Finding the best vocal mic for your specific needs is a big challenge – especially when you throw a tighter budget into the mix.
However, I’ve done some research and come up with five of the best vocal mics that are available for under $500. I’ve sifted through the plethora of options and narrowed the choices down to save you time and effort.
Have a quick read below to see if any of the mics take your fancy.
Features to Lookout For:
There are some important factors that you need to consider before going ahead and picking the best vocal mic for your needs.
This section is especially helpful if you’re new to all this (don’t stress, we’ve all been there!).
Frequency Response
A frequency response is simply the range of frequency that the mic is able to detect. They can vary from high to low and they are typically demonstrated in hertz.
Mics that have a frequency response of 80Hz-15Hz are great for vocal recordings.
Sensitivity
The top mics for recording vocals will have a great amount of sensitivity. This is an excellent feature for people looking to record quieter vocals.
The sound pressure level is commonly recorded in decibels and this tells you the highest volume that the mic can handle.
Construction
It’s important for mics to feel strong and durable. An easy way to gauge this is by keeping a lookout for the materials that are used to construct it. If they’re sturdy materials, like metal or steel, you can be confident that it will last you during the day-to-day use.
Phantom Power
It’s common for vocal mics to require power – this is provided by phantom power.
This power system involves an XLR socket and wire. All you have to do is plug it in and switch on the phantom power prior to selecting a channel, and you’re good to go.
5 Best Vocal Mics Under $500
Heil Dynamic Studio Recording Mic
Heil are known to create high-quality mics that enable you to get the most out of your vocals – and the PR-40 mic is no different.
Best Features:
- Steel materials are used to construct this mic which makes it strong and durable.
- The frequency response range of 28Hz-18kHZ is impressive as it gives you a lot to play around with.
- There’s a total output level of 53,9dB at 1,000Hz.
Features to Keep an Eye on:
- Some find the XLR jack to be a little too tight
Rode NT1KIT Condenser Microphone
The Rode NT1 mic has been created with fantastic midranges, awesome bass production, and remarkably high frequencies that are smooth.
Best Features:
- A Rode SMR Premium Shockmount is included to minimize vibration interferences
- There’s bipolar output buffer and JFET impedance converter
- A cardioid polar pattern is used to reduce noise around you
- It has a good frequency that ranges between 20Hz and 20kHz
Features to Keep an Eye on:
- A few customers have mentioned the pop filter doesn’t completely block out air
AGK C214 Professional Condenser Microphone
I noticed that the AGK C214 is essentially a more budget-friendly option to the C414 mic. It provides you with a professional grade sound at a lower price than you may be expecting.
Best Features:
- Built-in suspension to minimize mechanical noise & vibrations
- Metal construction that’s resistant to scratches
- Impressive dynamic range which is great for close-up recording
- The sonic features enhance vocals and instruments
Features to Keep an Eye on:
- May be prone to faint popping sounds – but this can easily be remedies with a pop filter! For the price, this is a very minor downside that’s easy to deal with.
Shure SM57 -LC Cardioid Dynamic Mic
It’s common to find this Shure SM57 mic in studios and in the hands of performers for a reason. I liked how it has a very clean, warm sound which makes it fantastic for a variety of instruments.
Best Features:
- Any mechanical noise is reduced due to the shock isolation feature
- The pop filter is remarkably effective at minimizing air sounds, which makes it great for close-up recording
- Background noise is drastically reduced, while your main voice is focused on for clearer vocals as a result of the cardioid pattern
- Comes with an impressive 40-15,000Hz frequency response
- The sound recorded is protected from electromagnetic sounds from any electronics nearby
Features to Keep an Eye on:
- Some find the wires are prone to disconnecting after prolonged use
Audio Technica AT4040 Cardioid Condenser Mic
The Audio Technica AT4040 has a great frequency response along with very smooth sounding recordings.
Best Features:
- The large diaphragm has been tensioned to allow for incredibly smooth sounds
- Any low-frequency distortion is minimized due to the circuitry coming with no transformer
- You can achieve fantastic sensitivity & stability with the nickel-plated brass
- The condenser design opens you up to more versatile sounds as there’s a bigger range of dynamics to explore
Features to Keep an Eye On:
- Some users find the highs to be a little dull
Be sure to use the above review to guide you towards picking the best vocal mic for you!
