Choosing the Right Microphone for Vocal Recording

What Type of Microphone is Best for Recording Vocals?

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

  • Understanding microphone types: Condenser, Dynamic, and Ribbon.
  • Key findings from testing: Each microphone has distinct characteristics and best use scenarios.
  • Consider your environment: Room acoustics and recording styles influence microphone choices.
  • Budget matters: Higher-end mics like the U 87 Ai offer clarity and detail, but budget mics can perform well too.
  • Personal preferences: Ultimately, trust your ears to find the mic that suits your vocal style.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Types: Condenser, Dynamic, and Ribbon

Before diving into personal testing and comparisons, let’s define the three main types of microphones that are commonly referenced when discussing vocal recordings:

  1. Condenser Microphones: These are often deemed the gold standard in studio settings because of their sensitivity and wide frequency response. They capture high-frequency details and nuances beautifully, making them ideal for recording vocals in treated environments. However, they do require phantom power and can pick up background noise easily. Common examples include the Neumann U 87 Ai, Audio-Technica AT2020, and Rode NT1.
  2. Dynamic Microphones: These are the workhorses of live performance and less controlled environments. They are much more durable and have less sensitivity to room acoustics, making them great for untreated spaces. Popular options include the Shure SM7B and SM58.
  3. Ribbon Microphones: Less common but treasured for specific tonal qualities, ribbon mics deliver a warm and mellow sound profile, well-suited for certain styles of music. They can, however, be more fragile and require careful handling.

So, which one should you use? That depends on a few factors, and that’s where the experiment begins.

The Experiment: Testing My Favorite Mic Candidates

Setup

I set out with a straightforward goal: test different vocal microphones under varying conditions. My contenders included:

  • Neumann U 87 Ai (Condenser)
  • Shure SM7B (Dynamic)
  • Rode NT1 (Condenser)
  • Shure MV7+ (Hybrid: USB/XLR)

Using a variety of vocal styles—ranging from soft ballads to powerful belting—I recorded snippets while paying close attention to the frequency response, the presence of sibilance, and the overall warmth. Here’s what my findings were.

The Neumann U 87 Ai: Cult Classic for a Reason

Right out of the box, the U 87 Ai is a beauty. Upon plugging it into my audio interface, I was met with a rich, detailed sound. Its frequency response captures everything, from the breathiness in soft passages to the allegro highs of more energetic vocals. The clarity left me grinning. But, I quickly found that it was pickier about room acoustics—thanks to its high sensitivity levels.

In my treated studio, I had no complaints. However, in a room with untreated surfaces, it seemed to accentuate unwanted colors—things like background hum or the echo from an empty space. If you’re serious about recording and have the budget to match (around $3,200), the U 87 must be on your shortlist.

Shure SM7B: The Dynamic King

Next up was the beloved Shure SM7B. Repping a different price point (around $400) but still a staple in many studios, I had high expectations. Right away, I noticed how well it handled power and dynamics. There’s a certain punch to vocals recorded with an SM7B that’s hard to describe. Whether belting or whispering, it captures nuances without getting harsh or overly bright.

One of its best features is rejection of background noise. In a noisy environment, I was impressed by how it zeroed in on the voice while filtering out distractions. I’ve seen it called the “podcast mic,” but let me tell you—it’s well-suited for studio work, too.

Rode NT1: Clean and Versatile

The Rode NT1 was next, and it’s hard not to be enticed by its price (about $299). This mic boasts low self-noise, making it ideal for anyone wishing to capture subtle vocal nuances without distractions. Plugging it in, I found its tonal character to be quite soft but clear—great for softer, lyrical vocals. However, when I pushed my voice with more power, the NT1 struggled a bit to keep up, yielding some slight distortion in the mix.

It’s a solid all-rounder, especially if you’re looking to invest in a good starter studio microphone and want something that sounds good without breaking the bank.

Shure MV7+: A Modern Hybrid

Finally, I decided to check out the Shure MV7+, a hybrid microphone that serves well in both studio and home recording settings. It incorporates both USB and XLR connections, which I found incredibly flexible for different environments. I recorded both through my interface and directly into my computer.

The sound? Pretty punchy for a hybrid mic. It’s more versatile than I expected, with decent noise rejection and surprisingly rich warmth, especially for spoken vocals or lighter singing styles. For anyone just stepping into the podcasting world or home studio scene, this mic is a fantastic bridge. At around $250, it won’t break the bank, and you get lots of features for the price.

The Results: What Worked and What Didn’t

Comparisons

  • Condenser vs. Dynamic: The U 87 Ai and the NT1 excel in controlled, quiet environments thanks to their detailed sonic reproduction. The SM7B, on the other hand, shines in noisy spaces, maintaining clarity while minimizing contamination from unwanted sounds.
  • Performance in Different Spaces: When I took the dynamic and condenser mics into a less favorable acoustic environment—a garage with minimal treatments—the SM7B held its ground, while the U 87 Ai struggled to isolate the vocals.
  • Vocal Style Suitability: For softer and nuanced vocals, the U 87 Ai came out on top, while for powerful belting, the SM7B truly reinforced its reputation. The NT1 is great for versatility but lacks some readiness for aggressive vocal performances.

The Lessons Learned

From this testing, it became clear that your choice of microphone should be heavily influenced by your recording environment and the type of vocal you’re working with. A condenser mic is a dream in a controlled studio, whereas dynamic mics are built to thrive in the unpredictable world of live performance. If you’re looking for warmth and depth but want something easier to manage, don’t overlook ribbon mics.

Conclusion: Finding Your Vocal Match

If you’re serious about recording vocals, consider your priorities—budget, environment, and vocal style. The Neumann U 87 Ai is unmatched for clarity in a treated space, but it’s an investment. The Shure SM7B gives you robust versatility and is a favorite for podcasters and singers alike, especially in untreated environments.

The Rode NT1 delivers a great entry point for beginners who want to delve into studio goes. Finally, the Shure MV7+ offers a sweet spot for those who want flexibility without compromising sound.

Overall, no single mic is the best for every situation. Assess your needs, and trust your ears. If you’re starting a podcast or looking to capture vocal performances in an untreated space, the SM7B or MV7+ is a solid pick. But if you have a perfectly treated studio and want unparalleled detail, the U 87 Ai should be your go-to.

For anyone looking to dive deeper into this gear, check out the latest prices here. Explore Geeksper’s recommended gear for all your audio needs and find the microphone that fits your vocal journey. Happy recording!

FAQ

Q: What is the best microphone for recording vocals?
A: The best microphone for recording vocals varies based on your environment and vocal style, but popular choices include the Neumann U 87 Ai for clarity and the Shure SM7B for versatility.

Q: Are condenser microphones better than dynamic microphones?
A: Not necessarily. Condenser microphones are often preferred in controlled studio environments due to their sensitivity, while dynamic microphones excel in live settings and untreated spaces.

Q: What should I consider when choosing a microphone?
A: Consider factors such as your budget, the type of recording environment (treated vs. untreated), and your vocal style to select the appropriate microphone.

Q: Is the Shure SM7B good for podcasting?
A: Yes, the Shure SM7B is highly regarded for podcasting due to its background noise rejection and ability to capture details in various vocal styles.

Q: How much should I spend on a good vocal microphone?
A: It depends on your needs, but good vocal microphones can range from around $250 to over $3,000. Consider your budget and quality requirements accordingly.