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1

Why We Love It

Users love the Scarlett 2i2 for its impressive sound quality and compact size. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a favorite among beginners, while its high-quality preamps and converters satisfy more advanced users. Many commend its robust build and appreciate the inclusion of helpful recording software.

Pros

  • Superb sound quality
  • Compact and portable
  • Includes recording software

Cons

  • No MIDI input/output
  • Requires external power

Compact and versatile two-in, two-out USB audio interface.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a versatile USB audio interface that delivers superb sound quality, thanks to Focusrite's award-winning preamps. It features two inputs and two outputs, making it ideal for singer-songwriters and podcasters. It offers 24-bit/192kHz converters for crystal clear audio, and a unique Air mode that adds an open, airy quality to your recordings. The unit is compact, sturdy and comes with a suite of recording software.

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Why We Love It

Users love the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for its clean, professional-level sound quality. Its compact size makes it a favorite among mobile musicians and podcasters. The included software bundle is also appreciated, although some wish it was more comprehensive. Overall, it's praised for its easy setup and excellent performance.

Pros

  • Compact and portable
  • High-quality sound
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Software bundle could be better
  • No MIDI I/O

USB audio interface with two mic/line inputs.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface is compact yet versatile, offering two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps, super-low latency, and the same class-leading sound quality and digital conversion as the rest of the latest Scarlett range. It's a perfect choice for artists, producers, and bands. The device is compatible with Mac and PC, and supports sample rates up to 192kHz.

3

Why We Love It

The Shure SM7B is a staple in radio stations and recording studios due to its exceptional sound quality. Reviewers often praise its ability to produce warm, rich vocals, and its versatility makes it suitable for a range of recording situations. Many users also appreciate its robust build and effective pop filter.

Pros

  • Broadcast-quality audio
  • Excellent electromagnetic hum rejection
  • Built-in pop filter

Cons

  • Requires high gain preamp
  • Quite heavy

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

Shure SM7B is a high-end dynamic microphone with a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response that's perfect for music and speech in all professional audio applications. It has excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum generated by computer monitors, neon lights, and other electrical devices. It includes an integrated pop filter that reduces explosive breath sounds and wind noise, and an internal shock isolation system that minimizes mechanical noise transmission. The microphone also features a bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis (presence boost) controls with graphic display of response setting.

4

Why We Love It

Reviewers rave about the AT2020's excellent sound quality for its price, comparing it favorably to much more expensive microphones. Its sturdy build and sleek design are also frequently commended. While some note that it needs a phantom power source to operate, most agree that the audio clarity and quality it provides are well worth the minor inconvenience.

Pros

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Durable construction
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Requires phantom power
  • No on/off switch

XLR condenser microphone with cardioid polar pattern.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a versatile microphone suitable for studio, streaming, and podcasting applications. It features a high SPL handling and wide dynamic range, providing unmatched versatility. The cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source. The microphone includes a stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands and a soft protective pouch.

5

Why We Love It

Users rave about the ATH-M50x's exceptional sound quality, praising its clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass. The comfort and adjustability of these headphones also receive a lot of positive feedback. Many professionals appreciate the swivel ear cups for one-ear monitoring and the detachable cables for enhanced durability.

Pros

  • Exceptional sound quality
  • Comfortable fit
  • Durable and versatile

Cons

  • No inline volume control
  • Not wireless

Professional-grade studio monitor headphones with detachable cables.

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are professional-grade studio monitor headphones that offer exceptional clarity and deep, accurate bass response. They feature 45 mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, providing an extended frequency range and excellent sound reproduction. The headphones have a circumaural design that contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments. The ear cups can be swiveled 90 degrees for one-ear monitoring, and the detachable cables increase the product's durability and lifespan.

6

Why We Love It

Users highly recommend the Sennheiser HD 600 for their exceptional sound quality, comfortable fit, and durable design. Many note their ability to deliver precise and accurate sound, making them ideal for professional monitoring and mixing. While they do come at a higher price point, users agree that the audio experience they provide is unparalleled.

Pros

  • Outstanding sound quality
  • Comfortable for long sessions
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • High price point
  • Requires a good amplifier for best performance

Open back, over-ear professional headphones.

The Sennheiser HD 600 headphones are an ideal choice for the professional recording engineer recording classical music. They feature an open metal mesh earpiece cover for an extremely transparent sound, computer optimized magnet systems to minimize harmonic and intermodulation distortion, and a detachable, Kevlar-reinforced oxygen-free copper cable for durability and performance.

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Why We Love It

The Yamaha HS8 is loved by users for its accurate sound reproduction, enabling them to mix soundtracks with precision. Its room control feature, which allows for adjustments based on room acoustics, is highly appreciated. While it's size can be a challenge in smaller rooms, most users agree that the audio quality it delivers makes it a worthwhile addition to any studio.

Pros

  • Accurate sound reproduction
  • Great low-end response
  • Room control feature

Cons

  • Quite large for a small studio
  • Lacks auto-off feature

Bi-amp powered studio monitor with 8" cone woofer.

The Yamaha HS8 is a 2-way bass-reflex bi-amplified nearfield studio monitor with 8" cone woofer and 1" dome tweeter. It is designed to ensure that the sound is true to the original, with a high-resolution and flat response, to achieve the best possible mix. The HS8 has room control and high-trim response controls that allow you to tailor the monitor's response for optimum response in any environment.

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Why We Love It

The Zoom H5 is praised for its high-quality audio, versatility, and portability. Users love its interchangeable mic system, which allows for a range of recording options. Some mention that the battery life could be longer and an included XLR cable would be useful, but overall, it's considered a go-to device for professional-quality field recordings and live performances.

Pros

  • High-quality audio recording
  • Compact and portable
  • Interchangeable microphone system

Cons

  • Battery life could be better
  • No XLR cable included

Handheld audio recorder with interchangeable microphone system.

The Zoom H5 is a portable recorder with an interchangeable microphone system. It includes a detachable X/Y capsule perfect for field recordings and live performances. With a shock-mounted mic for reduced handling noise and the ability to use up to four simultaneous input channels, the H5 provides you with professional level features in a compact, portable design.

9

Why We Love It

Reviewers appreciate the Aokeo Pop Filter for its effectiveness in reducing plosive sounds, which helps improve the overall audio quality of recordings. Its adjustable design also gets a thumbs-up for allowing precise positioning. Some users wish the clamp fit all mic stands and the gooseneck was stiffer, but overall, it's considered a reliable tool for professional recording setups.

Pros

  • Effective at reducing plosives
  • Flexible and easy to position
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Clamp may not fit all mic stands
  • Gooseneck could be stiffer

Double layered screen pop filter with adjustable gooseneck.

The Aokeo Professional Microphone Pop Filter helps to minimize the plosive sounds that can overload the microphone capsule and distort the audio output. Its double-layered screen disperses the air pressure that causes plosives, while the gap in between the screens disperses any remaining air pressure, so by the time it passes the second screen, the blast is easily contained. The adjustable gooseneck allows for easy positioning.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

6 Features 3 Products Updated Oct 03, 2025
Product USB Connectivity Input/Output Channels Frequency Response Weight Included Accessories Special Features
1 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Yes 2 Inputs, 2 Outputs 24-bit/192kHz 0.77 lbs (350g) Recording software suite Air mode for enhanced recordings
2 Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
No N/A 50 Hz - 20 kHz 1.7 lbs (0.77 kg) Built-in pop filter Bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis controls
3 Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
No N/A 15 Hz - 28 kHz 0.55 lbs (250g) Detachable cables Swivel ear cups for one-ear monitoring
1

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

USB Connectivity
Yes
Input/Output Channels
2 Inputs, 2 Outputs
Frequency Response
24-bit/192kHz
Weight
0.77 lbs (350g)
Included Accessories
Recording software suite
Special Features
Air mode for enhanced recordings
2

Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

USB Connectivity
No
Input/Output Channels
N/A
Frequency Response
50 Hz - 20 kHz
Weight
1.7 lbs (0.77 kg)
Included Accessories
Built-in pop filter
Special Features
Bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis controls
3

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

USB Connectivity
No
Input/Output Channels
N/A
Frequency Response
15 Hz - 28 kHz
Weight
0.55 lbs (250g)
Included Accessories
Detachable cables
Special Features
Swivel ear cups for one-ear monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions About Professional Recording Equipment

What makes a professional recording equipment 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 professional recording equipment 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 professional recording equipment?

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.