[2023] Top 5 Recommended Dynamic Microphone Ranking

When buying a microphone for the first time, it’s hard to know which one to choose, right? Some people might not have access to a music store where they can try out microphones, and others might be unsure of what criteria to use.
Naturally, you want to get as close as possible to the sound you’re aiming for, rather than choosing based on a whim. That’s why I’ve compared dynamic microphones in terms of reviews and sample sounds. Let me introduce them based on Sound House’s best-seller ranking.

1st Place:SHURE / SM58

SHURE / SM58S

This is the microphone you’ll see everywhere.
Many people would agree that when it comes to dynamic microphones, this is the one!
But you might wonder, why is it so popular? Let me explain.

The SM58 is Shure’s most popular model. The wired version, which I’m introducing here, as well as the wireless version using the same head, is frequently seen with professional singers and at live performances. Here are three reasons why it’s so widely chosen:

Reason 1
It’s a long-time standard, so many people are used to using it. There are plenty of sound engineers who are familiar with this sound, giving users peace of mind knowing it’s a reliable choice.

Reason 2
It’s easy to get and durable. As a global standard, it’s easy to obtain both in Japan and around the world. It’s also sturdy enough to withstand a few shocks. If the grill ball gets dented, you can simply replace it. Many people have been using this mic for years.

Reason 3
Lastly, the sound quality. As you can hear from the sound sample, it has an impressive richness in the midrange.
It’s a very satisfying microphone to sing into, with a presence that ensures it won’t get lost in a band mix, making it easy to work with. The SM58 is a versatile mic, often used for vocals, beatboxing, and as an MC mic.
If you’re unsure about which microphone to choose, you can’t go wrong with the SM58.
Its sound quality is a benchmark, so it’s worth remembering its characteristics.

2nd PlaceSHURE / BETA58

The next most popular mic after the SM58 is, once again, from Shure: the BETA58.
It looks similar to the SM58 but has a blue ring on the grill ball and a slightly bluish body color. With its supercardioid pickup pattern, it has a narrower pickup range compared to the SM58, making it more resistant to feedback.
The BETA58 offers the same rich midrange typical of Shure microphones but with slightly reduced low-end and enhanced high-end clarity, resulting in a brighter, more defined sound than the SM58. It also excels in detailed reproduction, allowing for greater vocal expressiveness.
This mic is also widely used as a wireless version. Occasionally, the blue ring can fall off, but spare parts are available.

People often ask, “Which is better, the SM58 or the BETA58?”

The SM58 is easier to handle sound-wise and is found in most studios, so if you prefer to sing in a consistent environment, it’s a perfect match.

The BETA58 offers better high-end clarity and a more refined sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality, even at a higher price.

3rd Place:SENNHEISER / E945

Sennheiser mics enjoy solid popularity. In the Evolution Series, the E945 and E935 are both dynamic microphones for vocals, with other models available for instruments and as condenser mics. Many top professionals use these for live performances and recordings.
The grill ball has a unique blue metallic finish, giving it a distinctive, cool look. Wireless versions are also available and are frequently seen on television.

The hallmark of this mic is its natural sound with minimal coloration. Comparing the sound sample to the SM58, you’ll notice a cleaner, more transparent sound. It has excellent high-end clarity and works well with any genre for both male and female vocals. While its narrow pickup pattern takes some getting used to, once mastered, it’s a reliable microphone. The E945 is becoming increasingly popular every year, making it a top model to watch.

4th Place: beyerdynamic / TG-V70D

When it comes to beyerdynamic, many may first think of ribbon microphones, but their dynamic mics also boast high quality and a reputation for unique sound.
The TG-V70D is the top model in the TG-V Series. Its rugged and hefty design immediately communicates its professional-grade quality.
With a wide frequency response and high sensitivity, its sound is so crisp that it could be mistaken for a condenser microphone, capturing even subtle breaths and nuances. It also has fast transient response, giving it a hi-fi-like sound. While it’s versatile, it may be best suited to contemporary pop or R&B rather than gritty rock music.

5th Place: AKG / D7

When people think of AKG, they often think of industry-standard condenser microphones like the C414 Series or C451B. However, they also produce excellent dynamic microphones.
The D7 is AKG’s top dynamic microphone.
Its head has a slightly different shape compared to other mics, and the body features AKG’s brand mark, adding to its premium feel.
As for sound, despite its solid midrange presence, the high-end remains clear, delivering an exceptional balance. It also has a rich, deep sound, which I personally love. It’s resistant to feedback, making it a reliable choice for live performances. The sound sample was created with the help of our sales team’s Tateno, who I think this mic suits perfectly. It’s an underrated gem that deserves more attention.

How do these microphones compare? I hope this comparison has helped you understand the differences in sound quality. Please use it as a reference when choosing your next microphone!