Top Budget Microphones for Vocals Recommended by Reddit

The Best Budget Microphone for Vocals: Insight from Reddit’s Audio Enthusiasts

Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

  • Popular choices among audio enthusiasts include the Audio-Technica AT2020 and Shure SM58.
  • The MXL 990 and XM8500 are excellent budget-friendly options for tight budgets.
  • Consider room acoustics, interface requirements, and specific applications when choosing a microphone.
  • Alternative options like the Rode NT1-A and AKG P120 are worth exploring if your budget allows.
  • The Samson Q2U is versatile, featuring both USB and XLR outputs, ideal for podcasters.

Table of Contents

Audio-Technica AT2020

Starting off strong, the Audio-Technica AT2020 comes highly recommended and is often labeled as the go-to starter condenser mic for vocals. Typically priced around $80-$100, this mic impressed me right from the first vocal test I conducted.

Observations:
  • Sound Clarity: Plugging it into my Focusrite Scarlett Solo, the gain range was surprisingly generous. Compared to the more budget-centric MXL 990, the AT2020 offered crystal-clear articulation on mid and high frequencies, making my voice sound more present without being harsh.
  • Use Cases: This mic stands out for both singing and spoken word applications. During my testing, it excelled at capturing the nuances in vocal performances, making it a solid choice for podcasters and singers alike.
  • Room Acoustics Matter: I did notice, as many Redditors pointed out, that it doesn’t perform well in untreated rooms. If you’re in a noisy environment, you might struggle with unwanted background sounds.

Shure SM58

Next on the list is the legendary Shure SM58, often regarded as the indestructible workhorse of the microphone world. Priced similarly at around $100, the SM58 is a dynamic microphone perfect for live performances and studio vocals.

Real-World Testing:
  • Warm Tone: I tested it by recording a few vocal segments live and, man, the warmth of this mic is undeniable. It really kept the lows smooth while knocking down the background noise, which was quite refreshing compared to the AT2020’s sensitivity.
  • Versatility: Many users praise its performance at gigs, which I can second. It feels invincible in hand; you could drop it, and it would still work like a charm. My only note is that while the sound is great, it does lack the detail of more sensitive condensers. So, if you’re looking for studio-quality richness, this might not be your first choice.

MXL 990 / MXL 770

If you’re on the tighter end of the budget spectrum, I explored the MXL 990 and MXL 770, both of which are frequently recommended on forums, often found for under $80.

Quick Insights:
  • Included Accessories: Both models come with a shockmount and a carry case, which adds real value—especially for travel or mobile recording setups.
  • Sound Quality: During my tests, I found they performed decently enough, with the MXL 990 being slightly warmer than its counterpart. However, they did exhibit a harsher high end when pushed, a common critique echoed by users on Reddit.

Behringer XM8500

For those pinching pennies, the Behringer XM8500 is a frequent recommendation on Reddit, often dubbed “the best mic under $30.” I was skeptical at that price point, so I had to give it a whirl.

Findings:
  • Ruggedness and Quality: Practically a steal, it delivered a solid performance for basic recording. Sure, it’s not going to compete with the likes of the AT2020 or SM58, but for under $30, you get a good vocal capture without breaking the bank.
  • Dynamic Performance: The build quality is remarkable for its price. It’s durable enough for gigging and manages to provide decent sound fidelity for spoken word and vocals in simpler contexts.

Samson Q2U

Last but not least, the Samson Q2U offers a versatile solution with both USB and XLR outputs, crucial for budding podcasters and content creators. I had this mic in my rotation at around $60.

Key Takeaways:
  • Flexibility: This mic provides great flexibility due to its dual output options. Monitoring is straightforward thanks to its headphone jack—a feature that can’t be overlooked for real-time audio feedback.
  • Great Starting Point: In my case, it performed admirably for spoken word recordings. The sound quality holds up surprisingly well against more expensive mics and is ideal for those starting their podcast journey.

Factors to Consider

As I pieced together insights from Reddit users, a few factors continually emerged that could help guide your choice of microphone:

  • Room Acoustics: If you’re in a less-than-ideal acoustic space, you may lean towards dynamic mics like the SM58 or XM8500, which are less sensitive to ambient noise. Condensers, like the AT2020 and MXL 990, shine in treated rooms, giving a more airy ambiance but can pick up reflections and noise easily.
  • Interface Requirements: Remember, condenser mics generally require an audio interface and 48V phantom power, whereas dynamic mics can often plug directly into mixers or PA systems without additional gear.
  • Application: Define your purpose. For singing, the AT2020 is a preferred choice; for speech and podcasting, the Samson Q2U or SM58 often come out on top.

Alternatives & Underrated Picks

While the Reddit community champions the aforementioned mics, there are alternatives worth considering:

  • Rode NT1-A: A bit more expensive, usually around $150 used, but delivers exceptional detail. For those with a bit more in their budget, I highly recommend seeking this out.
  • AKG P120: Occasionally mentioned, this budget condenser stands around $80 and can hold its own alongside the AT2020.
  • Tascam TM-80: If you’re really scraping the barrel, the TM-80, priced around $50, is often referred to as a sleeper pick worth exploring.

Conclusion: Which Mic is Right for You?

Reddit users overwhelmingly lean towards the Audio-Technica AT2020 and Shure SM58 as the best budget-friendly options for vocals, thanks to their reliability and sound quality. The Samson Q2U shines as a flexible choice for those needing both USB and XLR outputs.

In the end, your decision should hinge on your specific needs, including the environment you’re recording in and the types of projects you’re pursuing. If you’re able to specify your budget and intended use—be it for singing, podcasting, or streaming—I could further refine your options.

For those beginning their journey into audio, it might be worth investing in one of the highlighted mics, particularly if you’re looking at entry-level conditions. If you want to explore the latest prices or even grab one of these mics, check out Geeksper’s recommended gear for a seamless purchasing experience. Happy recording!

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