If you are a musician, a podcaster, or a content creator, you might be wondering what are the best microphones for different instruments and vocals. Choosing the right microphone can make a huge difference in the quality and clarity of your sound. In this blog post, we will explore some of the factors that affect microphone performance, such as frequency response, polar pattern, sensitivity, and impedance. We will also recommend some of the best microphones for different instruments and vocals, based on their specs and features. Finally, we will suggest some alternatives in case you are on a budget or have different preferences.
Microphones are devices that convert sound waves into electrical signals. They have different characteristics that affect how they capture and reproduce sound. Some of these characteristics are:
Frequency response : This is the range of frequencies that a microphone can pick up and output. A microphone with a wide frequency response can capture more details and nuances of the sound source. A microphone with a narrow frequency response may emphasize or attenuate certain frequencies, resulting in a colored or distorted sound.
Polar pattern : This is the directionality of a microphone, or how it picks up sound from different angles. A microphone with a cardioid polar pattern picks up sound mainly from the front, rejecting sound from the sides and back. This is useful for isolating the sound source from background noise or feedback. A microphone with an omnidirectional polar pattern picks up sound equally from all directions. This is useful for capturing ambient sound or recording multiple sources at once.
Sensitivity : This is the measure of how much electrical output a microphone produces for a given sound pressure level. A microphone with high sensitivity can pick up faint sounds more easily, but may also distort loud sounds. A microphone with low sensitivity may require more amplification, but can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.
Impedance : This is the measure of how much resistance a microphone offers to the electrical current flowing through it. A microphone with low impedance can transmit signals over long distances without losing quality, but may also pick up more interference from other devices. A microphone with high impedance may have less interference, but may also lose quality over long distances.
Another factor to consider when choosing a microphone is what interface it uses to connect to your recording device. There are two main types of interfaces: analog and digital.
Analog interface : This is the traditional way of connecting a microphone to an audio device, such as a mixer, an amplifier, or an audio interface. Analog microphones use cables with connectors such as XLR, 1/4 inch, or 3.5 mm. Analog microphones require phantom power or batteries to operate.
Digital interface : This is the modern way of connecting a microphone to an audio device, such as a computer, a tablet, or a smartphone. Digital microphones use cables with connectors such as USB, Lightning, or Bluetooth. Digital microphones have built-in preamps and converters that process the sound before sending it to the device.
Now that we have covered some of the basics of microphone technology, let's look at some of the best microphones for different instruments and vocals. We will base our recommendations on the following criteria:
Frequency response : We will look for microphones that have a frequency response that matches or complements the instrument or vocal range.
Polar pattern : We will look for microphones that have a polar pattern that suits the recording environment and purpose.
Sensitivity : We will look for microphones that have a sensitivity that balances between capturing enough detail and avoiding distortion.
Impedance : We will look for microphones that have an impedance that matches or is compatible with the recording device. Interface: We will look for microphones that have an interface that is convenient and compatible with the recording device.
Best microphone for vocals: Shure MV7 :
This microphone is fantastic for recording vocals for your next song and the voiceover for your next Twitch stream. It has a USB and XLR connection so you can choose what’s best for your particular use case. The ShurePlus MOTIV app is also easy to use and very helpful for your daily recording needs.
Best microphone for vocals: Blue Yeti X
Why we like it: The Blue Yeti is a versatile condenser microphone that has a frequency response that captures the human voice with clarity and detail. It has multiple polar patterns that allow you to choose the best one for your recording situation and purpose. It has a high sensitivity that can pick up subtle nuances and expressions of your voice. It has a digital interface that connects directly to your computer, tablet, or smartphone, and comes with a built-in preamp and converter that process the sound before sending it to the device.
Best microphone for acoustic guitar: Shure SM81
Why we like it: The Shure SM81 is a classic condenser microphone that has a flat and wide frequency response that captures the natural sound of acoustic guitars. It has a cardioid polar pattern that rejects unwanted noise and feedback. It has a low sensitivity that can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. It has a low impedance that can transmit signals over long distances without losing quality. It has an analog interface that works with most audio devices.
Best microphone for electric guitar: Shure SM57
Why we like it: The Shure SM57 is a legendary dynamic microphone that has a tailored frequency response that emphasizes the midrange and high frequencies of electric guitars. It has a cardioid polar pattern that isolates the sound source from background noise and feedback. It has a low sensitivity that can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. It has a low impedance that can transmit signals over long distances without losing quality. It has an analog interface that works with most audio devices.
Best microphone for piano: Rode NT5
Why we like it: The Rode NT5 is a compact condenser microphone that has a smooth and extended frequency response that captures the full range of piano sounds. It has a cardioid polar pattern that rejects unwanted noise and feedback. It has a moderate sensitivity that can capture both soft and loud sounds without distortion. It has a low impedance that can transmit signals over long distances without losing quality. It has an analog interface that works with most audio devices.
Best microphone for drums: AKG D112
Why we like it: The AKG D112 is a specialized dynamic microphone that has a frequency response that is optimized for low-frequency instruments, such as kick drums and bass guitars. It has a cardioid polar pattern that isolates the sound source from background noise and feedback. It has a very low sensitivity that can handle extremely high sound pressure levels without distortion. It has a high impedance that reduces interference from other devices. It has an analog interface that works with most audio devices.
Alternatives
Of course, these are not the only microphones that are suitable for different instruments and vocals. There are many other options available in the market, depending on your budget, preferences, and needs. Here are some alternatives that you may want to consider:
- Best alternative for acoustic guitar: Audio-Technica AT2020
- Best alternative for electric guitar: Sennheiser e906
- Best alternative for piano: Neumann KM184
- Best alternative for drums: Shure Beta 52A
- Best alternative for vocals: Rode NT-USB
Conclusion
Choosing the right microphone for different instruments and vocals can be challenging, but also rewarding. By considering factors such as frequency response, polar pattern, sensitivity, impedance, and interface, you can narrow down your options and find the best microphone for your recording needs. We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about microphones and how to choose them. Happy recording!
