The 10 Best Mic For Guitar Recording (2023 Review & Buyers Guide)

Mr. Brooks Keeling
  May 29, 2023 7:44 PM

Recording acoustic or electric guitar requires a microphone that can accurately capture the sound of the instrument. The best mic for guitar recording depends on several factors, including the type of guitar, playing style, and recording environment. A good guitar microphone should have a wide frequency response range, high sensitivity, and a directional polar pattern to capture the sound from the right angle. In this buying guide, we will review the key features to consider when choosing a guitar recording mic and suggest some of the best options available on the market.

Top Picks

The Shure SM81-LC is a popular choice for recording acoustic guitars, pianos, and other stringed instruments. It features a cardioid polar pattern, which helps to minimize unwanted sounds and focus on the instrument being recorded. The microphone has a flat frequency response, which makes it ideal for capturing the natural sound of the instrument without coloration. Its rugged construction ensures durability and reliability over time.

The MXL 990 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that is often used for recording acoustic guitars. It features a cardioid polar pattern and a frequency response that is tailored to the midrange frequencies that are important for acoustic guitars. The microphone has a high sensitivity and low noise floor, which makes it ideal for capturing the nuances and subtleties of acoustic guitar playing.

This wireless microphone system is designed to be used with cameras and smartphones for recording acoustic guitars. It features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around and use in a variety of settings. The system uses a 2.4GHz wireless signal, which provides a clear and reliable connection between the microphone and the recording device. The microphone has a high sensitivity and low noise floor, which ensures that the recorded sound is clean and clear.

The SWIFF wireless guitar system is designed to be used with electric guitars, but can also be used with acoustic guitars when combined with a pickup. It features a compact and lightweight design that attaches directly to the guitar, eliminating the need for cables and other accessories. The system uses a 2.4GHz wireless signal, which provides a clear and reliable connection between the guitar and the recording device. The system has a high dynamic range and low noise floor, which ensures that the recorded sound is clean and clear.

The TONOR wireless microphone system is designed to be used for a variety of applications, including recording acoustic guitars. It features a metal construction, which ensures durability and reliability over time. The system uses a UHF wireless signal, which provides a clear and reliable connection between the microphone and the recording device. The microphone has a high sensitivity and low noise floor, which ensures that the recorded sound is clean and clear. The system also includes a range of accessories, including a carrying case and a tripod stand, which make it easy to use and transport.

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Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone for Guitar, Piano, and Cymbals, Includes Swivel Adapter, Attenuator-Switch Lock, Windscreen, Carrying Case, No Cable Included (SM81-LC)
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MXL 990 Industries Most Ground Breaking Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
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New 2.4GHz Wireless Microphone System for Camera Smartphones, Saramonic Blink500 Ultracompact Dual-channel Mic for DSLR, Mirrorless and Video Cameras, Mobile Devices Youtube Facebook Live (TRS & TRRS)
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SWIFF High-Grade Electronic Guitar Wireless System Rechargeable Guitar Transmitter Receiver Support Multi Channels and 5.5 Hours Long Battery Life for All Electric Musical Instruments
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TONOR Wireless Microphone,Metal Dual Professional UHF Cordless Dynamic Mic Handheld Microphone System for Home Karaoke, Meeting, Party, Church, DJ, Wedding, Home KTV Set, 200ft(TW-820)
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blucoil MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone for Piano, Guitar, String Instruments, and Vocal Recording (Silver) Bundle Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter, and 10-FT Balanced XLR Cable
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GOODaaa Professional Wireless Karaoke Microphone for Adults, Premium Leather Handle, Rechargeable Bluetooth Mic with Stereo Speaker, Recording｜Vocal Remove｜Duet, Compatible with All Smartphones
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TONOR USB Microphone, Computer Cardioid Condenser PC Gaming Mic with Tripod Stand & Pop Filter for Streaming, Podcasting, Vocal Recording, Compatible with Laptop Desktop Windows Computer, TC-777
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Sound Town 16 Channels Wireless Microphone Karaoke Mixer System with Optical (Toslink), AUX and 2 Handheld Microphones - Supports Smart TV, Home Theater, Sound Bar (SWM16-PRO)
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Lavalier Microphone USB C Professional Lapel Clip-on Mic Omni Condenser Little Lav Mic for Video Recording External Noise Cancel Mic for Youtube Vlog ASMR Interview on Android Type-C Device (6.6ft)
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Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Buying Guide

Source: Rhett Shull

Key Features to Consider:

  1. Polar Pattern: For guitar recording, a directional polar pattern such as cardioid, super-cardioid, or hyper-cardioid is recommended. This will help to isolate the sound of the guitar from other instruments and background noise.

  2. Frequency Response Range: A good guitar mic should have a wide frequency response range that captures both the high and low-end frequencies of the guitar. This will help to reproduce a natural and accurate sound of the guitar.

  3. Sensitivity: A high sensitivity microphone can capture the subtle nuances and dynamics of the guitar playing. A low sensitivity mic, on the other hand, may require a preamp or amplifier to boost the signal.

  4. Form Factor: The form factor of the mic is also important to consider, whether you prefer a stand-mounted mic or a clip-on mic that can be attached to the guitar itself.

Best Mics for Guitar Recording:

  1. Shure SM57: The Shure SM57 is a popular choice for guitar recording. It features a cardioid polar pattern, a frequency response range of 40Hz-15kHz, and a high SPL handling capability. The SM57 can be placed in front of the guitar amp or near the soundhole of an acoustic guitar to capture a clear and natural sound.

  2. AKG Pro Audio C214: The AKG Pro Audio C214 is a large diaphragm condenser mic that is ideal for capturing the sound of an acoustic guitar. It features a cardioid polar pattern, a frequency response range of 20Hz-20kHz, and a switchable -20dB attenuation pad for handling high sound pressure levels.

  3. Rode NT5: The Rode NT5 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that is suitable for recording acoustic guitar. It features a cardioid polar pattern, a frequency response range of 20Hz-20kHz, and a high SPL handling capability. The NT5 can be placed near the guitar soundhole or bridge to capture the details and nuances of the playing.

  4. Audio-Technica AT4053B: The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a hyper-cardioid condenser mic that is ideal for capturing the sound of an acoustic guitar. It features a frequency response range of 20Hz-20kHz, a high SPL handling capability, and a switchable low-frequency roll-off filter.

  5. Sennheiser e906: The Sennheiser e906 is a super-cardioid dynamic mic that is suitable for recording electric guitar. It features a frequency response range of 40Hz-18kHz, a high SPL handling capability, and a switchable presence boost to add clarity and definition to the guitar sound.

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Conclusions

Choosing the best mic for guitar recording depends on your personal preference, playing style, and recording environment. The Shure SM57, AKG Pro Audio C214, Rode NT5, Audio-Technica AT4053B, and Sennheiser e906 are all great options that can capture the natural and detailed sound of a guitar. Consider the polar pattern, frequency response range, sensitivity, and form factor when making your decision.