Your ultimate guide for recording studio microphones

So you want to start recording your own music, but you don’t know where to begin with choosing microphones?

Here are some questions to consider before exploring different models available.

What will you be using it for?

What is the main purpose, or which instrument will you be using it for? Are you a multi-instrumentalist who plays multiple instruments and mixes in vocals? For example, acoustic drums are complex instruments that require multiple microphones. Check out our full guide on recording drums here.

Different frequency response for mics

High-frequency instruments like acoustic guitars, cymbals, and acoustic pianos require condenser microphones. For low-mid frequency instruments, a dynamic microphone is preferable.

All microphones have a standard frequency range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz. For low-frequency sounds like a kick drum or bass guitar, microphones such as the Sennheiser MD421 and AKG D112 have different sound signatures. The D112 is excellent for bass guitars due to its boost on the low end from 50Hz to 200Hz, but it may sound muddy for vocals as it lacks clarity on the high end.

Conversely, the Shure SM57 or Sennheiser MD421 are ideal for miking guitar amps, as they enhance high frequencies for clarity and punch. When selecting microphones, frequency response is crucial as it helps gauge the mic’s sound signature.

Reviewing frequency response graphs from the microphone brand can help determine the best use for each model.

Microphones field of sensitivity

Microphone sensitivity is important! Some mics are considered “hot” or “loud,” while others are not. Audio engineers often adjust the microphone's gain to achieve the right recording level.

The directionality of microphones also affects sensitivity. The three main types are cardioid, super cardioid, and hypercardioid. A cardioid microphone has a heart-shaped polar pattern, rejecting sounds from a 180-degree field.

A healthy vocal recording level is around -18dB (decibels). Different microphones have varying gain levels, but aiming for the right level is essential.

What type of microphone?

There are three main types of microphones: dynamic, condenser, and ribbon. In this section, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as their best uses in the studio.

Dynamic

Advantages:

• Highly rugged and durable
• Less expensive than other types of microphones
• No phantom power required

Disadvantages:

• Not as sensitive as condenser microphones

Best used for: electric guitars (miking up an amp), drums, live sound (concerts, gigs)

Dynamic microphones are versatile and commonly found in various recording environments. Most feature a cardioid pickup pattern, capturing sound waves from the front.

They are durable and can withstand rough handling, and they handle high sound levels well. Dynamic microphones do not require phantom power, making them compatible with a wider range of devices. If you can only purchase one mic, a dynamic microphone is the best choice.

Our recommendation: Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone

The SM57 is a legendary dynamic microphone found in both recording studios and live sound settings. It is affordable and versatile, suitable for everything from snare drums to electric guitars. Artists like Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens have recorded entire albums using just this microphone. If you can only afford one microphone, the SM57 is the one to get.

Condenser

Advantages:

• High level of detail
• Highly sensitive

Disadvantages:

• Fragile, requiring careful storage and handling
• Not suitable for loud noises

Best used for: vocals, acoustic instruments, drum overheads

Condenser microphones are highly sensitive and require phantom power (12V-48V) to operate. Due to their sensitivity, they are commonly used in controlled studio settings, capturing sounds that other microphones may miss.

However, condenser microphones are fragile compared to dynamic microphones, necessitating careful handling. They also require an audio interface that provides phantom power. Additionally, they may distort at high volumes, making them less suitable for loud instruments unless properly adjusted.

Our recommendation: Rode NT1-A

The Rode NT1-A is an excellent condenser mic that offers studio-grade sound at an affordable price. It is known as one of the quietest studio condenser mics, with virtually no background hiss. It also includes a pop filter and shock mount, eliminating the need for additional purchases.

Ribbon

Advantages:

• Warm sound signature
• Highly sensitive, capturing a lot of detail
• Bidirectional polar pattern for specific recording situations

Disadvantages:

• Very fragile
• Expensive
• Not suitable for those seeking a flat frequency response

Best used for: piano, drum overheads, acoustic instruments

Our recommendation: Royer R-121 Studio Ribbon Microphone

The Royer R-121 is a well-known ribbon microphone that, while pricey, is highly versatile and provides excellent sound quality for various applications, including electric guitars, drums, and string instruments.

Among the three microphone types, ribbon microphones are the most expensive and fragile, making them less popular than dynamic and condenser mics. Ribbon microphones are bidirectional, capturing sound from both the front and back while isolating noise from the sides. They are the most sensitive type of microphone available and are best suited for acoustic instruments and strings, producing a darker sound signature that adds warmth to recordings.

Impedance

Output impedance is typically measured in ohms, with most microphones measuring around 200 ohms. This allows for long cable runs without sound degradation. Electric guitars have high impedance, limiting cable runs to about 30 feet.

If you are purchasing a studio microphone, impedance will not be a significant concern; 200 ohms will suffice.