What microphone would you recommend for a beginner va?
An excellent question, my friend! I’d be happy to help you out.
If you’re just starting out, chances are your budget is pretty low. I’ll go over some cheap options that won’t break your bank too badly. But first, let’s look at what you might need in a microphone.
- Condenser mics are sensitive and capture more detail. But because of this, they can also capture room noise. Perfectly acceptable if you have a space treated for recording.
- Dynamic mics would be optimal for most beginners, as many don’t have a treated space. It’s a great starter mic!
- Cardioid or hypercardioid mics are ideal because they remove off-axis sounds (such as room noise and reverberation).
Self Noise/ Signal-to-Noise Ratio:
- The less self-noise (the hiss/static a mic makes on its own), the better your recordings will come out. Having a good signal-to-noise ratio is essential for delicate recording.
- The ideal microphone will have clarity in the mid-range (vocal range), as well as some high-end and good low-end so voices sound full.
- Too much boom can make recordings sound muddy.
- USB microphones are ideal for beginners as they’re simple and plug straight into the computer.
- XLR microphones have better flexibility and higher quality potential. However, you’ll need an interface plus phantom power and more cables.
- Things like a pop filter, shock mount, mic stand, and acoustic treatment (even something simple like hanging up blankets or foam) go a long way in ensuring quality recordings. Highly recommend investing in these, even a high-quality mic will suffer in a noisy or reflective room.
Phew, I just threw a lot of information at you.
TLDR; Beginners should look for dynamic, cardioid/hypercardioid, USB microphones with low self-noise, and boosted high-mid frequencies.
Now, that all being said, let’s look at some mics that are recommended for beginners.
Blue Yeti: Many people can attest that the Blue Yeti is an excellent starter mic. It’s by far one of the most popular options. USB, condenser, clear sounding, low self-noise, and a cardioid pickup pattern option. Budget: a little over $100 USD.
HyperX SoloCast: Compact microphone designed for simplicity, making it an ideal choice for beginners. USB, condenser, cardioid, low self-noise, and good frequency response. Budget: about $50 USD.
HyperX QuadCast: Much like the SoloCast, but with some upgrades like more polar pattern options and a built-in pop filter and shock mount. USB-C, condenser, low self-noise, and a cardioid pickup option and good frequency response. Budget: about $80 USD.
Shure SM58: Microphone renown for its durability and performance. 3 pin male XLR, dynamic, cardioid, low self-noise, and a higher frequency response tailored for vocal performance. Budget: about $110 USD.
I hope this was helpful! I sure wish I had a guide like this getting started, as my starter mic was my laptop mic+ LOTS of editing to ensure quality 😬
Feel free to ask any more questions you may have!