The right microphone can help you sound your best, whether recording, performing live, or streaming. The alto voice has a low range; you need a mic with enough sensitivity to catch every note of this vocal range. When selecting a mic for your voice type, consider your budget, frequency response, sensitivity, and sound quality. Here are some of the best microphones for alto singers.
Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 is a dynamic microphone renowned for its performance and durability. This microphone has a cardioid polar pattern, which captures sound while reducing unwanted ambient noise and feedback. The frequency range of the microphone is perfect for capturing the richness of the alto voice. This workhorse of a microphone can handle live performances and studio recordings.
Pros
- Custom-made frequency response for a rich and pleasing sound
- Low sensitivity means it can be used in a noisy environment
- No need for phantom power
Cons
- Lack of versatility in recording anything apart from vocals
- The sound may be too warm for some
AKG C-12
The AKG C-12 is a valve condenser microphone with nine remotely controlled polar patterns. You can select it without any change in its frequency response or sensitivity. This mic is an excellent choice to capture the sultry sound of alto singers without distortion. The Edge-terminated CK12 capsule and original 6072a vacuum tube capture stunning sound. They are bright mics that are a good match for this vocal range.
Pros
- Excellent build quality, handcrafted in Vienna, Austria
- Very low noise
- High-quality components provide reliable operation
Cons
- Vacuum tube mics can be finicky sometimes
- Some people find the sound lacks character
Beyerdynamic M88
The Beyerdynamic M88 is a dynamic moving coil microphone with a hypercardioid pattern. It has a wide frequency response that can capture the nuances of the alto voice in perfect detail. The captured sound is natural without any tonal coloring. Its high sensitivity gives powerful output. The M88 is the epitome of quality German engineering.
Pros
- Extended frequency range and rising high-end
- Solid bass reproduction
- Integrated hum-buck coil
- Dynamic mic with high SPL handling
Cons
- Prone to capturing pops and air blast
Audio-Technica AT2020
The Audio-Technica AT2020 delivers outstanding performance for its price point. It is a side-address condenser microphone. Its cardioid polar pattern helps you isolate the sound by reducing ambient noise from the sides and rear. The custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm brings extended frequency and superior transient response at an affordable price point. Its low self-noise and high SPL handling capture the dynamics of an alto voice without distortion or unwanted noise.
Pros
- Exceptional price-to-performance ratio
- Unmatched versatility due to its high SPL and wide dynamic range
- Custom-engineered low-mass diagram
Cons
- Inferior noise isolation
- No inbuilt shock mount results in self-noise
- Prone to plosives and pops
Electro-Voice RE20
The Electro-Voice RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone. This mic is known for its smooth and natural sound. Its ability to handle high SPLs without distortion makes it an excellent choice for alto singers who must project their voices with power and control. The RE20 has a unique Variable-D design that minimizes the proximity effect. It gives a studio condenser-like performance at a very affordable price.
Pros
- Controlled sonic character with a smooth and natural sound
- True cardioid pattern without any coloration
- Studio condenser-like performance
- Large-diaphragm
Cons
- Very bulky
Once you have recorded the vocals using a suitable microphone, add our vocal presets to take your vocals to the next level. Our presets are designed to be used with all popular DAWs right out of the box. As we use stock plugins, they work without any tinkering or workarounds.