Finding the best studio microphones on a budget can be hard, but with this list, you’ll know which ones to look at. For your convenience, all of these have been broken down into different categories: condenser microphones and dynamic microphones. The first category includes large-diaphragm models that are perfect for recording vocals or acoustic instruments, while the second category features smaller diaphragms designed for capturing drums or other low-frequency sounds. All of these choices will not only provide great audio quality throughout your recordings but also come in packages that won’t break the bank! You’re welcome!
MXL 770
The popular MXL 770 is a high-quality multipurpose condenser mic that vocalists gravitate to for its solid low-frequency response and clear high end. To achieve this, MXL uses a high-quality FET pre-amp and transformerless balanced output for a wide dynamic range and low noise. Features include a low-frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted rumbling and a 10db pad to facilitate various sound sources. The 770 comes with a shock mount to reduce mechanical vibrations and a rugged carrying case. The MXL 770 is a perfect combination of quality, flexibility, and value for professional and home recording studios.
Behringer B-1
The single-diaphragm B-1 microphone is a home recording enthusiast’s dream come true! This professional-quality condenser microphone is designed to capture your sounds with incredible realism, sensitivity, and accuracy. With its cardioid pickup pattern, frequency filters, and input pads, the B-1 mic is an excellent choice for any recording scenario – and rugged enough to go the distance! With a heavy-duty suspension mount and windscreen included in the sleek aluminum case, the B-1 may be the only microphone your studio will need.
Audio-Technia 2020
The Audio-Technia 2020 has an MSRP of just USD 99 and is perfect if you are looking to spend as little money as possible while still getting a decent product. The Audio Technica 2020 boasts a frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz (the human ear can only hear up to 22 kHz), making it ideal for any voice-over or vocal track. Audio-Technia also offers a 100% money-back guarantee within the first 45 days of purchase.
The Audio-Technia 2020 is an excellent option for just starting or having limited budget constraints. You can even find some Audio-Technia 2020 microphones with shock mounts, remote controls, and other accessories included! If you want to spend more than $100 on your microphone, it would be worth considering.
Shure SM57
When you buy a Shure SM57, you’ve got a great dynamic microphone for life. Accounts of its heroic toughness lie at the center of countless music-industry legends, most of which are perfectly true. What’s also true about the SM57 is that it sounds great on a wide variety of sources. Many snare drums and many guitar cabinets and vocal tracks recorded in the last several decades owe their sound to the SM57. Try one, and you’ll find out why live sound professionals and seasoned studio engineers swear by the Shure SM57 more than any microphone on the planet. A snare crack. An arpeggiated chord. A powerful saxophone solo. Whether on stage or in the studio, the notes that flow from your instrument connect your audience on a visceral level. And such sounds need a mic that can handle its strength. For every acoustic condition, the SM57 delivers the power of your playing to every fan in the house.
Se Electronics X1A
The SeElectroci X-01A has a frequency response of 180Hz to 16Khz and an impedance that ranges from 100 ohms to 600 ohms. You should use something called “pad” with these mics if you’re using them on loud sources like drums or anything else compelling sound-wise so they don’t overdrive the input stage too much and distort when capturing your audio signal for later. This microphone offers high-quality performance at an inexpensive price point which makes it perfect for any studio setup. When it was introduced in 2011, the X1 brought a new level of quality to its price point, competing easily with microphones costing several times as much. But that didn’t stop sE from trying to outdo themselves again.
With a newly-developed condenser capsule and an exterior based on the rugged metal chassis of the X1, the X1 A offers first-class sound & specifications at an even better “home studio” cost, featuring an extremely natural frequency response, massive SPL-handling capabilities (150dB!), switchable attenuation and low-cut filters, and a perfectly balanced sensitivity level – so it’s at home on absolutely any source. From vocals to acoustic instruments to electric guitars or percussion, the X1 A is the perfect choice for any musician seeking a high-quality microphone with an entry-level price tag.
RØDE NT1-A
The RØDE NT1-A 1 inch cardioid condenser microphone has become an industry standard, delivering the warmth, extended dynamic range, clarity, and high SPL capability typically only featured on some of the world’s most expensive microphones. With a self-noise level of only 5dBA, it is widely recognized (along with the NT1) as one of the world’s quietest studio microphones. This low noise makes it ideal for a vocal microphone and perfect for recording guitars and percussion.
The RØDE NT-Series microphones were designed with the needs of professional users in mind and are widely used by engineers and producers. The RØDE Audio range is also endorsed by Taylor Swift, who has been seen performing live on stage with an RØDE microphone.
Aston Origin
According to the folks at Aston Microphones, a microphone isn’t a mere tool; it’s a musical instrument in and of itself. Ever since they burst onto the scene, this UK-based company has manufactured innovative, near-indestructible mics with head-turning good looks. Their from-the-ground-up designs were developed using double-blind listening tests with a panel of top artists, engineers, and producers. Aston’s microphones — including four multi-award-winning models — are priced within reach of just about everyone and have made their way onto the world’s biggest stages and into the world’s most prestigious studios.
The Aston Origin is a high-performance cardioid condenser microphone utilizing a one-inch (1″) gold evaporated capsule. It’s versatile enough to use with any instrument and, for singer-songwriters, excels on acoustic guitar and vocals. Its hand-selected capsule is paired with high-end transformerless circuitry using only the finest components.
The Origin is designed to deliver direct, smooth, and intimate sound… for a supremely natural and transparent recording.
AKG C214
In the sub-$100 range, AKG makes a good choice with their C214. AKG has been making microphones for decades, and this is one of their most popular models as it produces a clear sound that will suit many recording applications at an affordable price. The C214 professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone has been designed as a cost-effective alternative to the high-end C414 family. Like the C414, the C214 offers a supreme one-inch capsule on an integrated suspension to reduce mechanical noise. A switchable 20dB attenuation pad allows recording of loud sources of up to 156dB SPL. A switchable bass-cut filter allows close-up recording with almost no proximity effect. The C214 captures sound by combining one capsule of the legendary C414 dual-capsule system and the patented AKG Back-Plate Technology, resulting in an outstanding performance close to the famous C414 XLII.
In this post, we’ve narrowed down the best recording microphones for every budget. Whether you want to spend $100 or $400 on a microphone, there are plenty of options out there that will suit your needs and provide excellent sound quality. The next step is to try them all! If you have any questions about which microphone would be best for your specific situation, feel free to ask us in the comments below. And don’t forget- what was your first studio mic? Let me know in the comments below!
