Top Microphones for Metal Vocals You Should Consider

The Best Microphone for Metal Vocals: My Experiences with Top Performers

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

  • Choosing the right microphone is crucial for metal vocals.
  • The Shure SM7B is widely regarded as the industry standard.
  • Budget options like the Shure SM57 maintain quality without breaking the bank.
  • Rode NT1-A offers clarity for softer vocal styles.
  • Live performances benefit from the Sennheiser e935 due to its lightweight design.

Table of Contents

Experiment Setup: The Testing Ground

For thorough testing, I set up a simple but effective recording environment. Equipped with solid preamps and a variety of audio interfaces, I initially tried these mics with a Shure M2A for input clarity and then switched to an Apollo Twin X for some high-res recording. I paired my setup with a powerful audio monitoring system to capture every nuance and detail in vocal performance.

Here’s a rundown of the mics I tested:

  1. Shure SM7B
  2. Sennheiser MD 421-II
  3. Shure SM57
  4. Sennheiser e935
  5. Rode NT1-A

Let’s break down the results.

Shure SM7B: The Industry Standard

As a go-to mic for artists like Metallica’s James Hetfield and countless others, the Shure SM7B is often hailed as the top choice for metal vocals. This cardioid dynamic mic can handle high sound pressure levels with ease—just what you want when the music gets aggressive.

When I plugged the SM7B into my setup, the gain range surprised me compared to other mics I’ve used. There’s a discernible warmth that caramelizes the harshness often associated with metal vocals. Dynamics are captured beautifully, and even the most intense screams came through without any distortion.

  • Pros:
    • Exceptional SPL handling, great for screams and growls.
    • Excellent rejection of background noise and feedback.
    • Versatile—works well for both studio and live setups.
  • Cons:
    • Price point is typically under $400—definitely an investment.
    • May require a cloudlifter or preamp for optimal performance with quieter sources.

If you’re serious about metal, this mic is worth every penny. You can check the latest price for the Shure SM7B here.

Sennheiser MD 421-II: An Excellent Alternative

Next up, I grabbed the Sennheiser MD 421-II, widely known for its impeccable sound quality and versatility. This mic features robust construction, making it as durable as it is effective. With a selectable bass roll-off feature, it offers tailored sound control that’s crucial for the lower growls often prevalent in metal.

During testing, I noticed that the MD 421-II offered a punchier low-end than the SM7B, which could be ideal for more bass-heavy styles. It’s heavy for handheld use but excels in a studio setting.

  • Pros:
    • Superb feedback rejection.
    • Frequency response from 30Hz to 17kHz caters well to metal vocals.
    • Built like a tank—long-lasting durability.
  • Cons:
    • On the pricier side (around $400).
    • Heavier than some of its counterparts—might be cumbersome for live performances.

Find out more about the Sennheiser MD 421-II.

Shure SM57: The Budget Workhorse

Ah, the beloved Shure SM57. You can find this mic in countless studios, often used on everything from guitars to vocals. It’s renowned for being a versatile workhorse, and its low price makes it accessible for many.

In my experiment, the SM57 impressed me with its ability to handle aggressive performances. While it lacks some of the warmth of its more expensive siblings, it captures the essence of screaming vocals effectively and with clarity.

  • Pros:
    • Extremely durable and affordable (around $100).
    • Excellent for isolating sound in noisy environments.
  • Cons:
    • Not as nuanced for softer vocal deliveries.
    • Lacks the depth of sound you get from the SM7B or MD 421-II.

The Shure SM57 is a solid choice if you’re on a budget. Check out the latest price here.

Sennheiser e935: The Handy Performer

For live performances, the Sennheiser e935 is often preferred because it’s lightweight and offers a similarly rich sound profile to the SM7B. Targeting vocalists who play aggressively and need something they can move around with, I found this mic surprisingly effective.

The e935 shines in close-mic situations, boosting the clarity and presence of vocals while deftly rejecting noise from instruments. It’s perfect for live settings and can handle a variety of vocal styles seamlessly.

  • Pros:
    • Weighs less than the SM7B, making it easier to handle.
    • Great sound isolation; performs excellently on stage.
  • Cons:
    • Not as commonly utilized in studio setups.
    • Slightly less warmth compared to some dynamic mics.

For a closer look, check the latest price on the Sennheiser e935.

Rode NT1-A: Clarity and Detail

While most metal vocals lean on dynamic mics, I included the Rode NT1-A, a condenser mic known for its sensitivity and clarity. It’s not rugged like the others, but when I tested it for softer, melodic passages in metal, the results were stunning.

The NT1-A really captures detail—perfect for more delicate vocal lines or clean singing amid heavy instrumentation. It’s also a popular choice for home studios and has a less demanding price point than some higher-end models.

  • Pros:
    • Crystal-clear vocal reproduction.
    • Affordable, often bundled with a pop filter.
  • Cons:
    • Not as durable as dynamic models, requires careful handling.
    • Best for quieter vocal styles, not ideal for aggressive screams.

You can find the Rode NT1-A at a great price here.

Real-World Applications

For Studio Use: If your primary focus is studio recording, the Shure SM7B and Sennheiser MD421-II take the crown for their superior sound handling, low noise, and detailed output. They encapsulate the aggressive nature of metal without incurring unwanted feedback.

For Live Shows: The Sennheiser e935 is a fantastic handheld option perfect for live settings. Its combination of durability and sound reproduction makes it ideal for any metal vocalist looking to be heard over a wall of amps.

Budget-Friendly Options: If you’re diving into metal without breaking the bank, the Shure SM57 is a must-have. It’s affordable, versatile, and ideal for isolating vocals in a mix.

Delicate Metal Vocals: For softer, clean passages that occasionally make their way into metal, the Rode NT1-A captures nuances effectively, though its fragility means it’s best kept out of the mosh pit.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Fit

So, who should buy which mic? If you’re serious about capturing the raw power of extreme metal, you can’t go wrong with the Shure SM7B. For studio engineers, the MD421-II offers unparalleled sound quality with rugged construction. On a budget? Grab the SM57 and start recording.

If you’re more of a performer heading into the live arena, the e935 will serve you well. And for those softer vocal moments, the Rode NT1-A can elevate your sound quality significantly.

No matter what mic you choose, always consider your specific vocal style and the environments you’ll be in. With any of these options, you’ll be well-equipped to unleash the full force of metal.

FAQ

What is the best microphone for metal vocals?
The Shure SM7B and Sennheiser MD421-II are top choices for capturing aggressive metal vocals.

Are there budget-friendly options?
Yes, the Shure SM57 is a great budget microphone that performs well in metal settings.

Can I use a condenser microphone for metal vocals?
Yes, the Rode NT1-A is a condenser option that can capture delicate vocal lines within the genre.

What’s the best mic for live performances?
The Sennheiser e935 is ideal for live shows due to its lightweight design and sound isolation.