Best Mics for 2024

1. Warm Audio WA-8000 (Best overall Mic)


The WA-8000 is a beast. It's what I use for every track I lay vocals on. If youve ever done your research on microphones, you've probably come across the Sony CG800 many times and quickly learned that it's one of the (if not the #1) top microphones in the industry in terms of clarity, brightness and performance. The WA-8000 is a clone of that historic microphone and comes with a better price tag than the Sony. It even has the same build as the CG-800 which I thought was awesome. The similarities are pretty astounding and having used a CG-800 in the past, I can tell you the difference is almost non-existent. The CG-800 may have a tad more brightness and clarity, but not enough to be a deal breaker. If you can afford this gem, youll probably never need another mic unless you want to buy the actual CG800. The package comes with a hard-shell case, which includes the microphones itself, a custom GAC-7 7-pin cable, shock mount & IEC power cable.

Pros
- Captures the clarity and character of the CG800
- Less than a 10th cheaper than Original Sony CG800

Cons
- None

Specs & Features
Self Noise: 15db (A-Weighted) Cardioid, 17db (A-Weighted) Omni
Polar Patterns: 2 Patterns - Cardioid, Omni
Dynamic Range: 113dbA
Maximum SPL: 131dB (Cardioid), 134dB (Omni)
Frequency Range: 20Hz-20KHz
Output Impedance: 100ohms
Rated Load Impedance: >1kOhms
S/N Ratio: 76dB (Cardioid, 73dB (Omni)
External IEC Grounded PSU
Mic Length: 7.5 Inches
Mic Diameter: 2.5 Inches

2. Neumann TLM-102

Coming in second on the list is the Nuemann TLM 102, my mic right before I bought my WA-8000. I was looking to save up and buy the Nuemann U87 at the time (wishful thinking), but that didn't happen. So I opted for the TLM 102. This little guy is a workhorse for both vocal recording and instrument recording. what I noticed, this mic has great mid-range and low-end clarity. My voice falls in the mid-range column, so it complimented my style extremely well and was great at balancing the frequencies out in my vocals. For instruments, this thing can handle a lot of sound pressure, so placing it right in front of your instrument will be of no issue to you. This mic is the perfect price for people who aren't on too tight of a budget, but also don't have a crazy amount of funds to blow.

Pros:
- High Quality Sound
- Affordable for a Nuemann

Cons:
- Needs an external shock mount
- Comes with no case

Specs & Features
Directional Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz
Rated Impedance: 50 Ohms
Rated Load Impedance: 1 kOhms
Maximum Output Voltage: 13dBu
Diameter: 52 mm
Length: 116 mm
*Requires +48 Phantom Power*

3. Rode NT1-A


The perfect microphone for beginners looking to get into recording. This was one of my first mics and one of the most budget friendly mics in the industry. You can't beat the quality for the price. What made this great for me is the edginess characteristic sound it had while still maintaining a full and warm sound. The edginess made my vocal presence fell more punchy and relevant while adding a boost to my high frequencies. My vocals are mostly in the mid range so when I recorded on this mic, that characteristic highlighted my highs, so it was exciting and new for me to hear my vocals take shape in a different way. This is a perfect beginner mic for rapping and singing and a very attractive addition to your home studio.

Pros:
- High quality crisp sound
-Great for beginners
- Low self noise

Cons:
- Could be a bit too edgy and bright for some

Specs & Features



4. MXL 3000 (Best affordable mic)


My very first mic and one that Ill always keep in the vault. Great warmth and clarity with a slight low mid boost, this mic served me well for the 5 years I've had it. The only way you'd be dissapointed with this mic is if you've been using high end telefunkens and Nuemanns your whole life. For beginners, you cannot lose with this bad boy. I've had professional audio engineers asking me what mic I was using when they would listen to my music and then be completely shocked when I tell them its an MXL30000. If you're looking to start rapping or singing, this mic is for you. Comes with a shock mount, pop filter and the mic itself for 244.49.

Pros:
- Versatile
-Excellent price for the quality
- Lightweight and easy to use

Cons:
- None

Specs & Features

5. Audio Technica 4050

Audio Technica has always been a top brand favorite. This mic, the AT4050, captures every range in the spectrum. Vocals, drum overheads, guitar amps, pianos, everything can be recorded with this mic. Now I only personally used this mic for vocals which was only rap for the most part. Yet I've seen it in action with instruments and can come to the conclusion that it holds up well in that arena also. With that being said this is one of the most versatile mics I've had the pleasure of using and is definitely a top option for a mic you can use in your home studio.

Pros:
Extremely Versatile
Great Audio Quality

Cons:
The only con I have is that I didn't use it for my instruments