The best instrument condenser microphones can make the sound of a single instrument sound like a full orchestra. Precision, clarity, and warmth are just a few of the words that come to mind when describing great instrument mics. They capture the full range of sound from the softest pianissimo to the loudest forte. They can also be used for vocals and are, therefore, a go-to for many vocalists.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the best instrument condenser microphones on the market, describing how they sound, who they’re best for, and why they’re so great.
Our Editor’s Best Instrument Condenser Microphones Reviews
- [USB Output] Enables simple setup. USB studio recording microphone kit provides a direct convenient plug-and-play connection to pc and laptop without any additional hardware or drivers for recording vocals, podcasts and Skype. Studio microphone for recording vocals is never been easier to get high-quality sound for your voice and computer-based audio recordings. (Incompatible with Xbox and Phones)
- [Excellent Sound Quality] With rugged construction for durable performance, the vocal recording microphone, USB condenser mic for PC,offers a wide frequency response and handles high SPLs with ease. Ideal for project/home-studio applications. The cardioid condenser capsule captures crystal-clear audio from the front and avoid ambient noise when communicating/creating/recording. Comes ready to go with a desktop mic boom arm stand and 8.2ft USB cable, you're guaranteed to get great-sounding results.
- [Durable Arm Set] The podcast microphone bundle with versatile and sturdy broadcast suspension boom scissor arm with 180° up and down rotation, 135° forward and backward extension for optimal adjustment, for capturing your voice in podcast or voiceover. The double pop filter attached on the music recording microphone provides two layers of dissipation, removes the rush of air, minimize the popping sounds or cancel noise that can compromise your recording, great for studio as well as home use.
- [Easy to Attach] The streaming microphone for PC includes adjustable boom studio scissor arm stand that features a heavy-duty combo mount consisting of a sturdy C-clamp and a detachable desktop mount. With 13" fixed horizontal arm and offers a 30" reach, the low-profile, table-hugging design of audio recording microphone allows on-air talent to perform without facial obstruction to record in podcasting or make dubbing sounds for videos, use voice chat in Discord or online conference on Zoom or Skype.
- [The Accessory Package Includes] The studio microphone music recording comes with practical accessories for you to use in most of recording. The scissor arm stand is made out of all steel construction, sturdy and durable, a studio-grade shock mount, a double pop filter, premium 8.2' USB cable, a podcast PC gaming microphone, a user manual and friendly Technical Support.
- Unmount clip permits accurate positioning, provides shock resistance and protects element
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
- Extended frequency response captures subtle nuances of the performance
- 6' (1. 8 m) cable permanently attached to microphone
- Small-diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Mic with Switchable 20dB Pad
- Tailored microphone cartridge design for clear reproduction of wind instrument sound sources
- Flexible gooseneck design makes accurate positioning quick and easy
- Integrated horn clamp for quick and easy mounting
- In-line preamplifier provides phantom power and a direct XLR connection
- Cardioid polar pattern picks up audio from the source while rejecting unwanted noise
- EXEPTIONAL VOCAL PERFORMANCE - The SM57-LC delivers high-quality vocal reproduction, thanks to its tailored frequency response and brightened midrange for clear and present vocals.
- INDUSTRY STANDARD - The first choice for performers around the globe, the SM57 Dynamic Vocal Microphone is ready to bring any performance to life. From the club to the stadium, Shure has your back.
- CLARITY & CARE - The uniform cardioid polar pattern reproduces every note as it was intended, delivering warm, crisp sound time after time.
- LEAVE BACKGROUND NOISE BEHIND - The SM57 has a spherical mesh grille and built-in pop filter to keep any unwanted noise out of the mix.
- DROP THE MIC - The durable construction and break-resistant stand adapter makes the SM57 the perfect companion on the road, going strong through the toughest performances.
- Studio-grade Recording Without the Price-Tag – Desktop or Stand-mounted Condenser microphone with superior audio performance for crystal clear recording
- Keeping Your Recording on Point - Directional cardioid mic capsule reduces ambient noise; designed for podcast recording, gaming, broadcast studios, studio recording, computer recording and streaming
- Sound you can Trust - Wide ranging frequency response (20–20,000Hz) captures the full audible spectrum and delivers clear audio for recording instruments, YouTube videos, singing and voice-over work
- Hear Every Detail - High sensitivity and low signal-to-noise ratio records every subtle nuance of your source audio and helps reduces any unwanted noise
- Everything you Need for Perfect Recording Every time - Includes windscreen, shock mount, desktop tripod stand and XLR cable; Compact and lightweight form factor for recording on the move
- INTERCHANGEABLE CAPSULES THREE DIRECTIOANS: Includes cardioid, omni and super capsules for use in virtually most recording situation. You can get the sound you want, whether its subtle nuances of a studio recording or the dynamic sparkle of a live orchestra. Easy to mount and remove
- WIDELY USE: Widely used for recording studio vocals, acoustic, instruments, strings, horns, orchestras and choral groups, ambient instrument audio, and many live sound applications
- 5/8-INCH MIC CLIP AND WINDSCREEN: Clip Fits most microphone stand with 5/8-inch thread, can firmly hold your microphone in different positions. Foam windscreen can minimize air interference during recording for more clarity sound
- FOAM PADDED ALUMINUM CASE: Made of durable aluminum, ensures high durability. Foam padded inner can protect your mics and accessories from scratching. It it easy to transport and set up your condenser mics
- This microphone requires phantom power and performs best with a 48 Vdc supply (IEC-61938). However, it will operate with slightly decreased headroom and sensitivity with supplies as low as 11 Vdc. Most modern mixers provide phantom power. You must use a balanced microphone cable: XLR-to-XLR or XLR-to-TRS.
- The SM81 is ruggedly constructed. It operates on phantom power and performs over a wide range of temperatures and humidity conditions. It is furnished with a swivel adapter, attenuator-switch lock, foam windscreen, and case for carrying and storage. Other accessories are available.
- 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response. Flat response curve for accurate reproduction of sound sources.
- Low noise and high output clipping level. Low distortion over a wide range of load impedances.
- Cardioid polar pattern, uniform with frequency and symmetric about axis, providing maximum rejection and minimum coloration of off-axis sounds
- Large-diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone with 143dB Dynamic Range
- Switchable 20dB Attenuation
- Low-cut Filter
- 2 matched condenser microphones for stereo studio recording and live applications
- Ideal as main and support microphones for studio and live applications
- Cardioid pickup pattern for effective feedback elimination
- Low-mass diaphragm for ultra-wide frequency response and ultimate sound reproduction
- Switchable low-frequency roll-off and input attenuation
Best Instrument Condenser Microphones Buying Guide
Before choosing the best instrument condenser microphone you should consider following options:
1. Polar Pattern: The first thing you want to think about when looking at microphones is their polar pattern.
This will tell you how the microphone picks up sound and what you can use it for. Some microphones are omnidirectional so they pick up sound from all around, while others are more focused on picking up from one direction.
This is important to consider as it will define how you can use the microphone.
You could use it for recording an entire band, or you could use it to record an acoustic guitar from one direction.
2. Frequency Response: The frequency response tells you how the microphone responds to different sounds. It will tell you what sounds are emphasized and what sounds are reduced.
It will also tell you if the microphone is suitable for the type of application you want to use it for.
For example, if you are going to use the microphone for recording acoustic guitars, you don’t want a microphone with a strong boost in the low frequencies as this will make the guitar sound boomy.
3. Gain Before Feedback: Gain before feedback tells you how much gain you can use before you start to get feedback. You want to be able to get as much gain as possible without feedback.
How you use the microphone will determine the amount of gain you use. For example, if you are using the microphone to record a whole band, you are probably going to use less gain than if you are using it for recording an acoustic guitar.
4. Equipped or Not: Not all microphones have all the features mentioned above. It is important to know which features a microphone has so that you know whether it is suitable for your application.
For example, some microphones don’t have a high frequency response which means that they can’t be used for recording acoustic guitars.
Other microphones may not have a low frequency response which means that they can be used for recording more than one source.
5. Cost: The final thing you want to take into consideration is the cost of the microphone.
Some microphones will have all the features you want and will be more affordable than others.
You also want to consider the quality of the microphone and what it will be used for.
What else you should know about instrument condenser microphones
1. What are the best condenser microphones for instruments?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including the specific instrument being recorded, the acoustics of the recording environment, and the personal preferences of the engineer or producer. However, some popular condenser microphones for instruments include the Neumann U87, the AKG C414, and the Audio-Technica AT4050.
2. What are the differences between condenser microphones?
Condenser microphones come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are small and delicate, while others are large and rugged. Some have a wide frequency response, while others are designed for specific tasks.
3. What are the best uses for condenser microphones?
Some of the best uses for condenser microphones include recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and amplified electric instruments. They are also often used in studios for podcasting and voice-over work.
4. How do I choose the right condenser microphone for my needs?
The right condenser microphone for your needs depends on the type of sound you are trying to capture. If you are looking for a microphone to capture vocals, then you will want a microphone with a wide frequency response and a high SPL (sound pressure level) rating. If you are looking for a microphone to capture instruments, then you will want a microphone with a high SPL rating and a fast transient response.
5. What are the best ways to use condenser microphones?
Condenser microphones are best used in situations where a high degree of accuracy and detail is desired. They are often used in studio recording and live sound reinforcement, as well as in broadcast and film production.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best instrument condenser microphones. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best instrument condenser microphones will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.