Discover the Best Large Diaphragm Microphones
1. Audio-Technica AT2020
Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Blew Me Away!
Reviewed by ACE.KING on Guitar Center
I bought this mic as the last addition to my home studio. This mic is awesome. Very clear vocals. Alot of my friends have come over to use it, and have asked to borrow it because they liked it so much.
Great studio mic for a Mezzo
Reviewed by Michael McNerney on Guitar Center
Back in the days when state of the art studios were bulked down with Otari analog tape decks, I owned a recording studio in the San Francisco area. Our mic selection ranged from Shure SM33 and 55's, RCA 77dx to Neumann M269c, various AKGs, Sennheisers, etc. I have to say, however, that with all the firepower we had available, I don't think anything made my wife's voice shine as well as the AT2020. I'm not saying this mic is for everyone, however, as a professional mezzo soprano opera singer who also belts jazz, this mic loves her tones. It's durable enough to handle the massive presence she can create, without sounding tinny, shrill or muddy. As a mezzo, she has more than a three octave range and the 2020 performs beautifully from her lowest, chocolate tones to the near glass-shattering highs. Every voice is different and should be evaluated individually before making a mic selection, but for our needs, the AT2020 is the perfect choice. ... More
2. Lewitt LCT-440-Pure
Single-Pattern, Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
TRULY AMAZING!
Reviewed by Carl on Guitar Center
As someone who's been taking vocal lessons at Guitar Center and hoping to make video music covers soon as a hobby, it was time for me to find my ideal condenser microphone. My research took me through countless reviews and comparison videos, but it was the Lewitt LCT 440 PURE that truly captured my attention. The rich and authentic sound it produced made me exclaim, "WOW!" It wasn't just one review that convinced me; video after video, I was amazed by the quality of sound brought by the LCT 440 PURE, and so I thought "This is the one". I then went to Guitar Center to purchase the product after having sufficient funds. The unboxing experience was like opening a treat. The packaging gave a sense of sophistication that promised premium quality. And the microphone didn't disappoint! The moment I tested it, the sound quality blew me away. It captured the nuances of my voice with such precision that it felt tailor-made for me. Whether I'm casually talking or belting out a tune, I enjoy speaking and singing on this microphone so much! The LCT 440 PURE's design is another noteworthy feature. Eschewing the common cylindrical design, it sports a sleek, modern box-shape. It's a breath of fresh air in the world of microphones and resonates with my personal aesthetic preferences. Robustness? This microphone has it in spades. An accidental drop from 5'10" left me anxious, but to my amazement, the LCT 440 PURE showed no signs of damage and still performed flawlessly. It's built to last! The bundled pop filter, shock mount, and windsock further enhance the value proposition. They aren't mere add-ons but high-quality tools that set the stage for a seamless vocal recording experience. I commend Lewitt's commitment to delivering top-tier microphones on their lineup, and the LCT 440 PURE is a shining example of their dedication to quality and value. For anyone looking to take their vocal recordings to new heights, this microphone is a must-have, or at least should be considered. #sweepstakes ... More
Wonderful & Affordable Condenser Mic
Reviewed by Jeffrey on B&H Photo Video
I have a few different microphones for podcast & youtube use. I like to keep both a dynamic and a condenser mic around because I prefer condenser sound but don't always have a super quiet environment to record in, so using a dynamic mic is helpful sometimes for less background/ambient noise that I have to address in post. However, I am simply amazed at this microphone's combination of wonderful condenser sound profile with above-average noise rejection for this type of mic. It still picks up more ambient sound than my dynamic mics of course, but I can record with this relatively close to my laptop and even when the fan kicks on it's hardly noticeable. For reference, where I record I usually can get away with a -60db noise gate for dynamic mics and -51db for condenser. With the LCT 440 I have it set to -55db. Most importantly, the sound from this thing is very impressive for the price point. After testing it with no post processing, I couldn't believe that it was under $300. Just a few mild tweaks and it sounds amazing! Terrific warm and rich tone with the clean & clear highs that I love from condenser mics. That alone is very valuable, because I could plug this into a different interface or switch to a new recording app with no saved settings and have it ready to record in a few minutes. Can't say that for some of my other mics that required quite a bit of tinkering with filters/EQ to get the sound right. Also love that Lewitt included a metal POP filter and foam cover along with a shock mount right in the box. Overall this one is a winner! ... More
3. Audio-Technica AT2035
Cardioid Condenser Microphone
CLEARLY THE BEST CHOICE!!!
Reviewed by JuNkYaRd MoNkey on Guitar Center
I spent almost two months researching mics over the internet, and everytime I looked for an inexpensive, efficent and amazing performance microphone...THIS IS THE BEST CHOICE. I used the AT2035 solely for vocals and heard nothing short of almost flawless quality. This microphone also works well on tube amps and cabinets (bass or guitars). As for acoustics it picks up a lot of noise. But that can be compensated with a compresser. If you go to the Audio-techina website you'll find more than enough info on this mic stats. This is an awesome mic and I'm so happy for purchasing it. ... More
The AT2035 is a stunner for the price (and beyond)
Reviewed by D Lockman on Guitar Center
It's sound is detailed, full and focused, with just the right amount of brightness for most singers. This is not one of those glossy-sounding "German-Austrian style" mics, just a straightforward vocal mic that gets the job done with flying colors (or I should say, with no undue coloration). Used with a decent-to-good preamp (say, $150+, simple single channel type), it sounds B-I-G and very pro. The key is to get a loud, clean, clear signal coming out of the preamp into the recording device with the recording device input down quite low (like 1, at most). By letting the preamp do the work (but keeping it clean), you will get that up-close "enlarged" sound you hear in pro recordings. The AT2035, in my opinion, beats out just about every other mic I've heard for under $300 or so. A great combo for a small studio would be an AT2035 and, for contrast, 1 of those extra-bright, "sheeny" German/Austrian-style mics that sell for around twice what the AT2935 sells for. But get this one first. For all types of vocalists, it gets good results. Not sure what else it does well, but I got it for voice, and it delivers the goods. I love mine. ... More
4. AKG C214
Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Pro sound that won't break your bank!
Reviewed by DJ Hellfire on Guitar Center
I find it hard to trust reviews because everyone almost always loves their product. But when it comes to the C214, it deserves 5 stars. Upgrading from the Perception 220, which I wasn't really happy with, there is a night and day difference. This mic is so much more crisp on vocals and hardly needs any EQ. I've found a LPF rolloff and slight boost in the highs is all this really needed for me. If you are on a low to mid budget, this is a great choice. I was finally able to capture that professional sounding vocal that I just could not get with my 220. ... More
Best Mic Ever
Reviewed by Mike on Guitar Center
AKG has set the bar with this microphone. From the moment I hooked it up I couldnt believe my ears. The mic required hardly no EQing and it sounds great for vocals or accoustic instruments. I havent tried it on drums but I have a feeling it would sound good on those as well. Siblances are no longer a problem with this mic. Plosives are not a problem either. Now I know what they mean when people say "You get what you pay for" I will never purchase another microphone below this price rang. PROFESSIONAL STUDIO SOUND QUALITY! ... More
5. AKG C414 XLS
Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Excellent Microphone
Reviewed by James Michael S. on Guitar Center
I just recently purchased this microphone with a Presonus Tube Preamp and a TC Helicon Voiceworks Plus effects system. This microphone preceeds even the more expensive microphones on the market produced by other companies. Sound quality of vocals is something I strive for constantly. Now, that I have hooked this microphone up, I have found the clarity and quality I need. The greatest feature of this microphone is the selectable patterns. Even though the individual patterns are for different applications of recording instruments and vocals, I mainly use them for different singing styles. They even accomodate different singers. I intend to use this as a studio microphone for a recording business. For anyone looking for a quality all-around microphone for everything, this is for you. Keep in mind that even though the AKG 214 (I think thats the name) is highly recommended for vocals, it is not intended for other recording applications such as instrument or drums. If you purchase this microphone you will recieve a computer read-out test of YOUR microphone's frequencies performed by AKG. Also, keep in mind that the equipment behind this microphone will make a difference too. I recommend the Presonus Tube Channel Strip Preamp to power this Microphone and control its levels, along with its built in 3 band equalization. That, in itself, offers great possibilities for straight forward clear clean vocals and mic'ed intruments along with mic'ed amplifiers. Look into voice effects too, great investment. ... More
You'll pry this mic from my fingers at my wake!
Reviewed by Joel on B&H Photo Video
Nah, that's probably a bit of false bravado-- also not alot of Irish traditions in my family, and to say that my admiration for this mic will extend to my dying day, that I will breathe my last breath holding onto it and capturing some musical performance-- a nice picture, but how realistic, really? I guess I just metaphorically, in a Clint Eastwood kinda way, want to impress on you that, if we were all cowboys, this mic would be the six-shooter that everyone longed to have-- lawman, outlaw, everyone in between. There's a reason it's a standard of the industry and you've heard its coolly accurate wondrous alive-sounding exceptional capture on a gabazillion records. It gets and gives you what's really there. The self noise is so low, 6 decibels, that there is no self noise. Everything comes through crisply and clearly. I will confess to you-- I've cobbled together a subsistence farming kind of audio life, recording singers and ensembles, and I've always made do with gear that checked in much lower on the food chain than this. So when the house tech at a classical quartet concert had a pair of these and set them up just basically at the front edge of the stage, and offered to feed them into my tape deck, I swooned. Back in the studio mixing that performance, the 414's were smooth and airy and cast a lovely perspective on the players. Okay, that's it, I am getting myself a pair! What did I hear when I set up a pair of these for the first time in front of a guitar player? Within the ringing density of the guitar sound, a whole rainbow of colors, a detailed picture down to the granular level. The dual capsule will give you any and every polar pattern, from omni to hypercardioid, with halfway settings in between each setting! Also, four versions of low-cut roll-off, and also three levels of volume pads. A finely crafted German-engineered shockmount, and double sided (the best kind!) pop filter to affix to a mic stand. And a windsock. There are going with me everywhere from now on. Although-- this overblown elaborate packaging with all this cut-out foam-- no, give me all-put-together-and-ready-to-go in the smallest space, please. (I attach a picture of the pair suited up and ready for the showdown.) ... More
6. AKG P120
Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
There Might Be Better But Not At This Price
Reviewed by Naj the Rock Fossil on Guitar Center
I use this for my daily voice lessons and for home studio recording. The low frequency cut switch saves time in EQ'ing out the unnecessary bass boom that messes up a vocal track. The 20 Db attenuator switch eliminates daily nuisance noise. This is a pro mic at an entry level cost. There are no doubt better condenser mics out there, but not at this price. It is truly a bargain I recommend without hesitation. ... More
Just What I Needed
Reviewed by Wannabefamous on Guitar Center
This is just what I needed for my home studio. Can also take it with me when recording elsewhere. Great clarity for the price!
7. AKG C414 XLII
Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Industry Workhorse Earns its Reputation Honestly
Reviewed by Timothy Taylor on Guitar Center
I bough this mic about a year ago, and can say with all honesty, it has been a standout performer for anything I have put it use on. For acoustic guitar it's clarity, and definition are amazing. You can hear every detail, and yet it is not harsh in any way. The numerous polar patterns allow you to taler the function to suit your needs with no loss of quality or spaciousness. With a good preamp it has a wonderful airy sound much like a u87 or Manley, and it is simply excellent for vocals. Male or female vocals really pop though this, but it DOES require your performance to be spot on. If you are slightly off it will pick it up! It is useful for just about anything in the studio you can think of, including picking up cymbals from overhead. It is one of the best Microphones I own, and I would put it up against the Neumann TLM103 or the Sterling Audio Ocean Way Signature Series mic, as well as the Neumann KMS104. It blows RODE, Sputnik, or lower level Sterlings out of the water. I own or have used in my studio all these mics, so can speak to it with absolute authority. It is durable, rugged, and has launched the careers of many a fabled performer, and for my money is one of the best values going. DO get a top quality heavy stand for use with this Mic. It does pick up whatever is going on in the environment, and mic stand noise can be maddening. I use the ultimate support boom, which retails for $199, and has a solid base, super thick pole and overhead boom. ... More
It Ain't Gold For Nuthin'
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
This microphone is a godsend. As someone with very specific requirements, this mic delivers..big time. Now, bear in mind that I picked this mic the proper way-by going into B&H's mic room with a tech and testing out a bunch to find the one that suited me. This particular one fit like a glove because of where my voice sits. I have a very broad range, but am not a deep person necessarily. Rather, my middle was what I sought to bring out, and this microphone was THE one out of alllll the various ones tested, ..... There are other functions I haven't even tried yet, since I am a techno idiot and just want a reliable device that works. And this one does.... ... More
8. AKG P220
Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Brilliantly amazingly awesome for 150 bucks
Reviewed by Justin on Guitar Center
I have recently begun my journey to become a vocalist, and I hated using a cheapy usb mic and a cheap old dynamic Shure that I got from school(already beat up) And I went in to look around, saw many demos of this mic, and I was impressed for the sound quality and the price. I got a Focusrite 6i6 interface, and it works amazingly with this mic! When ever I record vocals with this and my ATH m50x, it is so amazingly clear that I almost feel like the mic isnt working because it is that clear. Of course buying higher end mics later will make a difference, but for me beginning and using this mic, I am impressed. Recommended for any beginners of Vocals. It is also amazing for commentary and instruments. And this comes with a great shock mount and a great case as well!! So now you can protect this baby for a good long while! ... More
Superb!
Reviewed by Casey on B&H Photo Video
The AKG P220 Microphone can only be described as superb! The Large microphone is not only substantial in weight, but also in its size. Just speaking about the microphone, it has a good size, warm sound quality, and a host of tweaking switches to adjust the input qualities. Having this microphone in front of you gives an impression of solidness, substance, and quality. When adding in the spider shock mount, you get not only the previous mentioned impressions, but also professionalism. Just looking at the AKG P220 on its shock mount, mounted on either a microphone stand, or boom microphone stand assembly gives the viewer a sense that you have pull out all the stops for them. This impression is not just a figment of the imagination with nothing to back it up. The unit is well designed, built, and top notch. Construction is nice heavy metal, thick metal mesh for protecting the cardioid internal capsule, and a good weight to give the microphone sturdiness. The Spider shock mount is also well designed, and made with some well thought out building. Using a basket mounting shock mount instead of the more constrictive direct body of the microphone design, gives the AKG P220 quick tear down and set up features in the field, or on stage. Additionally, I got this microphone with the included Aluminum Carry Case, the included Spider Shock Mount, but, also included was the Auray SSM-UM22 Suspension Shock Mount (also using the same basket mounting). I use the Spider Shock Mount for my Live recording gigs with the AKG P220, but the additional included Auray SSM-UM22 Suspension Shock Mount would be perfect for use on a desktop hosts adjustable boom arm assembly. The complete package here for the AKG Project Microphone just screams professionalism, from its looks, all the way down to what it comes with. Case in point, most Large microphones either come with nothing to carry or protect the microphone in storage or transit, or a pouch. Whereas, the AKG P220 comes with a very nice aluminum carry case, well sized to carry and protect the heavy microphone, but also the Spider Shock mount. Some of these little details are why, I feel, the AKG just goes over and beyond when it comes to a feeling of professionalism in their product. I could name a lot more of these details, but will only give you a taste. The Spider shock mount rubber bands are easily removed, replaced, and are stocked items for ordering. The mounting for the AKG P220 microphone uses a quick tightening ring at the bottom of the Suspension Shock Mount, or the included Spider Shock Mount basket to allow quick and easy set ups and tear downs. And lets face it, you set ANYONE in front of this microphone, they can't help but feel you've placed them in front of the best you can offer. ... More
9. Audio-Technica AT4040
Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Mic
A Very Warm, Sensitive Mic for Voice Work
Reviewed by Jim on B&H Photo Video
Ive been a professional narrator for more than 30 years, and this is my 3rd AT4040. The mic is robust; build quality is top-notch and performance rivals any other Ive used. Resulting audio is very crisp, thanks largely to the low-cut filter. I dont really use the -10db pad, but Im sure it would be useful in other environments. The AT4040 is a real workhorse. If youre looking for this sort of quality sound at a reasonable price, I dont think youll do better. ... More
Particularly exceptional for Low Freqs
Reviewed by Tristate on Guitar Center
Dont get me wrong, it is a great all around condenser/cardiod, but for some reason it sounded particularly better for lower frequency vocals. Of course for its price and class it gets the job done flawlessly. Nice, accurate sound.
10. AKG P420
Project Studio Condenser Microphone
Definitely the best in its price range
Reviewed by Cole on Guitar Center
Best LDC under $200. Tried most of them. Experienced engineer who doesn't use cheap mics. But I'd use this one if I had to. Comes with a hardshell case, shockmount, and is multipattern. Built pretty well too.
My first microphone I've bought for recording.
Reviewed by Roar on Guitar Center
As a first microphone I've bought it seems to work really well. I'm new to singing and didn't want to break the bank on a microphone for recording and this one seems to work great in my opinion. I don't have anything to compare it too. So far it does what it needs to do for my purposes and I would recommend it if your interesting in laying some vocals down on some tracks etc... ... More