Discover the Best Microphones
1. HyperX QuadCast
Corded Gaming Microphone
It's sound quality is perfect
Reviewed by George on Argos
This mic is easy, simple and unique it is everything a streamer needs. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to start streaming.
Everything is amazing
Reviewed by Hammered on Argos
Firstly, the microphone is just amazing. The quality is mind blowing. The dial at the bottom of the microphone is very useful changing the sensitivity how much is picked up. The ability to touch the microphone to mute it is one of it's best features and the red and black design with the illuminating red is the best. There are multiple pickup selections the microphone provides which suits it to different kinds of needs like ASMR and podcasts which eliminates any reason not to get it. ... More
2. HyperX QuadCast S USB Condenser Microphone
USB Condenser Microphone for PC, PS4 & Mac
Great Sounding And Looks Great.
Reviewed by Disco on Argos
This product is amazing! I sound great with it and love the look of it. Really easy to use, easy to find drivers online to update. Has USB-C which is a huge bonus.
Fave Mic for Streaming
Reviewed by Jeannette on B&H Photo Video
I got this mic after having a similar model from a different brand for over 5 years. I was drawn to it because of the RGB lighting. I stream an like having pretty, decorative pieces in my setup. The sound quality is amazing, very crisp and professional sounding. I'd highly recommend this to anyone who streams or needs a professional mic that is also good looking.
3. Blue Snowball iCE
USB Condenser Microphone
Great Sound & Price. Love my Death Star!
Reviewed by Ludo the Red Furry Beast on B&H Photo Video
I am a training specialist who is transitioning from on-site education to virtual, including on-line, real-time interactive classes and Web Based Training. After enduring my company-supplied high-end headset, which presents you on video as a headset-wearing geek with a scratchy voice, I decided to invest in a big-boy microphone. My Scott heritage argued for economy, so I took a chance on the Snowball. Talk about Bang for your Buck! Instead of sounding like a robot from a bad 50's sci-fi, my customers can now enjoy my rich baritone. I am re-recording earlier WBTs to bring up the production value several notches. And I have started using speech recognition software for dictation, something the headset mic just couldn't handle. My Snowball saved the day at a recent class. It was a live class, but one student needed to attend remotely. The instructor couldn't use a headset as she needed mobility across the front of the room. I plugged in the Snowball, and she could be heard loud and crystal clear from any point in the presentation area. The only negative comments I've read complain that the tripod is too small and the 6' USB cord is to short. Hogwash! These included accessories are perfect for 95% of users. The Snowball mounts to a standard tripod screw. Need a sturdier base? Go get one! Need a longer cord? It's standard! Go get one! Bottom Line, if you are looking for solid audio performance at an unbeatable price, this is your mic. Rob Walsh P.S.: When I received my Snowball, my first thought was OMG! I bought the Death Star!. And if you screw in the tripod and turn it sideways, it kinda looks like Sputnik. So, a Must Have for space geeks! ... More
Very Good!
Reviewed by Shadowknight805 on B&H Photo Video
I use the Snowball for audio recording and general gaming. Even if I'm away from my desk, leaning back in nmy rolling chair on the back two legs, because I, too, like to live dangerously, the Snowball still picks up my voice rather well. The product is also quite pretty. Yeah, I said pretty. So what, big whoop, you want to fight about it? I'm unsure how much damage it can take, but if you are worried about that, then you may just want to stock up on some Rock Band or Guitar Hero mixs and get a stand for them. That'll be a lot cheaper than breaking one of these babies. I guess the only downside, and this may just be because my desk is small and I have items everywhere for my professional worky time, that the Snowball is a rather large gentleman, and will take up much desk space. Also, it does not include a top hat or monocle, which makes it hard to believe that it is a gentleman. ... More
4. Shure SM7B
Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Voiceover and vocal champ
Reviewed by David Vasser on Guitar Center
Worked in radio for 36 years and the best microphones I ever used were Shure SM7B's. I have used all kinds of microphones, some of which cost more than the SM7B. Name a microphone and I've probably worked at a station that had them. You can keep the tinny sounding Sennheiser MDU421's, boomy RCA 77DX's and 44's, stow away the overly sensitive Neuman U87's, wimpy sounding EV RE anythings and the sterile AKG anythings. Any other Shure microphone, other than the SM5, just is not the same either! I have no idea why the EV RE20 and RE27N/D seemed to have gained wider acceptance at radio stations. I guess because the Shure SM7B is less expensive people think it must be inferior. Yes, it has a slightly lower output than some other mics, but most broadcast and recording consoles have clean beefy preamps with lots of gain headroom and you will obtain a usable level with no outboard preamp required. Where you would need a preamp would be with a cheap mixer or when trying to use it live with a typical PA mixer. Compare the 1000 Htz specs of the EV RE20's 57 dB output at 1.5 mV to the SM7B's 59.0 dB at 1.12 mV and you see there really is 2 dB more audio signal delivered but at a lower voltage. So try it before ordering a preamp you may not actually need. If you do need one just a little boost is required and you can get that from an ART preamp for very little money. This microphone is natural, warm and rich sounding with absolutely no EQ applied and it never sounds boomy or muffled like some ribbon mics do when compressed. If God needed a microphone, he'd probably use this one. It comes with the integral shock mount cushioned stand mount and two windscreens including a close talking one. The thing about the SM7B I like most is the way it converts emotions into audio. It is easier for me to get a good take with one of these. There are adjustable EQ switches under the plate on the end of the microphone. It really comes with everything you need to start using it immediately except the stand and cable. This is the microphone Quincy Jones used to record Michael Jackson's vocals for "THRILLER." Also it was used when Bruce Springsteen or Pearl Jam made their hit recordings. For close talking applications there is nothing better as it has a very natural and smooth sound that compliments all voices. For recording or broadcasting the human voice, the Shure SM7B is tool number 1 for me and I've learned nothing else is close. By the same token the SM7B is not a general purpose microphone. So long as you use it for broadcast or recording studio voiceover narration or musical vocals you will be tickled to death. It has a nice and controlled proximity effect. This basic microphone design has been around for ages and is a descendant of the SM5 and SM5B which are discontinued but still in demand on the used market by voiceover artists. The early SM7 did not have the magnetic shielding that today's SM7B has. This microphone is a gem in noisy control rooms or home studios and equally at home in high end recording studios. Shure stands behind their products and offers full service if you ever need it. Avoid buying one used as there was a recent upgrade of the yoke/shock mount assembly. ... More
Worth every penny and more...
Reviewed by George Byers on Guitar Center
Several years ago I had a Rode NT1-A with a Focusrite MK2 Producer Pack preamp (that's a $2,200 preamp coupled with the world's quietest condenser microphone!) and the quality I was getting was awesome. As time progressed and things got harder I ended up selling my two babies and several years later I recently purchased a new home studio on a smaller (much smaller!) budget. My newer studio was/is equipped with a PreSonus Channel strip and an MXL-V63M (that's a combined price of $400). An experienced audio engineer such as myself can still manage to get some pretty rockin' quality recordings out of this set up, but it was nothing compared to what I had in recent years. Finally I got sick and tired of spending so much time focusing on the technical aspect of things and not enough time on the creative side, so I decided to visit my local Guitar Center. Several guys there pitched the Shure SM7B to me so I picked it up and when I got home I was blown away!!!!! This thing ROCKS!! What had taken me hours to achieve previously I could now record and track with dry takes and little EQ (if any). Comparing my mixes to my earlier years is like day and night. This microphone is worth every penny. Every "serious" musician, sound engineer, broadcaster, etc. needs to have this microphone in their arsenal. If you want to compete with commercial recordings, then this microphone along with a decent preamp (make sure the preamp has at least 60db+ of input power) would make a great weaponry choice. This baby is also durable, comes with a bullet proof pop filter/plosive shield (nothing gets through!). Also keep in mind that microphone is delicate enough to NOT NEED PHANTOM POWER. It does a great job at eliminating unwanted low end frequencies, but I found that by using some subtractive EQing techniques you'll really get a bang for your buck: -4db at 600Hz (remove honkiness -Mid Q) -5db sharp cut at 170hz (extra low end rumble, great for male vocals) +2db or -2db at 7K depending on how bright you want your sound (the SM7B's presence boost does work great at times, but I found vocals to sound more pleasing with a flat top response and -2db at 7k) ... More
5. 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
6. Sennheiser e609 Silver
Supercardioid Dynamic Guitar Microphone
Sennheiser e609
Reviewed by Scott V. on Reverb
I sought out and bought the Sennheiser e609 here on Reverb.com because I knew it was the best all around microphone for miking my guitar amp. It's also one of the best bangs for your buck out there as well. I've been a professional guitarist for over 25 years now and spent the last 20 years playing professionally for the U.S. Navy Band program. The job required me to play all over the world in numerous situations from small jazz combos, full size big bands, rock/top 40 bands (covering everything from pop, country, top 40, light rock to heavy rock) and sometimes even as a guitarist in a concert band setting playing on a pops piece. In all of these situations I usually miked my guitar amp, and the mic that always worked best for me was the e609. Even though most of my experience with this microphone is in live performance settings, I also have lots of live recording as well as recording in the studio experience too. Throughout my years I've played live and recorded with SM57's, SM58's, AKGC414, SennheiserMD421 and finally the Sennheiser e609. Even though for a high end studio session you may want to use a more expensive mic (if you can afford it) like a Neumann U87 or a Royer 121, I have found that the e609 does a fantastic job at capturing the exact sound coming out of my amplifier, no matter what amp I'm using at the time and putting it into the recording. That also goes for live recordings and through the PA mains while playing a live performance. Okay, LIVE PERFORMANCE. Whether your going to record your performance or not, in my opinion the e609 does the best job at capturing the exact sound that comes out of my amp speakers and pushes it through the PA and/or to recording. I must also mention that when you are playing live a lot like I did in the Navy or in the local bar or nightclub scene, we are always in a hurry aren't we. Setting up last minute for whatever reason. The convenience of NOT having to set up a mic stand and wrap the mic cord around that stand so you don't trip on it and then finally positioning the microphone perfectly where you want it at your speaker cone is wonderful. With the e609 I put the mic cord through my amp handle, hang the mic in front of my speaker and move on to the next step in my setup. I know this may seem trivial, but when you're in a rush, you really appreciate those saved 2 minutes. To sum up, I keep talking about capturing the sound. Whether it's in a live setting or a recording session, isn't that what we're really after here with a microphone anyways. As guitarists we work so hard at getting that exact sound we're happy with coming out the front of our amps. What we need is a mic that captures that exact sound without modification and sends it to the PA or to a recording. Add that in with the convenience of hanging the mic quickly in front of your amp for a quicker set up and tear down. PLUS, the e609 is so reasonably priced compared to other mic's in it's class, it was the only choice for me once I retired from the Navy and needed to buy my own mic. Scott Verville/USN retired www.verville-music.com ... More
SM 57 What???
Reviewed by Aaron on Guitar Center
Out with the old in with the new!!! I love this mic!! I never thought I would see the day I would leave home without my 57. But I have now!! I have never heard a mic do what this one does. I like it so much, 2 days after I bought it, I wen and bought another. Its also not bad for vocals either. I highly recocmend this mic!!
7. Shure SM57
Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Worth Every Penny
Reviewed by tacvbo on Guitar Center
After much research and with my financial status, I finally decided to buy a pair of the famous SM 57's. I am a drummer in a band and had previously tried regular vocal mics and was not to happy about the sound when recording. The day I received the SM 57's was one day before our first gig at a local venue. Having them actually made me feel more confident that the sound would be superb. At soundcheck, the whole band realized the difference these microphones made to the drum sound. We were very glad, especially with comments after the gig such as, "the drums sounded very professional." I highly recommend these to anybody because not only are they great for live gigs, but also when recording. We just finished recording our demo and can't believe how well the drums sound. ... More
Shure SM57 Instrument/Vocal Mic
Reviewed by CDOG on Guitar Center
After building my friends studio it was time to record some guitars. My biggest problem with recording guitars was getting the amp sound recorded truly with no weird colaration from the mic.The SM-57 made my sound record as I hear it, not like some alien sound from another planet.I'm very suprised that a hundred dollar mic would be so good, and by the way I think this thing could withstand a nuclear blast.Vocally this mic does an excellent job I have no gripes, my hats off to the good folks at Shure!!! ... More
8. Shure MV7
Dynamic Unidirectional Dual XLR/USB Podcasting Microphone
I use this mic daily
Reviewed by Darrin on B&H Photo Video
I have another review that I wrote about this mic, but B&H's website doesn't appear to let me update that review. I've now been using this mic almost daily for over a year. The audio is crisp and clear, background noise is kept to a minimum, and people on the other end of the meeting/phone call give compliments on the detail that this mic captures. I used to use a condenser mic, but that also had the annoying feature of picking up a lot of 60Hz hum. This mic doesn't do that and I didn't have to make any adjustments to the room either. For the person who mentioned they couldn't fit it in a shockmount, it has one internally. That is why the mic is the size that it is. For those complaining about the USB port, mine hasn't had any issues. I accidentally bent the micro usb connector on the cheap cable they shipped with it and the mic survived just fine. The cable, on the other hand, was useless after that. I solved this problem by finding a 90 degree USB adapter so that the connector isn't pointing straight out the back of the mic. It now sits mostly flush and swiveling the mic is more likely to cause the adapter to disconnect at the other end. If your laptop, like mine, is usb-c only, don't try to buy long usb-c to usb-c cables. They are crazy expensive. Instead, try to buy a usb-c to mini or micro usb-b cable. They are much cheaper. My setup is usb-c to micro usb (10 feet), then an adapter from micro-usb to usb-c (1 inch), and then finally a short usb-c to 90 degree micro-usb adapter (6 inches). ... More
EVERY PENNY IS WORTH IT!!
Reviewed by Paul on B&H Photo Video
First of all, the quality! The QUALITY IS OFF THE HOOK! (Sorry people that I was screaming at this review section). I say the quality because I'm from using Rode Video Shotgun Pro mic on my Canon 80D, so seeing this Shure MV7 mic for the first time, I was stunned by the quality has been built out of it! It almost feels like the first time I saw Dolce and Gabbana brown leather jacket with gold plate on the left chest! (Note that I used the word saw, NOT bought. It was too expensive and the quality is... ) Back to the review! Second was quality! (Seriously? Quality again?) I meant the voice quality. It so crisp that I want to listen to my voice over and over and over (I don't have great sexy voice but I just have normal Asian voice with excitement). The touch control was another part that so good to use. The touch sensor is pretty good (I think the best one is iPhone so if iPhone touch sensor is 10, this mic is 7.5). The last but not the least, the setup. It's so easy. It's getting the power source from the connection (I used USB-C on my MacBook Pro). All cables are included which is another bonus for me. So all you gotta do is plug in. PS. Those of you who are going to use tripod at your home, recommend to get thread adapter that sells in B&H unless you get your own mic stand. I bought Auray TT-6220 Telescoping Tabletop Microphone Stand (Black) here. But when I wanted to use on my small tripod, I needed it. Hope this review helps you to make purchasing decision. Thank you. ... More
9. Elgato Wave:3
Premium USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Plug and play for the most part
Reviewed by Philip on Argos
Overall: 8.5/10 Great Microphone. clear and great for spoken voice. Mids and High frequencies are shown more than deep voices but if you add EQ then you can fix that- can't be done in the wavelink app it comes with. Mac software needs at least 10.14 (Mojave) to run so be aware. I had to update to be able to use. On my PC i had USB resource issues but thats more because I have a lot of tech plugged in. I would suggest buying the shock mount before the pop filer as it helps more overall ... More
Waved goodbye to my old cheap mic.
Reviewed by Dave on Argos
The Elgato Wave 3 is a very nice design. Easy to set up and get going. User friendly software to adjust your mic/headphone levels. Discord picks up my voice a lot better than the cheaper microphone I previously had. Although the description says USB C that's the mic connection, the PC connection is USB A. The mute button on the top is excellent - a light tap rather than a clunky button. It also remembers it's muted when you turn your PC back on. Easy to change mounts too. ... More
10. Blue Yeti Nano
Multi-Pattern USB Condenser Microphone
Superior value
Reviewed by Dwight C on B&H Photo Video
This mic exhibits the same audio characteristics as its big brother in a much more manageable size. It has only cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns, but that's no problem if you're using it for its best application - single voice podcasting and the like - you only need the cardioid setting. It's a condenser mic, so it's going to be very sensitive and pick up everything - any kind of ambient noise (computer fans, HVAC, cats tiptoeing across keyboards) and every little artifact (especially sibilance and plosives) -but that's true of all condenser mics, not just this one. Use a pop filter! The true zero latency output is absolutely essential for headset monitoring. 24 bit/48kHz bit/sample rate is all you'll ever need or be able to discern. Same goes for 20Hz - 20kHz frequency response. If you want to get really excellent audio results you must use acoustic treatment in your recording environment, otherwise everything will sound very hollow and reflective. You don't have to spend much, use recycled cotton moving blankets (dirt cheap) hung around your recording booth to dampen the liveness of your room. This is a SIDE ADDRESS mic, so you speak into the FRONT of the mic where the logo faces you, NOT the top! Many people complain that it lacks the input level control knob found on its much larger sibling. Not an issue! If you're using this mic properly you shouldn't be messing around with the input anyway, because the default setting from the factory is going to be optimum 95% of the time. If you must play with the record level it's dead simple with the included software. Experiment with different speaking distances from the mic, as well as different angles of address (directly into the capsule or diagonally across in either direction) to find your ideal mic placement. In combination with judicious use of the pop filter and proper acoustic damping, this mic can give you comparable audio results as a mic costing an order of magnitude more. Audio snobs (i.e. - amateurs who think they know what they're talking about) will tell you that you can't get professional audio from a USB mic, that you have to have an XLR or nothing. Pure balderdash! I've built more recording studios than those wannabe experts have ever been in, and I defy them all to do a blind delta test with this mic, properly set up and used, and any Sennheiser or Neumann they care to pick. Yes, those are outstanding mics, but this one gives you audio results that are as good as human hearing can discriminate, so the additional audio perfection the others achieve is only appreciated by test and measurement equipment, not people listening to your voice. Learn how to use this mic and you'll never regret purchasing it. ... More
Great for travel
Reviewed by Jason on B&H Photo Video
I had a Blue Yeti for the longest time and absolutely loved it, but I hated carrying with me everywhere, as I travel quite often. So when the Nano came out I had to get it. The size difference is certainly noticeable. Its much lighter and fits perfectly in my case compared to the Yeti. I thought I would miss the Gain knob on the back, but think I actually prefer using the included Sherpa software to control the Gain. In fact, I use the software on the Blue Yeti now as well. I definitely recommend the Nano. ... More
11. Shure PGA48
Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
awesome purchase, great price
Reviewed by Pastor Caroline on Guitar Center
We purchased these mics for our church and they sound amazing, I never thought that for this price your would be able to find this much quality. I recommend it highly....
Low cost entyr to Shure mics.
Reviewed by Scott on Guitar Center
We bought this kit to replace aging equipment used by our worship team. With a budget of nothing this was a real good buy. The mics were easy to setup we also replaced the cables running to our sound board and how the sound has changed I had to lower the trim level by about half and everything sounds perfect.
12. Shure SM58
Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone
A must have mic for live use
Reviewed by Fuzzball on Guitar Center
This is a must have mic for any active musician. This mic is excellent for stage use, but it is also very useful in a studio or project studio. This mic has been my main stage mic for over 15 years. The SM58 is known to be great for live use but it is also great to use on vocal recordings. The SM58 is also a great mic to use on a snare drum (especially since it is durable). The SM58 is built tough enough to stand up against years of abuse. If you play live you need to have this mic. ... More
THE mic
Reviewed by Scott on Guitar Center
If you are an active gigger, or recording artist, there is no doubt you've run across at least one of these mics. Extremely cheap, extremely reliable, and great sounding. Although this is mainly a vocal mic, i have used it for instruments, even drums, and gotten an acceptable sound(although we later layered the recordings). If you have big bucks, i would not recommend this mic, because there are many other expensive mics that would do vocals much better. However if you are a low budget musician such as myself, then i would highly recommend this mic for vocals, and as a last resort for instruments, although i would not recommend it if it can be avoided. Happy Rocking! ... More
13. Blue Yeti
USB Microphone
Blue Yeti, but not abominable!
Reviewed by MrE2u2 on Guitar Center
What can I say.. first mic to meet the tough THX (Lucasfilms) standard.. 20-20k flat freq response, uses inexpensive USB cable. No buzz, very clear audio. Sensitive, good all around pickup, very flexible, does the work of about $600 worth of different mics. Built-in phantom 48v power for condensor mic capsules. Can use for skype or other voicechat progs, (a bit expensive for that purpose, however!) Built-in soundcard with zero latency headphone monitor port (1/8" jack). I intend to also use it to audition for voice-over acting jobs. Thanks, Blue (and Guitar Center!) Dislikes? A bit heavy, 4 pounds with stand, 1.5 without. BIG! Don't expect much portability. Very sensitive; pop filter recommended. Must be very close to get full, rich sound using directional cardiod pattern. A definite best buy! ... More
This is a Cool Mic for the price!
Reviewed by Bob on Guitar Center
Needed a quick voice trak capture solution sometimes all 3 of our production studios are busy the THX certification was an attention getter so we tried this mic out our editing software(adobe Audition) Windows xp and Windows 7 machines reconized the mic no problems.. with out eq or signal processing mic sounds Prety Darn Good!! when you buy this mic, yes pop screen is standard and like other condensers this mic has very good ears even in cardoid pattern so be aware of your studio ambient noise levels so for usb voice capture and budget we're Darn happy with this mic.. Try it we think you'll dig this mic! ... More
14. Rode NT-USB
USB Condenser Microphone
Best mic for podcasting
Reviewed by Chris on Guitar Center
This is my 4th mic I've used while doing my podcast. The Rode NT-USB is by far the best I've ever used. The Blue Yeti was too sensitive, the Blue Spark garbled my voice, and the Samson Meteor Mic required too much software to function properly. The Rode was good right out of the box and did not require tinkering to make it "better". The included pop filter is worth it's weight in gold. The other thing that makes this great is it uses a standard USB/USB2 cord, so they are easily picked up if you need an extra. Listen to people on YouTube and SoundCloud compare audio clips using Rode and the other three mice I mentioned and see if you do not agree. Suoer impressed! ... More
Great mic, even better price
Reviewed by Matt on Guitar Center
It mic was perfect for the music project that I have been working on. I needed a mic that simple to set up, easy to adjust, and very user friendly (I am not a great singer, so I just needed something that can make me sound half decent at a good price). The price is very affordable for the quality that you will receive. The fact that it comes with a pop filter was awesome too (really makes a difference). And having it as simple as a plug into a USB port was extremely convenient. My Mac recognized it as what it is immediately (just have to adjust the mic input and output if needed; very simple). It sounds great, and if you want to sound better, just use your music software to adjust if needed. Great product. Amazing price. ... More
15. Rode VideoMicro
Camera-mount Compact Microphone
Compact Solution
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
With the introduction of the latest GoPro Hero 4, it's 4K capabilities, and compact form factor, I now predominately use those to film. There are a few cons about using the GoPro cameras and one is definitely the sound quality from the built in microphones. I've been debating over which on camera mic to get teetering between the Rode VideoMic Pro and the Rode VideoMic Go, but with such a compact set up those mics would have defeated the purpose of compact shooting. With my subjects never being over 10 feet away from the cameras the Rode VideoMicro was the perfect solution. It cut out and toned down virtually all background noise and gave a nice clean sound for the subjects in front of the camera. For anyone using compact size video recorders like mirror-less cameras, this would be the perfect solution. Also, even with the widest setting (SuperView) and windshield installed, the Rode VideoMicro does not come into view when recording. With the included Rycote Lyre shock mount and Deadcat windshield, and metal construction, there are really no negatives to say for it's intended use. For situations where your subject might be further than 10 feet away, going with a powered boom mic would probably be better as this mic does not amplify sound. ... More
Utilitarian Bang for the Buck
Reviewed by Dave on B&H Photo Video
People with far more technical background have already written about the VideoMicro, so my take on this will not be on technical aspects. I'm a stills shooter who has stumbled and bumbled my way into video. For me, one of the larger hurdles has been audio. I'm on a tight, hobby budget and every piece of gear has to be carefully selected. Moreover, I also want everything to fit into one bag. First I'll say this, no, it isn't a good as my Rode NTG2. If you're expecting that kind of performance at this price, then save your money and get something else. That being said, for me it isn't that far off the mark, and it can do some things that larger shotguns can't. For example, be in your camera bag all the time so you can set it up at nearly the drop of a hat. Since it doesn't need batteries and is small, it fills a great place in my audio/video toolkit. Maybe it is like an audio version of the Swiss utility knife. Useful in a lot of situations but not perfect. There can be a noise floor if you plug it directly into the camera, but for general use, that doesn't matter much of the time. For the times that it does I plug it into my Zoom H1 and even with both mounted on the camera, they are less obtrusive than my NTG2 in its shock mount. I've used it in Church settings to grab nice audio clips without looking like a documentary crew. At this price point, that alone might be enough value. But the deadcat that ships with it is quite good. I've gotten good audio with some pretty stiff wind gusting at 12-20 mph. If you are like me, a stills person who is learning audio I think this mic represents a unique value. Darn good audio, flexibility, and value. Combine that with the ease of taking it with you just about everywhere, and for me, this microphone was a natural choice. I have zero regrets with the purchase and love having a portable shotgun with me all of the time. ... More
16. Rode PodMic
Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Great little mic!
Reviewed by Symon on Guitar Center
Great little mic! Almost as good as their Podcaster but at half the price. The sound signature is a little different. Not as soft as the podcaster. Which to me sounds more realistic. The podcaster is just a bit too soft for my voice. The podmic suits my deep voice better, I feel that I get a slightly crisper sound from it. I also like the size, it's nice and small. it doesn't take up as much space at the podcaster or similar mics do. The only thing that I don't like is the mount. It isn't as shock resistant as standard shock mounts. Luckily I had a wide shock mount sitting around (from an old mxl 770) that I was able to squeeze the mic into. The screws that hold the included mount are permanent so they are a bit of an eyesore. But it'll do and is way better now. Oh, and if you need a windscreen, I used a cheapo one (also from the mxl 770) that fits perfectly. All in all, this was a great purchase. Also kudos to Guitar Center for having plenty of these mics in stock when no one else online did! As of this writing, it is (still) near impossible to get this mic! ... More
Perfect Mic for Podcasting
Reviewed by AB on Guitar Center
Amazing sound. This mic makes me sound like I know what I'm doing! A lot heavier than I was expecting, but that is nice to see it is sturdily made.
17. Sennheiser e906
Supercardioid Dynamic Guitar Amp Microphone
Sounds like an MD-421 at 1/2 the price.
Reviewed by Guitarsliner on Guitar Center
As an avid user of the Beta 57, I have high expectations when it comes to dynamic mics. I expect a monster with the ability to handle high SPL's, expensive amps, and shredding guitars. This mic delivered it in spades. I once saw Dave Mustaine and Marty Friedman using Sennheiser MD-421's. I got to try one at a real studio once. As a brand new insurance salesman, I couldn't afford one. I thought I would try the E906. It worked. It sounds defined, balanced, and chunky. This would sound great for horns, snares, guitar, bass, etc. It handles Earth-shatteringly loud guitar amplifiers. The ability to mic an amp without a stand is a plus too for my tiny small town dives. I would buy this mic again in a heartbeat. do the same. :) ... More
The e906 put my SM57 out of business!
Reviewed by John V. on Reverb
I've always used SM57s on my guitar cabs when playing live, and in conjunction with other mics in the studio. It always sounded great, so I felt no need to look elsewhere. But, after hearing the e906 in action a few times, I decided to try one for myself. I'm glad I did. The e906 is proudly labeled "Made in Germany," and comes with your standard-issue accessories: a mounting clip, zippered carry bag, and the documentation and user's manual. The build quality appears to be excellent, though not quite in the SM57 built-like-a-tank category. Sennheiser provides a 10 year factory warranty. With the presence filter switch set to the brightest position, it's a bit more vibrant and harmonically textured than the SM57. Fast, detailed, transparent, airy, open and articulate. The SM57 is punchier, gutsier, rawer, and more forwardly aggressive sounding in the highs and upper mids. Both have warm, natural lower mids and tight lows. With the presence switch in the mid position, the e906 sounds kinda like a SM57 and SM7B had a love child together, but with the overall "Sennheiser house sound" shared by the e835 and MD421. It sheds a little of the exaggerated high frequency bite and becomes smoother, fuller and flatter, with virtually zero EQ needed when chicken pickin a Tele through my Dr. Z Stangray. Finally, with the presence switch in the cut position, the sound becomes more warm and silky; with just a hint of the ribbon mic vibe or that warm, smooth EV RE20 thang in the lower mids. We also tested the e906 on acoustic guitar, mandolin, snare and even a Hammond organ through a Leslie 122. It sounded superb on each source, much better than a $200 dynamic mic should sound. Its sonic performance and amazing versatility are definitely impressive, and it's become my new standard. Some may still prefer the SM57 sound, because its edge and aggressiveness may suit their preferences better. It's all about what YOUR ears like, but mine definitely fell in love with the e906. ... More
18. Shure BETA 52A
Dynamic Kick Drum and Bass Instrument Microphone
What more can I say?
Reviewed by Drumur on Guitar Center
What more can I say? This is the "Industry Standard" of kick drum mics. I've seen this mic being used on the kick drums in national act concerts more times than I can count. This mic kicks butt. I originally bought the Audix Kick drum mic that is supposed to be so great, but I returned it and bought this one. I got exactly what I was looking for. This mic has great lows, punch, and click(slap). I love it and I'm glad I own one. ... More
Another Industry Standard!!!!
Reviewed by fivesixonesk8er on Guitar Center
This mic sounds Awsome in any situation needing a low freq. mic. I ALWAYS use it for the Kick Drum and Bass Cabs. I use it nonstop while recording and has stood up through ALL the abuse. Im sure it will last forever and will never go out of date!
19. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone
AT2020USB Mic
Reviewed by Vulcan20mm on B&H Photo Video
I purchased microphone to attach to an iMac. My intent is to make cleaner voice recordings. The built-in mic is okay; however, leaves some room for decent to good voice recordings. At this writing, I have only recorded test voice audio files. The set-up was a breeze. The mic integrates into the stand quite well. The plug-n-play capability of the Mac made connection even easier; plugged USB cable into port, and the Mac recognized the mic right off (had to change mic input via settings). I did find the stand a bit flimsy, but quite functional. The mic uses a standard peripheral USB cable that hooks into the bottom of mic. I could see this causing problems if a person was holding the mic, and moving around. Stationary, no major issues with connection or stand. I did do a few test voice recordings, and I could tell a difference from the Mac built-in mic. The recording had better clarity along with better volume. Someone looking for a simple, inexpensive mic would do well with the AT2020USB Mic. Simple set-up (Mac), and easy to use with various programs. I give the mic 5 stars due to my novice status, and my intended use. The AT2020USB Mic exceeded my expectations. ... More
AT2020 USB - Best Value!
Reviewed by Champ on B&H Photo Video
I use this microphone to record my videos for youtube. Quite often I would recieve comments that my old microphone (which had cost me $300) allowed for a lot of background noise to interrupt my commentaries. Admittedly I was skeptical about buying a microphone for less than $ and expecting any decent results. (Especially for a USB microphone). As it turns out, not only does this microphone beat my old expensive microphone in every possible way, its easy to take with me on trips so I don't have to sacrifice audio while submitting videos away from home. The USB allows for me to carry this microphone anywhere I go as it does not require any additional equipment. In addition, at this price I've decided I am going to buy two, just so I can keep one in a travel pack so I don't forget. The quality is heads and tails above similarly prices microphones and even the really expensive ones! On the downside its not quite the quality of the really expensive microphones but, those would cost you easily ten times the price of this one. What a great product, audio technica really surprised me with this one! ... More
20. Sennheiser e 835
Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
A great upgrade.
Reviewed by Niceman832282 on Guitar Center
I purchased the Sennheiser E835 6 months ago. I run it with a Phonic EQ, and old Peavey Mixer. This mic has held up to all of my bands practice sessions and through all of our shows. It has been dropped, stuffed in the bottem of the gear bag, thrown, spun, kicked and spit on and it still works just as new (aside a few scratches). When comparing it to the Shure SM58, my Sennheiser picks up the screaming portion of my vocals with a near perfect sound. I have used this mic in recording as well, everything came out clear. Granted a condencer mic would be a better tool for recording i think. This is a worthy front man mic. Durable, reliable and definitely worth it's money. ... More
Buy these mics
Reviewed by Rocky on Guitar Center
This mic pack is good in many ways.To start,the sound.Tight bass,smooth highs,the frequency is in the range of vocals.These mics have very high gain before feedback,and a super-cardioid pattern to make it even more feedback resistant.I dont believe Sm58's have a super-cardiod pattern.The price is a steal on these.Normally $99 each.The pack saves you $80 if you bought 3 of these seperately,or 3 sm58s seperately.How could you turn this pack down? ... More