Condenser microphones are universally used for recording killer vocals.
The problem is, they can be quite pricey.
So when you have $200 bucks or less to spend on a condenser mic… which do you choose?
In this post, I break down what you should be looking for when choosing the best condenser mic and our top picks.
Note: This article focuses on XLR Condenser Mics, primarily for home studio use!
Let’s get started. (…or jump to our Top Picks instead)
Condenser Microphones: A (very) brief buyer’s guide
When choosing microphones, the choice is between a dynamic microphone or a condenser microphone.
So which one should you choose?
There are many other articles out there that have covered this in-depth, but here’s a really quick summary from MakeUseOf.com
Here’s a quick run down of the pros and cons of condenser mics.
Condenser Mics: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Super sensitive mics which means they record high fidelity audio
- Great at capturing high frequencies
- Condenser mics are great for vocal recording: singing or spoken
- Available in a multitude of form factors
Cons:
- Due to the tech, they can be expensive (hence why you’re reading this!)
- The capacitor is quite delicate and damages easily
- Since they’re really sensitive, they can be bad in places that aren’t sound-treated
- They require phantom power
So, you really want to use condenser mics for live video streams, voice/video calls and of course, recording vocals for music.
Our Picks: Best Condenser Mics under $200
- Best All Rounder: AKG P420 True Condenser Microphone
- Best for Side Address mounting: Audio-Technica 20 Series AT2035
- Best for Beginner Producers & Low Noise: RODE NT1-A Condenser Microphone
- Best for Warranty Cover: JZ Microphones J1 Condenser Microphone
AKG P420 True Condenser Microphone Review
As well as vocals, the AKG P420 is perfect for using in louder environments as an overhead mic, usually above guitar amps or brass sections.
Features:
- Large 1″ capsule
- Omni / Cardioid / Figure of Eight sound patterns
- 20dB Pad switch removes unwanted noise and artefacts from your recordings.
 |
| 20Hz – 20000Hz frequency bandwidth |
| 79dB signal to noise ratio |
| Switchable pickup patterns, cardioid, omni and figure-of-8 |
Available on Amazon |
What others are saying:
Audio-Technica 20 Series AT2035 Review
An evolution of their ever popular AT2020 microphone, the AT2035 is a side address microphone which means you speak into the side of it instead of the top.
It’s sturdy high-quality plastic construction is complemented with a faux leather carrying pouch, just keep in mind you’ll need your own accessories (stands, pop filters, XLR cable etc.).
Features:
- Large diaphragm is perfect for capturing noise-free, natural sound.
- Cardioid sound pattern to focus on recording the desired sound.
- 10dB Pad switch removes unwanted noise.
- 80hz high pass filter.
 |
| 20Hz – 20000Hz frequency bandwidth |
| 82dB signal to noise ratio |
| Cardioid pattern |
Available on Amazon |
What others are saying:
Available on Amazon
RODE NT1-A Condenser Microphone Review
Why?
It’s incredible value and comes in a bundle which includes a shock mount, pop shield and XLR cable – that’s saving you a good £/$50 straight away!
On top of that, the mic captures sound with incredibly low noise – it’s actually recognised as one of the quietest studio microphones in the world.
Check out some benefits below:
Features:
- Large 1″ diaphragm is perfect for capturing noise-free, natural sound.
- Cardioid sound pattern – perfect for recording vocals.
- 10dB Pad switch removes unwanted noise.
- 80hz high pass filter.
 |
| 20Hz – 20000Hz frequency bandwidth |
| 88dB signal to noise ratio |
| Cardioid pattern |
Available on Amazon |
What others are saying:
Available on Amazon
JZ Microphones J1 Condenser Microphone Review
What makes the J1 so great is that you get access to this quality at a much lower price point.
This mic features a huge diaphragm (as do others in the list) although JV use their patented Golden Drop technology to make the capsule.
Features:
- Large 1″ diaphragm – made with JV’s patented Gold Drop technology.
- Cardioid & unidirectional sound patterns – great for isolating sounds.
- Shockmount included
- 5 year warranty for peace of mind.
 |
| 20Hz – 20000Hz frequency bandwidth |
| 77dB signal to noise ratio |
| Unidirectional & Cardioid patterns |
Available on Amazon |
What others are saying:
Available on Amazon
Which mics do you use and recommend for you home studio? Leave a comment below!
