Best microphones for beginners: Up your game with these value mics

When you start out in recording, it can be relatively easy to find the right laptop and audio interface for your needs — but what can be difficult is finding the right microphone.

Why? Well, there are a number of different types of microphones out there, and within those different types, there are hundreds of models to choose from. On top of that, some microphones sound better for certain use than others, adding to the stress of trying to find the right microphone.

There are three main microphone types — dynamic, ribbon, and condenser.

Dynamic microphones are often used in live settings and on loud instruments like on snare drums, guitar amps, and so on — but they also tend to have a higher noise floor.

Ribbon microphones are a little more old-school, and have a low noise floor but are much more fragile and delicate — plus will often break if you run phantom power through them.

Condenser microphones offer a low noise floor and high-quality output, but require external power to work properly, usually in the form of phantom power.

Still learning about microphones and their different specs? Check out our guide on everything you need to know about microphones.

No matter what you’re looking for from your first few microphones, here are the best microphones for beginners.

Best microphone for beginners overall: Audio Technica AT2020

Audio Technica’s entire range of microphones is worth looking at for anyone interested in recording. If you’re a beginner on a budget that wants a versatile, well-made microphone then the Audio Technica AT2020 is the microphone to go for.

Audio Technica itself has long been a go-to for beginners and professionals alike, and for good reason. The company builds excellent entry-level microphones like the AT2020, and higher-end microphones that are worth adding to your collection as you progress.

Pro tip: Couple the AT2020 on a guitar body with a dynamic microphone like the SM57 on a guitar neck for a full-range sound that will work in any recording.

Best dynamic microphone for beginners: Shure SM57

The Shure SM57 is the most popular microphone in the world — and for good reason. The microphone is a dynamic microphone that’s built like an absolute tank.

It’s perfect in recording and live situations on a snare drum or guitar amp. It has excellent off-axis noise reduction, which rejects noise from the sides and rear.

The microphone doesn’t just sound great — it’s built like a brick too. It has a die-cast steel construction, meaning that if you’re looking for a microphone that can survive the bumps and bruises of touring, the SM57 is a great option.

Safe to say, if you’re looking to build a recording studio, then having at least one or two Shure SM57 microphones in your collection will be well worth it.

Best live vocal microphone for beginners: Shure SM58

The Shure SM57 is a classic microphone — but if you’re looking for something similar that’s more suited to live vocals, then we recommend the Shure SM58. The SM58 is based on the same cartridge as the SM57, but the grille covering it acts as more of a pop filter, making it much more suited to live vocals.

The SM58 has other similarities to the SM57 too. It has a super-strong build, and great off-axis noise reduction, so you won’t get too much bleed from other sources.

If you’ve ever been to a live concert, there’s a good chance that the singer was using a Shure SM58 — and if you’re a vocalist that needs a decent live vocal microphone every now and then, then the Shure SM58 is worth buying.

Best electric guitar microphone for beginners: Sennheiser e609

Electric guitar is one of the easier instruments to record. Find the sweet spot on the speaker, throw up a mic stand, and let it rip. But space is always a concern whether you’re on stage or in the studio.

The answer? A microphone with a profile designed specifically for guitar cabinets. There aren’t many with a slim profile like the Sennheiser e609 (or its big brother the e906), and it’s perfect for slinging it over a guitar cabinet without taking up any space.

A 40Hz-15kHz frequency response picks up the best part of the electric guitar’s sonic range and then some. The supercardioid polar pattern picks up only what you point it at while rejecting bleed from the sides and back.

It doesn’t have any low-pass filtering or pads, but it’s perfect for its intended use. Affordable, durable, and the perfect solution for space issues when micing up electric guitar amps.

Best bass microphone for beginners: AKG D112 MKII

If you’re a bassist or a budding engineer that ants a decent microphone that can be used for bass guitars or kick drums, then the AKG D112 MKII — which is a dynamic microphone — is the way to go. The microphone is an absolute classic, featuring a nice warm tone and decent attack.

This microphone is slightly more expensive than some of the other microphones on this list, but the sound quality of it is awesome. The microphone is also just as helpful live as it is in the studio — making it relatively versatile.

Best multi-pattern microphone for beginners: Audio Technica AT2050

The Audio Technica AT2020 is a great microphone, but if you really want to step up its versatility, then the Audio Technica AT2050 is the way to go.

Why? Well, it has a switch on it that allows you to change the polar pattern of the microphone, meaning you essentially have a cardioid, omni-directional, and figure-of-eight microphone, all in one.

It’s a little more expensive than the Audio Technica AT2020 — but if you have the cash and want something versatile, then we definitely recommend buying it.

Best large-diaphragm condenser for beginners: LEWITT LCT 440 PURE

Lewitt is a newer microphone manufacturer, but they’ve quickly built up quite a reputation. They offer mics at all levels, but when it comes to budget friendly large diaphragm condenser models the LCT 440 PURE stands out among their best.

A one inch “true condenser” capsule captures detail and articulation from the source signal. There is depth and an openness that a lot of other LDCs can’t quite nail in the sub $300 price range.

The frequency response runs the full range from 20Hz to 20kHz which makes it a great choice for any source. It’s got a wide dynamic range and can handle high SPL, so don’t be shy about using it on drums.

It’s cardioid only and it doesn’t have a pad or high-pass filter, but once you hear it you’ll understand why Lewitt has built up such a positive reputation so quickly.

Best small-diaphragm condenser for beginners: sE Electronics sE8

Small-diaphragm condenser mics are great for sources with fast transients like acoustic guitar and drum overheads. They’re best when paired with other microphones, but they’re a vital part of every mic locker, even beginners.

The sE8 offers a full, 20Hz-20kHz frequency response, can take high SPL, and comes with a good amount of accessories like a case and clip. It doesn’t come with a shockmount, but it’s lightweight and easy to use.

Just don’t forget to engage phantom power.

FAQ

What microphone should a beginner use?

It depends on what you need to record, but a simple dynamic or condenser microphone is a versatile choice. For dynamics we recommend the Shure SM57 or SM58, and for a condenser the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a simple, affordable mic that’s easy to use.

Can a cheap mic sound good?

Absolutely. The SM57 is one of the most popular mics of all time and costs about $100 new. It’s really about the quality of the build and components – and how it’s used.

What is the best condenser mic for beginners?

Our choices are both from Audio-Technica. The AT2020 is a straightforward model, and the AT2050 is a step up that offers multiple polar patterns.

What should my first microphone be?

It depends on what you need out of it. If you need an all-around workhorse with good detail look into a large-diaphragm condenser. If you’re recording sources with higher SPL, a dynamic is a good choice. To capture instruments with fast transients like drums and acoustic guitar, a small-diaphragm condenser is the best option.

What is the best microphone for beginners?

Beginners should look for a microphone that’s versatile and can handle a variety of sources. Most will need one that can handle vocals, so a good dynamic like the Shure SM58 or a large-diaphragm condenser like the Audio-Technica AT2020 should meet any beginner’s needs and then some.