While having so many options is a blessing, choosing the<\/em> microphone that’s right for you can also feel like a daunting process\u2014not to mention, what’s truly “best” will vary based on your unique needs, budget, and artistic preferences. With that in mind, let\u2019s take a look at the 13 best microphones for recording vocals in 2025, and discuss what makes each option a worthwhile consideration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before we start, here’s a quick rundown on how we chose the mics on this list. First, we’ve organized the microphones by price point (as sold new by major vendors for consistency, though looking for seasonal deals and used gear is definitely an option too), because for many of us budget will<\/em> be the single most determinative factor. Within each section, we also tried to include industry staples that you should know about\u2014like the SM58 and U87\u2014as well as lesser-known picks\u2014like the MXL 990 and E100Sx\u2014sourced by our in-house vocalists and engineers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After these entries, you’ll also find some ideas on what to look out for if you’re singing, rapping, using the mic in a home studio, using the mic for live performances, etc. Finally, we’ll conclude with some frequently asked questions on microphones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With all of that out of the way, let’s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Voice to verse\u2014anywhere. With the addition of Splice Mic, you can instantly test and record ideas, explore genres, and unlock new creative possibilities, all from <\/strong>the Splice mobile app.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n We chose to divide the microphones on this list into four categories: microphones under $100, microphones between $100 – $200, microphones between $200 – $600, and microphones over $600.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 1. Shure SM57 and SM58 (~$99)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n One thing you\u2019ll notice if you’ve read anything about budget microphones is that the SM57 and SM58 are mentioned without fail. These microphones are durable, versatile, and high-quality, suitable for use on just about anything from lead vocals to kick drums. You\u2019re sure to find a few of these in every professional studio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The SM57 and SM58 are dynamic mics, meaning they’ll record slightly less detail than a standard condenser. However, in many situations, this can actually make them a more<\/em> desirable choice. For example, if you’re recording vocals at home,<\/a> the SM58 is a great option because it’ll pick up less of the reflections emanating from your acoustically sub-optimal space.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s worth noting that the SM57 has a slightly smaller grille design that doesn’t incorporate a windscreen, while the SM58 sports the classic ball grille that acts as a pop filter, which can be particularly relevant for vocals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. MXL 990 (~$99)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The MXL 990 is recommended by record producer and engineer Sylvia Massy (Tool, Red Hot Chili Peppers) as an unexpected and underrated microphone for vocals. The mic is fairly neutral in how it captures sound, which is great for those who don’t want something that colors their vocals too much. This makes the MXL 990 a solid choice for applications like VO and podcasting<\/a> as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What’s more, it’s also able to be modded with ease, if that’s something you’re interested in. It’s an all-and-all versatile but thoughtfully crafted condenser microphone that punches well above its weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 1. AKG P220 (~$175)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The price is right for this all-purpose condenser that delivers solid, no-nonsense results for under $200. If you\u2019ve got a reasonably quiet environment where you\u2019d like to record the best possible vocals, the P220 is a great choice with solid build quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While it might not have the sheer versatility of the likes of the SM58, this microphone dutifully delivers the classic AKG sparkling high-end. Some reviewers aren’t fans of this sound, but if you’re looking for that ‘shiny’ treble, it’s a hard one to beat at this price point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Equitek CAD E100Sx (~$199)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Another solid option for bright and punchy vocals is the Equitek CAD E100Sx. Equitek prides themselves in the smooth, articulate, and vintage tone that the E100Sx delivers, in line with the traditions and expectations set by their other products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Meanwhile, reviewers generally adore the mic for its solid build quality and how it excels for both singing and VO. The one thing to note about the build is that the E100Sx is a bit on the heavy side, so you’ll want to make sure your boom (if you’re using one) can handle the weight of the mic and its built-in shock mount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 1. Audio-Technica AT4040 (~$300)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A fan favorite from Audio-Technica, the AT4040 is a condenser mic that’s popular for its ability to capture the little details, thanks to its high frequency response and low noise. Some unique features it boasts include an externally polarized true condenser design and a large diaphragm that’s tensioned specifically to provide accurate and natural sonic characteristics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to vocalists, many livestreamers<\/a> also enjoy the AT4040 for its minimal proximity effect and ability to pick up whispers and low-volume voices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Aston Spirit (~$350)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Aston Spirit delivers a detailed, open sound with sparkling harmonics. Its standout feature that solidifies its spot on this list is its switchable polar patterns<\/a> (omni, cardioid and figure-eight), which can be hard to come by at this price point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. Shure SM7B (~$400)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Without doubt, the Shure SM7B is one of the most well-known dynamic microphones on the market. Its iconic air-suspended shock isolation does a great job at attenuating mechanical noise and breathiness, and its detailed profile and smooth sound make it great for musical performances as well as broadcasting and podcasting. Its low-mid frequency response in particular has also made the Shure SM7B a favorite for heavier genres that involve screaming.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat you’ll learn<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nHow we chose the mics on our list<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nOur top picks by budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Best microphones under $100<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Microphones between $100 – $200<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Microphones between $200 – $500<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Microphones over $500<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n