The 10 Best Mic For Guitar, Tested by Experts

Mr. Brooks Keeling
  May 29, 2023 6:05 PM

When it comes to recording guitar, choosing the right microphone is crucial to achieving a great sound. There are many factors to consider when selecting a microphone for guitar recording, such as the type of microphone, polar pattern, frequency response, sensitivity, and more. In this buying guide, we will take a look at some of the best microphones for recording guitar and what factors to consider when making your selection.

Top Picks

The Sennheiser e 609 is a great microphone for recording guitar amps. Its super-cardioid polar pattern effectively captures sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear, reducing unwanted noise and improving clarity. The mic has a flat frequency response, which means it captures the natural sound of the guitar without adding any coloration or distortion. The e 609 is also built to last, with a rugged metal body and shock-mount system that can withstand heavy use. Overall, it's a solid choice for recording guitar amps and other instruments.

The Cloudlifter Zi is a versatile DI (direct input) box that can be used to improve the signal quality of any instrument or microphone. It features variable impedance control, which allows you to adjust the impedance to match the input source and achieve the best possible sound quality. It also has a variable gain control, which can help boost weak signals and reduce noise. The Cloudlifter Zi is a great tool for improving the sound of your instruments and microphones, especially if you're working with low-output sources.

The Shure SM81 is a high-quality condenser microphone that is ideal for recording acoustic instruments like guitar and piano. Its cardioid polar pattern effectively captures sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear, reducing unwanted noise and improving clarity. The mic has a flat frequency response, which means it captures the natural sound of the instrument without adding any coloration or distortion. The SM81 is also very sensitive, which allows it to capture subtle nuances and details in the sound. Overall, it's a great choice for recording acoustic instruments in a studio setting.

The Behringer B 906 is a dynamic microphone that is designed for use with instruments and vocals. Its super-cardioid polar pattern effectively captures sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear, reducing unwanted noise and improving clarity. The mic has a wide frequency response, which allows it to capture a broad range of frequencies with accuracy and clarity. The B 906 is also very rugged and durable, making it a great choice for live performances and other high-energy environments. Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable microphone for use with instruments and vocals.

The Alphasonik 8" Powered Speaker is a powerful and versatile speaker that is perfect for DJing, live performances, and other events. It features a built-in amplifier that delivers up to 1200 watts of power, as well as Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming of music. The speaker also has a variety of input options, including XLR, RCA, and 1/4" inputs, which makes it easy to connect to a wide range of devices. The sound quality is excellent, with clear highs and powerful bass, and the build quality is solid, with a rugged construction that can withstand heavy use. Overall, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile speaker for their music or events.

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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: Michael Watts

Factors to consider:

  1. Microphone Type: There are two main types of microphones used for recording guitar: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic mics are more rugged and have a higher SPL handling capacity, making them ideal for capturing high-volume sound sources like guitar amps. On the other hand, condenser mics are more sensitive and have a wider frequency response, making them ideal for capturing the nuances and details of acoustic guitars.

  2. Polar Pattern: The polar pattern of a microphone determines how it picks up sound from different directions. Cardioid is the most commonly used polar pattern for recording guitar, as it focuses on sound from the front of the microphone and rejects sound from the sides and rear. This helps to reduce unwanted noise and improve the clarity of the recorded sound.

  3. Frequency Response: The frequency response of a microphone refers to its ability to capture sound across different frequencies. For recording guitar, a microphone with a flat frequency response is ideal, as it will capture the natural sound of the instrument without adding any unwanted coloration or distortion.

  4. Sensitivity: The sensitivity of a microphone refers to how much sound pressure it can handle before it starts to distort. When recording guitar, a microphone with a high sensitivity is desirable as it will capture the full dynamic range of the instrument without clipping or distorting.

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Conclusions

Choosing the right microphone for recording guitar is essential to achieving a great sound. When making your selection, consider the type of microphone, polar pattern, frequency response, and sensitivity. The Shure SM57, Audio-Technica AT4053B, and Sennheiser e609 are all great options for recording guitar, depending on your specific needs. Ultimately, the best microphone for you will depend on your budget, the type of guitar you are recording, and your personal preferences.