Are you in the market for your first microphone? The number of choices you have these days can boggle your mind. But worry not! We are here to make it simple for you to choose the right fit for your home studio setup. Here are some fine specimens of beginner microphones for singers that will get you recording your best vocals in no time.
Rode NT1
The Rode NT1 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone. It offers a warm sound that suits a wide range of vocal styles. It captures every detail of your vocal performance with clarity. The microphone features a cardioid polar pattern. It rejects unwanted noise from the sides and rear. You can choose this mic if your recording space does not have suitable acoustic treatment.
The NT1 is equipped with an internal shock mounting system. You don't need to worry about handling noise or vibration. The budget-friendly microphone punches above its weight. Its professional-grade sound makes it an easy recommendation for those just starting their recording journey.
Pros
- Captures natural sound
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Effective noise rejection
- Internal shock mounting system
- Bang for bucks
- Durable construction
Cons
- No -db pad
Audio-Technica AT2020
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is an affordable condenser microphone that brings detailed sound capture to your home studio setup. At the core of the AT2020 lies a low-mass diaphragm. It gives the mic a transient response capable of reproducing vocal details accurately. The microphone's cardioid polar pattern helps isolate your voice from unwanted noise from the rear.
The versatile mic excels at capturing vocals and various musical instruments up close. It makes the microphone a suitable addition to your burgeoning home studio setup. You can capture different sounds on a budget to expand your creative horizon.
Pros
- Detailed sound reproduction
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Can record from varied sources
- Superb price-to-performance
Cons
- Prone to plosives
- Lacks shock mount
- Loud self-noise
Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. You can get detailed recordings in areas where ambient noise can be challenging. The microphone is equipped with a built-in spherical windscreen. It minimizes breath noise and plosives for a clean vocal recording.
The mic has a frequency range of 50Hz- to 15kHz with smooth low and midrange. Its high SPL of 160-180dB means you can scream into the microphone without experiencing any clipping. This dynamic mic does not require batteries or phantom power. Its die-cast steel body can handle abuse. The wide range of 50Hz to 15Khz can capture your vocal range in all its glory.
Pros
- Captures warm sound
- Rugged construction
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Minimizes breath noise and plosives
- Solid price point
Cons
- Limited high-frequency response
- Not as sensitive as condenser microphones
Samson Q2U
The Samson Q2U is a dynamic mic that combines the capabilities of a USB and XLR microphone in one convenient package. It is a no-brainer for those looking for a flexible recording setup.
The Q2U features analog and digital capture convenience in one sturdy package. The onboard analog to digital converters are handy when connecting it to your computer or mobile devices via USB. You can plug the microphone into a mixer with an XLR cable. Samson has used their engineering chops to make it possible to use both connections simultaneously. Use the 3.5mm zero latency headphones connectors to monitor your audio without delay.
The microphone comes with a desktop tripod stand and a mic clip. It has a windscreen to take care of plosives and wind noises. You get both supported cables in the package to get you going.
Pros
- Both USB and XLR connection
- Headphone output for zero-latency monitoring
- Affordable price point
- Durable die-cast construction
Cons
- Prone to plosives
Lewitt LCT 240 PRO
The Lewitt LCT 240 PRO is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone. The great starting price makes it an attractive option for beginners investing in a high-quality vocal mic. It has a pressure gradient condenser in a high-quality capsule. The mic has a cardioid polar pattern.
This microphone has a flat frequency response of 20 Hz – 20 kHz. It can handle SPL up to 142dB. These qualities make it the right mic for sources where high-end needs to shine.
It features a durable metal body supported by an internal shock mounting system. A strong clip to mount it is included in the package. The mic can take the rigors of regular use in its stride.
Pros
- Excels at capturing vocals
- Handles high SPL
- Priced reasonably
Cons
- It can be too bright sometimes
SE Electronics sE2200a II C
The SE Electronics sE2200a II C is a compact large-diaphragm condenser microphone. Its affordable price and features leave many more expensive microphones in its wake. Look no further if you are a beginner singer seeking a professional-grade vocal mic at a great price.
The mic delivers a smooth sound with excellent detail and clarity in a compact footprint. It features a cardioid polar pattern for isolating your voice from unwanted background noise. The integrated shock mount and pop filter minimize handling noise and plosives. It gives you a clean recording without any surrounding noise bleed.
You get a switchable 10 dB pad and highpass filter on the mic to adjust the microphone's performance to your recording needs if it has a handcrafted 1" gold-sputtered diaphragm and class-A components.
Pros
- Extremely low noise
- High SPL
- Advanced onboard sound control
- High-quality components at an affordable price
Cons
- Requires phantom power
Before you splurge on the microphone, consider your recording environment. Keep an eye on your budget, as it is very easy to get carried away. Choose one that meets your singing style. It is wise to check compatibility with your existing setup. You don't want to end up having to buy extra attachments.
Once you set up a home studio that ticks all the boxes for you, it is time to look for options that take the guesswork out of creating that perfect sound. Our vocal presets and sample packs can add a professional sheen to your recording in just a few clicks. Check our free vocal preset and sample pack to taste its capabilities.