Ranking the best studio microphones for 2022

Humanity has entered an amazing era of total growth in entertainment and media. Experts predict that the global industry will reach $2.5 trillion by 2023.

Leading trends in the area include:

1. digitalization;
2. increasing user consumption through mobile devices;
3. merger of business lines at key points of customer bases;
4. vertical integration.

The list of radio stations, recording studios, broadcasting centers is updated daily. The quality of sound transmission is categorically different from the previous century. In addition to processing and storing data, acoustic systems play an important role, standing at the forefront of receiving sound vibrations.

Studio microphones

Not only professional radio and television studios, sound recording companies, but also home amateur centers are equipped with modern systems.

The main task of a microphone is to convert an acoustic wave into an electronic signal. The main role is assigned to the membrane responsible for the perception of sound air vibrations. An electrical vibration is transmitted from the membrane, which forms a signal.

Studio acoustics differ in the type of transducer and can be:

1. condenser;
2. tape;
3. dynamic;
4. electret.

How to choose the right microphone

A focus on functional compliance with the task and conditions of use is a priority. What criteria should be followed or are recommendations sufficient?

Frequency range

The characteristic determines the width of the frequencies that the microphone can pick up. The volume of sound and expressiveness depends on the breadth of the range. For capacitor models, the boundaries are determined by the perception of the human ear - from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Dynamic type equipment has a narrower range.

preamplifier

The following circuit technologies are distinguished:

1. lamp;
2. transistor;
3. transformer;
4. hybrid.

It is generally accepted that the soft sound is provided by tube preamps.To obtain a transparent sound, a semiconductor type of acoustics is more suitable.

Maximum sound pressure

At a certain level of pressure, the diaphragm begins to distort the sound. The maximum characteristic indicates the ability of the equipment to withstand the load. Manufacturers of our time set the threshold at the level of pain anatomical perception. When the ear is already hurting from the playback power, the microphone continues to work without overload. However, not all condenser microphones can handle drum recordings.

Cardioid model

All over the world there is a wave of amateur and professional vocal recordings of various formats. The cardioid will allow you to exclude extraneous noise, limit the sound coverage, cut off the lower threshold, and give out the optimal sound of the voice.

If we are talking about screaming and growling, then it is worth stopping at the dynamic version of the equipment, which more effectively conveys aggressive vocals.

hybrid type

Acoustics capable of adding expressiveness, enriching the voice with a third-party "charm", as a rule, has a hybrid circuit with an external amplifier.

Errors when choosing

The opinion that it is possible to hide flaws in voice and tonality through studio processing is very doubtful. Of course, the "figure" will emphasize the dignity and enhance the effect. However, the model of the microphone will not affect the talent of the performance.

Rating of the best studio microphones

Capacitor Models

AKG C12VR

Acoustics is designed for recording instrumental music and vocals.

• excellent "removal" of the voice;
• gives softness to the sound;
• tube preamplifier for transfer heat;
• polar pattern switch - circle, figure eight, cardioid;
• with power supply included;
• the presence of wind protection;
• the design includes a 1-inch capsule and a double gold-plated diaphragm;
• Proximity reduction function with double-cut high-pass filter;
• silent way of switching charts through the N-Tube block;
• 12-pin connector;
• minimization of distortion at low frequencies due to the special winding of the output transformer;
• holder type anti-vibration.

• it is also intended for recordings in open space.

AKG C414 LII/ST

The stationary set of two microphones is equipped with wind protection, holders, filters, placed in a convenient Soundtool case.

• in addition to the standard directions of the diagrams, it has a hypercardioid and a supercardioid;
• a wide range of applications - stage, filming, radio, studios;
• also recommended for recording brass, string and woodwind parts;
• smooth acoustic-frequency characteristics;
• the design is equipped with transformerless electronics Ultra Linear ultra-linear range, with distortion protection;
• compliance with the requirements of digital recording standards;
• subtle transfer of vocal features;
• recommended for recording live concerts, classical music, choirs, ensembles;
• accurate computer selection of a stereo pair;
• Austrian quality of the Vienna brand.

• no.

Shure SM 81

The condenser type wireless model is produced under a well-known American brand.

• the presence of a swivel holder;
• with attenuator lock PAD;
• accurate detailed sound transmission;
• with a durable steel body and vinyl coating;
• extended frequency response;
• own noise at a minimum level;
• with active protection against electromagnetic influence;
• linear characteristic switch;
• with cardioid and symmetrical orientation;
• recommended for recording acoustic guitars, pianos, cymbals, plucked instruments, stage work, in studios;
• with phantom power;
• the presence of low-pass filters;
• flexibility when recording loud sounds;
• elimination of operational noise;
• with a three-pin XLR connector;
• does not perceive radio frequency radiation.

• non-removable cartridge.

ROD NTK

A novelty on the acoustic market belongs to the class of professional equipment and has its own power supply.

• used when recording vocals and parts of single musical instruments;
• stationary type of construction;
• ten-year manufacturer's warranty;
• high sensitivity and a wide range of dynamics is provided by a gold-plated membrane;
• with vibration protection by fixing the membrane on the suspension;
• low noise level;
• high sound quality;
• the presence of a tube amplifier;
• cardioid orientation;
• laureate of exhibitions of musical equipment.

• not found.

Audio-Technika AT 2022 USB+

Acoustics belongs to class A, has many prestigious awards from professional exhibitions.

• Australian capsule HF2;
• lamp 6922 high sensitivity;
• used in the field of acoustic instruments, keyboards, vocal recordings, percussion instruments;
• diaphragm gilded;
• the presence of a special power supply;
• minimum own noise;
• with ultra-strength protective steel mesh;
• does not have sensitivity to radio interference;
• wide capture and sound clarity;
• modern design;
• with power indicator;
• the best model in this price category;
• sufficient wire length;
• the presence of a stand in the form of a tripod;
• excellent value for money.

• There is no mute button on the microphone.

Neumann TLM 102

The microphone, made according to special German technologies, combines the magnificence of proportions, classic design and a bright characteristic element in the form of a ring on the protective grille.

• easily works with loud sources - percussion, drums, guitar amplifiers;
• the presence of a rise in the middle frequencies > 6 kHz ensures voice clarity in mixes;
• cardioid type;
• bass registers get a clear cut and a minimum of coloration, thanks to the frequency response up to 6 kHz;
• with pressure gradient transducer;
• elastic fastening of the capsule to the body guarantees a minimum of structural noise;
• the protective grille is equipped with a pop filter to filter out consonant beats;
• ideal for use by low-budget, broadcast studios;
• power supply 48V+/-4V.

• not detected.

Capacitor Models
Model	Signal/noise, dB-A	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV/Pa * dBV	Pressure, sound, max, k 3%, dB	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, grams	Impedance, Ohm
AKG C12VR	72	10*-40	128	30-20000	680	200
AKG C414 LII/ST	88	-34	158	20-20000	-	200
Shure SM 81	78	-45	136,146,128	20-20000	230	150
ROD NTK	82	-38	158	20-20000	760	200
Audio-Technika AT 2020 USB+	>82	-38	158	20-20000	386	32
Neumann TLM 102	73	11	144	20-2000	262	50

Dynamic microphones

The transducer in this class of acoustics is not a plate, but a diaphragm attached to a rigidly fixed coil of a thin wire.When exposed to sound waves, the diaphragm oscillates, the movement of the coil in a magnetic field perturbs space and creates an electrical signal. The basis of the process is the removal of voltage from the coil, created by an external stimulus.

• high overload capacity;
• minimal risk of damage on impact;
• low level of perception of extraneous noise;
• low sensitivity to the process of creating feedback.

Sennheiser MD 421-II

The remastered version of the legendary MD 421 is very popular with sound designers, engineers and musicians around the world.

• the range of applications from the air of a radio station to the recording of vocals and instrumental music;
• suitable for recording drums, percussion sound sources;
• famous German quality;
• adjustable bass characteristics with a spread of five positions using the built-in switch;
• Rugged housing with stand-mounting with its own removable holder;
• with phantom power;
• directivity cardioid;
• also recommended for TV, radio and podcasts;
• with effective feedback suppression;
• pronounced orientation;
• fine-tuning parameters.

• missing.

Electro Voice RE 20

A novelty in the class of dynamic acoustics has a stationary and suspended design.

• standard for recording vocals;
• the built-in screen protects from vibrations of an applause, whistle;
• Removed the effect of proximity thanks to the technology "Variable-D";
• cardioid orientation;
• noise filtering;
• maintaining a constant frequency range;
• the presence of a large membrane;
• with bass switch;
• passive power supply;
• a solid favorite in the broadcasting class;
• preference for sound engineers.

• not detected.

Samson Q8X

A novelty among acoustic models for concert and studio activities.

• the flagship of studio and live vocals;
• wide capture range;
• with high gain up to the moment of feedback;
• pneumo-capsule;
• stylish design;
• supercardioid direction;
• captures the subtleties of sound without reducing volume and clarity;
• suppression of hum, noise vibrations;
• provides a powerful mix with a clear sound;
• with low resistance;
• the kit includes a mount, a case;
• the presence of a multi-axial shock-absorbing element;
• with gold plated connector.

• no.

Shure SM58S

Impressive acoustic characteristics brought the model to the flagship position.

• transmission of voice nuances;
• windscreen puts a block on the volume of breathing;
• the presence of a capsule damper allows to reduce mechanical noise;
• anti-shock properties of materials of manufacture;
• with phantom power;
• build quality;
• connector type - the common XLR standard will not create problems finding a cable;
• cardioid orientation;
• the kit includes a holder, a case;
• sound distortion is reduced to zero.

• not detected.

Dynamic Models
Model	Pressure, maximum, dB	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV/Pa * dBV	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, grams	Impedance, Ohm
Sennheiser MD 421-II	-	2	30-17000	385	200
Electro Voice RE 20	-	1.5	45-18000	737	150
Samson Q8X	150	-54	50-16000	440	300
Shure SM58S	-	-54	50-15000	350	150

Electret microphone models

If we exclude the plastic case and leave only the "stuffing", then the acoustics is a capacitor.An electret film with polarization, with a thin layer of metal, is a diaphragm, while also acting as a plate. The capacitance of the capacitor changes under the influence of acoustic pressure acting on the diaphragm. Such devices are characterized by simplicity and low cost, therefore they are recognized both among professionals and in the amateur musical environment.

Maono AU-100TC

The lavalier design of the model with a circular diaphragm is used in radio and television studios.

• belongs to the price category up to 3000 rubles;
• good sensitivity;
• ultra-flat gear characteristics;
• long-term stability;
• circular orientation;
• simple connection scheme to computers and laptops;
• long cable 6 meters.

• not very popular with sound engineers.

SVEN MK 490

The desktop version of the microphone with phantom power is recommended for use in amateur studios connected to a PC.

• plastic case;
• with shutdown button;
• suitable for home studio;
• recommended for recording classes and video lessons;
• with step-by-step connection instructions;
• democratic price;
• online order available.

• some users report increased noise.

Sennheiser E 865 S

The famous German quality acoustic device with a wide frequency range is considered the best among models designed for loud sound.

• with soft tone transfer;
• excellent noise suppression;
• supercardioid chart;
• no distortion;
• no feedback effect;
• the presence of vibration protection;
• attractive ergonomics;
• hull balance;
• with two-way switch;
• versatility of application;
• the best value for money.

• not found.

Electret models
Model	Pressure, maximum, dB	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV/Pa * dBV	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, grams	Impedance, Ohm
Maono AU-100TC	120	-32	65-18000	75	-
SVEN MK 490	-	-58	30-16000	146	32
Sennheiser E 865 S	150	3	40-20000	311	200

Ribbon microphones

One of the varieties of dynamic equipment is the tape version of the acoustic device. The diaphragm is replaced by a thin ribbon and is able to give warmth to the sound. Models of this type are not afraid of approaching the sound source.

Royer Labs R101

Acoustics of the passive type has a bidirectional circuit.

• high threshold sensitivity 3.9 mV/Pa;
• no accumulation of bass at short distances;
• Special, durable, off-center aluminum band for bright response
• three-layer wind protection;
• shock-resistant converter;
• compactness;
• special patented author's corrugation;
• minimization of standing waves;
• high frequency detail;
• with a smooth frequency response;
• small membrane;
• moisture protection.

• no.

MXL R77

Tape flagship model has a unique transmission of live sound with high realism.

• recommended for vocal and instrumental recordings;
• high-quality manufacturing materials;
• stylish catchy design;
• equipped with mount, stand, long cable over 7 meters;
• on-line order via the Internet.

• not detected.

Ribbon microphones
Model	Pressure, maximum, dB	Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1 kΩ, dB - mV/Pa * dBV	Frequencies, range, Hz	Weight, grams	Impedance, Ohm
Royer Labs R101	135	-48	30-15000	483	300
MXL R77	135	-	20-18000	222	270

Conclusion

The popularity of microphones is growing along with the opening of new blogs, the creation of home video archives and the development of media. The need for good sound became a necessity. Price categories can satisfy the demand of the most unpretentious and professional consumers. The sound transmission of voice and music in a high-quality format never ceases to amaze with its originality and miracle.