Top Budget Microphones for Recording Rap Vocals

Best Cheap Microphone for Rap Vocals: My Top Picks After Testing

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

  • Discover budget-friendly microphones that deliver quality sound.
  • Key microphones reviewed: Audio-Technica AT2020, Samson C01, MXL 990, and more.
  • Understand the importance of room treatment when recording vocals.
  • Explore essential accessories for achieving great sound quality.

Table of Contents

Setting the Scene: What I Used and How

To offer a fair comparison, I made sure to test each mic under similar conditions. My setup included:

  1. An Audio Interface (Focusrite Scarlett 2i2)
  2. A Pop Filter
  3. A Reflexion Filter (for untreated spaces)
  4. My trusty DAW (Ableton Live) for recording

I focused on testing each microphone with aggressive rap vocals—think lots of energy, dynamic range, and the need for clarity. Let’s dive in!

The Contenders

1. Audio-Technica AT2020

  • Cost: $80-$120
  • Type: Condenser
  • Best for: Entry-level studio work

Right off the bat, something about the AT2020 caught my attention. Its sturdiness and feel represented a solid investment, even at this price point. When I plugged it in, the first thing I noticed was its high SPL capability—144 dB to be exact—which means it could handle some serious vocal intensity.

The sound? Crystal clear with an enticing high-end lift. But let’s be honest, it can sound a tad thin in the lower spectrum. A quick fix with EQ, like adding some warmth back, did wonders. This mic shines best in a treated room. Under those conditions, it produced my best vocal takes of the week. A definite win!

2. Samson C01

  • Cost: $60-$90
  • Type: Condenser
  • Best for: Beginners and home studios

If you’re tight on budget, let me tell you: the Samson C01 is an absolute gem. With a surprisingly good sound clarity for its price, I found it to be a solid choice for anyone just starting out.

The build is nowhere near as solid as the AT2020’s, but it held up during my tests. I recorded some pretty aggressive verses, and the C01 handled them without distorting or losing those sharp highs. Ideal for home setups where you might not have the luxury of sound treatment.

3. MXL 990

  • Cost: $70-$110
  • Type: Condenser
  • Best for: Versatile vocal applications

Next up was the MXL 990, which has garnered a reputation for being a versatile workhorse. Smooth, balanced sound—check! Great for both rap vocals and singing—double check!

What’s fascinating about the MXL 990 is its ability to capture detail without becoming harsh. I found it worked great for both close-miking and a bit more distance, allowing for some great ambiance. Honestly, for the price, it often competes with higher-end mics.

4. Shure SM57

  • Cost: Approximately $100
  • Type: Dynamic
  • Best for: Live and studio settings

The SM57 is a legendary mic, known mainly for its durability and versatility. When I took this one for a spin, I used a Fethead preamp to boost the gain a bit, and wow—it brought out an incredible richness!

What impressed me most was how well it performed across different vocal styles. It can handle aggressive shouting just as easily as softer spoken verses. It’s not the first choice for studio recording rap vocals typically, but with the right accessories, it can work wonders.

5. Rode NT1-A

  • Cost: $120-$180
  • Type: Condenser
  • Best for: Clean, detailed vocal recordings

Last but not least, the Rode NT1-A is often touted as the gold standard for budget studio mics. When I plugged it into my setup, I was taken aback by its ultra-low self-noise (5 dBA). It captures every nuance of your delivery with precision.

Notably, it shines in treated environments where clarity is key. If your home studio is somewhat soundproofed, this is a superb option. It captures higher frequencies beautifully, making my raps pop without any editing.

Comparison Table

Microphone Type Price Range Stand-Out Feature Best Use Case
AT2020 Condenser $80–$120 Durable, honest sound, high SPL Studio rap vocals, entry-level
Samson C01 Condenser $60–$90 Cheap, clear sound for price Beginners, home studio
MXL 990 Condenser $70–$110 Balanced, well-reviewed Versatile, budget studio rap
Shure SM57 Dynamic ~$100 Rugged, can mimic more expensive mics Studio/live, untreated rooms
Rode NT1-A Condenser $120–$180 Ultra-low self-noise Clean, detailed vocals

What You Should Consider

When choosing a budget microphone for rap vocals, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Condenser vs Dynamic: Condenser mics are great for capturing detailed, nuanced sounds, making them favorites for recording vocals. However, if you’re planning to perform live or record in untreated environments, a dynamic mic like the Shure SM57 is ideal for handling sound pressure levels without distortion.
  • Room Treatment: The environment where you’ll be recording will heavily influence your sound. If you’re in a treated room, go for something like the Rode NT1-A for its pristine audio. If not, consider more forgiving options like the SM57.
  • Additional Gear: Don’t forget potential hidden costs. XLR microphones require an audio interface, pop filters, and typically some monitoring headphones.

Conclusion: Which Mic Is Right for You?

As I experimented with these microphones, it became clear that each one has unique strengths that suit different needs. For the aspiring rapper in a well-equipped home studio, the Audio-Technica AT2020 or the Rode NT1-A might just give your tracks that polished edge. However, if you’re just starting and keeping costs low, the Samson C01 is totally capable of delivering solid recordings without a hefty price.

Prefer rugged dependability? The Shure SM57 is a smart investment with multiple applications.

Ultimately, choose a microphone that fits your personal style and recording environment. If you’re unsure, you might want to experiment with a couple of these to see what feels right for your voice.

For the latest prices on these microphones, check out the links within this article. And for more expert gear recommendations, be sure to swing by Geeksper’s recommended gear section. Happy recording!

FAQ

Q: What type of microphone is best for rap vocals?
A: Generally, condenser microphones are favored for their ability to capture detailed sound, but dynamic mics can work well in untreated spaces or live settings.

Q: Do I need extra equipment for these microphones?
A: Yes, most XLR microphones require an audio interface for connection to your computer, as well as possible additional accessories like pop filters and headphones.

Q: Can I use these microphones for other purposes?
A: Absolutely! Many of these microphones are versatile and can be used for singing, podcasting, or even instruments depending on the model.