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Last updated: 19 Jan 2021

Best Vocal Microphones For Live Performances Under $250

Best Choice
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Sennheiser e935 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
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Best Value
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Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
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Crisp Sound
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AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone
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Bargain Pick
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Audio-Technica AT2010 Cardioid Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone
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Clear Performance
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Blue Microphones enCORE 300 Cardioid Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone
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Classic Pick
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Beyerdynamic TG V50d Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
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Top Performance
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Shure Beta 58A Vocal Microphone
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Honorable Mention
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Audix OM-5 Hypercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
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Premium Pick
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Telefunken M80 Supercardioid Vocal Microphone
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Also Consider
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Samson Q8x Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
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Jack Stoneybrook
By Jack Stoneybrook
Published 9:05 pm
Show contents
  • 1 Sennheiser e935 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
  • 2 Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
  • 3 AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone
  • 4 Audio-Technica AT2010 Cardioid Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone
  • 5 Blue Microphones enCORE 300 Cardioid Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone
  • 6 Beyerdynamic TG V50d Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
  • 7 Shure Beta 58A Vocal Microphone
  • 8 Audix OM-5 Hypercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
  • 9 Telefunken M80 Supercardioid Vocal Microphone
  • 10 Samson Q8x Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

A good vocal microphone is key to a great live show. You can't go wrong with any of the ones we've listed. These are all wired microphones so you'll also need an XLR cable. Some mics use phantom power, which requires external juice from either a mixer or DI Box. Here are the best vocal microphones for live performances under $250 in 2021.

Best Vocal Microphone For Live Performances Under $250

1

Sennheiser e935 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

– Best Choice
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Key Features
  • Shockmounted capsule provides low sensitivity to impact and handling noiseCardioid pickup pattern insulates from other onstage signals.
  • Hum-compensating coil reduces electrical interference.
  • 10-year factory warranty.
THE SCOOP

Do not pass up on the Sennheiser e935 Dynamic Cardioid if you are in the market for a new mic. The consistent quality of this microphone guarantees your vocals will shine.

2

Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

– Best Value
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Key Features
  • Critically tuned frequency response, which cuts out low-end rumble and adds a noticeable rise in the upper-mid frequencies. This deliberate presence peak adds warmth and clarity to your vocals, but it also lets you get the most out of a wide range of sources, including guitar cabinets, brass, and many other instruments.
  • Cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source, minimizes background noise, and provides high gain before feedback.
  • Effective, built-in spherical wind and pop filter reduces breath noise and plosivesIncludes break-resistant stand adapter that rotates 180-degreesLegendary Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability.
THE SCOOP

The Shure SM58 Cardioid is an instant favorite for any vocalist on a budget. We also love this mic for its consistent and impressive projection quality.

3

AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone

– Crisp Sound
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Key Features
  • The D5’s supercardioid polar pattern ensures maximum gain before feedback.
  • Polar pattern – supercardioidFrequency range – 70Hz to 20kHzSensitivity – 2.6 mV/Pa (-52 dBV) Max.
  • Finish – matte grayish blueDimensions – length: 7.3″; diameter: 2″Net weight – 12 oz.
THE SCOOP

The AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld is perfect for a vocalist that values consistent, high-quality sound. This mic eliminates ambient noise from the environment to ensure that your voice shines above all else.

4

Audio-Technica AT2010 Cardioid Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone

– Bargain Pick
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Key Features
  • The Audio-Technica AT2010 hand-held condenser microphone brings studio-quality sound and articulation to the stage, giving you ultra-clear vocals that dynamic mics just can’t reproduce.
  • The cardioid polar pattern reduces sound pickup from the sides and rear, giving you great isolation for live sound control, and a multi-stage grille design effectively stops plosives and sibilance without sacrificing the high-end clarity.
  • Phantom power requirements: 48V DC.
THE SCOOP

Audio-Technica AT2010 Cardioid Condenser Handheld mic delivers a high-quality stage performance at an affordable price. The dynamic sound and clean aesthetic of this microphone is hard to pass up.

5

Blue Microphones enCORE 300 Cardioid Condenser Handheld Vocal Microphone

– Clear Performance
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Key Features
  • This distinctive-looking handheld microphone features a premium, hand-tuned condenser capsule that gives you very clear, open, and detailed performance for vocals — and its cardioid pickup pattern is very effective at rejecting feedback and outside noise bleed.
  • his mic’s proprietary phantom power circuit was specially tuned by Blue’s engineers to deliver consistent tone and minimal noise.
  • Stage-ready, heavy-gauge barrel construction and a hardened metal-plated finish…
THE SCOOP

Catch the attention of any audience with the Blue Mics enCORE 300 Cardioid Condenser Handheld mic. The unique condenser capsule ensures your vocals make the best impression on any crowd.

6

Beyerdynamic TG V50d Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

– Classic Pick
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Key Features
  • Beyerdynamic has been refining its acoustic labyrinthing known as Sound Channeling Technology for decades. Special channeling throughout the TG V50d’s housing with exacting geometries gives this mic the unique Beyer sound.
  • Full frequency range (50Hz-17kHz) for crisp, clear vocalsSound Channeling Technology (SCT) reduces unwanted resonance and feedback issues.
  • High gain before feedback for more you in your monitorsHighpass filter cuts down on stage noise and bass boom.
THE SCOOP

Beyerdynamic set the new standard for a quality, simplistic mic with the TG V50d Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Mic. This mic was designed to capture the attention of crowds with its crisp sound.

7

Shure Beta 58A Vocal Microphone

– Top Performance
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Key Features
  • The Beta 58 has a very smooth frequency response, so it works well on all kinds of voices.
  • The high-output Beta 58A has a natural presence boost at 4kHz and 9kHz. This shaped frequency response is ideal for close-up vocals, bringing out the clarity needed for cutting through a live mix.
  • Effective, built-in spherical wind and pop filterSupplied with break-resistant stand adapter which rotates 180 degrees.
THE SCOOP

The Shure Beta 58A does the job right. This microphone is perfect for live performances in need of some clear, memorable vocals.

8

Audix OM-5 Hypercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

– Honorable Mention
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Key Features
  • Features an extremely tight hypercardioid pattern and a specially designed VLM type-C capsule that delivers very high output, unsurpassed gain before feedback and smooth response with exceptional vocal clarity.
  • Hypercardioid pattern144dB SPLProprietary anti-feedback designDurable scratch resistant spring steel grilleBlack E-coat Finish.
  • Pouch & clip included.
THE SCOOP

If you want your vocals to shine, the Audix OM-5 Hypercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone is the way to go. The anti-feedback design ensures your vocals will sound crisp and clean at any venue.

9

Telefunken M80 Supercardioid Vocal Microphone

– Premium Pick
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Key Features
  • Dynamic supercardioid microphone vocals, instruments, or percussionBlack finish, black grille.
  • Wide-ranging 50Hz-18kHz frequency response.
THE SCOOP

Take high-quality sound straight to the stage with the Telefunken M80 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone. We love this mic for its well-rounded quality performance and wide ranging frequency.

10

Samson Q8x Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

– Also Consider
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Check Latest Price
Key Features
  • This mic has a rich, tailored midrange presence, supercardioid pickup pattern, and a multi-axis capsule shockmount to minimize handling noise.
  • The Q8x offers a solid, wide dynamic range produced by its neodymium dynamic mic element. It also features a supercardioid pickup pattern with excellent off-axis rejection, which means your voice stays center stage and the unwanted stuff stays out.
  • The Q8x is designed to withstand high sound pressure levels up to 150dB SPL — vocals sound big and clear, snares full and snappy, and big guitar cabinets are allowed to wail.
THE SCOOP

The Samson Q8x Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone is one of our favorites. We love how this mic minimizes handling noise and delivers high-quality audio while not breaking the bank.

Best Vocal Microphones Under $250 Buying Guide

Anyone who’s worked in the recording studio knows the importance of good microphones. When it comes to recording a great sound, the best vocal microphones are what make the difference. If you want to get the most out of your recording sessions, you need to find the right microphone for your needs. Luckily, we‘ve done the research for you. We've scoured the market and found the very best microphones for the jobs you'll be doing.

American Songwriter delivers original review content that connects musicians of all skill level with outstanding products. We help people discover practical products that will improve their lives and are worth the investment, focusing on experience and real-life use cases. In the same way that readers trust American Songwriter to navigate music news, they also trust us to navigate the abundant world of internet shopping. General information about types of products and categories is provided here to assist readers in meeting their varied purchase needs and is not intended to represent the page author's endorsement in any way.

Tips for Buying a Recording Mic

If you want to make the most of your money-saving purchase, there are a few additional techniques to get the maximum benefit from your microphone.

  • Consider the range of the microphone as well as its sensitivity. Most professional vocal microphones can pick up sound that ranges from a low 40 to a high 80 decibels.
  • A higher sensitivity level is preferred because the more sensitive your microphone, the better it will pick the lower frequencies. Don’t be tempted to use the lowest setting on your vocal mic. It will sound muffled, which is not what you're trying to achieve. You need the highest sensitivity setting to capture low-frequency sounds without distortion.
  • Practice makes perfect. Try different phrases so you can get a feel for the sound. Use the mic as a “neck pickup” so that the vocal comes into direct contact with the instrument. This will prevent the neck from resonating with unwanted feedback and will provide a more accurate recording.

Microphone Buying Considerations

The first thing to consider when shopping for a microphone is the type of audio it will produce. There are three main types: vocal, acoustic, and electric. Each is a good fit for certain kinds of performances.

Acoustic microphones are the most basic. They don’t offer much in the way of sensitivity, though you‘ll get plenty of dynamic range with good recordings. The best acoustic microphones for singing are small, lightweight capsules, known as capsule mics. Some come with a carrying case; others don't. Most are manually activated or require batteries.

Vocal mics are designed to capture the original sound of a voice, whether it's deep, low, or high. Acoustic mics are more sensitive, but they produce a distorted sound that's hard to hear in recordings, especially when the vocalist is speaking softly.

Electric mics are better than acoustic at capturing the natural high-pitched tones of the voice. It also produces a more realistic vocal sound, with better extension and separation of low- and high frequencies. You can usually tell a microphone's type from its name.

Vocal Microphone Price Ranges

The cost of a decent pair of high-quality vocal mics can range anywhere from $100 to $2,000, depending on the features included and whether or not they’re certified organic.

Inexpensive

For $75 to around $120, you can find basic pairs of microphones that include a microphone and a stand. If you're not a fan of the default position of your microphone, or you want an option that supports cardioid mikes, this is a good range to consider.

Mid-Range

In the $125 to-$200 range, the choices get much more interesting, as you get both cardioID and balanced arm mike options, and you start to find higher quality vocal microphones with updated, more ergonomic designs.

Expensive

Between $200 and $250, good quality microphones start popping up, but they don't come close to matching the price of professional-grade models. The quality of an organic microphone is often subjective, so it's worth shopping around to see what's the best bang for your buck.

Vocal Mic Features

This article covered the whole range of technologies, including passive, active, and hybrid. We chose the products based on the sound quality and features these offer, as well as on their cost.

Reviews

We scoured the net to find out how well these products worked, how reliable their manufacturer was, what were the most common issues users encountered. Voice mics are supposed to last for a long time, even with long hours spent away from the mic. This is why the battery life is an important feature to look out for, especially if you’re one of those people who work late at night or when the kids are asleep. Most voice mics today have a battery that can last up to 6 hours. However, this is not a guarantee, so it is best to check.

Connectivity

The more connection options, the better. Some voice mic systems connect via Bluetooth, making them more versatile and convenient. On the other hand, others use the power cord to connect to your computer. With this kind of connection, there are a lot of potential issues. It is better to choose a voice-enabled mic that has a USB connection.

Size

When buying a mic, it's always good to consider the size of the device. You can get a versatile unit, but if it doesn t fit in your bag, you won't be able to use it. In this case, choosing a smaller model is advisable.

Ease-of-Use

A mic with a complicated setup will frustrate a beginner. If it takes too many clicks, inputs, or adjustments to get the right sound, then it will be difficult to master. The convenience of a simple setup is also important.

Design

If you want to be productive as soon as possible, look for the design of your voice recorder. Depending on your taste, pick a model that you like and can use easily. One important thing to note is the material used in the body of this mic. Choose something that isn't too bulky, since it won't be convenient to carry around.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve determined what type of microphone you need, you should consider some of its key features. You'll want a mic that's durable enough to withstand prolonged use, so you can record your voice over a variety of surfaces. Ideally, the microphone should be dustproof or waterproof, too. While most beginner models use diaphragms, advanced models often use piezoelectric materials that provide better noise cancellation. Some microphones are slightly more sensitive than others, and you want to find a microphone that produces a clear, crisp recording of your vocals. If you choose a more expensive model, it may also feature a noise-cancelling feature. The best microphones also produce a reasonable level of clarity, allowing you to easily hear your own voice in recordings.

Vocal Microphones for Live Performances FAQ

Q: What is a vocal microphone?

A: A vocal mic is simply a microphone that is designed for use with singing. It does not have a dedicated input and output, which is what a speaker mic does, but rather has a USB port. You connect it to your computer via USB, and plug the mic into the USB input. This gives you the same functionality as using a regular microphone, except you can also use it for recording.

Q: What are the differences between a condenser microphone and a dynamic microphone for singing?

A: Condenser mics are designed to pick up low-frequency sounds, such as the hum of a traffic engine. These are ideal for vocals and acoustic guitars. Dynamic mics are more versatile, as they pick sound waves that are higher in frequency than the low frequency sounds picked by condensers, so they’re perfect for acoustic instruments as well as vocal recordings. They‘re often more expensive than condensers.

Q: What type of sound quality is an external microphone good for?

A: External mics are great for capturing high-quality recordings, because they eliminate the need for an internal microphone. A mic with an input for each channel will give you more control over your recording, since you don t need to worry about the microphone picking up anything that s irrelevant to the sound you‪re trying to achieve. If you prefer, you could use a different mic type for the recording – for example, if you want to record a drumming session, use two external miked drums. However, this will add a mic level of instability to make the drums sound louder or quieter. The most important thing is to find a good mic that will not disturb the flow of your music.

Jack Stoneybrook
By Jack Stoneybrook
Jack has been a touring guitarist for almost 20 years, playing in a number of country music and rock bands. Jack loves the road and defines himself as a never-ending student of the guitar and other important instruments or tools that make a musician.
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