Best Budget Xlr Microphone of April: Reviews & Buyers Guide

Top Picks

• Best Overall: Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic 

The industry norm for live performances is this dynamic microphone. It's a fantastic voice mic that works well for podcasters and singers alike and is designed to be either handheld or stand-mounted. The frequency response is intended to draw attention to vocalists by underplaying highs and lows. As a result, this XLR mic is not the best choice for recording instruments like the bass guitar or as an overhead drum mic. The SM58 is a dynamic microphone that doesn't need phantom power and has an integrated pop filter in the form of its bulbous grille.

• Best Externally: NT1a Microphone 

The nicest thing about this big diaphragm voice condenser microphone is the sound it produces. The Rode NT1-A is a good choice for recording voices, guitars, and light percussion instruments since it feature an internal capsule shock mount mechanism and generates low internal noise—no more than 5dB(A) equivalent input noise (EIN). Its neutral-leaning frequency response ensures accurate reproduction of music, while the little high-end emphasis improves voice intelligibility and allows vocalists more room to breathe. The NT1-A's cardioid polar pattern, which picks up sound from the front face, makes it the ideal speech microphone.

• Best Low Noise: AKG Pro Audio P420 Dual Capsule

The dual-diaphragm capsule of the AKG microphone offers a variety of polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bi-directional. As a result, the P420 is very adaptable and may be used to record voices, instruments, whole rooms, and more. It has the ability to switch in an attenuation pad to lower high signal levels and avoid clipping distortion caused by strong noises as well as a high-pass filter to lessen the intensity of low-frequency ambient noise.

• Best Quality: Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast

This professional dynamic microphone can capture voice music just as effectively as it can be utilized in radio stations all over the globe. It accentuates the vocal range, includes a bass roll-off option so you can come near if you want to capture ASMR, and employs Electrovoice's unique Variable D design to manage the proximity effect of the microphone. There is no need for phantom power for usage with this all-metal microphone.

• Best Performance: Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid

The threaded mount adapter, carrying bag, and stand mount are included with this metal XLR microphone. You might think about getting a shock mount for it since it contains a static condenser, which will lessen handling noise. A pop filter is also not included, so you need to put one in your purchasing basket. The AT2020 provides acceptable sound quality for a low-cost microphone, but if you're seeking more features or bundled extras, you may want to think about a more costly mic.