Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Best budget microphones

DYNAMIC
Most dynamic microphones are made for live performance. As a result, you can use them in your studio or on stage without the need of  phantom power.

Shure SM57 - $99
A vocal/instrument microphone, the SM57 is used on many applications. It's a go-to mic for recording drums and acoustic guitars.

Shure SM58 - $99
Considered the most used microphone the world, this is a great microphone that everyone should have in their mic closet. Although it's essentially a live sound microphone, the SM58 has been used as a vocal and instrument mic on zillions of recordings, even some famous ones. 

CAD-22A - $25
The specs are almost identical to an SM58 (the CAD is 60 Hz to 15 kHz) and CAD is a very good company with a solid product line. I haven't heard it, but I'd like to get one. It's hard to beat the price.

CONDENSER (PHANTOM POWER NEEDED)
Audio-Technica AT2020 - $99
Studio Projects B1 - $119

USB
Audio-Technica AT2020 USB - $149

MULTI-PATTERN

CAD M179 - $179