A Comprehensive Review of Top Studio Microphones for Vocals

The Best Professional Studio Microphone for Vocals: An In-Depth Review

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

  • The right microphone can elevate your sound.
  • Factors such as frequency response and build quality matter.
  • Various microphones cater to different vocal styles and budgets.
  • Consider pros and cons before making a purchase.
  • Invest in a high-quality microphone for a significant difference in your recordings.

Table of Contents

What Makes a Great Vocal Microphone?

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let’s consider what defines a great vocal mic. A good microphone should capture the nuances of your voice, offer versatility for various genres, and have a reliable build quality. Factors like self-noise, frequency response, and even polar patterns come into play, too. With that in mind, I wanted to test a few standout contenders that are widely discussed in audio circles this year.

The Contenders

I chose eight microphones to test, each with unique strengths:

  1. Neumann U 87 Ai
  2. Shure SM7B
  3. AKG C414 XLII
  4. Rode NT1 (5th Gen)
  5. Audio-Technica AT2020
  6. Lewitt PURE Tube
  7. Telefunken M80
  8. Electro-Voice RE20

Setup Process

For testing, I set up a simple home studio rig comprising an Apollo Twin audio interface, a reliable mic preamp, and my trusty recording software, Ableton Live. I also included a few different preamps since the SM7B, for instance, benefits greatly from a high-gain preamp due to its low output. The entire process felt like gearing up for an audio experiment—a mini-professional studio setting right in my living room.

The Tests: How Did They Sound?

Neumann U 87 Ai

To kick things off, I plugged in the Neumann U 87 Ai. This microphone is often regarded as the gold standard in professional environments. Right away, I noticed a significant clarity in the high frequencies, with a warm midrange that enveloped my voice beautifully. It handled every subtle nuance—sibilance was controlled but present, adding a crispness that I loved.

To put it to the ultimate test, I recorded a ballad and was blown away by how it captured my voice. The recording felt almost “alive,” with a lush depth that made it clear why the U 87 is a top choice among engineers. However, at a price point hovering around $3,200, it might not be an option for the casual creator. Check the latest price here.

Shure SM7B

Next up, I tried the Shure SM7B, a staple for many genres, especially in broadcast and rock music. Switching over, I felt a noticeable difference—not as wide in frequency response, but the warmth and character it imparted were unmistakable. The proximity effect caused my voice to feel rich and full, and despite its low output, it picked up dynamics beautifully once I boosted the gain.

This mic is a dream for anyone looking for a versatile option that pairs well with various vocal styles. I recorded some more aggressive tracks here, and the SM7B shined, handling everything with aplomb. The only drawback? You’ll want a solid preamp to make the most of it—whatever you do, don’t skimp on that! You can find the SM7B on Amazon.

AKG C414 XLII

On to the AKG C414 XLII, which sports multi-pattern capabilities. I found this mic to be incredibly versatile and lively. Switching patterns from omnidirectional to cardioid was seamless, and each setting showcased its transparent sound profile. It excelled at capturing harmonies and backing vocals, creating a sense of space that was delightful.

Recording a full choir was an experiment I didn’t anticipate doing, but this mic made it easy! It delivered a clarity for each voice while maintaining cohesion—perfect for studios needing flexibility across many sources. This one’s an investment at around $1,200, but well worth it for its versatility. Here’s where you can browse more details.

Rode NT1 (5th Gen)

Now, the Rode NT1 (5th Gen) caught my attention because of its price-to-performance ratio. Marketed as having extremely low self-noise, it lived up to that promise. I recorded soft ballads with it, and the results were stunning; there was a brightness that didn’t feel harsh, unlike some other entry-level mics.

What truly impressed me was the dual connectivity. The ability to connect via both XLR and USB adds to its appeal for budding podcasters and home studios. For its price (around $300), you’d be hard-pressed to find a better value! Take a look at Rode NT1 here.

Audio-Technica AT2020

Next in line was the Audio-Technica AT2020. Priced significantly lower than most other contenders at around $99, it’s touted as the best budget studio mic. I approached this one skeptically but was pleasantly surprised! It delivered a solid sound for home studio applications, capturing dynamics well without feeling overly colored.

My rock recordings had a punch that I didn’t expect, making me rethink how I view budget mics. If you’re starting your journey in music production, this mic is an absolute must-have. Check it out here.

Lewitt PURE Tube

I then moved to the Lewitt PURE Tube. This was my first tube microphone experience, so I was curious. The ultra-flat response meant it faithfully reproduced sound without coloration—it was like bringing my voice to a new realm. There’s richness here that makes it suitable for both music and voiceover work.

Recording some spoken word pieces was an enlightening experience; the nuances were captured in ways I had missed with other mics. The Lewitt Pure Tube commands a higher price for a tube mic ($899), but it offers a distinct character worth considering. Check out the specs here.

Telefunken M80

Moving to the Telefunken M80, I was fascinated by the claims of “robust yet airy” sound. It certainly didn’t disappoint! I noticed it balanced the dynamics of my voice beautifully, making it feel both open and natural. It performed well both in the studio and during live testing.

For those transitioning between live and studio scenarios, this mic flexibly bridges both environments. It handled everything from my high notes to richer low tones without skipping a beat. Plus, it’s reasonably priced at about $300. See more about this mic here.

Electro-Voice RE20

Last but far from least, I ended with the Electro-Voice RE20. Renowned for its flat response, this mic is an industry favorite for broadcast, notably in voiceovers and radio. I noticed immediately that it tamed the proximity effect, allowing me to sing close to the mic without dreaded bass buildup.

I recorded some hip-hop verses and was impressed by the clarity and consistency across different vocal stylings. The RE20 feels like a confident choice for anyone serious about their audio landscape, priced at around $450. Explore the RE20 here.

Pros and Cons of the Top Microphones

Now that I’ve spent ample time with these microphones, let’s break down the pros and cons, shall we?

Microphone Pros Cons
Neumann U 87 Ai Iconic sound, rich detail High price
Shure SM7B Versatile, forgiving, handles loud sources well Needs strong preamp
AKG C414 XLII Multi-pattern, transparent sound Higher price
Rode NT1 (5th Gen) Low self-noise, great value, dual connectivity Might lack low-end warmth for some
Audio-Technica AT2020 Excellent budget option, reliable Limited in low-end presence
Lewitt PURE Tube Rich and warm quality, great for voice work Higher price
Telefunken M80 Versatile, robust design, good live/studio performance Not easily available everywhere
Electro-Voice RE20 Consistent tonality, excellent for broadcast Weighty

Conclusion: Which Mic Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best microphone for you will hinge on your specific needs, vocal style, and budget. If you’re looking for the crème de la crème, the Neumann U 87 Ai will elevate your studio experience but comes with a hefty price tag that might deter beginners.

For those in pop, rock, or broadcasting, the Shure SM7B is nearly impossible to beat. Choose the Rode NT1 if you’re looking for a solid entry-level mic, or the Audio-Technica AT2020 for an unbeatable budget option. The Lewitt PURE Tube and Telefunken M80 cater to those searching for warmth and versatility.

If you’re diving into the world of vocals, invest wisely—these mics can be the difference between a great track and an unforgettable one. Each one brings something unique to the table, and I can’t say you’d go wrong with any of them.

FAQ

What is the best microphone for beginners? The Audio-Technica AT2020 is highly recommended due to its budget-friendly price and reliability.

How much should I spend on a studio microphone? It varies by need; while high-end mics like the Neumann U 87 Ai offer superior quality, there are solid options at lower price points.

Do I need a special preamp for dynamic microphones? Yes, some microphones, like the Shure SM7B, benefit from high-gain preamps to perform at their best.

Can I use a USB microphone for studio work? Absolutely, models like the Rode NT1 (5th Gen) offer dual connectivity, making them versatile for various setups.

What’s the importance of microphone polar patterns? They determine how sound is captured from different directions and can dramatically affect the overall recording quality.