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Home Studio
Do It Yourself
MICROPHONES
As the first step in the recording process, all subsequent steps in the chain are dependent upon capturing a great sound at the source with a microphone.
I didn’t realize the importance of microphones in the recording process until I really got into it in a more serious way. I initially thought that I’d just throw some mics out there and work all the magic in the mix, but as we’ve mentioned - trying to make a crappy recording sound better at the mix stage is setting yourself up for disappointment. When going for better quality the microphone is crucial.
Once I understood the importance of microphones I set about finding the best microphones to buy for my use. I quickly learned that the “best” microphone is not the question I should’ve asked. For one thing it only spawns other questions like “best for what use?” and “how much money do you have to spend?” and “what kind of vocalist?” or “for a snare or kick drum?”…
OK, so I understand there are different mics for different uses, but even then many recommendations were still to go to a store, try out a bunch of mics on a lot of different sources, listen carefully, etc…. My problem initially was I didn’t know enough to even know what I was listening for. I just wanted to some good recommendations to get me started.
As the first step in the recording process, all subsequent steps in the chain are dependent upon capturing a great sound at the source with a microphone.
I didn’t realize the importance of microphones in the recording process until I really got into it in a more serious way. I initially thought that I’d just throw some mics out there and work all the magic in the mix, but as we’ve mentioned - trying to make a crappy recording sound better at the mix stage is setting yourself up for disappointment. When going for better quality the microphone is crucial.
Once I understood the importance of microphones I set about finding the best microphones to buy for my use. I quickly learned that the “best” microphone is not the question I should’ve asked. For one thing it only spawns other questions like “best for what use?” and “how much money do you have to spend?” and “what kind of vocalist?” or “for a snare or kick drum?”…
OK, so I understand there are different mics for different uses, but even then many recommendations were still to go to a store, try out a bunch of mics on a lot of different sources, listen carefully, etc…. My problem initially was I didn’t know enough to even know what I was listening for. I just wanted to some good recommendations to get me started.
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| Dynamic Mics |
| Shure SM57 |
| Sennheiser MD421 |
| Electrovoice RE20 |
| Shure Beta52A (kick) |
| Small Diaphragm Condenser |
| Rode NT5 |
| Studio Projects C4 |
| Marshall MXL 604 |
| Large Diaphragm Condenser |
| Neumann TLM103 |
| Shure KSM44 (multi) |
| Rode K2 (multi) |
| Shure KSM32 |
| AT 4050 (multi) |
| Rode NT2000 (multi) |
| Rode NT2 |
| Rode NT1000 |
| Studio Projects C3 (multi) |
| Rode NT1a |
| Studio Projects C1 |
Click here to
see live auction availability on many of the mics shown above.
see live auction availability on many of the mics shown above.
Based on what I've learned, here were some suggestions I would’ve found helpful at the time.
1. Get a couple of Shure SM57. These dynamic mics are good on lots of sources, have a strong output, are nearly indestructible, and don’t cost a lot. You'll find all sorts of uses for them.
2. Get a good large diaphragm condenser mic for vocals: If you have the budget, do it. There’s a “sizzle” and “largeness” that these can add to a lead vocal that is difficult to get. The mic will get alot of service elsewhere too. (I personally got a Neumann TLM-103 and love it. It's a go to mic on acoustic guitars and room drums also)
3. You can find some bargains in the new/used marketplace. Most folks take good care of their recording equipment, and are always buying/selling gear in search of the magical sound.
Based on a survey of user reviews and comments at various price points, I've listed several mics of different types that you might consider.
1. Get a couple of Shure SM57. These dynamic mics are good on lots of sources, have a strong output, are nearly indestructible, and don’t cost a lot. You'll find all sorts of uses for them.
2. Get a good large diaphragm condenser mic for vocals: If you have the budget, do it. There’s a “sizzle” and “largeness” that these can add to a lead vocal that is difficult to get. The mic will get alot of service elsewhere too. (I personally got a Neumann TLM-103 and love it. It's a go to mic on acoustic guitars and room drums also)
3. You can find some bargains in the new/used marketplace. Most folks take good care of their recording equipment, and are always buying/selling gear in search of the magical sound.
Based on a survey of user reviews and comments at various price points, I've listed several mics of different types that you might consider.
