9 Best Live Vocal Microphones That Make You Stand Out!
If you want to make sure your live performance is top-notch, having a high-quality microphone is essential. This article will provide insights into the nine best vocal microphones for superior sound. So regardless if you’re an amateur or veteran talent looking to upgrade, we guarantee this list of picks is perfect!
What are the best live vocal microphones?
Selecting the ideal microphone for your vocal performances is a critical decision. Do you get a studio or live mic? Each type has unique advantages that contribute to improving sound quality, so let’s break down their key differences and weigh out which one suits your needs best.
What is the Main Difference Between Condenser and Dynamic Microphones?
When searching for the best live vocal microphone, it is essential to consider the type of mic. It would not be reasonable to assume that the Sennheiser e965 surpasses Telefunken M80 since one is a condenser and one is dynamic – each has distinct capabilities. The ideal settings for a condenser microphone vary from those needed in a dynamic microphone made optimal for live vocals.
Microphones would not be complete without the diaphragm. This tiny speaker that converts acoustic energy into voltage is composed of a thin sheet made of plastic, a magnet, and an electrical conductor coil. When sound waves affect it, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate, thus generating voltage in turn.
Small-diaphragm Mics
Small-diaphragm microphones, also called “pencil” mics, are ideal for amplifying higher frequencies that regular-size mics can’t capture. In addition, since they’re small and lightweight in design, they typically have a consistent polar pattern when recording – making them perfect to use on snare drums, pianos, or acoustic guitars. No matter the room you record in, these pencil mics will always provide a high-quality sound!
Large-diaphragm Mics
The distinctive sound of large-diaphragm mics comes from their more expansive, often erratic polar patterns combined with a finer design. It’s so helpful in capturing the nuances of vocals and bass drums or getting that sought-after vintage tone in your live room – there’s no wonder why professional studios are full of them!
Best Live Vocal Microphones
The most renowned microphone among experienced sound engineers and musicians for live vocals is a cardioid dynamic one. The optimal experience requires a frequency response boost in its presence range plus low-end & high-end roll-off functions. However, some condenser mics could also be considered if their pattern can reject background noises commonly found with these models of microphones.
Let’s get to it and explore the best live vocal microphones available on the market so you don’t have to waste precious time searching for them. I’ve poured over countless reviews online, and hand-selected these top picks just for you.
- Sennheiser e965
- Miktek PM9
- Telefunken M80
- Neumann KMS 105
- sE Electronics V7
- Shure Beta 87A
- AKG D5
- Sennheiser e935
- Shure SM58
1. Sennheiser e965
Sennheiser has always been distinguished for its technological advancements, and they’ve outdone itself with the e965. It is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed to be used during live performances, making it remarkably convenient.
This is a huge step forward from this audio giant; condenser mics are notoriously difficult to reduce noise, so it’ll be exciting to see how successful they will be in their bold venture.
On stage, dynamic microphones are the go-to choice for minimizing background noise. However, these mics provide less powerful frequency response than condenser versions, so those who appreciate singers with expansive vocal range and depth may be let down by their performance.
The Sennheiser e965 is designed to capture the minutest of details. With a switchable polar pattern between cardioid and super-cardioid, it can proficiently reduce any disturbing noise. Furthermore, an adjustable low-cut filter eliminates rumble, and a constructed pop filter manages plosives successfully.
Key Features
- Dual-diaphragm
- Switchable pick-up pattern (cardioid/super-cardioid)
- Low-cut filter switch
- Switchable pre-attenuation (-10dB)
- Capsule shockmount
- Integral moisture protection
- Frequency response of 40Hz-20kHz
Conclusion
Regarding condenser mics, the Sennheiser e965 is my ultimate go-to — its multi-pattern capabilities, low-cut filter, and pad are unbeatable. While its price tag may be too high for many budget shoppers, fear not! Many options provide premium sound quality at much lower prices, such as Miktek’s following listing.
Price: $399 USD
2. Miktek PM9
The Miktek PM9 dynamic microphone is the perfect solution for live vocal performances. With a price point of $200 less than the Sennheiser e965, you don’t have to sacrifice sound quality either! Furthermore, its super-cardioid pickup pattern provides excellent isolation onstage that will ensure your vocals stand out from the crowd and won’t be drowned out by other instruments.
With their esteemed studio microphone technology, Miktek has created a sturdy mic to handle even the most strenuous live performances.
You and your fans will love the sound of vocals when they are recorded with a Miktek PM9. Assembled in Nashville, these mics have American-made custom transformers that balance a great bottom end, a sweet top lot, and a clear midrange punch. So don’t wait any longer to give them the gift of superior vocal recordings – get your hands on a Miktek PM9 now!
Key Features
- Great Miktek studio sound on the road
- Rich bottom end and sweet top end with midrange punch
- Super-cardioid pickup pattern gives great isolation
- Custom, American-made transformers for excellent RF rejection
- Built to last
Conclusion
My own experience with this microphone in a live setting has been nothing short of incredible – the highs are present but never overly sharp. The multistage windscreen keeps popping to a minimum, while its steel grille and die-cast body ensure that it’s durable enough for any scenario. Its sleek black finish and stainless steel appointments add an attractive touch to any stage setup!
Price: $199 USD
3. Telefunken M80
With 15 different colors available, the M80 is perfect for anyone looking to add a little flair to their performance. In addition, you can mix and match the colors of the body and grill for a truly unique look.
And it sounds great, too! Telefunken’s engineers have successfully created a microphone with the robust, warm feel of a dynamic and the sonic capabilities of a condenser. In addition, specifying a lightweight capsule and thin diaphragm could provide the M80 with a wide frequency response without compromising its strength.
This results in you getting an open and present quality but also authoritative enough for live vocals. Despite the high-end presence boost, transients are well-tamed, and handling noise is nicely subdued.
Key Features
- Dynamic super-cardioid microphone vocals, instruments, or percussion
- Black finish, black grille
- Wide-ranging 50Hz-18kHz frequency response is perfect for both instruments and vocals
- Low-mass capsule and diaphragm responds quickly to sound for clear, detailed reproduction
- Capsule design reduces proximity effect so your sound doesn’t become muddy or indistinct
- Includes microphone clip and carrying bag
Conclusion
This microphone offers incredible durability and versatility, making it an ideal choice for those who can’t arrange between dynamic and condenser mics. It’s a great buy that will instantly upgrade your professional recording studio setup!
Price: $249 USD
4. Neumann KMS 105
The Neumann KMS 105 is perfect for live vocalists; engineered to deliver the same outstanding sound as their renowned studio microphones, this handheld microphone boasts a super-cardioid polar pattern that blocks out extraneous sounds from the rear and sides. What’s more, it was designed with durability in mind – so you don’t need to worry about damage when taking it on tour!
The robust steel grille shields your capsule from any possible harm, and the multi-level pop filter made of wire gauze helps to prevent plosives and unnecessary pops in your audio recording.
The pop filter removes any sibilance issues so that you can vocalize however suits you best. The frequency response is 20Hz-20kHz.
With a wide frequency range and SPL of 150dB, recording vocals in any environment will be hassle-free. The high SPL captures even the loudest sounds – think guitar cabs, bass amps, or drums! You can now confidently record your music on stage or at the studio without fear of echo distortion.
Key Features
- Condenser microphone for clear highs deep lows
- Excellent transparency for vocals/speech
- Without off-axis coloration
- Super-cardioid polar pattern with excellent feedback rejection
- Effective pop shielding without any side effects
Conclusion
This high-performance microphone is ideal for live performances, but the price tag may be out of reach if you want to build a collection. Even so, it still stands as one of the top four mics on our list!
Price: $729 USD
5. sE Electronics V7
The sE Electronics V7 is designed for professional use, with its heavy-duty metal construction that can withstand years of rigorous performance. Whether onstage or in the studio, you will love using this dynamic microphone to bring out the best in your vocals!
The V7 is designed with added convenience and reliability, featuring a beveled strip around the steel mesh grille to keep it from rolling away on an amp cab or stage floor. So you can rest easy knowing that no matter where you put your speaker down, it’s not going anywhere! The integral windscreen and pop shield come standard in sE Electronics’ corporate red color — but if that doesn’t suit your purposes, don’t worry; a black version of each also comes included for maximum customization options.
sE Electronics has crafted the DMC7 aluminum coil in their immensely popular V7 microphone, allowing for bright and organic vocals with remarkable clarity. Furthermore, its super-cardioid pattern effectively reduces feedback while efficiently blocking out noise from handling the mic itself.
Key Features
- The specialized aluminum voice coil provides excellent sound quality
- The super-cardioid capsule provides excellent isolation and a significant amount of gain before feedback
- The integrated shockmount silences rumbling and other handling noises
- The internal windscreen on this microphone blocks out excess noise and plosives
- Red and black windscreens are included depending on your preference
- Beveled edge keeps it from rolling
- The gold-plated XLR connector provides a dependable and secure connection
Conclusion
If you need help selecting a microphone, why not opt for the perfect combination of the V7 and Shure SM58? The V7 is an exceedingly flexible mic that offers superior sound quality for any vocalist. From live concerts to intimate settings, it’s sure to provide a stellar experience without breaking your bank account!
Price: $99 USD
6. Shure Beta 87A
Elevate your live performances to a new level of excellence with the Shure Beta 87A handheld condenser microphone. Its super-cardioid pickup pattern eliminates outside noise and feedback, so you can confidently capture every detail in unparalleled sound clarity. Capture each subtlety accurately for an unforgettable performance!
Beta 87A microphones are one-of-a-kind due to their remarkable ability to block all peripheral sound and noise, only picking up the exact signal it is intended for. As a result, this microphone minimizes feedback significantly.
Moreover, these mics are extraordinary in loud or noisy environments due to their super-cardioid pickup pattern. The Beta 87A also offers a consistent sound quality across frequencies and provides more gain with less feedback and reduced proximity effect.
Key Features
- Durable, and great sounding handheld condenser mic
- Designed and tuned for live use for vocalists
- Excellent noise and feedback rejection
- Sturdy build
- Low handling noise
- Frequency response 50Hz-20kHz
- Requires +48V phantom power
Conclusion
If you demand consistent, top-tier audio quality each and every performance night after night, then the Shure Beta 87A is your obvious choice! This dependable microphone ensures that you can produce outstanding results without fail.
Price: $259 USD
7. AKG D5
The AKG D5 is the go-to vocal microphone for both lead and harmony vocals. This powerful mic produces a well-defined sound that stands out within any mix. At the same time, its super-cardioid polar pattern guarantees maximum gain before feedback — an ideal characteristic for live shows!
AKG revolutionized the audio industry when they introduced their D5 microphone, which featured a diaphragm with variable thickness – previously unheard of. This new Laminated variation technique gave AKG more control over tuning resonators, resulting in a substantial sound quality improvement.
With the D5’s dual shockmount, any mechanical sounds are eliminated to ensure a pristine sound of your voice that will captivate and enchant your audience during live performances.
Key Features
- Rugged construction
- Frequency range – 70Hz to 20kHz
- Max. SPL – 147/156dB SPL (for 1% / 3% THD)
- Super-cardioid polar pattern for high gain before Feedback
Conclusion
Looking for an economical alternative to the Shure SM58 or Sennheiser e935? The AKG D5 is your go-to solution, providing comparable performance at a more accessible price point. Whereas the cost of the e935 can leave you empty pockets, the D5 carries roughly equal pricing as its SM58 counterpart while remaining cheaper than both models.
Price: $90 USD
8. Sennheiser e935
With its dynamic cardioid handheld design and shock-mounted capsule, the Sennheiser e935 is an unbeatable microphone that guarantees superior performance on any concert stage. Its reliable construction ensures impact and handling noise won’t disrupt your show; it’s made to cut through a busy mix with ease!
The Sennheiser e935 dynamic cardioid handheld microphone is built with an unbeatable cardioid pickup pattern that keeps you safe from unwanted sound interference. As a result, you can count on this dedicated mic to provide a superior sound experience for years!
The moment I held this microphone in my hand, I was shocked by its weight and solidity – an impressive nearly one pound! Confidence surged through me that if dropped, the mic would remain unscathed. It has a classic grille design, much like Shure SM58’s famous style.
Key Features
- Shockmounted capsule provides low sensitivity to impact and handling noise
- Cardioid pickup pattern insulates from other onstage signals
- It contains a hum-compensating coil reducing any electrical interference
- Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron keep the microphone stable in any climate
Conclusion
Ideal for live performances, this microphone features a shock-mounted capsule to reduce impact and handling noise. Boasting superior sound clarity via its hum-compensating coil, you can be sure of pristine audio quality no matter the environment!
Price: $199 USD
9. Shure SM58
The renowned Shure SM58 dynamic microphone is one of the most popular vocal microphones for a purpose – it provides excellent sound, dependability, and endurance. So it’s no surprise that each well-established studio and live audio production company has heaps of these mics; they’re sure to work flawlessly gig after gig!
The Shure SM58 is the perfect combination of superior audio quality and exceptional durability. It delivers dependable, crystal clear sound no matter who is singing or playing an instrument into it – making it a top choice among trusted performers everywhere!
The SM58 is renowned for its exceptional frequency response, attenuating low-end noise and strengthening upper-mid frequencies. This intentional presence peak adds clarity and richness to vocals, but it can also capture the best sound from various sources such as guitar amps, brass instruments, etc.
Key Features
- Cardioid pickup pattern minimizes background noise, and provides high gain before feedback
- Internal shockmount system cuts down handling noise
- Effective, built-in spherical wind and pop filter reduces breath noise and plosives
- Includes break-resistant stand adapter that rotates 180°
- Shure quality, ruggedness, and reliability
Conclusion
Thousands of singers have chosen the SM58 for their performances, and it’s simple to understand why. Dependability? Check! Sound quality? Absolutely! Cost-effectiveness? Certainly! Ultimately, what more could you ask for in a microphone!?
Price: $89 USD
Summary
If you’re a new performer and need more funds to splurge, then Shure SM58, AKG D5, or sE Electronics V7 are great mics on a budget that offers excellent quality. However, if money is no object, Miktek PM9, Sennheiser e965 (a condenser), and Neumann KMS 105 might be more suited for your needs as they’ll give superior results with their high-end features.
Disclosure: davemikulskis.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Some of the links above are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
Tags: best budget microphone for live vocals, live performance microphone, best wireless microphone for live performance, best sennheiser vocal mic
Related Articles
9 Best Microphones For Recording Acoustic Guitar That Sound Amazing!
9 Best Vocal Microphones To Make Your Vocals Sound Amazing!
9 Best Studio Headphones: Amazing Music To Your Ears
9 Best Condenser Mics That Will Blow Your Mind, but not Your Budget!
p5ze5k