5 Best Condenser Microphones Money Can Buy! | Adnan Mohammed Osman | Electronics Daily

 

You should never underestimate the power of a good microphone[1] if you're producing a video for your YouTube Channel, or if you're a gamer or streamer. Even you publish good content, bad sound quality can demolish your chances of going to the top. If you want to start making videos or streaming, the bare minimum cost should be for buying a microphone for recording. That's how much a good microphone is needed.

What is a Microphone and What are the types?

The air pressure fluctuations of a sound wave are converted to an electrical signal by a microphone or mike. There are several methods for doing so, but the most common is using a dynamic microphone, which employs a wire coil hanging in a magnetic field. There are also condenser or "capacitor" microphones, which have a thin membrane attached to a solid metal plate. Now I'm not going to debate on which type of microphones are better because they are both great depending on the field of application. Today I will be talking about the five best condenser type microphones you can buy, starting with:

 

 

1. Rode NT1-A

The Rode NT1-A microphone has established itself as an industry standard, giving warmth, extended dynamic range, clarity, and high SPL performance previously reserved for the world's most expensive microphones. It is widely regarded (together with the NT1) as one of the world's quietest studio microphones, with a self-noise level of only five dBA. Because of its low noise, it is excellent for recording vocals as well as guitars and percussion. The NT1-A is included in the Complete Vocal Recording Solution and is suitable for home studio recording because it features everything you need to create a genuinely professional vocal recording.

Basic Information:

• Microphone Type: Cardioid Condenser
• Sound Level: 13.7mV (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load)
• Frequency Range: 20Hz - 20kHz
• Sensitivity: -31.9dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (25.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
• Output Impedance: 100Ω
• Dimension: 190.00mmH x 50.00mmW x 50.00mmD
• Weight: 326.00g
• Connector: 3-Pin XLR Output
• Power Module: (p24) +24v phantom Power Required From Mixer Or Interface; (P48) +48v phantom Power Required From Mixer Or Interface

Check the price of Rode NT1-A here.

 

2. Neumann TLM102

 

Some could call it the "Best of Vocal Mics" for home studios because the Neumann TLM102 is about as good as it gets for around $1000. If you're familiar with the Neumann Company, you are aware that they've long been known as the makers of the World's Greatest Microphones, particularly when it comes to vocal mics. The issue is the price. Many of their flagship models are above $3000. On the other hand, Neumann's new TLM series mics have made its "traditional sound" far more accessible to a person. The Neumann TLM102 is the most popular model in the TLM series. Large-diaphragm microphone with cardioid directional characteristic (pressure gradient transducer) and standard Neumann compact construction. Vocals shine in the mix thanks to a high maximum sound pressure level (144 dB) and a slight presence increase above 6 kHz. You should also take a look at the Neumann TLM103, a similar but slightly more expensive version of this mic.

Basic Information:

• Brand: Sennheiser Pro Audio
• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 4.6 x 2.6 inches; 7.41 Ounces
• Number of Channels: 1
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
• Connector Type: XLR Connector
• Connectivity Technology: XLR

Check the price of Neumann TLM102 here.

Check the price of Neumann TLM103 here.

 

3. SE Electronics sE2200a II

The SE Electronics sE2200a II C large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone open box is the mic on this list most likely to raise some eyebrows. After all, it's neither a classic nor a voice microphone. A multi-pattern large-diaphragm condenser mic, on the other hand, is something that every studio should have. The reason for this is that they're very adaptable. They're not only great for singing, but they're also essential for stereo recording. The majority of mics in this category are now prohibitively pricey. The SE Electronics sE220a II is one significant exception. I recommend it if you want a microphone that you will use for more than just singing.

Basic Information:

• Brand: SE Electronics
• Microphone Type: C Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Product Dimensions: 5.98 x 10.98 x 9.02 inches; 2.8 Pounds
• Number of Channels: 1
  

Check the price of SE Electronics sE2200a II here.

 

 

4. Audio-Technica AT4040

Consistency and increased isolation of desired sound source at low noise are provided by the Audio Technica AT4040 cardioid externally polarized (DC bias) genuine condenser, state-of-the-art surface-mount electronics microphone. Its highly superior large diaphragm tensioned high SPL capability ensures reduced noise, smooth and a natural sound, and a wide range of applications. It also includes a bespoke shock mount, nickel-plated brass & acoustic element baffle, switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter. And also a 10 dB pad for technical precision and artistic inspiration with improved element stability and sensitivity. This device's transformer-free circuitry delivers higher-speed transient correlation and lower frequency distortion. It lowers undesirable interior reflections in the symmetrical housing assembly's open acoustical environment.

Basic Information:

• Microphone Type: AUDIO-TECHNICA CASE STYLE R5
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid Condenser
• Frequency: 20-20,000 Hz
• Noise/Signal: 12 dB SPL
• Impedance: 100 ohms
• Sound Level: 145 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.; 155 dB SPL, with 10 dB pad (nominal)
• Switch: Flat, roll-off; 10 dB pad (nominal)
• Sensitivity: -32 dB (25.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
• Dimension: 170.0 mm (6.69") long, 52.0 mm (2.05") maximum body diameter
• Weight: 12.7 oz (360 g)
• Connector: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
• Power Module: 48V DC, 4.2 mA typical

Check the price of Audio-Technica AT4040 here.

 

5. AKG C414 XLII

 AKG C414 XLII has the same sonic profile as the well-known AKG C214, known for its exceptional sound quality for lead vocals and solo instruments. You can pick from nine different polar patterns to get the ideal setting for every purpose. For close-up recording or high-output sources of up to 158dB SPL, three attenuation levels (-6/-12/-18dB) are available. It contains three separate bass-cut filters that can be switched to reduce wind noise, stage vibration, or proximity effect, as well as an overload warning with audio peak hold, LED to identify the smallest audio peaks.

Basic Information:

• Brand: AKG Pro Audio
• Microphone Type: Vocal Condenser
• Color: Black
• Audio Sensitivity: 158 dB
• Polar Pattern: Multipattern
• Product Dimensions: 11.3 x 9.6 x 5.5 inches; 1.6 Ounces
• Number of Channels: 1
• Connector Type: XLR Connector
• Connectivity Technology: Wired

Check the price of AKG C414 XLII here.

The C414 XLII features the same capsular design as the legendary AKG C214, with a similar 3KHz presence boost, which makes it an excellent choice for capturing vocals and solo instruments. Both are great all-around mics and deliver high-quality reproduction for a range of sources.

Do you agree with this list? Let us know which one is your favorite down below! You can also check out the 5 best dynamic microphones list, click here to read.

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