Best microphones in 2020

Microphones have become popular again today. When earlier they were used only for professional purposes (mainly during filming or on TV, radio stations), then at the moment such products will also be needed by ordinary people. Now it's easy to connect a microphone to a camcorder or smartphone to record high-quality home video. In addition, it is difficult for video bloggers to do without a good dynamic or condenser microphone. To select the best microphones in 2020, this ranking has been compiled.

How to choose a microphone

To choose a good quality microphone, consider the following characteristics:

• Connection type. Microphones use either a line-in jack or a USB0 port. Line-in is used by users who need detailed audio settings. However, for high quality recording, you will need to complement the product with a proper sound card. Devices with a USB port are often equipped with an audio chip that is sufficient for simple sound processing - but not enough for good vocal or voice recording.
• Microphone view. There are dynamic and capacitor devices. Dynamic have a simple design, are characterized by long-term use and budget cost. The sound recording quality is high, however, to capture voice or vocals, it is advisable to use capacitor models. They cost more, but they offer high quality audio capture.
• Directionality. Omnidirectional microphones “capture” any surround sound. Directional - only certain sounds, therefore, the voice will turn out without background noise. However, moving away from the PC in order to say something from afar will not work.
• Sound pressure. Such an indicator will show the highest volume that the device can withstand without the occurrence of aberrations. When you intend to record loud sound, you should choose a fixture with high parameters.
• Susceptibility. The opposite of sound pressure, which determines the lowest volume the microphone can recognize. When whispering is expected, a product with increased sensitivity should be chosen.
• Signal / noise combination. Each pickup element of the microphone generates background noise that is heard during recording. Therefore, in order to maximize accurate voice recording, you should select products with an increased signal-to-noise ratio.

Best dynamic microphones

The question often arises which microphone is better. Dynamic models are simpler in design than others. They do not require an auxiliary power supply. Such products are simple and reliable. Some devices work for 20-30 years without failures. It is even possible to drop them - no consequences will come.

Based on the technical parameters, such products are not as impressive as capacitor ones - they have slightly worse sound transmission and frequency range. However, thanks to their own design, they will perfectly cope with pressure surges. In addition, the advantageous feature of such devices will be the better ability not to record third-party noise than in other types.Due to these features, the devices are optimal for performing on stage and recording loud or harsh sound.

Sennheiser MD421 II

Some microphones continue to be common for a long time. Sennheiser MD421 has been in demand for at least 35 years. And only recently, the developer decided to improve this device by releasing the 2nd generation. This is the best recording microphone. It looks quite compact, while the electronics inside are complex.

The device is considered versatile due to its high price. Thanks to this accessory, it is possible to record musical instruments as well as voice. Some people record a speech with a similar product for a podcast or video blog. The results will be perfect - you will only need to process sound in editors in an exceptional situation. The device features bass cutoff support.

Pros:

• high susceptibility;
• 5 positions bass-roll-off;
• pronounced focus;
• the case is highly durable;
• maximum dynamic range.

Minuses:

• overcharge;
• the package contains only a microphone and a clip.

Shure SM58

A good microphone that has a traditional karaoke look. However, the device would not be on this list if it did not have impressive parameters and a large number of positive responses from ordinary consumers.

The dynamic cardioid device has a frequency range of 50 Hz-15 kHz. This assumes that the product will be able to convey any nuance of voice. Sound distortion here, even at high SPLs, will be minimal. Surprisingly, the developer did a great job of wind protection, effectively coping with getting rid of extraneous noise. In addition, there is an integrated capsule damper that reduces mechanical noise.

The manufacturer Shure differs in that its microphones can be used for many years. The product in question is not considered an exception - it is possible to drop it, this will in no way affect the technical characteristics of the device. Users note the fact that a conventional XLR connector is used here - this will make it possible to easily find an auxiliary wire for the microphone.

A great voice recorder for use on a theater stage, concert or anywhere else.

Pros:

• high quality construction;
• large frequency range;
• proper wind protection with filter;
• proper suppression of mechanical noise;
• the package contains a holder, as well as a case with a belt;
• XLR connector is used.

Minuses:

• unsuitable for a musical instrument (except for wind instruments).

FUJIMI BOYA BY-WHM8

Best Wireless Microphone. A dedicated device for journalists on the road. It is intended directly for the purpose of recording a reportage, interviews, etc. Such a "reporter" microphone provides high quality recording in difficult conditions. However, it is not intended for music and vocals.

The main advantage will be its small size, compactness and no cords. The device is connected by radio channel at an ultra-high frequency, it can work for 3 hours on 1 set of battery. In addition, it should be noted the presence of an OLED monitor with all the necessary information about the status of the device. The device is all directional, can support the frequencies of channels A and B.

Pros:

• no wires;
• compact size and comfort;
• designed for portable use.

Minuses:

• not intended for music and vocals.

The best condenser microphones

Such devices have a more complex structure than dynamic ones. Thanks to this, they will be more delicate and will not tolerate drops or high humidity. However, capacitor products can better capture sound - it will turn out to be as realistic and accurate as possible. At the same time, such a product can cover a wider frequency range.A characteristic feature will be that such a device requires auxiliary feeding, therefore it is advisable to use it in conjunction with professional equipment. If you need high quality recording and sound transmission (which is important for studios), there is no better option than a condenser microphone.

Neumann TLM-102

The device in question, the price of which fluctuates within 45,000 rubles, is used in the studio and at the radio station. It has a rather stylish look. The same applies to the silver version and the black version. The developer from Germany has equipped his own creation with an extremely large membrane that captures any subtleties of a person's voice. It uses a cardioid directional pattern, which saves from recording extraneous sound.

The device is intended for recording vocals. But it is often used for other purposes as well - for example, the product is often placed near a drum, guitar amplifier and other loud sound sources. The device raises the sound in the middle frequencies - it is possible to clearly separate the voice of a person in the mix. Users note the anti-vibration mount of the capsule, which will ensure the absence of mechanical noise. The product is supplied with a rather massive holder made of SG 2 metal, which is made on hinges.

Pros:

• 2 colors are available;
• the capsule holds an anti-vibration mount;
• the product effectively distinguishes the voice;
• the sound comes in as clean as possible;
• high-quality metal holder included;
• the device can be considered universal;
• the device serves for many years.

Minuses:

• overpriced.

Behringer C-1

The open microphone is one of the more budgetary condenser models. The price of the device in the store fluctuates around 5,000 rubles. Such a cost makes it possible to purchase such a device even for ordinary users who are not going to earn money by recording sound or filming.

The device has a relatively good metal case and gold-plated XLR connector. Despite the budget price, the product almost completely eliminates its own noise, which is considered a problem for most devices from China that also use phantom power.

The sound quality in this device cannot be called studio-quality. However, the capabilities of such a model will be enough to add to the video any story that is dictated during editing. In addition, the microphone is a great solution for those who write podcasts. They are completely satisfied with the medium-sized diaphragm, the cardioid radiation pattern, which eliminates the recording of external noise.

Pros:

• there is an indication of phantom power;
• the set includes an adapter for the stand and a case;
• low noise FET input stage is used;
• reliable assembly;
• uses gold-plated XLR connector;
• budget price.

Minuses:

• not too wide frequency range;
• insufficient susceptibility.

Rode NTK

An extremely expensive studio microphone, the price of which fluctuates around 41,000 rubles. This is due to the extremely complex "stuffing" of the product. In practice, the device is considered to be a tube device, which will provide a clean and warm sound.

Recording of any extraneous sound is practically excluded here, since the microphone membrane is fixed on an anti-vibration special suspension. The product differs from other analogs by its extended frequency range. This makes it possible to use a microphone for recording voice and musical instruments.

The device is considered directional, which will simplify the preparation of the room. The quality of the materials available here is indicated by the mass of the product, which reaches 760 g. It should be borne in mind that such a model is a capacitor. This suggests that the device will need electrical energy, the flow of which will be provided by the power supply.

Pros:

• dynamic range;
• extremely high susceptibility;
• wide frequency range;
• assembly strength;
• soft and clear sound;
• long lamp life.

Minuses:

• overcharge;
• poor assembly.

AKG C214

This microphone is supplied in a special suitcase, which will greatly simplify the transportation of the product from, for example, one studio to another. The device is considered cardioid, the operating frequency range here will be 20 MHz-20 kHz. Sound is captured by an inch diaphragm. It copes with this quite effectively, because this model is used by some popular musicians.

The device under consideration has a wind protection system. Such a simple accessory will make it possible to use the microphone in an open space without worrying about the sound quality. In addition, the user will receive a holder H85, whereby it is possible to adjust the inclination of the device.

During the development of the microphone in question, a developer from Germany used a new wiring diagram. This makes it possible to significantly increase the dynamic range. In addition, the device has a flat frequency response. The microphone can withstand virtually any sound pressure - this will be facilitated by the special design of the capsule, which prevents the membrane from closing with the back electrode.

Pros:

• excellent anti-jamming system;
• strong and durable metal construction;
• good build;
• there is a susceptibility switch;
• it is possible to include a high-pass filter;
• protective system against any sound pressure;
• low level of own noise.

Minuses:

• overcharge.

Audio-Technica AT2035

A relatively budget microphone in comparison with studio models. It is possible to purchase such a device for about 11,000 rubles. Due to the value, the device received a discreet appearance. However, the latest components are hidden behind the unsightly metal case, which is why the product entered the rating.

The model has a large diagram, which will provide low noise and smooth sound. The device is supplied with a mount that allows it to be placed directly at the sound source. The microphone is mainly used for recording vocals. However, when the need arises, it is possible to record musical instruments such as a guitar.

Such a device includes a switchable low pass filter. It becomes possible to set the bass cutoff, as a result of which blowing out with close vocals is completely eliminated, like other extraneous low-frequency noises. A standard XLR is used as a connector.

Pros:

• durable and high quality construction;
• the package contains a comfortable mount;
• XLR connector is used;
• there is a switchable low-pass filter;
• a cardioid chart is applied;
• extensive dynamic range.

Minuses:

• not everyone will appreciate the appearance;
• the sound will not come out completely clean.

Blue Microphones Bluebird SL

A relatively budget studio microphone, which has a price of 20,000 rubles, thanks to which it got into this rating. The device has a metal case, which is painted in a blue tint. The set includes a -20 dB filter, a high-pass filter, which will make the product a good choice for recording vocals. In addition, the microphone is used to capture sound from piano, guitar and various muses. tools.

It is one of the few capacitor models to use a hand-assembled capsule. This model features a gold-plated meylar diaphragm. Great resonance is provided when capturing vocals. It is worth highlighting the embossed part of the fixed electrode, due to which the sound of the frequency spectrum will turn out to be balanced.

Pros:

• suitable for recording voice and music. tools;
• there is a meylar diaphragm with gold plating;
• there is a high-pass filter and a -20 dB filter;
• minimum amount of noise;
• assembly durability.

Minuses:

• overpriced;
• not everyone will appreciate the style.

The question often arises of how to choose good microphones for your computer. To buy headphones with a good microphone, you need to read this rating.The list includes the best gadgets. They are distinguished by efficiency and quality.