Microphones are key to any vocal performance, whether it’s live or a recording. So, what will give you the sound you want and what will feel the most comfortable to use? How do you get the results you want during recording, how do you get them during gigs, and what can do both?
This is our list of the best microphones for vocals. We’ll cover different microphone types and technologies, their pros and cons, and key features to look out for.
In a hurry?
For a quick rundown, here are our favourite three picks for vocal mics:
| Audio Technica AT2035 | High-performance condenser mic with extremely low noise and an extremely neutral, accurate sound. | Check the current price |
| Shure SM58 | Classic handheld dynamic microphone with a supremely reliable build, excellent sound pressure handling, with a high gain ceiling ideal for live performance. | Check the current price |
| Electro-Voice RE20 | Durable dynamic microphone used in live broadcasting, studio recording, and live musical performances, with Variable-D technology that eliminates off-axis colouration. | Check the current price |
Why we’ve chosen these microphones
We’ve personally chosen some of the best vocal microphones on the market, based on a range of key features. The sound on vocals is naturally our main deciding factor. Since sound quality is subjective, some mic tones may be coloured, bright, dark, or extremely flat, but they’ll all have the appropriate frequency response curve for vocalists.
We’ve also looked for additional features that make them well-suited to vocals. High-pass filters, output pads, switchable presence boosts, good plosive prevention, and microphone modelling are all great extra features – and we’ll dig into exactly why as we get to them.
And of course, we’ve tried to select microphones that give you a solid build quality that can hold up to intensive use. Everyone knows this is important for gigs, but it’s also worth considering the studio. While the studio is a more controlled environment, most mics are likely to be used pretty heavily, and things can still go wrong sometimes.
We’ve also tried to highlight some that are suited to both studio and live environments where possible, although many mics have to be designed more for one over the other. There’s a good split between dynamics and condensers on offer too, so whatever style of mic you prefer, there should be something for you here.
What to look for in your vocal mic
I think there are two things everyone wants in a vocal mic: a great sound and a reliable build. Extra features would be nice, but they may not always hold up or be necessary, whether these things appeal or not has to be up to you above all else.
So, when we discuss features on certain models, it’s always worth asking yourself if that’s something you feel like you need and could fit into your use case, or if it’s something that might get between you and performing the way you want to.
Environment is king here – live shows have certain demands that studios simply don’t, for example. Does its sound punch through the noise of a full band? Does it hold up to sweat and liquid spills? What if it gets dropped? Are plosives an issue with this mic?
It may even be worth asking whether it’s worth picking a popular model, so you can readily find a replacement should one get destroyed on tour. Does it come in at a reasonable price point and can you budget for a similar replacement at a moment’s notice?
Studios, similarly, have a different set of requirements. How are you recording? How do you like to perform in a studio? Energetic performers who like to move around in the studio may feel more comfortable with a handheld mic. Condensers are great and detailed, but do they offer the sound that works for this song?
Speaking of sound, are you working with a range of vocalists other than yourself? Does the microphone’s sound suit your voice well? As a rule of thumb, darker microphones work with vocalists who have higher-pitched voices, and brighter mics with deeper voices.
However, if you pick a microphone that’s too dark, you may lose the defining treble on the performer’s voice, whereas one that’s too bright may kill the definition in the low end of a deeper voice. It’s all a balancing act and sometimes it’s best to have a range of mics to work with a range of voices.
The best microphones for vocals
1. Audio-Technica AT2035
Key features
- Durable large diaphragm condenser microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- SPL handling up to 148 dB
Pros
- Neutral, even tone translates to a wide range of voices
- Switchable high-pass filter and 10 dB pad
- Suitable for instrument and home recording in studios
Cons
- Sensitive to background sounds, so it’s not suited to live use
The Audio-Technica AT2035 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that’s all about a neutral and accurate recreation of whatever it picks up. While this doesn’t sound exciting, this is exactly what you want in a studio vocal mic.
The main reason studios wind up with such a variety of microphones is to find things that provide a certain sound or colouration that’s pleasing and works with specific types of voices. Whilst this is great, a flatter response can adapt to a wide variety of voices, making it extremely easy to recommend as a vocal mic for vocalists, podcasters, streamers, and project or home studios.
Its accurate frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz ensures no details are left uncaptured, while its cardioid polar pattern helps to reject unwanted background noise. Plus, a low-cut filter at 80 Hz rolls off low frequencies for a more controlled sound that can still suit deeper voices.
Intended for studio use, the AT2035’s maximum SPL of 148 dB and its -10 dB pad means it could be used live, in theory. However, its physical design, while robust, isn’t ideal for intensive on-stage use, and condenser capsules tend to be more susceptible to feedback and instrument bleed on stage.
Beyond just vocals, the AT2035 is adaptable to bass, guitar cabs, drums, and acoustic instruments, making it a great all-rounder for multi-instrumentalists and producers.
2. Shure SM58
Key features
- Handheld dynamic microphone for live use
- Incredible sound pressure and gain handling
- Cardioid polar pattern
Pros
- Punchy and clear sound tuned specifically for vocals
- Famed for its reliable build quality
- Suitable for live and home recording
Cons
- Some issues with sibilance and plosives in studio use
The Shure SM58 is one of the most popular dynamic microphones on the market, especially for live vocals. Famed for its incredible build quality, the SM58 has remained pretty much unchanged since its release in 1966. Shure built this microphone to last and it’s been proven both in their quality testing labs and on stages the world over.
This renowned mic has been used by some of the most intense performers around; Henry Rollins, Frank Carter, Billy Corgan, and Patti Smith, to name a few. Every SM58 is tested in-depth before being sold, ensuring that it can resist drops, impacts, liquid spills, and intense temperatures. The history of the Shure SM58 is interesting too, dating back to 1966.
Not only good for vocals, the SM58 has shown its usefulness in studios for capturing high-energy sources like percussion and brass instruments too. It’s also extremely resistant to handling noise.
3. Electro-Voice RE20
Key features
- Full-sounding and versatile dynamic microphone
- Variable-D technology (this minimises off-axis colouration and proximity effect)
- Bass roll-off switch
Pros
- Excellent smooth sound for recording instruments and vocals
- Variable-D technology is great for live performances moving around the capsule
- Unique Acoustalloy diaphragm and light aluminium voice coil give a sensitive, detailed sound
Cons
- Certain users may want to use proximity effect for increased bass
The Electro-Voice RE20 is a unique dynamic microphone that’s become highly recognisable. Initially finding popularity in studios and broadcasting, the RE20 was released in 1968 and became extremely desired for its vocal sound, especially for radio. Due to its ability to ignore movement around the capsule and not emphasise bass with proximity, the RE20 has a very full and even sound for more animated performers.
Its low-frequency detail and clearer high-mids have made it a popular choice in studios and for live sessions. You might see the RE20 on brass instruments, kick drums, and bass cabs as much as vocals, both in studios or on the stage. It’s been most praised for its pairing with deeper voices and matches the Shure SM7B for its popularity in podcasting.
Whilst its dynamic capsule design has excellent SPL handling for managing loud sources without distortion and its consistent directionality make it great live, its large body may not always feel ergonomic to some performers. As such, you’ll probably see the RE20 more in studios than live, but it’s a great choice for both and built incredibly strongly.
4. SubZero SZM-11 Beta
Key features
- Tough and robust dynamic microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- High sensitivity and output
Pros
- Frequency response captures vocal subtleties
- Quality build holds up on stage
- Frequency roll-off at 50 Hz removes muddy sub-bass
Cons
- Cardioid polar pattern may not be ideal in smaller venues
The SubZero SZM-11 Beta is an excellent choice for vocalists who need reliable, clear sound. Its cardioid polar pattern helps capture vocals with precision while minimising background noise, making it perfect for noisy environments. Both on stage or in the studio, the high sensitivity and output ensure your voice stands out in the mix, and the frequency response adds clarity across different vocal ranges.
Its rugged design is built to handle the wear and tear of live gigs. With a robust metal grille and a protective foam insert, this microphone is highly durable and ready for frequent use. It also comes with a premium case and clip for added convenience. For any musician or producer seeking a reliable, affordable vocal microphone that delivers clear, focused results, the SZM-11 is a great option.
5. Sennheiser e935
Key features
- Natural sound with fast transient response
- Durable all-metal casing
- Shock-mounted capsule
Pros
- Clear, natural vocal sound
- Built to last with metal casing
- Excellent noise isolation
Cons
- Can be sensitive to loud plosives
The Sennheiser e935 is a top-tier choice for vocalists seeking durability and clear sound. With a fast transient response, it captures detailed performances, ensuring your voice comes through naturally and with precision.
Its cardioid polar pattern isolates your voice from surrounding noise, making it perfect for noisy stage environments. The shock-mounted capsule minimises handling noise, further enhancing its live performance capabilities.
Built for the road, the e935 features an all-metal casing, which protects the mic from the inevitable knocks and drops of touring. This rugged construction ensures it remains reliable even after repeated use. The microphone also includes a hum-compensating coil, which reduces interference and electrical noise, ensuring you get clean sound in any setting.
Ideal for both live performances and studio work, the e935 excels in delivering natural and consistent vocal sound – especially live. Robert Smith of The Cure has been seen using one on-stage, as has Alex Turner. It comes with a pouch and microphone clip, making it a solid and practical option for any working musician.
6. Universal Audio SC-1
Key features
- Recreates iconic microphone sounds
- Hemisphere software
- Ultra-linear circuit
Pros
- Flexible mic modelling options
- High-quality, distortion-free sound
- Durable, sleek design
Cons
- Requires software for full potential
The Universal Audio SC-1 offers studio-grade performance with a unique twist: the ability to harness the sound of legendary microphones.
With the included Hemisphere mic modelling software, you can recreate the tonal characteristics of iconic condensers throughout microphone history. This makes it incredibly versatile, giving you access to professional-grade sound and letting you adapt to a performer’s voice without needing multiple microphones.
The SC-1 excels in capturing vocals and instruments with precision. Its ultra-linear circuit ensures a wide dynamic range, allowing you to capture every nuance of your performance. Whether you’re recording delicate acoustic guitar or a powerful vocal, the SC-1 delivers smooth, distortion-free results. Its high SPL handling also makes it capable of recording louder sources without clipping or distortion.
Built to last, the SC-1 features a rugged, sleek design, ensuring it can withstand regular use in demanding studio environments. Complete with a mic mount, thread adapter, and carrying case, it’s a reliable choice for any professional or home studio.
7. sE Electronics V7
Key features
- Supercardioid capsule
- All-metal construction with spring steel grille
- Patented shockmount
Pros
- Excellent off-axis noise rejection
- Durable and road-ready design
- Low handling noise
Cons
- Supercardioid pattern can be less forgiving of mic placement
The sE Electronics V7 is a powerful choice for vocalists who need a clear sound and a durable build for live performances. Its supercardioid polar pattern ensures excellent rejection of off-axis noise, focusing purely on your voice, which makes it perfect for noisy stages. Whether you’re performing vocals or amplifying instruments, the V7 delivers a natural, open sound with precise tonal accuracy.
The V7’s robust design is built for life on the road. Its all-metal body and spring steel mesh grille protect it from the wear and tear of live use, while the patented integrated shock mount ensures that handling noise is kept to a minimum. This makes it a reliable microphone for handheld use, where minimal handling interference is crucial.
With an internal windscreen to help reduce plosives and wind noise, the V7 ensures clean, professional-quality sound. It also comes with useful accessories, including a mic clip, replacement windscreen, and a carry pouch, offering everything you need for performance straight out of the box. If you’re looking for a microphone that combines durability with high-quality vocal clarity, the sE Electronics V7 is an excellent choice.
8. Rode NT1 5th Gen
Key features
- 32-bit digital output
- ‘Dual Connect’ with XLR and USB-C outputs
- Onboard DSP with APHEX audio processing
Pros
- Clipping-free recording with 32-bit float
- Flexible XLR and USB-C connectivity
- Includes accessories like shock mount, pop filter, and cables for a complete setup
Cons
- Requires software for full DSP functionality
The Rode NT1 5th Gen blends cutting-edge digital technology with classic condenser quality. It features a ‘Dual Connect’ output, offering both XLR and USB-C connections, making it highly versatile for studio or home use. The standout feature is its 32-bit float digital output, which eliminates audio clipping, allowing you to record a wide dynamic range without fear of distortion, no matter how loud or soft the source.
With ultra-low self-noise (4dBA) and a high-performance Revolution preamp, the NT1 captures vocals and instruments with pristine clarity. Its onboard DSP processing allows you to apply advanced APHEX effects such as compression and a noise gate, giving you additional control over your sound straight from the microphone.
The microphone is built for professional use, complete with a shock mount, pop filter, and high-quality XLR and USB-C cables. This makes it ideal for anyone from podcasters to professional musicians who need reliable, top-tier sound. If you want more information, look into our review of the XLR-only NT1 Signature Series.
9. Sennheiser e945
Key features
- Supercardioid pattern
- Shock-mounted capsule
- Hum-compensating coil
Pros
- Excellent noise rejection
- Rich, clear vocal sound
- Built to withstand tough touring conditions
Cons
- Requires proper mic handling techniques due to supercardioid polar pattern
The Sennheiser e945 is a professional-grade tool designed to help vocalists deliver standout performances. Its supercardioid polar pattern ensures excellent isolation, allowing your voice to cut through even the busiest mixes while minimising on-stage noise and bleed from other instruments. This makes it ideal for live environments where clarity is crucial.
Built for the road, the e945 features a rugged metal construction that can withstand the bumps and knocks of touring life. The shock-mounted capsule reduces handling noise, allowing for more energetic performances without compromising audio quality. The hum-compensating coil also works to prevent electrical interference, so your signal remains clean and consistent, even in challenging conditions.
For vocalists who need to be heard clearly in loud environments, the Sennheiser e945 offers exceptional sound quality and reliability. Its robust design and precise audio reproduction make it a top choice for professionals on stage. Complete with a microphone clamp and pouch, this is a durable, high-performance mic built for demanding live performances.
10. Shure SM4
Key features
- Mix-ready audio with minimal post-processing
- RF noise blocking for clean recordings
- Handles high SPL sources up to 140 dB
Pros
- Professional sound without extensive editing
- Excellent RF interference protection
- Versatile for loud and soft sound sources
Cons
- May not be ideal for live vocals, but could hold up for instruments
The Shure SM4 is a versatile tool for home studios, offering professional-grade audio capture for vocals and instruments. Its one-inch brass dual-diaphragm capsule ensures a balanced sound, capturing rich lows and detailed highs. Whether you’re recording soft vocals or loud instruments like drums and guitar amps, the SM4 handles sound sources with precision, even at high SPLs up to 140 dB, without introducing distortion.
One of its most impressive features is the patent-pending Interference Shielding Technology, which blocks RF noise from mobile phones and other wireless devices. This ensures clear recordings free from unwanted interference. With an internal pop filter, you can expect clean, mix-ready audio that requires minimal editing.
Built for durability, the all-metal construction ensures the SM4 can withstand regular use, making it a reliable addition to any home studio. It also includes a swivel mount for easy positioning, adding to its flexibility.
11. Lewitt RAY
Key features
- AURA technology
- Mute by Distance
- Record-ready sound
Pros
- Consistent audio with dynamic voice adaptation
- Easy muting with step-away functionality
- High-quality, studio-grade sound
Cons
- Requires 48V phantom power
The Lewitt RAY is designed for creators who need professional-quality sound with minimal effort. Its AURA technology dynamically adjusts your audio based on your proximity, ensuring balanced levels and tone even when you move around during a recording. This makes it ideal for podcasters, streamers, and musicians who need reliable sound without constant mic adjustment.
One of the standout features is the Mute by Distance function, which automatically mutes the mic when you step away, offering hands-free audio control. Combined with a direct mute button, you can quickly silence your audio feed with ease, making the RAY particularly convenient for live performances and streaming.
Equipped with a one-inch true condenser capsule, the RAY captures your voice with pristine clarity and detail, delivering a polished, studio-ready sound right out of the box. Its cardioid polar pattern helps reject background noise, keeping the focus on your voice.
Complete with a shock mount, magnetic pop filter, and a windscreen, the RAY comes fully equipped to handle any recording environment. It’s a microphone that makes achieving professional sound straightforward, while also offering smart features to enhance your workflow.
12. Audio-Technica AT2020
Key features
- Custom-engineered diaphragm
- 20dB SPL
- Cardioid polar pattern
Pros
- Excellent sound clarity across a wide range
- High SPL handling for loud sources
- Versatile for different recording needs
Cons
- No onboard pop filter
The Audio Technica AT2020 is a versatile condenser microphone designed to deliver professional-quality sound for recording, streaming, broadcasting, and more. Its custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm ensures a clear and accurate sound, while its cardioid polar pattern focuses on the source, rejecting unwanted ambient noise.
Capable of handling up to 144dB SPL, the AT2020 is ideal for capturing everything from delicate vocals to loud instruments without distortion.
One of the standout features is its included pivoting swivel mount, which makes positioning the microphone easy and precise. This ensures you can find the perfect spot for any recording session. The microphone also comes with a protective carry pouch, making it easy to transport safely.
With its rugged construction and low operating noise, the AT2020 is built to perform reliably in both professional and home studio environments. Whether you’re recording vocals, acoustic guitars, or podcasts, the AT2020’s clear, detailed sound and high SPL handling make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications.
13. SubZero SZM-11
Key features
- Accurate vocal reproduction with wide frequency range
- Tailored for all vocal styles and genres
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces noise and ambience
Pros
- Versatile across music genres
- Durable build for live and studio use
- No need for a pop-filter
Cons
- Lacks extended low-frequency response
The SubZero SZM-11 is a versatile choice for both stage and studio applications. Its cardioid polar pattern focuses on capturing your voice while rejecting off-axis noise, ensuring clarity in any environment. For performing live or recording in the studio, this microphone consistently delivers clear and accurate sound.
Designed to suit a wide range of vocal styles, the SZM-11’s frequency contour enhances mid-range clarity, helping your voice cut through even the busiest mixes. Its low-frequency roll-off also helps minimise the proximity effect, allowing you to sing close to the mic without overwhelming bass.
Built with durability in mind, the SZM-11 is rugged enough to withstand the demands of live performances. The sturdy metal chassis and built-in foam insert protect against damage and provide pop-free vocal recordings right out of the box.
Dynamic vs. condenser mics
We’ve covered a lot of different dynamic and condenser microphones here, but what’s the difference between them? Primarily, the difference is in how they’re designed. Dynamics and condensers use two different electrical principles that dictate how they translate an acoustic signal into an electrical one.
We’ve gone over this in more detail in our guide to condenser vs. dynamic microphones, but here’s a quick summary of how these designs affect their sound and how they work.
Dynamics end up being more robust and less sensitive, their diaphragm is built more sturdily, meaning that they can handle louder sounds, more gain, and don’t pick up background sounds as readily. They also generally have a darker, less-detailed sound.
These qualities make dynamic mics well-suited to live sound, but they have more than proven themselves in studios too, with the SM58, SM7B, RE20, and MD421 becoming standards for instrument and vocal recordings as well as being set up on stages.
Condensers are more sensitive, more detailed, and have a brighter, crisp sound quality. This makes them a good choice for studio vocal recording.
The trade-off to this extra fidelity is that they can distort more easily at high sound pressure levels or high gain settings and are sensitive to background noise. This makes them a less common choice for the uncontrolled live environment, but modern condenser designs are getting better at managing some of these shortfalls.
Condensers also require extra voltage to operate, called phantom power, so you need to ensure you have a source of that available in order to use them. This can be an extra complication live, but there are external boxes that supply it, or it can be added by mixing desks.
Polar patterns explained
Microphones have sensitivity to sound from different angles around the capsule, and the polar pattern reflects this, showing where it picks up sound from and how intensely it does. Here, we’ll just talk about the ones that are beneficial for vocals and how, but for a more in-depth examination, check out our guide to polar patterns.
Cardioid focuses on the front of the capsule, making it a great choice for single vocalists in studios and live settings. The main benefit of cardioid is that it avoids bleed from instruments or capturing background noise, resulting in a direct and clear signal.
Supercardioid is similar to cardioid, but with more rejection at the sides for a more focused sound. This is great for live vocals as it’s well-suited to tighter stages with a lot of musicians where you want to avoid feedback. In the studio recording, this can help prevent instrument bleed entering your vocal mic for a cleaner signal when doing live studio sessions, or you may just want that more upfront tonality it imparts.
Figure eight picks up from the front and back equally. This is a great way of capturing two vocalists at once: one from the front and one from the back. For studio recording a duet, a podcast with two speakers, or a singer-songwriter who’s doing vocals and playing guitar simultaneously, this can be great choice.
Omnidirectional picks up evenly in all directions, making it great for capturing multiple vocalists at once, whether you’re recording group backing vocals in a studio, or capturing a choir live.
FAQs
What are the best microphones for vocals?
The best microphones for vocals include the Shure SM7B, Neumann U87, and AKG C414. These models are highly regarded for their clarity, warmth, and versatility. They capture nuanced vocal details and are ideal for both studio and live performances.
What mic do famous singers use?
Famous singers commonly use microphones like the Shure SM58, Neumann U87, and Telefunken U47. These mics are known for their professional quality, delivering exceptional vocal reproduction, making them popular choices for recording and live shows.
What microphone makes your voice sound better?
A microphone that makes your voice sound better is one that complements your vocal tone. It’s best to find something that enhances elements that aren’t as strong in your voice, without removing what makes it unique.
Somebody with a deeper voice will want a brighter microphone with a good, smooth low-frequency response to retain that depth while adding extra detail. Somebody with a higher voice might gravitate towards a darker microphone to strengthen and add depth to their voice, and hopefully soften any sibilance.
Final thoughts
We’ve covered a wide range of different vocal mics here, all with distinct sounds and unique features, from classic microphones that have remained unchanged since the 1960s to cutting-edge mics with proximity detection or next-generation microphone modelling technology to achieve a range of sounds.
Whatever you could be looking for in a vocal mic, it’s in here somewhere. If you’re looking for a personal vocal mic for live performances, the centrepiece of a home studio, or simply to expand your mic collection, we’ve offered what we think are the 13 best microphones for vocals.
Want to learn more? For budding vocalists, take a look at our top tips for achieving the perfect vocals.
Interested in learning more about the history of the mics on this list and where they came from? Our list of the best microphone brands has some cool stories to tell.
And if you want to learn more about the electronics, design principles, and how mics work, our guide to the different types of microphones will teach you all about the technical parts of microphone design.
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