Best Condenser Microphones

Review & Comparison, Last Update March 3, 2024
Look here to find out about the best condenser mics for your home studio or simple apartment room to reliably broadcast and record your instrumental music or vocal performance with transcendent acoustic qualities. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Sound Recording Modes
Frequency Response
Sample Rate
Bit Rate
Extras
Warranty
 
PROS

The device is compatible with the ShurePlus MOTIV Audio App, which significantly expands the functionality of the microphone and gives options to edit recordings using trim or split options, choose DSP preset modes (Speech, Singing, Flat, Acoustic Instrument, Loud), share files and much more.

CONS

Won't work when your iPhone is in a massive protected case.

OUR VERDICT

The Shure MV88 Portable Microphone is designed specifically for use with iPhone / iPad / iPod devices (equipped with a Lightning connector): it will be indispensable for people who often log in on the go and want to achieve high-quality sound. Is Apple MFi certified.

detailed parameters
Sound Recording Modes

Cardioid / Bidirectional

Frequency Response

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Sample Rate

48 kHz

Bit Rate

24 bit

Extras

Compatible with Apple iOS devices (with Lightning connector), control via ShurePlus™ MOTIV recording app, 5 DSP preset modes, Innovative hinge/rotation design, foam windshield, carry case, headphone monitor adaptor cable included

Warranty

2 years

PROS

The complete absence of background noise and the advanced technology for suppressing extraneous sounds in the background guarantees a crystal-clear recording of your voice, without requiring additional processing using third-party software.

CONS

This microphone is too vibration sensitive.

OUR VERDICT

If you are looking for a good microphone for commenting on sporting events or any events in the open, we recommend choosing this model: the device will transmit your voice without distortion or changing the tone, making it fully recognizable.

detailed parameters
Sound Recording Modes

Cardioid

Frequency Response

20 Hz - 20 kHz

Sample Rate

44.1 kHz

Bit Rate

16 bit

Extras

3-pin XLR output connector, pivoting stand mount for 5/8" stands, 5/8" to 3/8" adapter, soft protective pouch included

Warranty

2 years

PROS

Due to the metal housing with gold-plated round grill, the microphone has increased durability - this minimizes the risk of device breakdown due to an accidental fall. Such a solution is relevant when performing on stage (when the microphone is fixed on the stand).

CONS

Sometimes it distorts sounds.

OUR VERDICT

The MXL V67G microphone is a great solution for small recording studios: the large 32mm pressure gradient condenser capsule and gold-sputtered, 6 micron density diaphragm are made for a clean and warm sound. Ideal for R&B, pop, rock, jazz and country music styles.

detailed parameters
Sound Recording Modes

Cardioid

Frequency Response

30 Hz - 20 kHz

Sample Rate

44.1 kHz

Bit Rate

16 bit

Extras

3-pin XLR output connector, pivoting mic stand holder and storage pouch included

Warranty

1 year (1 more year for product registration)

PROS

The suspension scissor arm with metal shock mount allows you to precisely adjust the position of the microphone so that it is near you and does not interfere. Thanks to the mounting clamp, you can securely fasten the structure to the table.

CONS

Background noise cancellation is not the best.

OUR VERDICT

This kit is relatively inexpensive and will be optimal for people who want to try streaming: everything is included in the kit for a convenient connection to a personal computer or laptop (via USB port) and quick setup.

detailed parameters
Sound Recording Modes

Cardioid

Frequency Response

30 Hz-16 kHz

Sample Rate

192 kHz

Bit Rate

24 bit

Extras

USB Type-B output connector (USB Type-B to USB Type-A cable included), suspension scissor arm, metal shock mount, double-layer pop filter and windscreen included

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

Included is a premium pop-filter, which significantly reduces the likelihood of congestion when pronouncing harsh consonants (hard ‘B’, ‘T’ or ‘P’ sounds). There is also a 3.5mm Male to XLR Female Cable that is 8.2 feet long for easy connection.

CONS

Scissor arm makes a lot of noise when adjusting it.

OUR VERDICT

The Neewer NW-700 Professional Studio Condenser Microphone will be a worthy alternative to conventional microphones that integrate into computer headsets: this device can easily handle podcasts, live broadcasts, and is even suitable for voice-over translation.

detailed parameters
Sound Recording Modes

Cardioid

Frequency Response

20 Hz-16 kHz

Sample Rate

96 kHz

Bit Rate

16 bit

Extras

3-pin XLR output connector (XLR to 3.5-mm cable included), suspension scissor arm, metal shock mount, ball-type anti-wind foam cap and windscreen included

Warranty

3 months

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Shure MV88

Record On The Go

One of the best things about the recent advances of technology for those who record audio for a living is that you no longer need to be confined to a sound-proof studio to do so. Quite a few products have been made in recent years for those who wish to record while away from their studio. Having said that, though, many of these devices often tend to be a bit subpar when compared to studio-quality equipment, meaning that they're often not quite up to speed with what many people need.

This complaint certainly can't be made about the Shure MV88 Portable iOS Stereo Condenser Mic, which gives you a studio-quality microphone that can be used with iOS devices. This high-quality condenser microphone connects to your iPhone or iPad through the Lightning port with an Apple MFI certified cable, giving you the benefits of a direct, high-speed connection to the device. This is actually the perfect fit, considering the advanced audio tools that are now available for iOS devices, so you can record directly to the device without having to do your recording in a studio. This lets you both record and edit while on the go, meaning all you need is your iOS device, this microphone, and a good quiet place to record your audio.

Review of Shure MV88 Portable iOS Stereo Condenser Mic for Vloggers

Advanced Recording And Editing

Speaking of the advanced recording capabilities that this microphone can give you, this is helped by the ShurePlus MOTIV Audio that is available for free for your iOS device, which gives you seamless recoding and editing capabilities when used in conjunction with this device. This app gives you advanced editing functions such as trim and split options, as well as a wide range of DSP functions that all work to give you studio-level control over your audio recordings. In addition, this microphone also works with the ShurePlus MOTIV Video app for those who record video as well as audio.

Not much has been mentioned yet about the device itself. Fortunately, that doesn't mean that the build quality is lacking. In fact, this microphone features an exceptional design, being small enough to easily fit in your phone while also being quite sturdy and able to handle the rigours associated with portable use. The device can be positioned perfectly to give you the best angle for recording, and a convenient carry case for easy transportation. Just be aware that the microphone won't fit well on any iPhone or iPad that uses a thick protective case. Overall, this small but highly capable condenser microphone gives you studio-quality recording anywhere you go.

Shure MV88 Portable iOS Stereo Condenser Mic for Vloggers in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $146.98
Stock In stock
ASIN B010W6W8OW

 

Audio-Technica AT2020-1

Great Open Air Mic

Microphones come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, and many are made for specific uses. This can make finding the right condenser microphone for recording or broadcasts a difficult prospect for those who don't have a high degree of familiarity with such devices. As microphones can be used for a variety of different purposes, it is usually best to find one that was made with the specific purpose in mind that is needed from it. This is especially true when a microphone is needed for open air recordings or broadcasts instead of in-studio recording.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone is one such device that can actually work well both in open air situations as well as in the studio. The build quality and recording technology built into the microphone allows it to capture your voice with perfect clarity, no matter what the conditions are around the microphone. If you need to comment on goings-on in the street, or broadcast a sports game, or perform some other type of recording outside of a studio while still needing one that will work just as well inside of the studio, this microphone will give your voice the pick-up that it needs while reducing the background noise to a minimum.

Review of Audio-Technica AT2020-1 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

Only Your Voice

As mentioned before, this microphone is able to record your voice perfectly without interference from background noise. This is due to the advanced design of the unit as well as its cardioid pickups, which are focused on sound coming from directly in front of the microphone while reducing the pickup of any sounds coming from the sides or the rear. This makes it perfect for situations where you need to record or broadcast your voice with high clarity in noisy areas such as a sports stadium or some kind of outdoor festival, where sounds from all around will threaten to drown out your voice.

The build quality of this microphone will not elicit any complaints from anyone. The microphone comes in a black-speckled finish that will look great wherever you are using it. The low mass diaphragm of the device gives you great gain and extended frequency response while also helping to reduce the pickup of external noises. The only complaint that we have encountered is that this microphone is somewhat susceptible to vibrations affecting the recording, so it is best to mount it on a sturdy table. Outside of that, we are sure that any user will find this microphone to be more than suitable for their needs, whether they are inside or outside of the studio.

Audio-Technica AT2020-1 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $99.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00D6QJSOE

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

Definitely impressed with its weight, style and function.

Features

Low noise: I was actually quite surprised when I heard my test recording. Even after signal amplification, I do not hear much noise.
 

MXL V67G

Made For The Stage

Condenser microphones can be used for quite a few different purposes, but when it comes to finding a microphone that is ready to be used for the stage, this can be a different story. Microphones used for the stage need more than just good sound quality in order to be useful for that environment. They also need to be quite sturdy, well-balanced, and able to handle the rigors of stage use. This is exactly what you find with the MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone, a model that has been made specifically for use by live performance acts, offering everything that is needed with a stage microphone.

A first look at this microphone will reveal that it has a slightly different appearance than the others that are reviewed here. The appearance of the microphone is directly related to its main purpose of stage use, as such a microphone needs to look just as good as it sounds. This microphone fits that bill perfectly, thanks to its green body and bright gold head. This appearance comes thanks to the large 32mm pressure gradient condenser capsule and gold-sputtered, 6 micron density diaphragm, both of which allow for a clean and warm sound that is perfect for use by many different singing and musical acts on the stage.

Review of MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone

High Durability

The metal housing and gold-plated round grill do more than just make this microphone look good. They provide an extremely durable housing for the unit, protecting the sensitive electronics inside while also giving users the crystal clear sound they require. The durability of this microphone can't be overstated, though - the housing protects it well enough to prevent anything inside from breaking should the microphone fall off of its stand or slip out of a performer's hand. Having said that, the likelihood of this happening with this microphone is slim, provided it is properly mounted or handled.

Thankfully, this microphone doesn't come as a very basic unit. Included with the microphone is a pivoting mic stand holder that lets you position the microphone exactly as you need it while still providing an extremely firm grip on it. The microphone also includes a standard 3-pin XLR output connector, which allows you to connect it easily to stage-quality audio equipment, and even a carry pouch that lets you transport it easily while keeping it adequately protected. In short, anyone who requires a high-performance and highly durable microphone for stage performances of all types of music will find this model to be an excellent choice.

MXL V67G Large Capsule Condenser Microphone in the use
Last updated price $73.73
Stock In stock
ASIN B000JRPYGE

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

It's very attractive and the sound quality is superb.

Features

It came in a really nice case, and the sound quality is pretty good for the price.
 

UHURU USB

Affordable Streaming Mic

Not everyone needs the highest quality microphone possible. This is especially true of streamers, who want a microphone that is good enough to provide excellent capturing of their voice for clear playback, but without the need of many of the advanced technologies that many studio microphones have. Furthermore, not everyone can afford microphones that cost an arm and a leg. If you find yourself in this camp, yet you need a good microphone for streaming, then you should take a good look at the UHURU USB Podcast Condenser Microphone.

The first thing that many will notice about this microphone is the price. Although it may still not be considered "cheap", it is still well within the budget of most people who take streaming seriously. That said, the microphone doesn't have many of the advanced features that some other microphones have, but for a good streaming microphone, most of those are simply not necessary. Just be aware that this model doesn't have the best background noise cancellation out there. Outside of that, you'll find this microphone to be quite capable of providing extremely clear voice recordings that will work perfectly for streaming, podcasts, or even video voice-overs.

Review of UHURU USB Podcast Condenser Microphone

Setup and Use Instantly

One of the good hallmarks of a good microphone to use with computers is one that can be setup and ready to go in an instant. Again, this microphone delivers that exactly, thanks to its USB connection that requires nothing more than just plugging it into your computer's USB port. The included plug is a USB Type-B, but a cable for connecting to a USB Type-A port is included. The microphone should be instantly recognised and useable in your favorite recording or streaming software, without the need for making any obscure adjustments. The microphone will give you excellent voice quality right out of the box.

Despite the modest price of this microphone, it comes with the extras you need to get it setup perfectly. The microphone comes with a scissor-arm stand that can be easily mounted to a table or desk, and which provides the perfect way to place it wherever you need it, and in a way in which it won't get in your way or obstruct your movements. The stand includes a metal shock mount that helps reduce the effects of vibration that may reach the mic due to bumping into the desk. Along with the included windscreen and pop filter, you get everything you need for great quality voice streaming in one affordable package.

UHURU USB Podcast Condenser Microphone in the use
Last updated price $46.74
Stock In stock
ASIN B07P7YQ9ZN

 

Neewer NW-700

Get Rid Of Your Headset

Many people who are new to podcasting or streaming will often rely on headsets for their audio recording needs. For someone who is new to the world of online podcasts or streaming your video games, this may work fine, but in order to help grow your audience you will need to invest in some better audio equipment, with your first stop being a professional model microphone. A great way to start off with this is by choosing the Neewer NW-700 Professional Studio Broadcasting Condenser Microphone, a low-cost alternative to the standard headset that will give you far superior audio quality at a very affordable price.

A first place at this condenser microphone will show that you're really stepping up from using the standard cheap microphone that is connected to most headsets. This microphone has the standard look and design of professional models, featuring the standard metal grill covering and metal housing which will be especially helpful in picking up your voice much more clearly than any headset microphone will. That is why this microphone is often recommended for doing podcasts, streaming, and even voice-overs, letting you do all of these things in a professional manner with professional tools but at a very low price.

Review of Neewer NW-700 Professional Studio Broadcasting Condenser Microphone

Professional Quality For Pocket Change

Although this is a very cost-effective microphone, there isn't much here that is missing or of a lower quality than what you will find with much more expensive microphones. One of the great features this model has is a pop filter, which helps to soften the congestion that often appears when pronouncing harsh consonants, such as the hard ‘B’, ‘T’ or ‘P’ sounds. Also included is an anti-wind foam cap that will prevent background wind or even your breath from causing interference or being picked up by the microphone. Between these two features, you will get professional-sounding audio quality for sure.

The microphone comes with a scissor-arm stand that allows for adjusting the positioning in any fashion you require, with the stand fastened to your desk with the mounting clamp. This gives your microphone exceptional stability while also helping to free up desk space. The microphone includes a 3.5mm Male to XLR Female Cable that is 8.2 feet long, letting you connect to audio equipment that is located virtually anywhere in your room. If you're just starting out with podcasts or streaming and you need a great quality microphone to start with but without needing to spend an arm and a leg for it, this model from Neewer is definitely worth a look.

Neewer NW-700 Professional Studio Broadcasting Condenser Microphone in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $32.49
Stock In stock
ASIN B00XOXRTX6

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Good sound quality overall. Amazing frequency response.

Features

Great mic, comes with all the bits needed. Good sound quality.
 

What Is a Condenser Microphone?

In simple words, a microphone is a piece of electrical music and sound equipment that can capture sound waves around it for recording or amplifying and further reproduction with sound speakers. A condenser microphone is the same microphone but unlike regular models, it has a better frequency response, allowing them to pick the smallest nuances in your voice or your musical instrument's tonality. Therefore, if you're looking for a microphone to use in your own home studio or for online webcasting or general audio recording, condenser microphones are exactly what you need. 

For those who've only recently started to equip their home studio with music equipment, we recommend checking out reviews of the best over-ear headphones, too. And if you are into game live streaming, make sure to take a look at our selections of the graphics card and HD webcams that will remarkably improve the quality of your videos. 

What Features to Compare

Those who are not overly familiar with the specific characteristics of a microphone may not know what they should look for when buying a good condenser microphone. Most people may simply think that a microphone is just a microphone, but nothing could be further from the truth. In order to choose the best condenser microphone for your audio studio, you should get acquainted with details that will tell you how good a microphone will be at its job. Below are some of the most important characteristics to focus on when choosing a condenser microphone.

Sound Recording Modes

Probably the first thing you should pay attention to is what sound recording modes are supported by a microphone you choose. Most microphones will use one of these two modes: Cordioid or Bidirectional. The difference between these modes is that Cordioid often has the best sound pickup from the front and sides of the microphone, but poor from the back, whereas Bidirectional excels at picking up audio from both the front and the rear, but poor from the sides. Having said that, the vast majority of microphones out there tend to use Cardioid recording, that's why you might need to do quite some searching if you choose to go with the one supporting Bidirectional mode.

Frequency Response

Another important consideration when selecting a microphone is the frequency response, which measures the frequencies of sounds that can be picked up and recorded by a microphone. It is worth noting though that there's no such a thing as a "perfect" range as much will depend on the type of audio being recorded, but those who want to have an option to include all different types of audio in their recordings should probably be looking towards microphones boasting the largest frequency response.

Sample Rate/ Bit Rate

The sample rate and bit rate of a microphone are important considerations to take into account. The sample rate of a microphone indicates the size of digital audio samples that can be recorded. Most microphones today are expected to support a minimum of 44.1 kHz samples, which is about the same as CD quality. Likewise, the bit rate indicates the number of bits used for each segment of a sample, with 16-bit being the standard for CD quality audio. Some microphones support higher bit rates such as 24-bit for high fidelity recordings.

Extras

Last but not least, any extras that are included in a microphone will often prove to be an important consideration when choosing the best model for your needs. These extras can range from any number of different technologies or devices included with the microphone, such as the types of connectors it supports or even things such as anti-vibration technology that can be used to improve the overall quality of recordings.

Sources:

1. Joe Shambro Condenser vs. Dynamic Microphones, About. September 26, 2016.

2. Studio Microphone Buying Guide, Sweetwater.

3. The Beginner’s Guide to Recording Studio Microphones, E-Home Recording Studio.

4. Sean The Best Microphone for Recording Rap Vocals, The Wire Realm. September 13, 2016.

5. Alan Henry How to Choose the Best Microphone for Your PC, Lifehacker. March 24, 2014.

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