The Best Condenser Mic Under $200 of May: Reviews & Buyers Guide

Whether you want to be the next great podcaster/streamer or wish to set up a home studio, a dependable and adaptable condenser mic is a must-have that you should purchase the first time correctly. 

However, the entry-level market is overcrowded, conflicting, and cluttered, making finding the correct condenser tricky for novices and music fans. Sifting through product catalogs and complex specs that feel like gibberish is a time-consuming chore. We've hand-picked the top 8 best condenser mic under $200 to fit and service all of your demands in this post.

Best Condenser Mic Under $200 Reviews

#1. AKG Pro Audio P420 - Best Dual Capsule Condenser Microphone

Important Specifications

• Brand: AKG Pro Audio

• Color: Sliver Blue

• Connector Type: XLR

• Connectivity Technology: Wired

• Power Source: Corded Electric

• Audio Sensitivity: 79 dB

• Item Weight: 1.17 Pounds

• Polar Pattern: Multipattern

• Material: Metal

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 79 dB

Product’s Highlights

You should come to the AKG Perception series' affordable segment, where you'll find a rugged, versatile workhorse that can handle just about any task. The P420 is a high-dynamic-range multi-pattern LDC with reduced noise circuitry. The device comes with a robust aluminum protective case and a well-built spider shock mount.

A pair of 1-inch diaphragms are used in this dual-diaphragm condenser. The P420, unlike the other LDCs on this list, allows you to switch between cardioid, figure-8, as well as omnidirectional modes. This sonic trio gives you the freedom to record a more extensive range of sounds and the ability to utilize it as a general room microphone to record a choir or a modest string ensemble. This function alone is sufficient to justify the cost.

What We Like

• Three Cardioid Patterns to choose from

• Loud instruments are tamed by high SPL

• Aluminum enclosure and high-quality shock mount

• Versatile utility and a rich tone

Things to Consider

• The signal-to-noise ratio peaks at 79dB

#2. MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone - Best For Vocals

Important Specifications

• Brand: MXL Mics

• Color: Black

• Item Weight: 1 Pounds

• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional

• Number of Channels: 1

Product’s Highlights

This MXL 770 is a small diaphragm condenser mic (SDC) with a storied history in the entry-level microphone industry.

On the rear of the mic is an HPF and -10db pad switch, as well as a low-noise FET preamplifier on the interior. It has a cardioid polar shape, 15/mv/Pa sensitivity, a frequency band of 30Hz to 20kHz, and a respectable peak SPL of 137dB.

When the input is in front of the microphone, the fixed high sensitivity pattern replies. The -10dB pad offers enough rope for higher production or loud items, and the HPF does a decent job of rolling off some unjustified lows.

It is a pod-cast-friendly mic that performs an excellent job recording acoustic guitars and vocals. The MXL 770 provides a well-balanced warmth and brilliance that brings clarity to most vocal recordings. Overall, the mic has a low noise level but is not relatively low enough to be considered quiet.

Basically, the MXL 770 is a laid-back, all-around mic that checks all the boxes in terms of functionality and performance. Experts and audiophiles may not like it, but novices and audio enthusiasts will find it to be a perfect starting point for home and personal usage.

What We Like

• Constructing a study and giving it a trendy appearance

• Bass's response is rich and warm

• High cost to quality ratio 

• Sensitive reaction to EQing

Things to Consider

• Vacuum in the mid-range

• High-end that is bright yet brittle

• It might not be suitable for all sorts of vocalists

#3. Audio-Technica AT2020 - Best Home Studio Applications

Important Specifications

• Brand: Audio-Technica

• Color: Black

• Connector Type: XLR Connector

• Connectivity Technology: Wired

• Audio Sensitivity: 37 dB

• Compatible Devices: Any Recording Programs, Audio Interfaces with XLR Cable inputs

• Item Weight: 1.8 Pounds

• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional

• Material: Metal

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 74 dB

Product’s Highlights

For a valid reason, the AT2020 is the most talked-about microphone in any low-budget arrangement. This neat-looking condenser is a little unit with a sturdy metal grill and a rock-solid build. It comes with a screw mount stand that is well-made and stable whether pivoting or positioning the microphone. This purchase does not include a storage case.

The AT2020 features a cardioid polar design responsive to sound from the front while having a low to insignificant response to sound from the sides or rear. The SPL of 144dB and a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz give a wide range and fairly exact representation of recorded content.

It works effectively in various scenarios when the microphone is both steady and static. It complements most voice recordings with some warming in the mids and more power in the highs, thanks to the inclusion of a pop filter. 

The output has perceptible but not significant noise, which is only apparent in close-mic conditions. Surprisingly, it handles most instruments effectively, particularly guitars, without producing any brittle highs. You must first discover the perfect place for micing the agency.

What We Like

• The construction is solid

• Beginners will love it

• Clarity and a well-balanced tone

• Budget-friendly — excellent value for money

Things to Consider

• There is no hard case supplied

• There is no shock mount

• The output has a noticeable amount of noise

#4. AKG Pro Audio C1000S - Best Sensitivity Mic

Important Specifications

• Brand: AKG Pro Audio

• Color: Black

• Connector Type: XLR Connector

• Connectivity Technology: Wired

• Power Source: Battery Powered

• Compatible Devices: Personal Computer, Smartphone

• Number of Batteries: 1 AA battery required

• Item Weight: 0.32 Kilograms

• Polar Pattern: Multipattern

• Material: Metal

Product’s Highlights

AKG has revived the CS100S in an end-fire configuration with a cast-alloy navy blue body with foam-lined mesh. It comes with two plastic widgets, a canvas travel case, a stand clip (no shock mount), and a foam windscreen.

The very first pattern-altering device (widget) performs an excellent job of changing loudness in the 5-9 kHz region. In contrast, the second lets you switch from cardioid to hyper-cardioid simply by placing it over the capsule. To do so, you'll have to unscrew the shell.

Aside from that, it has an SPL of 137 dB, with the majority of the presence peak located between 3 and 10 kHz.

It also includes a low-cut of 80Hz and a -10dB pad that performs effectively. However, accessing them necessitates unscrewing the unit in order to get access to a switch in the charging port. Two AA batteries are enough to run the gadget for over 120 hours.

What We Like

• Battery-powered operation for up to 120 hours

• Construction is sturdy, and the end-fire configuration is practical

• For recording acoustic instruments, this is an excellent choice

• It's suitable for both studio and live recordings

Things to Consider

• Vocal sibilance can be a problem

• There is no hard case supplied

• Accessing the switches is inconvenient

• Plastic widgets are convenient, but they are difficult to handle

#5. AKG PERCEPTION 170 Professional Instrumental - Best Construction

Important Specifications

• Brand: AKG Pro Audio

• Color: Sliver Blue

• Connectivity Technology: Wired

• Item Weight: 1.11 Pounds

• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional

• Material: Metal

Product’s Highlights

This AKG P120 is a pencil condenser mic with a tiny diaphragm and real capacitors. A microphone mount/stand adaptor is included, however no hard case or bag is included. A switch to enable the HPF at 300Hz to minimize undesired lows and a -20dB attenuation to deal with forceful sound sources are located on the front of the mic. The SPL ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz, with a maximum SPL of 130dB.

This P120 adds some richness to the tone, giving voices and conversation more life. Content creators, voice-over artists, and singers will benefit significantly from the P120. It's also an excellent option for songwriters and indie musicians who wish to record demos at home.

What We Like

• Straightforward, simple, and effective

• The construction is sturdy, and the sounds are resonant

• It's ideal for capturing acoustic instruments

• For the price, there is a lot of value

Things to Consider

• It's difficult to find an issue with the pricing

• There is no case or pouch included with this item

#6. Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones - Best Durable Mic

Important Specifications

• Brand: Rode

• Color: Black

• Connectivity Technology: Wired

• Power Source: Corded Electric

• Audio Sensitivity: 1 dB

• Compatible Devices: Personal Computer

• Number of Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required.

• Item Weight: 0.16 Kilograms

• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional

• Material: Ceramic

Product’s Highlights

Rode set out to duplicate the NT5's quality at a more affordable price, and they've succeeded admirably. These small-diaphragm mics are produced in Australia, and their sensitivity reaction varies no more than 1dB between matched pairs.

The microphone is tiny (100mm by 20mm) and easy to set, with a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz. This M5 lacks an HPF or a -10dB attenuator, although it can withstand SPLs of 140dB in studio settings with minimal background noise.

The M5s are a high-end pair with a rich, clear, and warm tone. And your hunt for a low-cost pair to record acoustic instruments has come to an end.

They are, nonetheless, just as detailed and clear as drum overheads. The highs have a chime-like quality to them rather than being tinny, which is unusual for this price range.

What We Like

• Engineering of high quality and a long guarantee

• A sound that is neutral, detailed, and clear

• Exceptionally low-cost

Things to Consider

• There isn't a hard case or a storage pouch

#7. Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones - Best Frequency Response

Important Specifications

• Brand: Samson

• Color: Silver

• Connector Type: XLR Connector

• Connectivity Technology: XLR

• Power Source: Corded Electric

• Compatible Devices: Amplifier

• Item Weight: 0.17 Kilograms

• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional

• Number of Channels: 1

Product’s Highlights

The CO2 mic is a sensitive gas that may take up a lot of information. They offer a 30Hz to 20kHz frequency response and a 134 dB SPL, which is excellent for a stick mic of this type. Even the most brutal guitar amps won't be able to defeat these rascals. They don't have a low-cut switch or an attenuator cushion, and the shock mounts aren't very effective at isolating the mic from thumps.

This CO2 stereo pair is created on a budget and performs as a cheap pair should. In a range of studio circumstances and configurations, the cardioid polar structure and overall frequency response appear to be capable of reasonable outcomes. When used as a drum above with the lows rolled off, you can achieve sharp results. They're also helpful for stereo recording acoustic instruments.

The longevity and build quality are adequate and should not be a problem, but you will need to enhance them as your knowledge and studio grow. They might still be helpful as a backup combination in the long term.

What We Like

• For emergency usage, this is a good backup set

• Exceptional value for money

• As a drum overhead pair, it works wonderfully

• Ideal for recording in stereo

Things to Consider

• In the long run, it will need to be improved

• There are flaws in the construction and durability

• The shock mount is weak

#8. Marantz Professional MPM-1000 - Best Bang For The Buck

Important Specifications

• Brand: Marantz Professional

• Connector Type: XLR Connector

• Connectivity Technology: Wired

• Power Source: Corded Electric

• Audio Sensitivity: 38 dB

• Compatible Devices: Gaming Console, Amplifier

• Item Weight: 0.66 Pounds

• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional

• Material: Aluminum

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 77 dB

Product’s Highlights

Even though the Marantz Pro MPM-1000 is one of the more affordable microphones on this list, it can produce a studio-quality audio performance that's ideal for podcasting or recording vocals or instruments when money is tight.

This MPM-1000 is built on an 18mm cardioid polar design aluminum-plated capsule. It has a comprehensive frequency reaction, high sensitivity (-38dB 2dB), and quick transient response. 

The total S/N ratio is a decent 77 dB, and self-noise is astonishingly low at just 17 dBA. It can withstand a maximum sound pressure level of 136 decibels.

What We Like

• Low noise

• A large number of accessories included

• Great price

Things to Consider

• Cardioid pattern only

• No high-pass or pad switches