL
This is a real studio condenser microphone, which is connected via USB or audio jack. The frequency range varies from 20 to 20000 Hz. The largest load is 5V/1A and the power is 16 bits / 48 kHz. The case of the device is made of metal.
This model allows you to record professional sound, the quality of which will impress even the strictest critics. The black ThronMax MDRILL case with three reclining legs will look incredibly stylish on your desktop.
You’ll be able to position it as comfortably as possible to achieve the highest level of sound accuracy. The microphone is also compatible with a wide variety of recording software.
This USB microphone allows you to record audio in professional quality. At the same time, it is easy to use, has an easy and clear setup, and is not demanding on the external equipment.
Thanks for reading up till the end! I wish you to make a good purchase and create a lot of successful voice-overs.