The Best Microphones for Vocal Recording in 2021

Discovering the Best Microphone for Recording Vocals in 2021: A Deep Dive into My Testing Experience

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

  • Key Takeaways:
  • The Shure SM7B is a versatile choice for various recording environments.
  • The Rode NT1 excels in capturing detail with low self-noise.
  • The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a budget-friendly option perfect for beginners.
  • The AKG C414 XLII offers premium quality and flexibility for serious producers.

Table of Contents

Setting Up My Experiment

Before diving into testing each mic, I spent some time familiarizing myself with their specifications. Here’s a quick rundown of the major players I had at my disposal:

  • Shure SM7B: Dynamic, cardioid; boasts rich, clear sound and excels in untreated spaces. Often considered the industry standard (and it certainly looks the part).
  • Rode NT1: Renowned for its large-diaphragm condenser design, it offers incredibly clean sound with low self-noise, making it a darling of home studios.
  • Audio-Technica AT2020: A budget-friendly option that’s pretty solid for those getting into recording. It features a side-address design and handles high sound pressure levels with ease.
  • AKG C414 XLII: A high-end contender with nine switchable polar patterns, low-cut filters, and premium clarity. You feel the luxury just holding it!

Day One: Shure SM7B

As I unwrapped the Shure SM7B, I could sense the years of trust it has built within the audio community. Plugging it into my setup was a revelation. I paired it with a Cloudlifter for added gain, and boy, did that make a difference! The SM7B captured a depth in my vocals that I hadn’t realized was missing.

Observations:

  • Richness: My recordings had a warm, musical quality I loved.
  • Noise Rejection: I’ve got a noisy neighbor with a love for late-night DIY; the SM7B’s cardioid pattern did an excellent job minimizing that intrusion.
  • A Bit of Muscle: One note: if you’re considering this mic, ensure your preamp is up to the task. I had to push it quite a bit to get the level I wanted.

The Shure SM7B performed admirably without a cloud of doubt. Not only did I find it versatile across different genres—rock, pop, spoken word—but also, it’s easy to see why it’s become a staple in so many studios.

Day Two: Rode NT1

Now, on to the Rode NT1. As soon as I set it up, the first thing I noticed was its stunning build quality. The aesthetics matched its price point and reputation. With its ultra-low self-noise, I was curious about how it would handle my vocal nuances.

My Recording Process: I set up the Rode NT1 in a sound-attenuated space, ensuring it could shine without competition from background noise. To truly test its limits, I recorded soft spoken word segments and then some robust belting.

Findings:

  • Detail and Clarity: It picked up every subtle inflection and breath, bringing a realism that is hard to match. I could hear the slight crinkle in my voice that just doesn’t translate on lesser mics.
  • Versatile Use Cases: I could see it excelling in genres that require a delicate touch, like folk or acoustic pop.
  • Affordability: For those just entering the recording space or who run their home studios, the NT1 offers fantastic value.

The Rode NT1 became my go-to for delicate vocals—definitely a strong contender in the best mic for recording vocals in 2021.

Day Three: Finding Value with Audio-Technica AT2020

Now, moving on to the AT2020, I wanted to see how this budget-friendly option held up against its higher-end relatives. Plugging it into my budget interface, I was intrigued by the results.

Testing in Action: I recorded a series of vocal styles—light singing, dramatic reading, and even some spoken word pieces.

Results:

  • Neutral Sound: The AT2020 had a surprisingly neutral response. I was impressed, especially considering its affordable price.
  • Handling SPLs: I pushed it to 144 dB without any issues. Cranking it for some heavier vocal elements felt effortless; a win for any vocalist!
  • Build Quality: A solid feel to it, speaking volumes on durability—a plus for live scenarios or setups on the road.

While it lacks some of the depth and fidelity of the higher-end models, the Audio-Technica AT2020 proves to be a fantastic entry point for anyone wishing to explore vocal recording without breaking the bank. For budget-conscious creators, it’s a solid pick.

Day Four: AKG C414 XLII

Let’s pivot to a celebrated classic: the AKG C414 XLII. This mic has built its reputation over the years, but would it deliver in my testing?

Setup and Observations: With its versatile polar patterns, I experimented between cardioid and omni to see how the mic responded in different scenarios.

Outcome:

  • Dynamic Flexibility: The option of changing polar patterns on-the-fly made it incredibly adaptable. It can capture a full ensemble around it or focus intimately on a single vocalist.
  • Premium Quality: Every detail was nuanced. I was floored by the clarity—it made my voice sound silky smooth. The internal filters also do great work in taming low-end rumble.
  • Heavyweight Performance: That said, the C414 is a premium option and definitely caters to those with a more cultivated setup—be that cost, space, or expertise.

This mic shines in professional environments and if you’re serious about your sound, you might find it well worth the investment.

Summarizing The Experience

So, where do we land in the quest for the best microphone for recording vocals in 2021?

  • Shure SM7B: Best for versatility and sound isolation in untreated spaces. Perfect for podcasting and various music genres.
  • Rode NT1: Ideal for those looking for detail and clarity in their recordings with a bit of cash to spare—a fantastic choice for home studio enthusiasts.
  • Audio-Technica AT2020: A budget-friendly champ that offers reliable performance without a hefty price tag, great for beginners.
  • AKG C414 XLII: If you’re really serious about your craft (and budget), this mic offers unparalleled versatility and quality.

Conclusion

Ultimately, your choice will depend on several factors: your budget, the recording environment, and what you desire from your recordings. If you’re just entering vocal recording, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is an excellent choice. But if you’re looking for industry-standard sound, the Shure SM7B is hard to beat.

For those who want the best of the best and can invest accordingly, the AKG C414 XLII is difficult to overlook.

FAQ

1. What is the best microphone for beginners?

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is often recommended for its budget-friendly pricing and reliable performance.

2. Why is the Shure SM7B popular among professionals?

The Shure SM7B is known for its rich sound quality and excellent noise rejection, making it a favorite in many studios.

3. How does the Rode NT1 compare to other microphones?

The Rode NT1 is recognized for its ultra-low self-noise and detail, making it ideal for vocals in various genres.

4. What makes the AKG C414 XLII special?

The AKG C414 XLII features multiple polar patterns and is known for its premium clarity, making it suitable for professional use.