The new year is the best time to take your ambitions to the next level.
The accuracy of their recordings is achieved by their delicate construction. A thin, lightweight diaphragm is carefully held in place by a fixed plate. When sound hits the diaphragm, it moves.
Push yourself harder in the gym, and brainstorm creative ways to get that promotion at work. Do you have a hobby? If so, it's time to upgrade your craft too.
For those who write and record music, take a look at your equipment. It's time to invest in professional-grade gear.
To get you on the right track, we'll point you towards some of the best condenser microphones. You'll be producing some of the sickest tracks soon enough.
Table of Contents
The Purpose of Condenser Microphones
There are two common types of microphones used in the music industry: Dynamic and condenser microphones.
Dynamic microphones are most often used in live show settings because they're more bulky and rugged than condenser mics. They convert the sound of a singer or instrument into the electrical current that's output through the big speakers.
Condenser microphones are best for studio settings. This type of microphone does well recording clean vocals and capturing higher frequencies. You may have also heard of them referred to as capacitor microphones.
Because they're so delicate, if you're recording a heavy bass riff or a guitar solo, we suggest a dynamic microphone.
Top Condenser Microphones
We'll show you a range of microphones that'll find a variety of home setups and budgets. Not everyone can afford the fancy stuff so make sure to check out the less expensive options. You can always work your way up!
Audio-Technica’s AT4060 Tube Microphone
Audio-Technica AT4060 Cardioid Condenser Tube Microphone
This mic, by design, isn't bulky or too heavy. It's easy to set up in a home recording studio.
If you're into vintage-sounding vocals, this is the microphone for you. You can typically grab it for $300-$400.
Because of its high sound pressure level (SPL) recording abilities, it's ideal for recording rap vocals and any vocals where annunciation is key. In addition to that, the tubes used in this mic are individually selected and tested to guarantee quality.
This mic, by design, isn't bulky or too heavy. It's easy to set up in a home recording studio.
TechZone Stellar X2 Large Diaphragm Microphone
TZ Stellar X2 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser XLR Microphone
It's on the more affordable end, costing an average of $150-$200. Don't be fooled by the low price because there's nothing low quality about this microphone.
No condenser microphones buying guide is complete without mentioning this amazing creation by TechZone.
It's on the more affordable end, costing an average of $150-$200. Don't be fooled by the low price because there's nothing low quality about this microphone.
Producers enjoy this microphone because its recordings don't stand out or sound harsh on a track. Whatever you record will beautifully blend with other beats and instrumentals.
The construction is also impressive with its high-grade brass diaphragm. Spit a few bars into this mic and soak in the sweet, smooth sounds.
Rode NT1A Microphone
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package
Because its self-noise level is only 5dBA, producers love how it's one of the quietest microphones to work within the studio. Your studio sessions will be a breeze with this choice!
Many home producers love Rode because of its affordable products and wide range of microphones. One of the most well-known and top condenser microphones produced by this company is the NT1A.
It features a large gold diaphragm and comes with several accessories, including a shock mount and pop filter. The price runs anywhere between $250 and $350.
Because its self-noise level is only 5dBA, producers love how it's one of the quietest microphones to work within the studio. Your studio sessions will be a breeze with this choice!
Blue Snowball iCE Condensor Microphone
Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac, Cardioid Condenser Capsule, Adjustable Stand, Plug and Play – White
This is by far one of the best condenser microphones for beginners. It's only $50 or so, but its quality doesn't sound cheap.
It's portable, easy to use, and is great for recording a variety of vocals and instrumentals. It even comes with a custom condenser capsule so you can use it on video chats and live streaming videos.
This is by far one of the best condenser microphones for beginners. It's only $50 or so, but its quality doesn't sound cheap.
Are you needing a microphone to record long-distance interviews? This microphone is Skype certified. All you have to do is plug it into your computer.
Neumann U87 Microphone
Neumann U 87 Ai Switchable Studio Microphone - Nickel Color
This versatile microphone offers 3 different polar patterns and has a switchable pad and low cut. You'll recognize the classic sound on any playback.
The Neumann U87 is one of, if not the most, classic mentions on this condenser microphones guide. We will warn you that it's expensive (about $3,200) but worth it. There are years worth of musicians that can back up that statement.
It's been around for several decades and is used in professional studios all around the globe. The exterior design is sleek, and the recorded sounds are smooth as butter.
This versatile microphone offers 3 different polar patterns and has a switchable pad and low cut. You'll recognize the classic sound on any playback.
Tips for Choosing a Condenser Microphone
Before purchasing a condenser microphone, guarantee it's worth your cash. There are several things to look out for when selecting one.
Double-check the microphone's pick-up patterns. A pick-up pattern is a sound field in which the mic will pick up and record sound. Look for a microphone with switchable pickup capability if you want flexibility.
You'll also want to look at the microphone's noise floor, or self-noise level. Other things affecting the noise floor in your studio include your cable setup, other recording devices, and your preamp.
Are you planning to record on the go? Double-check what type of power supply is needed for a microphone. Some microphones require bulky power supply packs.
We know you might not be able to get everything you want in a microphone if you're rocking on a budget. But remember that you can always work up to more expensive setups.
Check out refurbished or resale mics to see if anyone can cut you a deal!
The Best Condenser Microphones for Your Home Studio
Take some time at the beginning of the new year to tidy up and elevate your home studio. Update your digital audio workstation, and invest in a new one of the above-mentioned microphones.
Luckily for you, the list of the best condenser microphones is a diverse one. There are options for beginners, professionals, and everyone in between.
Are you wanting to become a better producer this year? Check out the guides on our site, and sign up for our free beat-making course. You can become a pro anywhere, even in your bedroom.
