The Best Microphone for Live Acoustic Guitar and Vocals: An In-Depth Experiment
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Key takeaways:
- The Shure SM58 is reliable for live performances.
- The Audio-Technica AT2035 offers clarity and warmth.
- The Shure SM81 is ideal for capturing detail in acoustic performances.
- Different microphones serve various performance contexts; understanding your needs is essential.
- Feedback management is crucial when selecting a microphone for live settings.
Table of contents:
Setting the Stage
Recently, I had the opportunity to dive into three standout mics often recommended for live acoustic performances: the Shure SM58, the Audio-Technica AT2035, and the Shure SM81. Each has its unique flavor, and I wanted to put them through the wringer in a live setting. My testing setup included a small PA system, various acoustic guitars, and a few vocal exercises. Spoiler alert: the differences were striking.
The Candidates
- Shure SM58
Type: Dynamic Microphone
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Best for: Vocals and occasional guitar. - Audio-Technica AT2035
Type: Condenser Microphone
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Best for: Vocals and acoustic guitar, needs phantom power. - Shure SM81
Type: Condenser Microphone
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Best for: Acoustic guitar but versatile for vocals.
Experimenting with My Setup
Unpacking the Gear
Setting up these microphones was more than just a plug-and-play affair. First, I ensured each microphone was properly anchored, considering placement for both guitar and vocals to maximize sound capture. I also had a reliable phantom power source for the AT2035, as it requires one.
Setting up these microphones was more than just a plug-and-play affair. First, I ensured each microphone was properly anchored, considering placement for both guitar and vocals to maximize sound capture. I also had a reliable phantom power source for the AT2035, as it requires one.
Initial Impressions
- Shure SM58: It’s hard not to feel nostalgic with this classic in hand. Known for its ruggedness, it seems to almost invite a rough-and-tumble stage performance.
- Audio-Technica AT2035: Sleek and professional, the AT2035 feels lighter in the hand, giving it a versatility that seems perfect for a dynamic performance.
- Shure SM81: This beauty is all about precision. It feels like it belongs in a recording studio, but can it hold its own in a live environment?
Capturing the Sound: The Tests
Once everything was set up, it was time to play around. I recorded snippets of each mic with guitar and vocals, looking for clarity, warmth, and that all-important feedback resistance.
1. Shure SM58: The Workhorse
When I plugged in the SM58, the first thing that struck me was its ability to manage sound pressure levels. Vocal nuances came through strong and bold. I noticed that while the acoustic guitar sounded decent, it lacked that lush detail— the low-end notes didn’t resonate like I wanted. The feedback rejection was impressive, though. I could crank up the gain without fear of squeals.
When I plugged in the SM58, the first thing that struck me was its ability to manage sound pressure levels. Vocal nuances came through strong and bold. I noticed that while the acoustic guitar sounded decent, it lacked that lush detail— the low-end notes didn’t resonate like I wanted. The feedback rejection was impressive, though. I could crank up the gain without fear of squeals.
Checking out the sound clips, the SM58 shone in loud environments. If your performance often involves balancing guitar and vocals on stage, the SM58 offers a reliable option. You can check the latest price here.
2. Audio-Technica AT2035: The Versatile Challenger
Switching to the AT2035 felt like upgrading from a reliable car to a sports coupe. The microphone’s clarity was striking. I noticed the guitar’s high end shimmered beautifully, capturing details I’d typically miss with dynamics. Vocally, it was warm, yet articulated enough to avoid muddiness.
Switching to the AT2035 felt like upgrading from a reliable car to a sports coupe. The microphone’s clarity was striking. I noticed the guitar’s high end shimmered beautifully, capturing details I’d typically miss with dynamics. Vocally, it was warm, yet articulated enough to avoid muddiness.
The downside? It’s sensitive— stage handling noise became apparent, and I had to be careful with placement to avoid feedback. When I put the mic about 12 inches away from the guitar and angled it appropriately, it excelled further. This mic strikes a balance between affordability and quality; if you’re looking for something that covers both guitar and vocals well, it’s a fantastic choice. For pricing, you can look here.
3. Shure SM81: Studio-Quality in a Live Setting?
Finally, I brought out the SM81, and oh boy, did it deliver. It felt like my guitar was in a studio setting. Each pluck and strum had incredible nuance, picking up the very last detail. Vocally, it maintained a natural smoothness that blended beautifully with the guitar’s sound.
Finally, I brought out the SM81, and oh boy, did it deliver. It felt like my guitar was in a studio setting. Each pluck and strum had incredible nuance, picking up the very last detail. Vocally, it maintained a natural smoothness that blended beautifully with the guitar’s sound.
However, this microphone requires careful thought about placement. If not positioned correctly, feedback can sneak up on you, especially in louder venues. For anyone serious about capturing every detail of acoustic guitar on stage, it’s a top contender, albeit a bit pricier. For details, check this link here.
Insights and Community Feedback
Through my exploration and research, I found that fellow musicians and audio professionals highly recommend the Shure SM58 for its reliability and feedback resistance— a sentiment echoed across countless forums. Performers generally prefer a single dynamic mic for live settings due to simplicity, while studio engineers lean toward condensers like the SM81 for their rich detail.
In discussions found on platforms like the Acoustic Guitar Forum, it was clear that while many aimed for clarity, others prioritized straightforward usability. Mixing and matching setups (like an SM58 for vocals and a condenser for strings) was a common practice, although this approach requires additional monitoring attention.
Breakout Comparison Table
| Mic | Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shure SM58 | Dynamic | Vocals + Guitar, live settings | Affordable |
| Audio-Technica AT2035 | Condenser | Vocals + Guitar, versatile | Mid-range |
| Shure SM81 | Condenser | Detailed Acoustic Guitar & Vocals | Higher-end |
Conclusion: Finding Your Fit
Choosing the best microphone for live acoustic guitar and vocals ultimately hinges on your performance context, budget, and personal taste.
- If you’re seeking simplicity and durability, the Shure SM58 is unbeatable for both guitar and vocals, especially in lively environments where feedback could become a concern.
- On the other hand, if you desire rich detail and versatility, the Audio-Technica AT2035 and Shure SM81 are both stellar options for capturing the nuances of your music. Just be prepared to manage potential feedback.
- For absolutely pristine studio-like sound (if you can manage it), the SM81 becomes your go-to choice, handling acoustic guitar beautifully while still accommodating vocals when positioned right.
To wrap it all up, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but hopefully, this exploration sheds light on which mic might best suit your sonic needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just diving into the world of live performance, discovering the right microphone can change how your music resonates with your audience.
Curious about other audio gear? Check out Geeksper’s recommended gear for a deeper dive into the world of microphones and more!
FAQ
1. What is the best microphone for live acoustic performances?
The best microphone often depends on personal preference, but many professionals recommend the Shure SM58 for its reliability and feedback resistance.
The best microphone often depends on personal preference, but many professionals recommend the Shure SM58 for its reliability and feedback resistance.
2. Are dynamic microphones better than condenser microphones for live settings?
Dynamic microphones like the Shure SM58 are generally preferred for live settings due to their durability and feedback rejection, while condenser microphones are often used in studio settings for their clarity.
Dynamic microphones like the Shure SM58 are generally preferred for live settings due to their durability and feedback rejection, while condenser microphones are often used in studio settings for their clarity.
3. What should I consider when choosing a microphone for singing and guitar?
Consider factors like sound quality, feedback resistance, budget, and whether the mic requires phantom power (as with many condensers).
Consider factors like sound quality, feedback resistance, budget, and whether the mic requires phantom power (as with many condensers).
4. Can I use a condenser microphone for live performances?
Yes, but you’ll need to manage placement and be cautious of feedback. Condenser microphones, like the Audio-Technica AT2035 and Shure SM81, can provide excellent sound quality.
Yes, but you’ll need to manage placement and be cautious of feedback. Condenser microphones, like the Audio-Technica AT2035 and Shure SM81, can provide excellent sound quality.
5. How do I avoid feedback when using a microphone on stage?
Position the microphone correctly, maintain an appropriate distance from speakers, and use microphones with good feedback rejection, like the Shure SM58.
Position the microphone correctly, maintain an appropriate distance from speakers, and use microphones with good feedback rejection, like the Shure SM58.