REASONS TO BUY

• Solidly built
• Strong vocal sound
• Competitively priced

REASONS TO AVOID

• None, but this market is a heavily populated one.

2. Shure SM58 Vocal Microphone

No live vocal microphone list would be complete without the world’s most popular mic — the Shure SM58. Introduced in 1966, the SM58 has become the industry standard for handheld dynamic vocal microphones. Like its SM57 stablemate that proceeded it, the SM58 is based on the Unidyne III cartridge developed by Shure in the late 1950s. The SM58 is, in fact, a ’57, with an additional meshed ball grille that acts as an effective pop filter. Virtually every serious live sound and studio mic locker contains several (sometimes dozens of) SM58s. Why? Because you can hand one to any vocalist or place it in front of most instruments with excellent results. And this mic is virtually indestructible — which is important whether you’re gigging solo at your local bar or embarking on a world tour.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response:50Hz-15kHz
• Max SPL:94dB SPL
• Output Impedance:150 ohms
• Sensitivity:-54.5 dBV/Pa (1.88 mV)
• Color: Black
• Connector: XLR
• Dimensions:6.3″ x 2″
• Weight:0.66 lbs.
• Included Accessories: Zipper Pouch, Mic Clip

REASONS TO BUY

• Amazing value
• Bomb-proof construction
• Versatile
• A smooth frequency response with a nice touch of peak-free brightness.

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

3.  Beyerdynamic TG V90r Vocal Microphone

A ribbon microphone, onstage — really? Yes, really. The Beyerdynamic TG V90r vocal mic captures clean vocals onstage without being high-maintenance. It’s not delicate, and its high output doesn’t require a special preamp. Its cardioid pickup pattern reduces stage noise. And whereas most ribbon mics exhibit notorious proximity effect, the Beyerdynamic TG V90r vocal microphone remains natural-sounding even when brushing against a singer’s lips. Its ultra-sensitive 2-micrometer aluminum ribbon also makes it great for percussion and other instruments where the ability to capture fast transients is an asset. Whether erratic handling or inadvertent phantom powering, the TG V90r mic — like all Beyerdynamic TourGroup microphones — is built to handle whatever the road serves up.

SPECIFICATIONS

REASONS TO BUY

• Can sound wonderful when used well
• Good feedback rejection
• Seems very robust and well built.

REASONS TO AVOID

• Not as forgiving of bad mic technique as some alternatives
• Physically larger and less sensitive than most moving–coil mics
• A better case would be welcome.

4. Neumann KMS 105 Vocal Microphone

For studio owners, the name Neumann needs no introduction. But the Neumann KMS 105 makes no-compromise studio-grade sonics and legendary build quality available to front-of-house engineers in a supercardioid condenser mic built to meet the challenges of vocal use onstage. As you would expect from any Neumann microphone, the KMS 105 mic delivers full-frequency response, superior resolution, and accurate transient tracking. The KMS 105’s elastic shockmounted capsule features three metal basket layers that virtually eliminate plosives and sibilance. This vocal microphone is also appealingly lightweight, making it a delight to use in live performance.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Frequency Response:20Hz-20kHz
• Max SPL:150dB
• Output Impedance:50 ohms
• Signal to Noise Ratio:76dB (A weighted)
• Self Noise:18dB (A weighted)
• Color: Matte Black
• Connector: XLR
• Dimensions:7″ x 1.8″
• Weight:0.66 lbs.
• Included Accessories: Stand Clamp, Microphone Pouch

REASONS TO BUY

• Comfortable to use.
• Low handling noise.
• Excellent immunity to monitor feedback.
• Easy to clean.
• Clever protection case.
• Tailored frequency response.

REASONS TO AVOID

• Affordability

5.  Earthworks SR40V Vocal Microphone

If you’re after studio-quality vocals onstage, the Earthworks SR40V handheld condenser microphone is another entry that’s definitely worthy of consideration. The SR40V’s tight hypercardioid pickup pattern, lightning-quick transient response, and extended frequency range captures breathtaking vocals with the lifelike presence and silky air you thought you could only achieve in the studio. Capturing the subtle details that dynamic vocal microphones typically miss, the SR40V gives your live shows the studio polish that makes them sound like “the record,” without resorting to excessive EQ or effects. In fact, the Earthworks SR40V microphone sounds so amazing, you’ll also want to use it in the studio. It’s no wonder many sound engineers and producers consider this to be one of the best microphones for recording vocals

SPECIFICATIONS

• Frequency Response: 
20Hz – 40kHz
• Polar Pattern: 
Cardioid
• Sensitivity: 
10mV/Pa (-40dBV/Pa)
• Power Requirements: 
24-48V Phantom, 10mA
• Peak Acoustic Input: 
145dB SPL
• Output: 
XLR-3M
• Minimum Output Load:
 600Ω, balanced between pins 2 & 3
• Noise:
 20dB SPL (A weighted)
• Dimensions
Length: 7.25 in. (184mm)
 Max dia: 1.95 in. (55.3mm)
 Min dia: .97 in. (27.5mm)
• Weight: 
.80lb (363g)

REASONS TO BUY

• Studio sound quality in a live mic.
• Rugged construction and long warranty.
• Great feedback rejection.

REASONS TO AVOID

• Expensive for a live vocal microphone.
• Wooden case not the best for live use.
• Basket cannot be removed for cleaning.

6. Audio-Technica ATW-2120b Vocal Microphone

Audio-Technica’s ATW-2120b handheld wireless system delivers solid, true-diversity operation at an affordable price. The ATW-2120b features A-T’s Tone Lock squelch system for interference-free performance, while XLR and unbalanced 1/4″ outputs provide versatility for a wide range of operational scenarios. The ATW-R2100b receiver’s roadworthy metal enclosure is fitted with easy-to-use soft-touch controls and a clear, bright LCD display. The ATW-T220a transmitter’s cardioid dynamic capsule provides consistent sound quality and maximum feedback rejection. Automatic frequency scanning, which determines and sets the strongest available frequency, makes setup a breeze — and is all but essential when using multiple wireless systems. You can use up to 10 ATW-2120b systems together without frequency coordination problems or group selection issues

SPECIFICATIONS

• Simultaneous Systems Per Band:10
• System: Analog/Digital: Analog
• System: Frequency Range: I Band 487.125-506.500 MHz
• System: Operating Range:300 ft. Line-of-sight
• System: Frequency Response:100Hz-15kHz
• System: Microphone Included: Yes
• Microphone: Type: Dynamic
• Microphone: Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Transmitter: Battery Type:2 x AA
• Transmitter: Battery Life:7-9 hours
• Transmitter: Dimensions:9.13″ x 1.89″
• Transmitter: Weight:8.9 oz. (without batteries)
• Receiver: Type: Rackmount with included kit
• Receiver: Rackmountable: Yes
• Receiver: Rack Spaces:0.5U
• Receiver: Displays: LCD
• Receiver: Outputs:1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″
• Receiver: Dimensions:6.39″ x 8.27″ x 1.73″

REASONS TO BUY

• Easy To Use
• Detailed sound with a rich, warm character

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

7. Sennheiser EW 100 G4-835-S Vocal Microphone

Taking a step up in wireless brings us to the Sennheiser EW 135 G4 microphone. Boasting a 330′ transmission range and up to eight hours of battery life, the system’s SKM 100 G4-S handheld transmitter features a tight cardioid pattern that picks up the vocalist while rejecting ambient stage sound that can cause feedback. The EW 135 G4 mic system includes Sennheiser’s EM 100 G4 rackmount receiver, which offers automatic frequency scanning of 1,680 available UHF frequencies across a 42MHz bandwidth for interference-free reception. The microphone system is expandable, letting you link up to 12 receivers simultaneously.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Simultaneous Systems Per Band: Up to 12
• System: Analog/Digital: Analog
• System: Frequency Range:516-558 MHz (A band)
• System: Operating Range:330 ft. Line-of-sight
• System: Microphone Included: Yes
• System: Channel Selection: Auto/Manual
• Microphone: Type: Dynamic
• Microphone: Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Microphone: Max SPL:154dB SPL
• Microphone: Frequency Response:80Hz-18kHz
• Transmitter: Form Factor: Handheld with Mic Capsule
• Transmitter: Mute Feature: Yes
• Transmitter: Battery Type:2 x AA
• Transmitter: Battery Life:8 hours
• Transmitter: Dimensions:7.57″ x 1.36″ (without capsule)
• Transmitter: Weight:0.99 lbs.
• Receiver: Antenna Type: Detachable
• Receiver: Signal/Noise Ratio:≥110dB (A-weighted)
• Receiver: Type: Rackmount
• Receiver: Rack Spaces: Half-rack
• Receiver: Displays: LCD
• Receiver: Outputs:1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″
• Receiver: Data I/O:2 x RJ10
• Receiver: Power Source:12V DC power supply
• Receiver: Dimensions:8.35″ x 1.7″ x 6.61″
• Receiver: Weight:2.16 lbs.

REASONS TO BUY

• Very easy to set up
• Sounds awesome

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

8.  Shure QLXD24/B87A Vocal Microphone

The Shure QLXD24/B87A handheld wireless microphone system’s streamlined operation makes it a great choice for wireless vocals in midsized music venues, presentation spaces, and houses of worship. The QLXD24/B87A vocal mic system delivers clear, interference-free performance thanks to its pristine 24-bit digital audio technology and highly efficient RF spectrum usage. Effortless to set up with the push of a button, the QLXD24/B87A wireless system’s receiver automatically identifies the strongest open frequency and syncs with the handheld transmitter. The transmitter comes with an interchangeable Beta 87A supercardioid condenser capsule and offers the versatility of optional (extra-cost) SM58, SM86, or Beta 58A capsules.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Simultaneous Systems Per Band:60 or more
• System: Analog/Digital: Digital
• System: Frequency Range:470-534 MHz
• System: Operating Range:300 ft. Line-of-sight
• System: Frequency Response:20Hz-20kHz
• System: Microphone Included: Yes
• System: Channel Selection: Auto
• Microphone: Type: Electret Condenser
• Microphone: Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Microphone: Frequency Response:50Hz-20kHz
• Transmitter: Form Factor: Handheld with Mic Capsule
• Transmitter: Mute Feature: Yes
• Transmitter: Battery Type:2 x AA
• Transmitter: Battery Life:9 hours Alkaline, 10 hours Shure Lithium-ion
• Transmitter: Dimensions:10.1″ x 2″
• Transmitter: Weight:0.76 lbs.
• Receiver: Antenna Type: Detachable
• Receiver: Type: Rackmount
• Receiver: Displays: LCD
• Receiver: Outputs:1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″
• Receiver: Data I/O:1 x Ethernet
• Receiver: Dimensions:1.63″ x 7.75″ x 5.94″
• Receiver: Weight:1.71 lbs.

REASONS TO BUY

• Very easy to set up
• Sounds awesome
• Handles feedback extremely well

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

9.  Shure Axient AD4DUS Dual-channel Receiver and AD2 KSM8 Handheld Transmitter

Designed for mission-critical applications in today’s congested wireless environments, Shure’s cutting-edge Axient digital wireless systems deliver an unprecedented level of performance and reliability. The Shure Axient AD4DUS 2-channel receiver can assign up to four antennas to a single channel for enhanced coverage and rock-solid signal quality. Axient wireless features a wide tuning range up to 184MHz for maximum spectrum coverage and includes advanced proprietary technology, such as Spectrum Manager, which provides graphically displayed automatic frequency scanning, as well as interference detection and avoidance, and can even store site-survey data for later retrieval. Another advanced feature, Shure’s Frequency Diversity mode, eliminates RF interference that can cause intermittent audio in less sophisticated systems.

Equipped with Shure’s KSM8 mic capsule, the Axient AD2 handheld transmitter teams up with the AD4DUS receiver to conquer the most challenging wireless applications. A choice of two operational modes optimizes performance for either maximum coverage (Standard mode) or enhanced channel counts (High Density mode). You can power Axient AD2 handheld transmitters with AA batteries or with Shure’s SB900A rechargeable battery for up to 9.5 hours of performance. And Axient’s smart batteries and networked charging technology mean you’ll always know how much remaining runtime your transmitters have, as well as the charging status of your spares.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Configuration: Mic with Transmitter
• Compatibility: Axient Digital Wireless Systems
• Analog/Digital: Digital
• Frequency Range:470-616 MHz
• Form Factor: Handheld
• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Supercardioid
• System: Operating Range:300 ft. Line-of-sight
• Frequency Response:50Hz-20kHz
• Max SPL:152 dB
• Dynamic Range:130 dB
• Signal/Noise Ratio:72 dB
• Microphone Color: Nickel
• Dimensions:10.1″ x 2″
• Weight:0.75 lbs.

REASONS TO BUY

• Sounds transparent and virtually noiseless
• Comfortable and balanced 

REASONS TO AVOID

• Affordability

10.  sE Electronics X1 S Vocal Microphone

If you need a high-quality condenser microphone that’s versatile enough for any studio task, check out the sE Electronics X1 S. This cardioid condenser mic features sE Electronics’s handcrafted gold-sputtered 1″ diaphragm and an all-metal capsule for clear, vibrant sound capture and long-term reliability. The X1 S vocal microphone is equipped with a 2-position pad and low-cut switch that let you fine-tune it to any source; this added versatility makes it an ideal choice for general-purpose studio deployment. The X1 S mic is well suited for tracking vocals. In fact, we’d say it’s one of the best microphones for recording vocals. Its smooth, forgiving nature brings out the lushness in female and male voices, regardless of genre. These same qualities also make the X1 S microphone an excellent choice for tracking acoustic instruments such as acoustic guitar and piano.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Diaphragm Size:1″
• Max SPL:160dB SPL (with pads)
• Output Impedance:125 ohms
• Self Noise:9dB (A weighted)
• Low Cut Filter:80Hz, 160Hz
• Pads:-10dB, -20dB
• Connector: XLR
• Color: Black
• Power Source:48V phantom power
• Weight:0.97 lbs.
• Included Accessories: Shockmount, Pop filter

REASONS TO BUY

• The X1 mic is solidly made and capable of giving good results on both vocals and acoustic instruments.
• The Project Studio Reflexion Filter performs well (in conjunction with the obligatory duvet).
• Good value.

REASONS TO AVOID

• Reflexion Filter mounting hardware has to be set up with care to avoid the risk of the stand toppling.

11. RODE NT1-A Vocal Microphone

The RODE NT1-A cardioid condenser microphone boasts full-frequency response, ultra-low self-noise, and a maximum SPL rating of 137dB, which makes it adept at capturing everything from a delicate airy singer to a screaming metal vocalist. The NT1-A mic’s low self-noise ensures that even the faintest whisper will be captured in minute detail. The microphone ships with a shockmount, pop screen, dust cover, and a mic cable. This vocal microphone’s sheer versatility, combined with its gentle price tag, has made the RODE NT1-A a must-have for any studio regardless of budget.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Pressure Gradient Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Diaphragm Size:1″ (25.4mm)
• Frequency Range:20Hz-20kHz
• Max SPL:137dB SPL
• Output Impedance:100 ohms
• Sensitivity:25mV/Pa (-32dB)
• Self Noise:5dB A weighted
• Connector: XLR
• Color: Silver
• Power Source:48V phantom power
• Dimensions:7.48″ x 1.96″
• Weight:0.71 lbs.
• Included Accessories:SM6 Shock Mount, Pop Filter, 20′ Mic Cable, Dust Cover, NT1-A ‘Studio Secrets’ DVD

REASONS TO BUY

• Detailed sound with a rich, warm character.
• Very nicely made.
• Comes with plastic carry case and stand mount.

REASONS TO AVOID

• No shock mount, pad switch or LF filter

12.  Shure SM7B Vocal Microphone

A broadcast standard vocal microphone that’s equally at home in the music studio, the Shure SM7B has endeared itself to a diverse talent pool that includes rap artists, metal vocalists, and radio announcers. Perhaps most famously, the SM7B was used for Michael Jackson’s vocals on his groundbreaking Thriller album. The SM7B vocal microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern and flat, wide-range frequency response plus switchable onboard high pass filter and separate presence boost. The SM7B mic works wonders on metal vocals and is a mainstay in both recording and broadcast studios. It’s a dynamic microphone, and as such its lower sensitivity allows it to capture the raw intensity of an incredibly loud performance and round off the edges for a cohesive vocal track that holds its own in dense metal mixes. Originally designed as a broadcast microphone for spoken word applications, the SM7B also rates highly with rappers, who like the way it captures nuances of inflection and evens out their performances

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response:50Hz-20kHz
• Output Impedance:150 ohms
• Sensitivity:-59 dBV/Pa
• Low Cut Filter: Bass Roll off
• Color: Black
• Connector: XLR
• Dimensions:7.49″ x 2.5″
• Weight:1.69 lbs.
• Included Accessories: Windscreen, Switch Cover Plate

REASONS TO BUY

• Effective on-board frequency response filters
• Excellent vocal reproduction
• Off-axis and internal noise rejection
• Build quality

REASONS TO Avoid

• Weight, its heavy
• Cost

13. Audio-Technica AT4050 Vocal Microphone

The Audio-Technica AT4050 is one of Sweetwater’s most popular vocal microphones — and for good reason! Featuring a low-noise transformerless design, three polar patterns, an 80Hz highpass filter, and a 10dB pad, the AT4050 microphone is a solid choice for even the most demanding recording applications. The AT4050 mic delivers transparent highs and mids, nicely balanced by a rich low end. The mic’s transformerless design virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides excellent transient response. Given its polished performance, impressive versatility, and reasonable price tag, it’s no wonder the AT4050 microphone is found in serious studios all over the world.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8
• Diaphragm Size:0.84″ (21.4mm)
• Frequency Response:20Hz-18kHz
• Max SPL:149dB (159dB w/10dB Pad)
• Output Impedance:100 ohms
• Signal to Noise Ratio:77dB
• Self Noise:17dB
• Low Cut Filter:80Hz (-12dB/octave)
• Pads:-10dB
• Connector: XLR
• Color: Black
• Weight:1.12 lbs.
• Included Accessories: Shock Mount, Dust Cover, Carry Case

REASONS TO BUY

• Excellent technical performance.
• First‑rate build quality.
• Very versatile.

REASONS TO AVOID

• None

14.  AKG C414 XLII Vocal Microphone

Among professional recording engineers, the AKG C414 microphone needs no introduction. Because of its ability to handle many different sources, this classic multi-pattern condenser microphone has seen heavy action in the world’s top recording studios, performance venues, and broadcast facilities. AKG has upped the ante with their C414 XLII vocal mic, improving the C414’s already-legendary versatility. With its nine polar patterns, state-of-the-art componentry, and reference-grade results, the AKG C414 XLII mic is a great choice for breathy, intimate female vocals or any source where you need nuanced reproduction with a delicate sense of air

SPECIFICATIONS

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8
• Diaphragm Size:1″ (25.4mm)
• Frequency Response:20Hz-20kHz
• Max SPL:140dB SPL (158dB w/18dB Pad)
• Output Impedance:200 ohms
• Signal to Noise Ratio:88dB A weighted
• Self Noise:6dB A weighted
• Low Cut Filter:40Hz, 80Hz (-12dB/octave), 160Hz (-6dB/octave)
• Pads:-6dB, -12dB, -18dB
• Connector: XLR
• Color: Dark Gray/Gold
• Power Source:48V phantom power
• Weight:0.66 lbs.
• Included Accessories: Stand Mount, Shock Mount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case

REASONS TO BUY

• Handles high-SPL sources excellently
• Flat, full frequency response
• Very versatile.

REASONS TO AVOID

• None