Best Microphones for Instruments: A Comprehensive Guide
What are Microphones for Instruments?
Microphones for instruments are specialized audio devices designed to capture the sound of musical instruments with clarity and precision. These microphones are essential for recording studios, live performances, and home studios where high-quality audio is required. They come in various types, including dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones, each suited for different instruments and recording environments.
Who is this for?
Microphones for instruments are ideal for musicians, producers, and audio engineers looking to capture the true essence of their instrument’s sound. Whether you play guitar, drums, piano, or any other instrument, having a quality microphone can make a significant difference in the overall sound quality of your recordings.
Important Features of Microphones for Instruments
When choosing a microphone for instruments, there are several key features to consider:
| Feature | Minimum Requirement | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid or Omnidirectional | Helps reduce background noise and focus on the instrument’s sound. |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz | Ensures accurate reproduction of the instrument’s sound across the frequency spectrum. |
| Sensitivity | At least -40dB | Allows the microphone to capture subtle nuances and dynamics of the instrument. |
Recommended Products for Microphones for Instruments
Here are three top-rated microphones for instruments along with their pros and cons:
1. Shure SM57
Pros: Durable construction, versatile for various instruments, affordable price.
Cons: May require additional accessories for optimal performance.
2. AKG C414 XLII
Pros: High-quality sound reproduction, multiple polar patterns, suitable for professional recordings.
Cons: Higher price point, may be too sensitive for some instruments.
3. Audio-Technica AT2020
Pros: Budget-friendly option, clear and crisp sound quality, ideal for home studios.
Cons: Limited frequency response compared to higher-end models.
Average Price of Microphones for Instruments
The average price range for microphones for instruments varies depending on the brand, type, and features. Entry-level microphones can cost as low as $50, while professional-grade models can range from $200 to $1000 or more. It’s essential to consider your budget and recording needs when selecting a microphone for your instrument.
How to Find the Best Deal for Microphones for Instruments
To find the best deal on microphones for instruments, consider shopping online for discounts, promotions, and bundle deals. Compare prices from different retailers and read reviews from other musicians to ensure you’re getting a quality product at a competitive price. Additionally, look out for sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday for potential savings on audio equipment.
USB Microphone, MAONO 192KHZ/24Bit Plug & Play PC Computer Podcast Condenser Cardioid Metal Mic Kit with Professional Sound Chipset for Recording, Gaming, Singing, YouTube (AU-A04)
Pyle Handheld Microphone Dynamic Moving Coil Cardioid Unidirectional Includes 15ft XLR Audio Cable to 1/4'' Audio Connection (PDMIC58)
Shure SM58 Pro XLR Dynamic Microphone - Professional Studio & Live Performance Cardioid Mic for Vocals, Podcasting, and Recording (SM58-LC)
Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications,Black
Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Behringer XM8500 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone
Behringer SL 75C Dynamic Cardioid Microphone
Wireless Microphones, Professional UHF Dual Microphones for Karaoke, Wireless Dynamic Microphone System Set with Rechargeable Receiver,Plug and Play, Speech, Wedding, Church, PA System
Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit - Clip-on Omnidirectional Condenser Lav Mic Compatible with iPhone, iPad, GoPro, DSLR, Zoom/Tascam Recorder, Samsung, Android, PS4
Pyle Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone - Moving Coil Dynamic Cardioid Unidirectional Handheld Microphone with ON/OFF Switch Includes 15ft XLR Audio Cable to 1/4'' Audio Connection - PDMIC59
Korg TM60 Combo Tuner and Metronome with Contact Clip-on Microphone (TUTM60CBK)
Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack (Black)
Mini Portable Vocal/Instrument Microphone for Voice Video Recording Singing,Vlogging, Podcasting, Tiny Microphone for iPhone Android Phone Computer Latop Notebook Tablet iPad(Silver)
Samson Go Mic Portable Multi-Pattern USB Condenser Microphone That Clips to Your Computer for Podcasting, Recording, Zooming, and Skype
RØDE NT-USB Mini Versatile Studio-quality Condenser USB Microphone with Free Software for Podcasting, Streaming, Gaming, Music Production, Vocal and Instrument Recording,Black
Behringer C-2 2 Matched Studio Condenser Microphones
MAONO USB/XLR Podcast Dynamic Microphone, Studio Mic Kit with Volume Control, Shock Mount, Pop Filter, Ideal for Vocal, Instruments Recording, Voice Over, Live Streaming (HD300T)
Behringer ULTRAVOICE XM1800S Dynamic Handheld Microphone, 3 Pack
ttstar Microphone Professional for iPhone Lavalier Lapel Omnidirectional Condenser Mic Phone Audio Video Recording Easy Clip-on Lavalier Mic for YouTube, Interview, Mic for iPad for iPone(6.6ft)
Blue Microphones Yeti Blackout USB Microphone Bundle with Desktop Boom Arm Microphone Stand, Closed-Back Studio Monitor Headphones and Pop Filter (4 Items)
Neotech Wireless Pouch - Neoprene Holder for Wireless Transmitter - Instrument Strap or Belt Pouch for Mic Pack - Easy Attachment
Neewer Cardioid Dynamic Microphone with XLR Male to XLR Female Cable, Rigid Metal Construction for Professional Pickup of Musical Instruments, Voice, Broadcasting, Speech, Black (NW-040)
wm57 Dynamic Vocal Classic Style Microphone Audio Instrument Classic Professional Dynamic Cardioid Unidirectional - for Instruments, Drums, Percussion, Vocals(not Include Cable)
KIDWILL Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone for Kids, 5-in-1 Portable Handheld Karaoke Mic Speaker Player Recorder with Adjustable Remix FM Radio for Kids Girls Boys Teens Birthday (858-Blue)
String Swing Violin Hanger for Mic or Music Stand
Sennheiser Pro Audio Professional E 835 Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone, Wired, Wireless
Blue Yeti USB Microphone - Space Gray (Renewed)
PylePro Dynamic Handheld Microphone, Professional Moving Coil Mic with Built-in Pop Filter, Wide Frequency Response, High Signal Output, Rugged Design, Low Noise Circuitry, 15' ft. XLR Cable Included
SE Electronics V7 BLACK Studio Grade Handheld Supercardioid Microphone with Shock Mount (Black)
2Pcs Piezo Contact Microphone Pickup for Guitar Violin Banjo Mandolin Ukulele
Shure SM58S Professional Vocal Microphone w/On/Off Switch (2 Pack), XLR
Behringer SL 85S Dynamic Cardioid Microphone with Switch
Samson Q2U Handheld Dynamic XLR/USB Microphone Bundle with Boom Arm, Shock Mount, and Pop Filter (4 Items)
Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone - White (Renewed)
2 pcs Portable lapel mic 3.5mm Audio Compatible with Voice Amplifiers S6 (by AKindle)
Marantz Professional MPM-1000 - Studio Recording XLR Condenser Microphone with Desktop Stand and Cable – for Podcast and Streaming Projects
Shure SV100-WA Multipurpose Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone with On/Off Switch, 15' XLR-to-1/4" Cable, Mic Clip and Zippered Bag
Pyle 3 Piece Professional Dynamic Microphone Kit Cardioid Unidirectional Vocal Handheld MIC with Hard Carry Case & Bag, Holder/Clip & 26ft XLR Audio Cable to 1/4'' Audio Connection (PDMICKT34),Black
SENNHEISER Professional ME 2 Small Omni-directional Lavalier Microphone For Use With Wireless SK Bodypack Transmitters,Black
Ancable 2-Pack Audio 1/4" Plugs TS Jumbo Plugs Solder Type for Guitar, Instrument, Speaker/Microphone/Patch Cables - 6.35mm Male 1/4 Inch Phone Plug
DZS Elec 15PCS 35mm Piezo Disc Transducer Contact Microphone Trigger Sound Sensor with 4 Inches Wires for Acoustic Instrument
AKG Pro Audio P120 - Affordable 2/3-Inch Diaphragm Condenser Microphone for Clear Vocals & Instruments. Studio Recording or Live. XLR Connector. Black
Gator Frameworks Ukulele/Mandolin Hanger Attachment for Microphone Stands (GFW-MICUKE-HNGR)
Hricane Kids Piano Keyboard, 61 Keys Beginner Electronic Keyboard Portable Digital Music Keyboard, Early Education Music Instrument with Microphone & Music Sheet Stand
5 Pcs Piezo Contact Microphone Pickups Self-Adhesive Instrument Pickups for Guitar, Violin, Viola, Cello, Banjo, Ukulele, Mandolin and More
dbx RTA-M Driverack Series Reference Microphone black 7.00 x 3.50 x 12.00 inches
XIAOKOA UHF Wireless Instruments Microphone,Saxophone Microphone,Wireless Receiver and Transmitter,160ft Range,Plug and Play,Great for Trumpets, Clarinet, Cello
