With an overwhelming array of options available, we've compiled a list of the top 18 best microphones for recording artists, musicians, and studio professionals of all types and levels.

Whether you're a singer, rapper, producer, or any other recording artist you'll find a mic below that fits your needs.

The list is ordered in price from lowest to highest so you can peruse based on your budget.

Top Home Studio Mics for Music Professionals By Price: Lowest Price to Most Expensive

Best Mics Under $200:

1) Movo UM700 USB microphone ($59.95)

Pros:

• Excellent audio quality for vocals and instruments.
• User-friendly plug-and-play setup.
• Solid build quality for durability.
• A budget-friendly option for musicians and recording artists.

Cons:

• Limited features compared to higher-end microphones.
• May not be suitable for complex studio setups.

Best for:

• Solo musicians, singer-songwriters, and acoustic performers looking for high-quality audio on a budget.

Specs:
Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB
Directionality: Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Use: Computer, Stage, Studio
Connectivity: Wired

2) Shure SM58 ($99.00)

Pros:

• Exceptional durability and longevity, perfect for demanding use.
• Superb vocal microphone with a tailored frequency response for clear and warm vocal reproduction.
• Effective built-in pop filter minimizes plosives and background noise.
• Widely favored for live performances due to its ruggedness and reliability.

Cons:

• Less versatile compared to condenser microphones, primarily designed for vocals.
• Requires proper handling to prevent handling noise in live situations.

Best for:

• Singers, vocalists, public speakers, and live performers seek a durable and high-quality microphone for clear and reliable vocal reproduction in a live setting or recording studio.

Connector Type: XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Dynamic
Use: Computer, Stage, Studio
Connectivity: Wired

3. Shure SM57 ($99.00)

Pros:

• Legendary durability and reliability, built to last.
• Excellent instrument microphone for recording guitars, drums, and more.
• Widely used in live sound reinforcement for its versatility.
• Can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion.

Cons:

• Requires additional accessories for various recording applications (e.g., shock mount or pop filter).
• Less ideal for vocals compared to dedicated vocal microphones.

Best for:

• Musicians, recording engineers, and sound technicians looking for a robust and versatile microphone for instrument recording and live sound applications, particularly for guitars, drums, and amplifiers.

Specs:
Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Dynamic
Use: Computer, Stage, Studio
Connectivity: Wired

4. Audio-Technica AT2020 ($99.00)

Pros:

• Exceptional audio quality with a wide frequency response.
• Versatile for various musical instruments and vocals.
• Durable build and professional design.
• Great value for its performance and quality.

Cons:

• Requires an audio interface or mixer for recording, which may add to the overall cost.
• No built-in monitoring or volume control.

Best for:

• Musicians and recording artists seek a versatile and high-quality microphone for studio and live performances, especially when already equipped with an audio interface or mixer.

Specs:
Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

5. AKG P120 Microphone ($99.00)

Pros:

• Affordable yet delivers decent audio quality for its price range.
• Versatile, suitable for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and various studio applications.
• Solid build and design, offering good value for the cost.
• The cardioid polar pattern reduces background noise and provides directional sound capture.

Cons:

• Audio quality may not match more expensive studio microphones.
• May require additional sound treatment for optimal results in professional recording settings.

Best for:

• Home studio owners, beginner musicians, and recording artists looking for a budget-friendly microphone that can handle various recording tasks, from vocals to acoustic instruments, while still delivering decent sound quality.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

6. MXL 990 ($99.95)

Pros:

• Affordable yet offers surprisingly good audio quality for its price.
• Versatile, suitable for vocals, acoustic instruments, and various studio applications.
• Attractive vintage design with a solid build.
• Low self-noise and smooth response for clean recordings.

Cons:

• May require additional accessories for professional studio use (e.g., shock mount or pop filter).
• Build quality is not as rugged as more expensive microphones.

Best for:

• Home studio owners, budget-conscious musicians, and recording artists looking for a versatile and cost-effective microphone that can handle various recording tasks, particularly vocals and acoustic instruments, while offering decent sound quality.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

7. IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio ($99.99)

Pros:

• Compact and portable design for on-the-go recording.
• Compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS, Android, and computers.
• Decent audio quality for its size and price.
• Comes with a range of useful accessories.

Cons:

• Audio quality may not match higher-end studio microphones.
• Built-in pop filter effectiveness may vary depending on usage.

Best for:

• Musicians, singers, producers, and recording artists who require a portable and versatile microphone for capturing audio on various devices while on the move, without compromising too much on sound quality.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

7. Behringer TM1 Condenser Microphone ($129.00)

Pros:

• Compact and portable design for on-the-go recording.
• Compatible with a wide range of devices, including iOS, Android, and computers.
• Decent audio quality for its size and price.
• Comes with a range of useful accessories.

Cons:

• Audio quality may not match higher-end studio microphones.
• Built-in pop filter effectiveness may vary depending on usage.

Best for:

• Musicians and recording enthusiasts seeking a portable and versatile microphone that can easily connect to various devices for recording, making it ideal for field recording, mobile music production, and home studios.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

Best Mics $200 - $500

8. Shure Super 55 ($249.00)

Pros:

• Iconic and visually striking design reminiscent of a classic era.
• Superb audio quality for vocals, especially suited for live performances.
• Sturdy construction for long-lasting durability.
• Excellent feedback rejection for stage use.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to other vocal microphones.
• The retro design may not suit all performance aesthetics.

Best for:

• Professional musicians, stage performers, and entertainers looking for a top-tier microphone with exceptional vocal quality and a distinctive vintage look, perfect for live performances and recording where style and sound quality are equally important.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

9. Telefunken M80 ($249.00)

Pros:

• Exceptional audio quality with a clear and detailed sound.
• Rugged build quality, designed for the demands of the stage.
• Versatile dynamic microphone suitable for a range of instruments and vocals.
• Excellent feedback rejection in live sound applications.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to some dynamic microphones.
• May require additional accessories for certain recording situations.

Best for:

• Professional musicians and live sound engineers seek a high-quality dynamic microphone that excels in live performances and studio recordings, making it an ideal choice for vocals and various instruments where audio precision and reliability are paramount.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

10. Rode NT1  ($249.00) 

Pros:

• Exceptional studio-grade audio quality with low self-noise.
• Versatile for vocals, acoustic instruments, and studio recording.
• Sleek and modern design with durable construction.
• Includes shock mount and pop filter for added value.

Cons:

• Requires an external audio interface or mixer for recording.
• Sensitive condenser microphone, which may pick up more background noise in untreated environments.

Best for:

• Musicians, vocalists, and recording artists looking for a high-quality studio condenser microphone that delivers pristine audio and is well-suited for a wide range of recording applications, making it a top choice for home and professional studios.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

11. Shure SM7B ($399.00)

Pros:

• Renowned for its exceptional audio quality and versatility.
• Ideal for both vocal and instrument recording, including spoken word and singing.
• Effective pop filter and shock isolation for clean sound capture.
• Trusted by professionals for its reliability.

Cons:

• Requires a high-quality preamp to maximize its potential.
• Heavier and bulkier than some other microphones.

Best for:

• Recording artists, podcasters, broadcasters, and studio professionals seeking a premium dynamic microphone with superb sound quality and the versatility to handle various vocal and instrumental applications, making it a top choice for pro studios and content creators.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

12. Aston Microphones Spirit ($379.00)

Pros:

• Outstanding audio quality with a versatile sound character.
• Unique, eye-catching design and durable build.
• Switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omni, and figure-8) for flexible recording.
• Comes with a custom shock mount for reduced vibrations and handling noise.

Cons:

• Pricier than some other condenser microphones in its category.
• May require a dedicated shock mount and pop filter for optimal performance in some recording situations.

Best for:

• Musicians, recording engineers, and producers looking for a premium studio condenser microphone that delivers exceptional audio quality and versatility, making it a top choice for capturing vocals and various instruments in a professional studio setting.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

13. AKG C214 ($353.00)

Pros:

• Exceptional audio quality, known for its warm and detailed sound.
• Versatile for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.
• Robust build quality with a rugged metal housing.
• Includes a custom shock mount and carrying case for added convenience.

Cons:

• Relatively higher price point compared to entry-level microphones.
• Requires an external audio interface or mixer for recording.

Best for:

• Musicians, studio professionals, and recording artists seeking a high-quality studio condenser microphone renowned for its warmth and versatility, making it an excellent choice for capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and a wide range of studio recording applications.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

Mics $500 - $1000

14. Rode NTK ($529)

Pros:

• Exceptional audio quality with a warm and rich tube-driven sound.
• Versatile for a wide range of studio recording applications.
• Solid build quality with a classic and attractive design.
• Comes with a power supply, shock mount, and carrying case.

Cons:

• Requires extra care and maintenance due to the tube design.
• Higher price point compared to some other studio microphones.

Best for:

• Studio professionals, recording artists, and audiophiles looking for a premium studio tube condenser microphone that delivers a warm, vintage-inspired sound and excels in a variety of studio recording situations, making it a top choice for high-quality studio and vocal recordings.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

15. AKG C636 ($459)

Pros:

• Outstanding audio quality with clear and natural vocal reproduction.
• Excellent feedback rejection for live performances.
• Durable, stage-ready construction with a rugged metal body.
• Built-in pop filter and shock mount for reduced handling noise.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to many dynamic microphones.
• May require an external pop filter in certain recording situations.

Best for:

• Professional vocalists, stage performers, and sound engineers seeking a top-tier condenser microphone that excels in live sound applications, delivering crystal-clear vocal reproduction and effective feedback rejection, making it an excellent choice for live performances and studio recording where vocal quality is paramount.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

16. Neumann TLM 102 ($729)

Pros:

• Superb audio quality with a transparent and detailed sound.
• Compact and sleek design, suitable for small studio spaces.
• Versatile for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.
• Neumann's renowned build quality and craftsmanship.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to many studio condenser microphones.
• No included shock mount or pop filter, requiring additional accessories.

Best for:

• Recording professionals, musicians, and studio enthusiasts looking for a premium studio condenser microphone that delivers pristine audio quality and versatility in a compact form factor, making it an excellent choice for high-quality vocal and instrument recordings in professional and home studios.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

Best Mics for $1,000+

17. AKG C414 XLII (1,150)

Pros:

• Exceptional audio quality with a wide dynamic range and multiple polar pattern options.
• Versatile for recording vocals, instruments, and ensembles.
• Robust build quality and durability.
• Includes a shock mount, pop filter, and carrying case for added value.

Cons:

• Considerably higher price point compared to most studio microphones.
• Requires a high-quality preamp to fully utilize its capabilities.

Best for:

• Studio professionals, recording engineers, and advanced musicians looking for a premium studio condenser microphone renowned for its versatility, top-notch sound quality, and various polar pattern options, making it a top choice for capturing vocals, instruments, and complex sound sources in professional recording studios.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

Neumann U87 Ai  (3,500)

Pros:

• Legendary audio quality with a transparent and versatile sound.
• Widely used in professional recording studios and broadcast settings.
• Three selectable polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8).
• Exceptional build quality and durability.
• Well-suited for a wide range of studio recording applications.

Cons:

• A premium microphone with a high price point.
• May require an additional shock mount and pop filter, not always included.

Best for:

• Professional recording studios, broadcast facilities, and seasoned recording engineers seeking an industry-standard studio condenser microphone known for its unparalleled audio quality, versatility, and top-tier build, make it an ideal choice for capturing vocals, instruments, and complex sound sources in the most demanding recording environments.

Connector Type: Mini-jack, USB, XLR
Directionality: Unidirectional
Type: Condenser
Connectivity: Wired

Common Questions about Mics

How do these microphones perform in untreated room environments?

Generally, dynamic microphones like the Shure SM58 are less sensitive to room noise compared to condenser microphones, which can pick up more background noise if the room is not acoustically treated.

Can these microphones be used for podcasting or streaming?

Many of the microphones listed, especially versatile ones like the Shure SM7B, are also excellent choices for podcasting and streaming. They offer clear audio reproduction and are favored for their ability to capture nuanced vocal performances, making them suitable for spoken word content.

What additional equipment might be needed to use these microphones effectively?

Depending on the microphone, you may need an audio interface, XLR cables, a stand, and possibly a pop filter or shock mount to reduce unwanted noise and vibrations. Condenser microphones, for example, often require phantom power, which is typically provided by audio interfaces or mixers.

Looking to Promote Your Music?

Try our Spotify Playlist Pitching and TikTok Music Promotion services.