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Why We Love It

Users love the Audio-Technica AT2020 for its clear, crisp sound quality and the rugged build that ensures durability. It's often praised for its affordability, making professional-grade recording accessible even to those on a budget. Many users have noted the superior transient response and its ability to isolate the desired sound source, making it a favorite among podcasters and musicians.

Pros

  • High-quality audio output
  • Durable build
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • XLR cable not included
  • May require additional equipment for optimal use

Cardioid condenser microphone perfect for studio recording.

This microphone by Audio-Technica boasts a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response and superior transient response. The cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source. It's built with a rugged design for long-lasting durability and every purchase includes a stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands.

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Why We Love It

Reviewers love the Audio-Technica AT2020 for its superior sound quality and affordable price. It is praised for its wide dynamic range and ability to handle high SPLs effortlessly. The cardioid polar pattern is also appreciated as it effectively isolates the sound source from background noise. Users have noted that it is perfect for home-studio applications and recording podcasts or music.

Pros

  • High sound quality
  • Wide dynamic range
  • Excellent isolation

Cons

  • XLR cable not included
  • Needs phantom power to operate

Cardioid studio microphone with a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm.

Ideal for project/home-studio applications, the Audio-Technica AT2020 offers a wide dynamic range and handles high SPLs with ease. It has a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm that provides extended frequency response and superior transient response. The cardioid polar pattern also reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving the isolation of the desired sound source.

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Why We Love It

Reviewers rave about the Shure SM7B's ability to deliver crisp, clear, and professional-grade audio, making it a top choice for podcasters and musicians. Its wide-range frequency response is often highlighted, as it ensures a natural reproduction of sound. Users also appreciate the electromagnetic hum rejection, noting how it significantly reduces background noise interference.

Pros

  • Excellent sound isolation
  • Versatile performance
  • Electromagnetic hum rejection

Cons

  • High price point
  • Requires high gain preamp

Dynamic microphone with a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response.

The Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone features a wide-range frequency response for clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech. It is equipped with bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis (presence boost) controls with graphic display of response setting. The microphone comes with improved rejection of electromagnetic hum, optimized for shielding against broadband interference emitted by computer monitors.

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Why We Love It

The Shure SM58-LC is a favorite among users for its robust build and exceptional sound clarity. It is particularly appreciated for its ability to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. The built-in pop filter is a standout feature that effectively reduces wind and breath noise. Users often highlight its reliability for both live performances and studio recording.

Pros

  • Durable construction
  • Exceptional sound clarity
  • Built-in pop filter

Cons

  • Not suitable for all voice types
  • Lacks on/off switch

Dynamic vocal microphone with cardioid polar pattern.

The Shure SM58-LC is a unidirectional dynamic vocal microphone designed for professional vocal use in live performance, sound reinforcement, and studio recording. It has a tailored vocal response for a sound which is a standard in rock, pop, and country. The built-in spherical filter minimizes wind and breath 'pop' noise and the cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise.

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Why We Love It

The Rode NT1-A is loved by users for the high-quality sound it produces, particularly for vocals. The package is highly praised for including everything needed for a professional recording setup. Its ultra-low noise level is frequently mentioned in reviews, with users appreciating the clean, clear sound it provides. The included DVD offers valuable recording tips, a feature that many beginners found very helpful.

Pros

  • Complete package
  • Ultra-low noise level
  • High-quality sound output

Cons

  • High price point
  • Sensitive to handling noise

Condenser microphone package with everything needed for professional recording.

The Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Package includes a condenser microphone, a shock mount, a pop shield, a dust cover, an XLR cable, and a DVD with recording tips. The microphone boasts a large 1-inch capsule with a gold-plated diaphragm and a cardioid polar pattern. It has an ultra-low noise level of 5dBA, making it one of the quietest studio microphones out there.

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Why We Love It

The MXL 770 is praised for its affordable price and high-quality performance. Users love its versatility and the clear, rich sound it produces, making it ideal for various instruments and vocals. The high-quality FET preamp is frequently mentioned in reviews, with many noting how it contributes to the mic's wide dynamic range.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Versatile use
  • High-quality preamp

Cons

  • May require phantom power
  • Not ideal for live performances

Cardioid condenser microphone ideal for vocals, pianos, strings, and percussion.

The MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a multipurpose microphone that delivers top-quality performance. It features a low-frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted rumble and a high-quality FET preamp with balanced output for a wide dynamic range. It's ideal for both seasoned professionals and aspiring musicians. This microphone is not only versatile, but also easy to use.

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Why We Love It

The MXL 770 is popular among users for its affordability and premium sound quality. It's particularly appreciated by singers and rappers for its solid bass and high-end sound. The balanced output and wide dynamic range are consistently highlighted in reviews. Despite its lower price point, users often comment that it rivals more expensive microphones in terms of sound quality and overall performance.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Solid bass and high-end sound
  • Wide dynamic range

Cons

  • May pick up background noise
  • Slightly heavy

Cardioid condenser microphone with low-frequency roll-off and -10dB pad.

The MXL 770 condenser microphone continues to amaze recording artists all over the world with its incredible price/performance ratio. Singers, especially rappers, love the 770 for its solid bass, as well as its upfront high-end. The MXL 770 even uses a high-quality FET preamp with balanced output for a wide dynamic range. It's a perfect piece for seasoned pros or newbie musicians who want a quality condenser mic that won't break the bank.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

6 Features 4 Products Updated Oct 03, 2025
Product XLR Connectivity Price Frequency Response Range Noise Level (dBA) Included Accessories Polar Pattern
1 Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone
Yes $119.00 20 Hz - 20 kHz Not specified Stand mount Cardioid
2 Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
Yes $439.00 50 Hz - 20 kHz Not specified None Cardioid
3 Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package
Yes $249.00 20 Hz - 20 kHz 5 dBA Shock mount, pop shield, dust cover, XLR cable, DVD Cardioid
4 MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Yes $89.61 30 Hz - 20 kHz Not specified None Cardioid
1

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

XLR Connectivity
Yes
Price
$119.00
Frequency Response Range
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Noise Level (dBA)
Not specified
Included Accessories
Stand mount
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
2

Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

XLR Connectivity
Yes
Price
$439.00
Frequency Response Range
50 Hz - 20 kHz
Noise Level (dBA)
Not specified
Included Accessories
None
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
3

Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Package

XLR Connectivity
Yes
Price
$249.00
Frequency Response Range
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Noise Level (dBA)
5 dBA
Included Accessories
Shock mount, pop shield, dust cover, XLR cable, DVD
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
4

MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

XLR Connectivity
Yes
Price
$89.61
Frequency Response Range
30 Hz - 20 kHz
Noise Level (dBA)
Not specified
Included Accessories
None
Polar Pattern
Cardioid

Frequently Asked Questions About Studio Microphones

What makes a studio microphones the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your studio microphones recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

Do you test all the products you recommend?

Yes, whenever possible, we physically test products in our labs. For products we can't test directly, we rely on verified user reviews, expert opinions, and detailed specifications to make informed recommendations.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of studio microphones?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.