The Best Vocal Microphones For Studio And Stage

In the market for a vocal microphone for use on stage or in the studio? DJ City have you covered on everything and anything vocal microphones. 

But if you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help you explore, understand and navigate the world of this integral piece of recording/performing equipment. 

What is a Vocal Microphone?

Vocal microphones are designed specifically to capture and amplify the sounds of the human voice.

Instrument microphones, by contrast, are tailored for capturing the sounds of musical instruments. Similarly, omnidirectional microphones are engineered to capture signals equally from all directions.

Each category of microphones will be designed and tailored in terms of frequency response, polar pattern, and handling of proximity effect for their particular use. This enables the right audio characteristics to be accentuated, the unwanted elements to be rejected and the best quality audio to be produced.

If you’re in the market for a microphone for vocal use in the recording studio or up on stage, make sure you narrow your focus down to vocal microphones. 

Choosing the Best Mic for Recording Vocals

1. Consider Vocal Style and Genre

Drilling down a little further, even vocal microphones can vary in specialisation. Some have particular sonic characteristics that better complement a specific vocal style or a particular genre of music. 

For example, a dynamic microphone is ideal for energetic and upbeat performances. While a condenser microphone is preferred by vocalists producing smoother and more nuanced sounds.

 

2. Research Polar Patterns

A microphone’s polar patterns determine its level of sensitivity to sound emanating from different directions. The most common polar patterns for a vocal microphone are cardioid patterns. This means sound is captured from the front (i.e., where your mouth is) and rejects noise and sound coming from the sides and the rear.

However, your performance style may require a different pattern. Figure-8, for example, may be necessary if you’re recording a duet with someone else or if you intentionally want to capture ambient sounds around you.

 

3. Noise Handling

Studios tend to have greater noise control than stage performances, but nevertheless, noise handling in a vocal microphone is critical for everyone. Consider your selected mic’s build quality. What’s it like dealing with rough handling during a lively performance? Does it feature built-in shock mounts to minimise noise?

4. General Quality

The quality of audio equipment can vary widely. It’s always good to go with reputable brands with a renowned track record. But if you’re unsure, consider the following qualities of a good vocal microphone.

Clarity and Detail

The right vocal microphones should be able to accurately capture the nuances of the voice and deliver a clear representation to your audience or studio recording equipment.

Low Self-Noise

Microphones actually produce their own noise. Make sure you choose one that doesn’t have audible and unwanted hissing, buzzing or other noise.

Extended Frequency Response

Opt for a microphone, where possible, that accurately captures a wide range of frequencies while ensuring the sound is natural and balanced. 

Long Lasting

A lot of our discussion has focused on the components and performance of the mic, but the hardware is equally important. Choose a rugged, solid and long-lasting microphone to ensure you get your money’s worth.

Comfort

This consideration is especially important for stage performances if you’re going to be holding the microphone. Consider how it feels, how it balances and how much it weighs. 

Feedback Rejection & High Gain Threshold

Again, this is especially important for live performances. Feedback rejection minimises unwanted audio feedback from your venue’s sound system while you’re singing or otherwise vocalising. 

Similarly, you’ll want a microphone that can help you achieve sufficiently high volumes of sound without experiencing horrific feedback issues.  

 

5. Cost

Last but certainly not least in importance is your budget considerations. Make sure you know what you can and can’t spend on a vocal microphone. Understanding your needs and knowing your expectations will keep your browsing and shopping in check.

Often high-end microphones come with high-end quality, but there are certainly many affordable options that deliver more than adequate results. 

Top Recommendations for Studio and Stage Vocal Mics

We’ve curated a list of some of our top recommendations for studio and stage vocal microphones. Please note that this list is general in nature and non-exhaustive. If you’d like to explore our full range of microphones, check out our online store today. And if you’d like to discuss your individual needs and preferences, don’t hesitate to give the DJ City team a call on 1300 352 489.

Studio Vocal Mics: Top Recommendations

Neumann TLM 103 Studio Condenser Microphone

The Neumann TLM 103 Studio Condenser Microphone is known for its exceptional clarity and high level of versatility. It is widely used in professional studios and by budding musicians alike for recording all sorts of vocals. 

Shure SM7B Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Shure SM7B Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone is popular for its iconic warmth and gentle presence in studio recordings. It’s widely used for broadcasting purposes as well due to the fact that it’s excellent for spoken vocals in particular. 

AKG C414 XLII Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

The AKG C414 XLII Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone offers an array of benefits including multiple polar patterns, an extended frequency response and super high-quality sound reproduction. 

 

Stage Vocal Mics: Top Recommendations

Shure SM58S Dynamic Vocal Microphone Cardioid with Switch

The Shure SM58S Dynamic Vocal Microphone Cardioid offers high levels of durability and reliability in both hardware and its internal mechanics. The excellent feedback rejection functionality makes it a popular option for live performance and stage use.

Sennheiser E935 Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Sennheiser E935 Dynamic Vocal Microphone is popular for its robust build quality. Additionally, it delivers consistently smooth and natural-sounding audio as well as more-than-competent feedback rejection. You can tailor the frequency response to emphasise vocal clarity as well, which is why it’s among the favoured options for live stage performance use. 

 

Find Your Voice with the Best Vocal Mic!

DJ City stocks all the best microphones you need for recording vocals in the studio or on stage. With a wide range of vocal microphones to suit all needs, preferences and budgets, make sure to check out our selection today or get in touch with our team if you need assistance.