If you’re just getting started in the world of audio production, you may be wondering what kind of microphone to buy. There are so many options out there, it can be hard to know which one will give you the best sound quality for your project. Thankfully, there are a number of entry-level microphones that offer professional grade sound at an affordable price.
Things to look for in a Microphone
An Audio Interface
Audio interfaces convert microphone and instrument signals into a format your computer and software recognize. The interface also routes audio from your computer out to your headphones and studio monitors. Interfaces typically connect to your computer via USB cables, though some use Thunderbolt, Firewire, or even ethernet. Interfaces range in price from $100 to several thousand dollars but not all your favorite music is from expensive music equipment so keep that in mind. Find a interface that is reliable, work for you, and learn everything you can about it.
Audio-Technica AT2020
Specifications:
- Element: Condenser
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
- Maximum Input sound level: 144 dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% T.H.D
- Noise: 20 dB SPL
- Bit Depth / Sample Rate: N/A – Analog
- Power Requirements: Phantom 48V DC, 2 mA typical
- Output Connecter: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
- Accessories Included: Stand mount: 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 threaded adapter: pouch
AKG P120
Sepcifications:
- Element: Condenser
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20,000 kHz
- Maximum Input sound level: 150 dB SPL,
- Noise: 19 dB-A
- Bit Depth / Sample Rate: N/A – Analog
- Power Requirements: Phantom 48V DC,
- Output Connecter: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
- Bass Cut filter: 300 Hz – 6 dB/Octave
- Accessories Included: Stand mount
Focusrite 2i2 studio 3rd Gen Bundle
- I know what you’re saying. ‘Why is there a interface on a microphone list?’ Well if you were like me when you first started, getting a mic was really hard so my first mic came from this bundle and its was a great start to what I can do now that I have grown from it. – (NABS)
- Pro performance with the finest pre-amps – Achieve a brighter and a more open recording thanks to the best performing mic pre-amps the Scarlett range has ever seen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your Scarlett 2i2.
- Capture studio-quality recordings for music and podcasts – The included large diaphragm condenser mic enables you to capture studio-quality recordings that are faithful to the original source.
- Comfort and quality for mixing and streaming music – Truly hear your music with the upgrad-ed HP60 MkIII closed-back headphones.
- Get the perfect guitar and vocal take – There’s no need to sacrifice your tone with two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through.
- Capture your voice with clarity and your instruments in all their glory without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.
- Easy Start – It’s easier than ever to get up and running with your Scarlett with our online tool, Easy Start. Whether you’re looking to record or playback audio, we will help you get started.
- All the tools you need to start recording right, now – We’ve partnered with our favourite industry partners to provide you with plenty of sound content and software so that you can create and record music right away. Create studio quality vocals, powerful guitars, luscious keys and huge drums.
- Enjoy three years of warranty – Wherever you happen to be in the world, you can rely on a three-year warranty if any Focusrite hardware needs repairing or replacing due to a manufacturing fault.
- Element: Condenser
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20,000 kHz
- Maximum Input sound level: 111 dB SPL (A-weighted)
- Noise: 19 dB-A
- Power Requirements: Phantom 48V DC,
- Output Connecter: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
- Accessories Included: Focusrite 2i2 interface, line wire, and mic mount