Unique and Affordable Microphones for the "Average Joe" Recording Artist
This blog post has been a long time coming, but I believe that I have gathered a strong amount of information that will help the "Average Joe" recording artist think about some affordable and unique options for their next mic closet addition. In developing this list I hope to accomplish a few things. The first of which is to showcase a selection of affordable microphones that work great when used appropriately. I also hope to bring light to a lot of lesser known brands and models that could present a unique sound to define the characteristics of your recorded productions. By creating this list not only will new ideas be formed around sound production but it aim to provide a valuable reference for building a unique arsenal of recording tools.
*Note that most of these microphones have many uses, however for the sake of creating some kind of organized list I came up with a bunch of categories in which I see the use of these microphones appropriate and intriguing.
I wanted to top this list with the category that sparked my interested in researching this topic. I was in a solo singer-song writer session. I was borrowing a few AKG P series microphones to create a mid side configuration for the recording. I had never heard of these microphones prior to the session but was blown away by the clarity and fullness they presented. This experience really made me wonder what realistic recording options are out there that are of relatable quality to the most sought after microphones. This is when I decided to start compiling this list.
Mid Side /Top Placement/Room/Figure 8 Application
I want to start off this list with some unique ideas for mid side and other stereo microphone configurations. Everyone knows that two U87's is a dream, but not everyone has $7000 to spend on a pair of microphones. Here is what I have found in my recent research for mid side technique options and stereo pairs.
Cascade Fathead: Retail ($190) Polar Pattern: Figure 8
This seems to be an incredibly under appreciated microphone especially for the price point. The Cascade Fathead is a "hand tuned" ribbon mic that I could see working brilliantly for the top mic in this stereo configuration due to having a figure 8 polar pattern and a highly reviewed warm characteristic. It is widely used for micing guitar amps but as long as the noise floor is not to high I think it would be a very nice option for this application as well.
AT2050/4050($230-700) Polar Pattern: Variable
Both of these side address large diaphragm condenser microphones from Audio Technica are great choices for this figure 8 application. Both microphones have switchable polar patterns allowing for a multitude of uses, however I put them in this category for the use of their highly symmetrical figure 8 polar pattern. The 4050 is the upgrade from the 2050 with lower impedance and nickel plated brass baffle for giving the microphone a higher level of precision and sensitivity. The 4050 might be worth the extra investment if you are in a well treated room and working with a great sounding instrument.
Rode NT2 ($400) Polar Pattern: Variable
I chose to add this mic to the list because of its versatility. Not only does it have a switchable polar pattern but a 40 and 80hz high pass filter and a -5db,-10db pad as well. This microphone was designed to portray vintage characterized sound while still having the utility of the modern day. This mic is my top pic for this application due to its versatility, adaptability and warm character. However if you are looking for the most natural and flat reproduction the AT4050 (mentioned above) might be the better option.
Mid/Direct/Cardioid Options (In use with Figure 8 Placement)
Rode NT1-A ($230) Polar Pattern: Cardioid
In building a proper mid side configuration I figure I must mention the NT2's fixed polar pattern equivalent. The NT1-A is essentially identical to the NT2 without the variable polar pattern, high pass roll off and pad switches. Combining these two different models would save you $170 while still achieving the same result of buying two NT2s for the same application.
At4040 ($300) Polar Pattern: Cardioid
The AT4040 is a prime example of an affordable high quality microphone. It may not have the most versatility on this list but working as a cardioid large diaphragm condenser it gets the job done consistently. This microphone has a great dynamic range while maintaining very low noise due to the circuitry and external build. I would begin by suggesting pairing this microphone with the AT4050 above for a consistent stereo image just as the NT2 is paired with the NT1-A
Stereo Pair Ideas
The Mid Side configuration is probably one of my favorite techniques for achieving a great stereo image. However stereo pairs are often a more viable choice to achieve a wide recorded sound. The microphones in this category are often sold as matched pairs meaning that the elements are produced at the same time are are exact replicas of each other. The price points are a bit higher, but keep in mind that you are receiving two microphones per mention.
Shure KSM137 ($670 for matched pair)
The KSM137 is a great microphone and can be purchased in a matched pair for the purpose of creating a stereo recorded image. This a solid choice for matched pairs as it is front end cardioid address microphone with a very low noise floor which allows for great clean acoustic instrument recording. The microphones can also be bought individually for about $300 each.
Rode NT5 ($430)
Continuing with the Rode NT series stereo pair option. This series seems to be very capable and are all within the designated price range for this list. The NT5's are small diaphragm cardioid condenser microphones that are purchased in a matched pair for only $430. Just like most Rode NT series microphones these are nickel plated and very durable, making them a great stereo pair to take on the road, as well as a solid studio option. These microphones are reviewed as having a clear and crisp high end but lacking a some body and warmth. Regardless for less than $500 a pair these microphones would probably work amazing for adding a wider image to an already dense mix.
Telefunken M60 ($ 1150)
On the pricier side of things I thought I would mention the Telefunken M60 matched pair as they are still less than $600 per microphone. These condenser tube microphones are highly reviewed for their incredibly accurate transient response and a full low end which is attributed to the gold sputtered capsule membrane. If you are able to spend the extra money this pair is a great option for recording a unique and professional stereo characteristic.
Earthworks TC20 ($1029)
The TC20's are in fact a very popular microphone for this application of stereo recording. What sets them apart from the other pairs in this list is their omni directional polar pattern and extra small diaphragm. Because of the fixed polar pattern and diaphragm size the Earthworks TC20s are capable of reproducing a hi fidelity omni-directional sound. The only thing to keep in mind about this pair is that the noise
floor on these microphones is a bit higher then some of the other options because of their small diaphragm. This being said this pair really thrives on loud sources.
Drum Micing Options
A lot of the microphones mentioned for this category are rather standard with an obvious few exceptions. From my experience people do tend to turn to these select few microphones for this instrument. The reason for this is simple. They work great and they are very affordable. I wanted to try and steer clear of the standard microphones but for the application and the price point there really are not many better options. Regardless I did reach out to purpose some new ideas through out this category.
Kick
Shure Beta 52a ($190) vs. AKG D112 ($200)
The D112 (Right) and the Beta52a (Left) are some of the industry standards used for kick drum micing. Even though these are very well known I felt obligated to mention them due to their functionality and cost effectiveness. The biggest difference that I have observed is that the Beta 52a seems to have a cleaner response across the frequency spectrum giving the kick a nice snap while the D112 seems to have a rounder and more present low end. Both are around the same price so it really comes down to the style you are recording and your personal personal preference.
Audix D6 ($190)
The D6 is a more modern kick drum option that sits in the same price range as the classics. This microphone is known for its unique sound. Those who have used it express that it captures a lot of "clickiness" in the drum which may or may not be preferred. This sonic quality is popular in heavy metal genres where more high end of the kick is needed to break through the mix.
Snare
Shure SM57 ($100)
If you have been recording for any amount of time you are well aware of this mic. I know I am beating this point into the ground but overall it gets the job done just fine and can be used for a number of applications. Buying a 57 is never a bad way to spend $100.
AKG C451B ($400)
AKG is a popular brand for audio equipment but have you heard of the C451B? This microphone is a cardioid condenser that was designed to have clear transient response making it perfect for the application of snare micing. The next time I am in the market to buy a new snare mic I think this is going to be the one. It stands out to me as a unique and affordable option and I have yet to use many small diaphragm condensers for the application of recording snare, so this seems like a qualified option.
Heil Sound PR28 ($150)
Here is a very affordable and unique snare mic. This dynamic microphone is designed for Toms and Snare and has great rear sound rejection. The body of the mic was also designed to clip to the head of the drum while reducing vibrations from the drum impact. This would be a solid choice if you are looking to change out that 57 snare mic for something new.
OH Options
Beyerdynamic mc930 ($1000 for pair)
The MC930 were designed to be used for micing choirs, orchestra and use in sound contracting environments. For this reason I could see these being a very interesting choice to use as your drum overheads as well. This microphone has been reviewed for having a very natural sound and would thrive in rooms with spacious and well treated acoustic attributes.
Kel Audio Hm-1's ($260 for pair)
This may be a bit of a stretch for some that enjoy a more traditional OH microphone. However the HM-1s are large diaphragm condensers that produce a darker sound due to the high frequency damping while still providing a wide sonic image from the size of the diaphragm. These qualities grant this microphone its own unique flavor while and present it as an appropriate tool for this application.
Shure SM94 ($300 for pair)
If you love the standard SM81 but do not have the $700 to spend on the pair, then the similarly reviewed SM94s might be the mic for you. These microphones reproduce an accurate and flat frequency response making them a solid mic for the OH application.
Vocal Microphones
Shure SM7B ($400)
I have to say this is probably one of my favorite dynamic microphones to use on vocals. Even if you have a vocalist who lacks dynamic awareness in their performance this microphone still picks up a large range of frequencies while not being too sensitive to extreme dynamics. It has a great balance of utility and performance and I would never be hesitant to use it for this application.
Beyer M88 ($400)
This microphone was suggested to me by a pier of mine. After doing some research on this microphone I am very intrigued to test it out. This microphone is often compared to the Sennheiser MD421 do to its high spl abilities and powerful replication of mid ranged frequencies. What differs this microphone from the 421 is the very tight cardioid pickup pattern.
Rode NTK ($530)
One of the stereotypes that is associated with tube microphones is the price. However, the Rode NTK is a great option if you are not willing to spend four figures but want to enjoy the warmth and extreme fidelity that tube microphones offer. Not only does this microphone sound great on vocals, but has been reviewed to work amazingly on any harmonically rich source.
Avantone CV-12 ($500)
After hearing about the Rode NTK and its crystal clear performance I thought I had found the tube microphone that would be added to my wish list. However I had not yet been introduced to the Avantone CV-12. Not only does this microphone have the clarity and warmth of a high quality tube, but it also has an incredibly wide polarity pattern. This is one of those microphones that could be utilized to record a multi source live performance and hold up in a single track mix . On top of all this it also has the ability to switch polar patterns making the microphone even more versatile. From what I have read this might be the microphone I most desire on this list.
Intriguing Mentions
AKGP series
I have recently been introduced and familiarized with some of the microphones in this now discontinued series. Specific choices like the P820 tube microphone work brilliantly on vocals while options such as the P220 grant great versatility for large diaphragm condensers. I just recently recorded a singer song writer demo with three microphones from the P series and the result was very clear and precise. Even though AKG does not produce these anymore they can still be bought from various other retailers. If you are able to get your hands on some of these microphones they are definitely a cost effective choice.
12 Gauge Microphones
I wanted to mention these simply because of how interesting they are. These are a line of microphones that each have a different polar pattern and are designed in the shape of 12 gauge shotgun shells. They sell for $35 a pop. For the size and quality of sound you are getting you can not go wrong with picking a few of these up. I'd definitely at least recommend checking out their site for more information: http://www.12gaugemicrophones.com/
Aston Spirit
My final mention of this mic list is for an all around versatile microphone. This microphone is known for its transparency and accurate response across the sonic spectrum. On top of this it has a switchable polar pattern and according to the reviews they all hold up incredibly well. The cardioid response is accurate, figure 8 symmetrical and omni is balanced. For around $300 this microphone seems to be a great lesser known addition to any mic closet.
This concludes the first edit of my microphone list for the Average Joe recording artist. Hopefully this gives you some new ideas and saves you some money on your next purchase. My plan is to do many edits of this list and grow it into a very refined and detail microphone database. So stay tuned for more edits of this list as well as other fun audio related content!
Photo Attributions
Fathead: http://www.stayonbeat.com/2014/05/08/best-ribbon-microphones/
AT2020: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/356521-REG/Audio_Technica_AT2020_AT2020_Condenser_Microphone.html
Rode NT2: http://www.allansbillyhyde.com.au/prod/1-RODNT2-A/Rode_NT2-A_Multi_Pattern_Dual_1_Condenser_Microphone.aspx
Rode NT1A: http://www.10outof10.co.uk/acatalog/Rode-Condenser.html
AT4040: http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/wired_mics/9b6aac05c5aca887/
Shure KSM137: http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/shure-ksm137-sl-cardioid-studio-condenser-microphone
KSM137MP:http://www.zzounds.com/item--SHUKSM137SL
Rode NT5: http://www.belfieldmusic.com.au/rode-nt5-condenser-microphone.html
RodeNT5MP: http://www.allebedrijvenonline.nl/ir/productsearch/blaasinstrumenten/i/1/orderdir/desc/orderfield/relevance/index.htm
TelefunkenM60: http://www.gear4music.com/Recording-and-Computers/Telefunken-M60-FET-Small-Diaphragm-Condenser-Microphone/18YR
TelefunkenM60MP: http://www.fullcompass.com/prod/278392-Telefunken-Elektroakustik-M60-Stereo-Set
Earthworks Matched Pair: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Earthworks-TC20-Matched-Pair-High-Definition-20kHz-Omni-Microphones-/371052792345
AKGD112: http://dnamusiclabs.com/node/9765
BEta52a: https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Beta52
AudixD6: http://www.gear4music.com/PA-DJ-and-Lighting/Audix-D6-Kick-Drum-Dynamic-Microphone/OIR
SM57: http://www.rainbowguitars.com/live-sound/shure/sm57-microphone/sm57lc/sh
AKGC451B: http://www.frontendaudio.com/AKG-C451B-Condenser-Microphone-p/1038.htm
Heil Sound: http://www.ebay.es/sch/sis.html?_nkw=Heil%20Sound%20PR28%20Instrument%20Microphone%20PR%2028%20for%20Toms%20Snare%20Drum%20Percussion&_itemId=332029463304
Beyerdynamic mc930: http://www.fullcompass.com/prod/158966-Beyerdynamic-MC930
Kel Audio HM-1:http://www.soundpartner.dk/hm2.htm
https://www.gumtree.com/p/stereo-microphones/kel-audio-hm-1-microphone-wide-cardioid-condenser-microphone/1168776552
Shure SM94: https://www.parts-express.com/shure-sm94-lc-condenser-microphone--242-206
Shure SM7B: http://www.ebay.com/gds/Shure-SM57-Vs-Shure-SM7B-/10000000177817240/g.html
Beyer M88: http://www.frontendaudio.com/Beyerdynamic-M88-TG-Dynamic-Microphone-p/1525.htm
Rode NTK: http://www.musiciansfriend.com/pro-audio/rode-microphones-ntk-microphone
Avantone CV-12: http://www.avantonepro.com/Avantone-CV-12-Multi-Pattern-Large-Capsule-Tube-Condenser-Microphone.html
AKGP820: http://www.muzeekworld.com/46683-AKG-P820-Tube
12gauge: http://www.12gaugemicrophones.com/green12.html
Aston Spirit: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1219022-REG/aston_microphones_ast_spirit_spirit_multi_pattern_condenser_microphone.html
