The best microphone for voice
Voices are an essential part of any sound or music. No microphone can claim to be the ONLY one, because critical listening is really important. The best voice microphone less than 1,000 years old can be more powerful than an elite voice microphone with a huge price tag and a bigger brand name, depending on the performance that meets the standards.
What to consider before buying
Different microphones used for different purposes differ in terms of brand, model, design and features. Choosing the best voice microphone out of 1000 can be a bit difficult with all the options and opinions out there.
Here’s a complete guide on what to look for in a microphone if you want to upgrade your vocal microphone or buy your first microphone. Either way, it’s the key features that make the difference in performance.
personal preference
When choosing the best microphone for voices under 1000, personal preference plays an important role in addition to technical aspects;
The singers vary according to the recording and listening needs:
- Singer or songwriter; they can be recorded with or without an instrument.
- Male or female; rock, pop, country singing, etc.
- Speaking singers; recording monologues or spoken words.
- What is the purpose of the recording?
No matter what you are recording, singing is the most important thing. When choosing the best microphone for voices under 500 or 1000, remember what you are recording and who you are recording. For example, if you are recording a speech or conversation, you need a dynamic microphone to get the best recording.
- What is your shooting environment?
The environment in which you record plays an important role in the sound quality. For example, there are two options for the recording environment;
- Controlled environment / treated area
- Uncontrolled environment/untreated room
Microphone type
As for the type of microphone, there are two main types that are widely used. You cannot say that one type is better than the other because they are made for different purposes. Using the right microphone for the right purpose will produce the best results.
Tube Microphones
Tube microphones are associated with warmth and roundness. These microphones require a stable high voltage source. These microphones come with an external power supply to obtain the desired voltage.
- Softens the sound of the device.
- It rolls on the top of the source, which gives a warm and pleasant sound in the ears.
- It adds an element of depth and resonance, making instruments sound more lifelike.
FET microphones
FET microphones are best known for their fast transient response and accuracy.
- These microphones are best known for their transient response, which allows for more accurate selection of transients than tube microphones.
- They are better suited to louder sound sources because the FET microphone has lower output power.
- They work well with the standard 48V phantom power supply that comes with most popular preamps.
Technical specifications of speech microphones
Here are some of the important specifications to consider when choosing your next speech microphone under 1,000. When it comes to the technical aspects of the microphone, there are four important specifications that should not be overlooked when purchasing;
- Polar pattern
- Response frequency
- Transition Response
- Sensitivity
⦁ Directional characteristic
The polar diagram refers to the sensitivity of the microphone to sound entering at different angles to the central axis of the microphone. The sides of a microphone are at least 5 dB less sensitive laterally than the front of the microphone. The polar pattern plays an important role in determining where to place the microphone to best detect the sound source.
There are three main types of polar diagrams that are widely used and most effective when it comes to recording voices. If you’re wondering what the three types are, here it is.
Omnidirectional polar model
- An omnidirectional pattern looks like a perfect circle on paper.
- Omnidirectional microphones are designed to pick up sound in all directions, regardless of the orientation of the sound source.
- It detects sounds from all directions without being specifically focused on a particular source.
Unidirectional polarization
The unidirectional polar pattern on the paper more or less resembles an inverted heart.
- A unidirectional microphone is more sensitive to sounds coming from only one direction.
- The Uni microphone captures less ambient noise than an omnidirectional microphone.
- He is less skeptical about feedback, especially when used with a public address system.
There are several types of directional microphones;
TYPES
Cardioid
- The most common polar pattern is cardioid.
- Most sensitive to sounds coming from the front of the microphone.
- It has the lowest sensitivity behind the microphone.
- It provides decent feedback.
Subcardioid
- They are also called “large cardioids.”
- Slightly more directional than omnibus microphones and less directional than cardioids.
- Their posterior sensitivity is 3 to 10 dB lower than the anterior sensitivity.
- A natural, smooth and wide pickup.
- Selects the group of instruments or singers with the least privacy effect.
- We offer you a refund.
Supercardioid
- They have a narrower absorption angle than kidneys.
- It causes more lateral rejection than the cardioid.
- Somewhat sensitive to the sound source directly behind the microphone.
- Provides better insulation against ambient and room noise.
- It is more resistant to feedback than a cardioid microphone.
- We need a more consistent position right in front of the microphone.
Hypercardioid
- It has greater sensitivity to background noise.
- It is best to push the sound from the outside.
- Hypercardioid microphones have exceptionally good deflection feedback.
- Since they are highly directional, they must be accurately positioned relative to the sound source.
- It suggests extreme rejection of environmental noise.
Bidirectional or eight-shaped polar
- It is very sensitive to noise from the front and back of the microphone.
- This microphone is the least sensitive to sounds coming from the side.
- Bi-directional microphones have a very narrow pickup angle, which can isolate a voice or instrument from others when there is nothing directly behind the microphone.
- This is the most efficient way to record two different sound sources in close proximity to each other.
Response frequency
The frequency response of the microphone plays an important role in capturing certain characteristics of speech performance. The frequency response of the microphone varies, which is beneficial for some voices and not for others.
Let’s take a look at how it works.
Flat frequency response
- A flat frequency response is best when it comes to capturing voices as accurately and precisely as possible.
- It is excellent for recording voices, especially those with a long range in classical recordings and pop music.
The elite turnover
- It is preferable to reduce the whistling and roughness of recordings in general.
- A darker microphone is better suited for clear voices.
An increased presence
- In the range of 3 to 6 kHz, it improves speech intelligibility.
- It brings out the voices in dense mixes such as EDM, classical and rock.
a dip in the Cibilance
- It causes a small drop in the whistle signal range from 5 to 8 kHz.
- It is located at the top of the presence zone.
- This frequency response is best for reducing the sharpness of speech signals.
- Whistling is best recorded with a microphone with a whistling frequency response.
Low-pass filter or high-pass filter
- This removes weak voices, which greatly reduces the rumbling of voice recordings.
- This minimizes the effect of intimacy.
Transition Response
The transient response of the microphone is the accuracy of the microphone diaphragm and other internal components. Efficiency of the microphone to accurately reproduce subtle changes in sound wave pressure.
Transient response plays an important role in choosing the voices you record for accuracy.
For clear voices, a faster and more accurate transient response is preferable. For music genres such as pop, classical, rap and sometimes jazz.
A transient (slow) compressed sound favors dirtier voices. Genres like rock, metal or jazz are (sometimes) recorded more accurately and clearly, with a slower transient.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of the microphone should not be neglected when buying the best vocal microphone under 1000. Voices benefit from a sensitive microphone, but it means more. For example, the environment in which you record is important. Microphones with higher sensitivity are more likely to pick up ambient noise.
When we talk about microphone sensitivity, there are two main categories, such as microphone sensitivity ;
These microphones have greater sensitivity. This microphone works best in
Dynamic microphones have lower sensitivity. Loud voices are best recorded with microphones with low sensitivity, such as rock.
Characteristics of a vocal microphone
To get the most out of your voice recording microphone, look for one with the best features to optimize microphone performance in any environment, such as
- Microphone pad; helps reduce the air pressure reaching the microphone capsule. Microphone pads are used to protect microphones from strong sound sources to prevent distortion.
- Filter settings; condenser and dynamic microphones have filter settings to control or mute the low frequencies of the sound source. This helps to reduce unpleasant chatter.
- Anti-pop filters; they are used as protection against adhesives.
- Damper; the damper plays an important role in preventing ground vibration noise and standing noise from reaching the sensitive microphone diaphragm.
Budget
Finding the best microphone for voices under 1,000 does not have to overwhelm you, as there is an excellent studio microphone for voices under 1,000 that is also excellent as a voice microphone for home use.
Here you will find the best vocal microphones from 500 to over a thousand. Deciding how much you are willing to invest in your microphone will help you narrow down your search and save you time and effort. Also, choosing the best microphone for voices is less confusing.
The best choices for vocal microphones less than 1,000 years old
- The Warm Audio WA-251 is the best voice-activated microphone under $1,000.
Specifications
- Type: Tube capacitor
- Polar pattern: cardioid, bidirectional and omnidirectional
- Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Dynamic range: 125 dBA
- Maximum sound pressure level: 132 dB
Features
- Shock absorber
- Wide opening
- External power supply
- Dimensions 9.72″ x 1.81
This microphone is an exact replica of the great, legendary and classic 251 large diaphragm condenser microphone, making it without a doubt the best. With its unique, open and authentic sound, the WA-251 is simply the ticket to the show. This microphone is capable of delivering a luxurious sound on virtually any instrument.
- Authentic vintage sound
- Good and long lasting treatment quality
- The best value for money
- It has a clunky clip on the shock mount.
Prices on Amazon
2. warm Audio WA-47 – the best vocal microphone under 1000
Specifications
- Type: Tube capacitor
- Polar pattern: unidirectional, bidirectional, omnidirectional
- Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Dynamic range: 130 dBA
- Maximum sound pressure level: 140 dB
Features
- Shock absorber
- Double large aperture
- External power supply
- Dimensions 10″ x 2.36″
- Weighs 9 lbs.
This microphone offers the best value for money compared to other alternatives on the market. In addition to the three polar main models, it offers six intermediate models. It offers great flexibility in learning different recording techniques, making it versatile for any type of recording in any environment.
- Authentic, warm and fuzzy vintage sound
- Robust and reliable build quality
- It is the best microphone for the price.
- It is powered by an external warm tone power supply.
Prices on Amazon
The Shure KSM44A is the best all-around microphone for vocals.
Specifications
- Type : Capacitor
- Polar pattern: cardioid, omnidirectional, Figure 8.
- Frequency range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Dynamic range: 127 dB
- Maximum SPL: 131 dB (cardioid), 137 dB (omnidirectional), 136 dB (Figure 8)
Features
- Shock absorber
- Double large aperture
- External power supply
- Dimensions 14.5 x 10.5 x 6.5 inches
- Weight of 1.08 lbs.
Perhaps you remember Shura’s popular KSM44? Well, the SHIRE KAM44A is a reworked version, if you will, of the popular KSM44. A good choice for voice recordings, this microphone features a lesser-known large-diaphragm condenser microphone that allows for better studio recordings. As is often the case with FET condensers, this microphone has a rather bright character. The
Shure KSM44A is the best general-purpose microphone, suitable for virtually any type of sound source in any recording environment.
- It is the Prethos Advanced preamplifier technology that ensures total transparency.
- It offers extremely fast transient response and no crossover distortion.
- High quality construction; high quality electronic components and gold plated internal and external connectors.
- Its subsonic filter eliminates hum caused by mechanical vibrations below 17 Hz.
- This microphone has a switchable attenuation of 15dB for extremely high sound pressure levels (SPL).
Prices on Amazon
The best vocal microphone under 1000 at a glance.
- Best Studio Voice Microphone – Audio-Technica AT2035
- Affordable, dynamic stage mic for voices – Shure SM58-LC Vocal
- Best Broadcast Voice Microphone – Shure SM57
- Most popular microphone for speech, live singing and male voices – Electro-Voice RE320
- Best Youtuber Voice Microphone – Shure SM7B
Conclusion
When looking for the best speech microphone, it is not the price and brand that matter, but the specifications and key features that determine the best quality. To get the most out of your money and effort, you must put your personal preferences above price. Investing in the best microphone will save you time and money on replacement and maintenance every time.
If you are convinced that the microphone will best meet your needs and requirements, buy it from a reliable source, as this will give you a safe, authentic product with a good warranty.
Frequently asked questions
- Which type of microphone is best suited for voices?
Maintaining convenience and focusing on overall performance, the dynamic microphone is best for voices. It requires no power supply and is relatively inexpensive compared to other microphones. The best dynamic microphone for vocals is the Shure SM57.
- What is the best and cheapest microphone for vocals?
The Shure SM57 and Shure SM58 are the most economical voice microphones on the market, with the best sound quality, and they won’t cost you a fortune.
- What type of microphone do YouTubers use?
Of the microphones used by famous YouTubers to sing, the most common are Audio-Technica and Shure. These microphones offer the best noise cancellation and a rugged, durable design that lasts longer than other alternatives on the market.
- Can I use instrument microphones for vocals?
Of course, you can use an instrument microphone for vocals, as long as you know that the microphone’s response to sound frequencies and the way it is configured will determine what it is best suited for.
- Is a dynamic or a condenser microphone preferable for vocals?
A condenser microphone is best suited for vocals because it can capture low and especially high frequencies. The thin diaphragm of a condenser microphone is ideal for capturing subtle sounds that would otherwise be impossible.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best microphone for voice recordings?
7 best microphones for voice/voice recording: less than 700
What type of microphone do professional singers use?
The Shure Beta 58A Dynamic Microphone is a professional microphone for live vocals that builds on the great success of its cheaper (but still widely used) brother, the Shure SM-58.
What is the best microphone in 2020?
The best microphones in 2021 | Tom’s Guide
