A cappella music has become increasingly popular in the last few years. I think many a cappella singers were self-taught or they joined a cappella groups in their colleges or with their local communities. However, many singers may not get the chance to perform live on stage or they want to record at home but they don't know how to build their own home studios… Below is my must-see ranking list for all of you and I’m going to present a collection of high quality condenser microphones at prices that even students can afford! Please have a look and I think that you will find your favorite one♪
★Here is some basic information that will help you to learn more about different types of microphones so you can choose one for yourself!
No. 5 BOYA / BY-M800 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
The BY-M800 is a condenser microphone that comes with a shock mount holder, a pop filter, and a cable, which is an excellent value for this set. This condenser mic produces a calm sound with a warm midrange that is perfect for recording vocals as well as narration and MCing! Since it is equipped with a low-cut switch, you can reduce household and environmental noises. The BY-M800 is perfect for those who want a microphone with accessories at a great price.
Nominal Impedance: 280Ω
Sensitivity: -33±3dB (0dB=1V/Pa@1KHz)
Frequency Response: 20-20,000Hz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Output Connector: XLR, 3-pin
Dimensions: 207 x 115 x 185mm
Weight: Approx. 642g
Included Accessories: Shock mount holder, pop filter, 3m XLR cable
No. 4 MXL / V67G Home Recording Set
The V67G is a condenser microphone designed for vocals with a green body and a gold grill that is reminiscent of vintage microphones. It achieves a strong presence for every vocal performance. The V67G has a distinctive midrange that is especially suitable for recording female vocals.
Nominal Impedance: 200ohm
Sensitivity: 15mv/Pa
Frequency Response: 30Hz-20KHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Power Supply: Phantom DC 48V +/- 5V
Dimensions: 47mm x 184mm
Weight: Approximately 470g
Included Accessories (when purchasing the mic only): Microphone adapter (5/8 inch screw), conversion screw (3/8-5/8), soft case
No. 3 AKG / P120 Condenser Microphone
The P120 is a microphone from AKG’s entry model Project Studio Line series. This one is the most reasonably priced model from the series. The P120 achieves natural low frequencies and smooth high frequencies, and it reproduces the delicate tone of the original sound and provides a more brilliant sound.
Nominal Impedance: 150Ω
Sensitivity: -54.5dBV/Pa (1.85mV)
Frequency Response: 50Hz-15kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Output Connector: XLR, 3-pin, male
Dimensions: φ51mm, length 162mm
Weight: Approx. 330g
Included Accessories: Bag, microphone holder A25D
No.2 AKG / LYRA USB Microphone
The LYRA is a USB condenser microphone that can be directly connected to a computer with a USB cable. You can’t miss its 4-capsule Adaptive Array function. It is equipped with 4 capsules, and the sound collection mode can be switched from FRONT to FRONT & BACK, TIGHT STEREO, and WIDE STEREO. Get professional sound quality not only in vocal recording but also when recording musical instruments and narrations. The TIGHT STEREO and WIDE STEREO modes can also be used for chorus sound collection, making this microphone great for those who want to use only one mic for various applications. A solid stable stand and a license for recording software Ableton Live 10 Lite are also included. The LYRA is perfect for beginners who have trouble connecting equipment, and of course, those who want to focus on sound quality.
Nominal Impedance: 350Ω
Frequency Response: 20Hz -20kHz
Polar Pattern: FRONT, FRONT & BACK, TIGHT STEREO, WIDE STEREO
Output Connector: USB Type-A
Dimensions: H247.5 × W107.90 × L152.50mm
Weight: Approx. 900g
Included Accessories: 1x 2m USB cable (USB Type-C to USB Type-A), quick start guide
No. 1 audio technica / AT2020
The AT2020 retails at a reasonable price and comes with a simple accessory configuration. The design is as luxurious as the high-end model, the AT4040. The AT2020 provides a well-balanced sound which is a common feature among audio technica microphones. The AT2020 is recommended for those who want a high quality microphone on a budget.
Nominal Impedance: 200Ω or less
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Output Connector: XLR, 3-pin
Dimensions: 54 x 166mm
Weight: Approx. 456g
Accessories: Stand adapter
A cappella music can be performed anytime, anywhere as long as there are vocals! And, as a performer, you may want to give careful consideration when choosing equipment that you will need for performing. This time I wrote a list about condenser microphones that I recommend for home recordings.
If you also want to learn about some recommended microphones for live performances, come check out this article featuring dynamic microphones!