Best 5 Cheap Recording Mics for Home Recording

As a musician, you ‘’might’’ be in need of recording something sometimes. When we think of home recordings we are interested in the quality-price ratio to be the best possible, budgets are often limited.

So, this list is a must check if you are looking for some of the best cheap recording microphones (dynamic and condenser) for your home recording. Certainly, you can use any of these microphones in a professional studio with no problems.

Let’s see…

1. Sennheiser e935

Let’s begin with the one that will take the best out of your vocal recordings. Sennheiser e935 is more than just a beautifully designed microphone. This dynamic cardioid audio capturer will bring a spotlight on and emphasize the true essence of vocals, whether in a song or a voiceover. Great frequency manipulation (with a response of 40-18000 Hz) will cut out undesired hissing and will make it possible for vocals to stand out in the studio or on the stage. Durable construction and excellent build quality safeguard the longevity of many years.

SPECS:

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 40Hz-18kHz
• Output Impedance: 350 ohms
• Connector: XLR
• Weight: 0.73 lbs.
• Price: $169.95

2. AKG P170

If you are more of an instrumental type of artist, the AKG P170 microphone makes sure your instruments on the track shine. ‘’Let’s cut-to-the-chase’’ design will not stand in a way of playing as nobody is watching, but the quality of the sound recorded by it will make certain that the energy is captured. Excessive frequency flexibility (20-20000 Hz) and high sensitivity are especially great for acoustic instruments with a nostalgic and quiet feel to them. The incredible clearness and accuracy of recorded sounds are just what AKG had in mind when creating this product. The sturdy, metal design will last long, even on the road, and its great value makes this device a must-have!

SPECS:

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Diaphragm Size: 0.5″ (12.7mm)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
• Output Impedance: 200 ohms
• Connector: XLR
• Weight: 1.72 lbs.
• Price: $89.00

3. Shure SM 58

The Shure SM58 is undoubtedly the most famous microphone in the world and certainly the most widely used on stage and in the studios and showrooms of the world. With the SM58, the American company Shure has certainly rammed a foundation pile into the ground of music and sound technology. The Shure SM 58 is compatible with a wide range of sources, is quite balanced in sound, and is very robust, reliable, and long-lasting. Another important aspect for its triumphant success is still today: a very affordable microphone.

SPECS:

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 50Hz-15kHz
• Output Impedance: 150 ohms
• Connector: XLR
• Weight: 0.66 lbs.
• Price: $99

4. Blue Yeti

A company named ‘’Blue’’ is getting the best out of this new-age category of in-studio microphones – USB microphones. Of course, if you are able to afford a dynamic or condenser one, this is not a way to go, but if you are on the road or you just want to record demos on the go, this device might leave you impressed. Integrated headphone amp and independent gain control for latency-free monitoring will make your job easier, but (yet again) at a price of sound quality. The self-standing design is practical, especially in small spaces or when traveling. It is compatible with both macOS and Windows OS.

SPECS:

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo
• Frequency Response: 20Hz-22kHz
• Diaphragm Size: 3 x 14mm capsules
• Connector: USB
• Weight: 2.2 lbs.
• Price: $149.99

5. Shure SM57

This one is for all the drummers out there. Shure’s best-seller for recording drums and all-time classic – SM57. This device delivers excellent drum tracks on account of narrow frequency response (40-15000 Hz) and great depth of sound on your new records. Performing reliable with natural sound, carrying wealthy build quality (which could serve you a long time), and its versatility, is going to make sure you bring it on the stage, too. The greatest thing of all – it is less than $100.

SPECS:

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 40Hz-15kHz
• Output Impedance: 150 ohms
• Connector: XLR
• Weight: 0.63 lbs.
• Price: $99

We hope that our little list helps you make the best choice if you’re looking for a new microphone that can offer high performance at a lower price, for both vocals and instruments recordings.

What microphone do you use? What do you recommend? Feel free to leave your comment below.