Best Microphone For Live Vocals And Studio Recording

OVERVIEW

If your work involves audio-production, then your microphone system can be your greatest asset or your weakest link in the audio chain. During live performances, vocals and mics have a mutually impacting relationship. If you are looking for an ideal, best microphone for live vocals performances, then you are in the right page. Here, you can also read about best headset microphone for recording audio.

First, you need to know how to select the perfect microphone that suits your needs. Before you buy a microphone, you must keep the following points in mind: 

Type: Microphones are of two kinds: Condenser and Dynamic. They differ in their sound-production technology and have different characteristics.

Polar Pattern: It tells you which direction the mic absorbs sound from. For live vocals, cardioid, super-cardioid, or hyper-cardioid microphones are perfect.

Impedance: Impedance is the resistance provided by the circuit of the mic to current. The thumb rule is to choose a mic with the same or lower impedance than the audio equipment it’s being plugged to.

Durability: Microphones used for live performances wear off quickly. So, make sure that your mic has a long-life span.

To make the task easier for you, I have compiled a list of ten of the best microphone for live vocals currently available in the market.

Also, read about the Best Lavalier Microphone here.

10 BEST MICROPHONE FOR LIVE VOCALS REVIEW

1. SHURE SM58-LC CARDIOID DYNAMIC VOCAL MICROPHONE

Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
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Let me start my list of best microphone for live vocals with the Shure SM58, which is a uni-directional vocal microphone used for sound reinforcement and studio recording. It utilizes a highly active, built-in, spherical filter that minimizes wind and breath pop noise.

Simultaneously, the cardioid pickup pattern isolates the primary sound source and reduces unwanted background noise. Its tailored frequency response is shaped explicitly for vocals. It also comes with brightened mid-range and bass roll-off to control proximity effect.

This microphone has an advanced pneumatic mount system that minimizes the transmission of mechanical noise and vibration. Its steel-mesh grille and enamel-coated metal construction help it to reduce wear due to heavy usage.

Above all, it comes with a built-in pop-filter that reduces undesirable wind and breathing noises. Greater control is provided by low-frequency roll-off on the SM58, allowing the user to take full advantage of the proximity effect.

The package also includes a zippered storage bag and a break-resistant stand adapter.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • It has a great frequency response, which is tailored for vocals.
  • There are brightened midrange with bass roll-off for controlling the proximity effect.
  • There is an effective built-in spherical wind and pop filter.
  • The frequency response is from 50 to 15,000 Hz.
  • The pneumatic shock-mount system helps to cut down handling noise.
  • The uniform cardioid pickup pattern helps to isolate the main sound source.
  • There is a mechanism to minimize background noise.
  • It has a steel mesh grille and enamel-coated metal construction to resist wear and abuse.
  • It is extremely durable under the heaviest use.
  • Item weight is 1.1 pounds.
  • Product dimensions are 10.31 x 4.92 x 3.31 inches.

Pros

  • Produces a warm and clear sound.
  • Great fidelity for a long time.
  • Very shock resistant.
  • Heavy-duty microphone.

Cons

  • A bit too sensitive to the position.

2. SHURE BETA 58A SUPER-CARDIOID DYNAMIC VOCAL MICROPHONE

Shure BETA 58A Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone - best microphone for live vocals
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It is a high output super-cardioid dynamic vocal microphone designed for professional project studio recording and sound reinforcement.

High gain before feedback is ensured by the Beta 58A, maximum isolation from noise, and minimum off-axis tone mix. It has a shaped frequency response that is best for close-up vocals. Further, its rugged construction, proven shock-mount system with a hardened steel mesh grille that makes it great for use on the stage. It also comes with a higher midrange and bass roll-off to control proximity effect.

This microphone has a neodymium magnet for high signal to noise output. It has an advanced pneumatic mount system to minimize the transmission of mechanical noise and vibration. In addition, the microphone is minimally affected by the varying load impedance and the best microphone for live vocals.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • It has a great frequency response which is tailored for vocals.
  • There are brightened midrange with bass roll-off for controlling the proximity effect.
  • There is an effective built-in spherical wind and pop filter.
  • Neodymium magnet for high signal-to-noise output.
  • Hardened steel mesh grille to resist wear.
  • Advanced pneumatic shock mount system.
  • Minimally effected by varying load impedance.
  • Polar Pattern: Super cardioid.
  • Output Level of at 1,000 Hz.
  • Open Circuit Voltage of 51.5 dBV/Pa* (2.6 mV) *1 Pa = 94 dB SPL.
  • Impedance is rated at 150 ohms.
  • Weight is 9.92 ounces.

Pros

  • Workhorse mic works great.
  • It has a high resell value.
  • It includes a mic stand clip and a zip-up carry bag.
  • Dynamic mic, so no phantom power needed.

Cons

  • It is a bit too much sense to a position.

3. SHURE SUPER 55 DELUXE VOCAL MICROPHONE

Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone
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The Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone is placed in the third place for best microphone for live vocals features a signature satin chrome-plated die-cast casing, and tailored frequency response for natural vocals and speech.

Its super-cardioid polar pattern isolates the primary sound source and minimizes the background noise. Also, it comes with an integrated swivel mount.

It features a high gain-before-feedback and excellent off-axis rejection. Its shock-mounted cartridge reduces handling noise and ensures quiet operation. The self-tensioning swivel mount permits tilting of the mic by 45 degrees forward and 80 degrees backward. To sum up, this is a good product.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Vibrant blue color additions in Iconic chrome-plated design.
  • Tailored frequency response for natural speech and vocals.
  • High gain-before-feedback and excellent off-axis rejection.
  • Self-tensioning swivel mount.
  • There is a tilt permit through 80 degrees backward and 45 degrees forward.
  • Shock-mounted cartridge to minimize handling noise.
  • Vibrant blue color additions with Iconic chrome-plated design.
  • Rugged die-cast casing for rigorous conditions reliability.
  • Item weight is 1.98 pounds.
  • Product dimensions are 3 x 4 x 10 inches.

Pros

  • An iconic and sleek look.
  • Affordable.
  • An additional feature of a switch is available.
  • The mic performs exceptionally well in live conditions.

Cons

  • Gain on the amp is present.

4. SENNHEISER E935 CARDIOID DYNAMIC HANDHELD MIC

Sennheiser e935 Cardioid Dynamic Handheld Mic
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If you are looking for a microphone which is easy to use, then check this Sennheiser e935, which is a cardioid vocal stage microphone that is specially designed to perform under pressure. It delivers finely calibrated, natural sound that is highly defined, dynamic and rich in detail.

The e935 has a cardioid polar pattern. It ensures that the source sound is isolated from background noises and other on-stage signals and been the best microphone for live vocals.

The microphone comes with a neodymium ferrous magnet with boron to keep the microphone stable regardless of the climate. Its metal construction makes it extremely rugged and reliable. The package includes an XLR cable (since it is not wireless), a mic clamp, and a pouch.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • The cardioid pickup pattern has insulation from other on-stage signals.
  • Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron that helps to keeps microphone stable.
  • Cardioid pickup pattern insulates from other on-stage signals.
  • Frequency response from 40 - 18000 Hz.
  • Sensitivity of 2,8mV/Pa = -51dB.
  • The connector used is XLR-3.
  • Weight is 12.5 Oz.
  • Product dimensions are 10.4 x 4.5 x 3 inches.

Pros

  • Powerful and defined sound.
  • Rugged and reliable.
  • Highly Dynamic.
  • Rich in Detail.
  • Easy to Use.
  • Picks up notes very well.

Cons

  • Lacking in-depth and sounding somewhat tinny.

5. GLS AUDIO VOCAL MICROPHONE ES-58-S

GLS Audio Vocal Microphone ES-58-S & Mic Clip - best microphone for live vocals
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On the fifth place for best microphone for live vocals is The GLS Audio ES58S is a uni-directional dynamic vocal microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. It ensures minimal interference of background noises while amplifying the source sound.

The microphone has a wide frequency response range of 50Hz to 15000Hz ensures a crisp and clear sound. It can be used with Lo-Z XLR 3 Pin Balanced & Hi-Z 1/4"

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Uni-Directional dynamic vocal microphone.
  • The frequency response is from 50 Hz - 15,000 Hz.
  • Sensitivity is from -72dB at 1,000 Hz.
  • It can be used with Lo-Z XLR 3 Pin Balanced & Hi-Z 1/4".
  • Impedance is from 300 ohms at 1,000 Hz.
  • Item weight is 8 ounces.
  • Package dimensions are 9.5 x 2.8 x 2.6 inches.

Pros

  • Has an excellent microphone for a live band.
  • Heavy duty and great sound quality.
  • The on-off switch is an improvement over several other brands.

Cons

  • Its sensitivity is inferior.

6. ELECTRO-VOICE RE20 BROADCAST ANNOUNCER MICROPHONE

Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone best microphone for live vocals
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The RE20 is an industry-standard dynamic cardioid microphone is the best microphone for live vocals. It comes with a variable-D technology that reduces proximity effect tonal shifts. This microphone allows hosts to move freely around without ever sounding "off-mic." Its polar pattern is true cardioid with no coloration at 180-degrees off-axis.

It is an excellent microphone for instrument recording, especially kick drums and acoustic guitars. The steel case and hum-bucking coil provide exceptional magnetic shielding. An integral blast and wind filter cover each acoustic opening on the RE20 to limit excessive plosives and sibilance.

The filter shock mounts the internal microphone element, for reducing the transfer of vibrations from external sources. In addition, the large acoust alloy diaphragm and low-mass aluminum voice-coil can reproduce extremely high SPLs with no overload or distortion. 

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Smooth and linear characteristics of the voice.
  • Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect tonal shifts, allowing hosts to move freely.
  • An excellent microphone for instrument recording (especially kick drums and acoustic guitars).
  • The steel case and hum-bucking coil provide exceptional magnetic shielding.
  • An integral blast and wind filter cover each acoustic opening on the RE20.
  • The filter also has shock mounts as an internal microphone element.
  • The large Accost alloy diaphragm and low-mass aluminum voice-coil can reproduce extremely high SPLs with no overload or distortion.
  • Minimal proximity effect with Variable-D.
  • No coloration at 180-degrees off-axis as it is a true cardioid.
  • Voice tailored frequency response.
  • Studio condenser-like performance.
  • Large-diaphragm.
  • Humbucking coil.
  • Bass roll-off switch.
  • Item Weight: 1 pound.
  • Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 9 inches.

Pros

  • Big radio station sound.
  • Responsive and bright, clear sound.
  • No proximity effect.
  • Robust build.

Cons

  • Sounds muddy or distorted if you are right on top of the mic or have the volume too loud.

7. SHURE BETA 87A SUPER-CARDIOID CONDENSER VOCAL MICROPHONE

Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone best microphone for live vocals
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Are you searching for a microphone that has excellent vocal clarity, then check out the Shure Beta 87A, which is one of the world’s best-selling, single-element, condenser mic. Its tailored frequency response concentrates on the upper midrange to raise the vocal presence in the mix, to good for best microphone for live vocals.

Its super-cardioid polar pattern provides maximum isolation of the source sound and minimizes any background noise. Its electronically controlled low-end roll-off keeps your bass from blasting over the mix.

The advanced cartridge shock-mount system lets you handle the mic a little harder while absorbing any mechanical noise.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Smooth frequency response with gradual presence rise.
  • The highly consistent super-cardioid polar pattern provides superior gain before feedback.
  • The proximity effect is compensated by electronic low-frequency roll-off.
  • The wide dynamic range of 117 dB with low distortion characteristics.
  • The built-in pop filter reduces undesirable breath and wind sounds.
  • Item weight: 7.6 ounces.
  • Product dimensions: 7.56 x 2 x 2 inches.

Pros

  • Vocal clarity is excellent.
  • The microphone is much clearer than other dynamic mics.
  • No details are lost.

Cons

  • There is too much high end, and it sounds crispy and brittle.

8. SENNHEISER E845 EXTENDED HIGH-FREQUENCY RESPONSE SUPERCARDIOID MICROPHONE

Sennheiser e845 Extended High Frequency Response Supercardioid Microphone best microphone for live vocals
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the E845 microphone which is a high output performance microphone, offering power, projection and clarity. It comes with an extended high-frequency response and super-cardioid pickup pattern for higher signal output. 

This microphone has a smooth, warm tonal response and full dynamic range, with a presence lift for vocal clarity and projection. Its consistent on/off axis and proximity response maintain sound quality even when moving, providing greater on-stage freedom and best of the best microphone for live vocals.

Its full metal construction and extensive suspension and shock-mounting minimize handling noise and signal interference. This is a high output performance microphone, offering power, clarity, and projection.

It comes with a shock-mounted capsule which has a low sensitivity to impact and handling noise. The mic has a neodymium ferrous magnet with boron that keeps it stable regardless of the climate. To sum up, this is a best microphone for live vocals.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Vocal clarity and projection with Full Dynamic range.
  • Proximity response and consistent on/off-axis to maintain quality while moving.
  • Full metal construction and extensive suspension and shock mounting minimize
    noise and interference.
  • Frequency response 40-16,000 Hz.
  • Impedance 350 Ohms.
  • Sensitivity 1,8 mV/Pa.
  • Connector XLR-3.
  • Item Weight: 11.6 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: 1.81 x 1.81 x 7.28 inches.

Pros

  • Robust and highly defined sound.
  • Highly dynamic.
  • Rich in detail.

Cons

  • Sounds muddy or distorted if you are right on top of the mic or have the volume too loud.

9. RODE M1 LIVE PERFORMANCE DYNAMIC CARDIOID VOCAL MICROPHONE

Rode M1 Live Performance Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone best microphone for live vocals
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The RODE M1 live dynamic microphone comes with the rock-solid build quality and a high- power neodymium capsule become the best of best microphone for live vocals. The ergonomically designed full-metal body is made for maximum comfort when it is used as a handheld microphone. 

It feels dependable and perfectly balanced without being heavy, and handling noise is almost eliminated by the microphone’s internal design. In addition, this microphone features a warm response which is incredibly defined for a dynamic microphone. Its defined clarity and smooth character offer incredible performance as a live vocal microphone.

The microphone’s tightly controlled cardioid polar pattern minimizes spill and feedback. It is ideal for recording guitars, kick drum, snare drum, toms, and percussion. 

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Designed with the rock-solid build quality and a high-power neodymium capsule.
  • Handling noise is almost eliminated by the microphone.
  • Incredible performance as a live vocal microphone.
  • Acoustic Principle: Dynamic.
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid.
  • End Address Type.
  • Frequency Range of 75Hz - 18kHz.
  • Output Impedance of 320Ω.
  • Sensitivity of -56.0dB re 1 V/Pa (1.60mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz.
  • Weight is 360.00gm.
  • Dimensions are 171.00mmH x 51.50mmW x 51.50mmD.
  • Output: 3-Pin XLR.
  • Warranty of 1 year with free extension to lifetime warranty following registration.
  • Live dynamic vocal microphone.

Pros

  • High output neodymium capsule.
  • The cardioid polar pattern helps to get the best sound available.
  • Balanced and low impedance output.
  • Ergonomically designed heavy duty all-metal body.
  • Low handling noise.

Cons

  • The music from this mic sounds flat, muddy and lifeless.

10. SARAMONIC HU9 96-CHANNEL DIGITAL UHF WIRELESS HANDHELD MICROPHONE

Saramonic HU9 96-Channel Digital UHF Wireless Handheld Microphone best microphone for live vocals
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Coming to the end of the list comes the Sara monic HU9 Digital UHF Wireless Handheld Microphone with integrated TX The transmitter provides stable, interference-free audio in portable, compact and low-cost packages.

This microphone is a perfect fit for best microphone for live vocals like DSLR videography, field recording, and interviews, broadcast TV, electronic news gathering, etc. The method includes the TX transmitter integrated handheld wireless UHF microphone.

It is a handheld, wireless microphone transmitter that features a compact, metallic body, an easy-to-read LCD, an RF power switch, and a PLL synthesizer.

This broadcast-quality microphone will allow you to capture rich, crystal-clear sound. It has a built-in antenna, a muting function, and a power lock function. In addition, the HU9 channel is synced with the receiver by an infrared connection.

PRODUCT DETAILS:

  • Reliable, broadcast-quality audio.
  • Wireless transmitter with a lavalier microphone.
  • UHF frequency range of 514 MHz - 596 MHz.
  • There are 96 selectable channels in 2 groups.
  • Operating range of over 330-feet in open areas or 200-feet with obstacles.
  • Easy-to-read LCDs.
  • Channel group: A and B.
  • Oscillator type: PLL Synthesizer.
  • Carrier frequencies: 514 MHz - 596 MHz.
  • Reference deviation: +/-5 kHz (-60 dBV, 1 kHz input).
  • Signal to noise ratio is 70 dB or more.
  • Spur suppression of -60 dB.
  • Voice delay of 12 MS.
  • Reference audio input level of -60 dBV.
  • RF output level of 30mW/20mW/10mW.
  • Distortion is around 0.5% or less.
  • Weight is Approx. 338.2g.
  • 2 AA-size batteries.
  • Dimensions are 254 x 52 x 52mm.

Pros

  • Highly cost-effective.
  • Excellent sound quality.

Cons

  • The condenser shows problems after some time.

CONCLUSION

These are the best microphone for live vocals. You’ll notice that I have taken care of all the points that I mentioned earlier. Apart from those, I have also listed the important characteristics of each product, so you can make an informed decision.

I hope that you have found what you were looking for. Thanks for reading through. Also, share your thoughts about this article in the comment section 🙂

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Xavier
 

I'm Xavier. I am a professional writer and blogger. It all started when I fell in love with my camera, which was presented to me when I was ten as a birthday gift. Since then, I wanted to become a cinematographer and also succeeded in that. So I am here researching and reviewing the filmmaking gadgets and giving out my top gadgets from the market.I hope you find my review articles interesting and helpful.

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