Best Condenser Mics Reviewed

How Condenser Mics Work

A microphone’s job is to convert acoustical energy into electrical energy so that we can record it or amplify it. Different types of microphones achieve this in different ways.

Condenser mics work based on an electrical characteristic called "capacitance." A pair of charged metal plates form a capacitor. As the plates need to be charged, condenser microphones require power from an external source to work.

The front plate is known as the 'diaphragm'; it's the thin piece of metal you see on top of the mic. When incoming sound waves hit the diaphragm, it causes very tiny vibrations in the metal.

As the diaphragm vibrates, the distance between the two plates changes, which changes the capacitance. These changes in capacitance produce the audio signal. The resulting audio signal is much stronger than you typically get in a dynamic mic, which is why condenser microphones are more sensitive and responsive.

Condenser Mics Compared

Types of Condenser Microphones

Condenser microphones can be broadly subcategorized into two different types: small diaphragm condenser microphones and large-diaphragm condenser microphones. Let’s look at the difference between them.

Large Diaphragm

Large-diaphragm microphones have diaphragms with diameters of around 1 inch or more. The bigger diameter allows the mic to capture more acoustic energy, resulting in a higher signal voltage.

The main benefit of this, practically speaking, is that large-diaphragm mics pick up less unwanted electrical signals or "self-noise." If noise performance is a priority, large-diaphragm mics might be the way to go.

They also tend to make vocals and sounds appear richer and more vibrant.

Small Diaphragm

Small diaphragm microphones have diaphragms that are around ½ inch or less in diameter. Because the diaphragm is smaller, it is more sensitive and can pick up sound waves more accurately. This results in a very natural and detailed audio recording.

They have a higher frequency response than large diaphragms, a better transient response, and are generally more accurate.

Benefits of Condenser Mic

So, why should you use a condenser mic? Well, the fact is that condenser mics are king when it comes to accuracy and precision. They might not be the best type of mic for loud live performances, but if you’re recording in a studio, you can’t really beat them.

Here are just a few of the main benefits of condenser mics:

Choosing a High-Quality Condenser Microphone

Here are some things to look out for when you’re shopping for a high-quality condenser mic

Frequency Response Range

Polar Patterns (Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8, and Multiple-pattern)

Size of the diaphragm

Different size diaphragms are better suited to different kinds of applications. Large-diaphragm mics, for example, are often preferred for vocal recordings as they add a depth and richness to the sound. Small diaphragm mics are better for recording acoustic guitars or any instrument with sharp transients and extended overtones. Consider the size of the diaphragm when you’re shopping around.

Connectivity/Compatibility

Of course, another important thing to consider is whether the condenser mic will work with your existing equipment. Most condenser mics have XLR connections and hook up to an external power source, but some USB mics can connect to and draw power from your computer or laptop.

Consistency of High-Quality Sound Output/Sensitivity/Accuracy

Probably the number one most important factor to consider when buying a condenser mic is how accurate it is at recording sound, and how high-quality sound output is. Check the reviews to see what other users have to say about this. As a general rule, condenser mics tend to be more sensitive than dynamic mics and typically have a sensitivity range of around 8 to 32 mV/Pa. The more sensitive the mic is, the less pre-amplification is required.

Intended application/Microphone Applications

Try to choose a microphone that’s well-suited to the intended application. For example, if you plan on recording acoustic guitars, a small diaphragm condenser mic will probably work best. For drums, it’s best to use a combination of both small and large-diaphragm mics to capture the whole range of sound perfectly.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

When you're looking for a condenser mic, you'll come across an 'SPL' rating often. This refers to the maximum sound pressure level and tells you the maximum volume the microphone can take without distorting the sound. Most mics have a maximum SPL that is more than sufficient for any vocal recording, but if you plan on recording very loud instrumentals (like electric guitars and drums), look for a condenser mic that has an SPL of 130dB or more. The higher, the better.

Additional accessories

To get the most out of your mic, you’ll need some extra accessories such as mic stands, shock mounts, carry cases, and audio interfaces. Some condenser mics will come in a package that includes some of these accessories. If not, you might want to purchase them separately.

Price & Warranty

Naturally, the price is also important. When it comes to mics, you usually get what you pay for. It's possible to get an outstanding quality entry-level mic for upwards of $50, but if you want professional, studio-quality recordings, expect to pay anywhere from $300 - $1000, or more. When you’re forking out that much cash, it’s important to make sure your mic is covered by a decent warranty too.

1. Neumann TLM 102

My number one pick for the best condenser mic on the market is the Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone. This mic delivers professional quality at a mid-range price tag and is the go-to mic for serious vocalists and recording artists.

Neumann is a brand known for creating exceptional mics, and the TLM 102 represents one of the best value-for-money large-diaphragm mics to date.

The 144 dB maximum SPL means that this mic is well-suited for anyone planning on recording aggressive instrumentals. It works well with drums and electric guitars at extremely high output levels.

It also works well with acoustic instruments thanks to the rapid transient response and really stands out is when it comes to recording vocals too. The frequency response is flat up to 6kHz for an accurate, natural-sounding recording, but at higher frequencies gives a little presence boost for added depth.

The large diaphragm and elastic suspension system help with noise performance, so you’re unlikely to have to worry about any handling or structure-borne noise interference.

It has a cardioid pickup pattern and comes with a stand mount. I’d recommend this mic for any home or studio recording.

2. Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid

Up next we have the Rode NT1-A, which as far as I’m concerned, is the best condenser mic for vocals you can get, at least when you factor in the price. This microphone delivers the crystal clear, warm vocals you'd expect from an industry-level mic, but for a much, much more affordable price.

The absolute best thing about the NT1-A has to be noise performance. It ha a self-noise level of just 5dBA, which makes it one of the quietest studio mics in the world, and that’s tough to beat. Users report not having to perform any background noise clean up after using the mic as it doesn’t pick up even the tiniest buzz or hum of any kind.

The staggering noise performance makes it ideal for vocal recordings, but it works well for guitars and percussion too. The large diaphragm is 1” and plated with gold, and the package includes a studio-grade pop shield and shock mount with the mic, as well as an extra-long microphone cable, dust cover. They even throw in an instructional DVD that includes some top tips to help you get up and running.

3. Sennheiser Shotgun Tube

4. AKG Pro Audio C214

The AKG Pro Audio C214 is the best all-round condenser mic I’ve come across. It’s a very versatile microphone that performs well in pretty much any situation.

The 20dB attenuation pad enables the mic to record very loud sounds. It can handle anything up to 156dB, making it the mic with the highest maximum SPL on this list so far. You can record far away or up close, and the bass-cut filter means you don’t have to worry about the proximity effect.

Sound performance is outstanding and rivals that of industry-quality high-end mics. It has a whopping 143dB and provides a highly-detailed sound that captures the subtle nuances of any voice or instrument.

Use it on stage. Use it in the studio. Use it to record drums, guitar amps, or breathy vocals. Use it for anything - it won’t disappoint!

One final thing worth mentioning is the noise performance. The integrated capsule suspension reduces mechanical noise interference for greater accuracy. The whole package includes a few nice extras including a carry-case, windscreen, and shock mount.

5. SE Electronics Large Diaphragm Cardioid

The award-winning sE2200 series of microphones are sE Electronics best-selling mic. The first model put the brand on the map thanks to its ability to deliver smooth, polished vocals and instrumental recordings. It was so popular; world-renowned artists reportedly used it like Amy Winehouse.

It’s a classic that works great for most applications, but particularly for recording vocals. It gives your vocals a nice, rich, "warm" sound, and is perfect for voiceover artists, podcasters, or any other vocal artist.

It has a vast extended dynamic range and a high SPL, so don't be afraid to try it out with loud instrumentals too. Overall, it’s a great, affordable condenser mic, and probably the best condenser mic under $300.

6. Shure MV51 Digital

The MV51 mic from Shure is a great option for anyone looking for something slightly cheaper than the mics we mentioned previously. Although it still records with professional quality, the MV51 is priced at just less than $200 and is one of the best mics under $200 available right now.

The MV51 main selling point is its unique design, which is inspired by vintage microphones. The vintage design makes it great to look at, as well as being sturdy and robust, making it perfect for podcasters or stationary video makers.

What's great about the MV51 is that it's easy to use, and is "MFi" or "made for iPhone," meaning that it links directly to iPhones and iOS products with a minimum of fuss.

If you're new to using microphones, this mic is also a good choice because it has a convenient and easy-to-use touch control panel on the front. This means you can easily make adjustments while recording.

Overall, the Shure MV51 is a solid and affordable choice if you're looking for a reliable cardioid mic that can be used for recordings, podcasting, or online meetings.

7. MXL Mics 770

The MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is the perfect entry-level recording mic for anyone looking to try their hand at musical recordings. The small-diaphragm and extra top-end clarity mean that the mic records vocals and high pitched instruments accurately and clearly.

The best thing about this mic is the price. Often found under $100, the MXL 770 is the best affordable condenser mic on the market and is an excellent choice whether you're a pro recording artist or a beginner on a budget.

The mic offers musicians exceptional quality for an affordable price. The mic is also very easy to use, and set up is relatively simple. Reviewers of this mic had a lot of positive things to say about the sound quality. However, a few people did mention that the mic itself wasn't very robust, and was prone to scratching and cracking. So, it may not be suitable for someone who travels a lot and needs to take their mic with them. 

Overall, the mic offers great value and quality and is a perfect option for aspiring musicians on a budget.

8. Audio-Technica AT2020

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is an extremely affordable, professional-quality studio microphone. Its cardioid design makes it perfect for podcasting or general recording tasks. The mic is designed by Audio-Technica, an extremely reputable audio brand, and is equipped with a custom-designed low-mass diaphragm to enhance sound quality.

The AT2020 has a sturdy and robust design that allows it to be mounted on a desk, or be attached to a boom arm. The XLR version of this mic is perfect for those who want more control and customization options. However, the mic is also available in a USB design.

This mic is extremely popular, and many people agree that it’s one of the Best studio condenser mic’s available. Reviewers regard this microphone as a great all-round style of microphone with many calling it one of the best performers in its class and price range.  

If you're looking for a mic that gives professional studio quality for a reasonable price, then the Audio-Technica AT2020 is an extremely solid option.

9. Blue Snowball iCE

The Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone is an incredibly unique and popular all-around microphone. It's an extremely affordable microphone for beginners looking to record podcasts and Youtube videos, or use Skype. Due to the low price, the Blue Snowball iCE is a popular choice for video makers looking to enhance their sound quality.

The mic has a unique ball-shaped design, which has a built-in tripod making it easy to mount on a desk. The mic is lightweight and easily storable and transportable for people who need to take their recording equipment on the go.

The microphone is available in three different colors textured white, gloss black and chrome, making it easy to fit into a room of any design.

In terms of sound quality, the Blue Snowball iCE provides a more professional quality than many other mics in this price range and is probably the best condenser mic under $100. For beginners, it is a great choice thanks to its plug-in-and-play technology. This means that that mic can be plugged straight into any device without needing to download any drivers.

One of the only drawbacks with this mic is it's lack of a pop filter, meaning that plosive sounds could sound harsh when recording.

10. Blue Yeti

The Blue Yeti is by far one of the most popular products available from the brand. Thanks to Blue's competitive pricing and good quality, mics such as the Yeti are a popular option amongst recording artists and online creators. While the Yeti is quite a bit more expensive than some of the other products offered by the brand, it provides a lot better quality.

The Yeti is one of the best USB condenser mics available, thanks to its 3 condenser capsule design which makes it perfect in almost any situation.

The mic's design is simple, yet impactful and could a stylish addition to any recording setup. With the Yeti, you can select the perfect pickup pattern and choose between Cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, and stereo mode. 

The mic's zero-latency output makes it easy to be in control of recordings and make adjustments when needed.

The Yeti is designed to be compact yet effective and comes complete with a desk stand for easy setup and installation. The mic can also be secured with a boom arm if preferred.

Overall, the mic offers superior quality for an affordable price and is a fantastic multipurpose option for people with a variety of recording needs.

Additional Equipment & Accessories

Before you start using your condenser mic, you’ll probably need to get your hands on some extra equipment and accessories first. Here’s what you need:

Phantom Power

Unlike dynamic mics, condenser microphones need power to work. "Phantom power" is when this is supplied through microphone cables, as opposed to batteries. Most audio interfaces, preamps, and soundboards can supply phantom power, so as long as you're hooked up to one of these, you're all set.

XLR Cable

All XLR condenser microphones use XLR cable connections. If you’ve purchased one of these kinds of mics, you’ll need to make sure you have one - a regular speaker cable or guitar cable won’t work. Many condenser mics come with an XLR cable included in the package.

Shock Mount

Shock mounts are used to help to isolate microphones from unwanted noise. Without them, your mic might pick up mechanically transmitted noise from things like floor vibrations and handling. They’re an important piece of equipment if you want to get as pure a recording as possible. 

Condenser Mics vs. Dynamic Mics

Dynamic mics and condenser mics are two of the most common microphones on the market. I’ve put together a table showing the main differences between them that you should know about.

How to Use Condenser Mics

How to set up your condenser mic will depend on the model of microphone you're using, the type of connection (XLR or USB), the equipment you're using it with, and more.

However, here's a very simple way to set up a condenser mic to help get you started:

It’s usually best to place your microphone around 6-12 inches away from whatever it is you’re recording, but again, it depends on different factors, like the mic you’re using, what you’re recording, and your acoustic setup. Experiment with the placement to see what works best for you.

Condenser Mics Care and Maintenance

Condenser mics are very sensitive, fragile, and often costly pieces of equipment. You need to care for them properly if you want to make sure they stay in tip-top condition and keep performing well. Here are condenser mic maintenance tips to help with that:

Common Condenser Mic Issues & Fixes

Here are some common issues that you might run into when using a condenser mic and how to fix them.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I use condenser mics for live vocals?

Dynamic mics are the most popular option for live vocals. However, some musicians still choose to use condenser mics for live vocals depending on their voice. Condenser mics work well with breathy, delicate vocal performances.

Can I use condenser microphones for gaming?

Yes, you can. In fact, the Blue Yeti USB microphone is one of the most popular microphones for gamers and streamers.

What devices can a condenser microphone work with?

Most people use their condenser mic with a PC/laptop or audio interface, depending on whether or not they have a USB or an XLR mic. USB mics can connect directly to your laptop, whereas XLRs have to go to an audio interface or XLR-to-USB converter first. Depending on the model of microphone you choose, it might be able to work with other devices, like a tablet or smartphone.

Do I need a preamp for my condenser microphone?

If you already have an audio interface, it probably already has a preamp built-in. If not, you might need a preamp to translate the weak audio signal into a line-level signal, and to provide phantom power for the mic.

How long do condenser mics last?

A well-made, durable mic that is well taken care of can last a lifetime, providing you keep humidity under control. Ultimately, it depends on the quality of mic you choose, how often you use it, and how well you take care of.

Which type of condenser mic is best for female vocals?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Different mics will suit different tones and timbres. The best way to find the right mic for you is to try out as many as you can and choose the one that you like the best. 

Conclusion

That concludes this guide on the best condenser mics in 2019. Hopefully, you’ll find the perfect mic for you in this list. If you can’t decide between them, go for the Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone. It’s a classic that you really can’t go wrong with.

Good luck, and enjoy your new microphone!