Best microphones for vocals and guitar

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 30, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best microphones for vocals and guitar you can find on the market today. We've found about 107 of microphones for vocals and guitar and selected the 19 top options by Hercules DJ, Alto Professional, Line 6, focusound. Check out what we recommend in 2023.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
#TOP 1
MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
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Blucoil Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone
#TOP 2
Blucoil Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone
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OneOdio ON55 Wired Vocal Microphone
#TOP 3
OneOdio ON55 Wired Vocal Microphone
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Top 19 Best microphones for vocals and guitar Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

blucoil

Features

  • INCLUDES - MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Black); Shockmount; Adapter for Mic Stand; Carrying Case. Blucoil Portable USB Audio Interface with 48V Phantom Power for Windows and Mac; 5-FT USB Cable; 3M Adhesive Pads. Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers, and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil All-in-One Microphone Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter.
  • OFFERS DIRECT MONITORING - Turn on the Direct Monitor switch and listen to the mic/instrument input signal in real-time without any latency via headphones. The Blucoil Interface also offers 1/4" outputs if you wish to monitor via studio monitors and speakers.
  • GET THE IDEAL MIC PLACEMENT - The Blucoil All-in-One Microphone Boom Arm Stand lets you position your microphone easily --- adjust the boom to disappear on camera or place your mic up front and center. Plus, the included pop filter blocks plosives and sibilance.
  • REPRODUCES CLEAR, FULL-BODIED SOUND - The MXL 990 Microphone enhances your voice or acoustic guitar with silky sweet high-end while retaining the tight lows and mid-range. Its low-noise FET preamp and balanced output offer a low 20dB self-noise and high 130dB SPL handling.
  • DELIVERS CRISP AUDIO RECORDING - Create high-quality audio content with the Blucoil USB Audio Interface. Plug an instrument or the MXL 990 in the interface and record directly on a Mac/Windows PC
#TOP 2

Blucoil Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

blucoil

Features

  • CAN BE USED FOR DIFFERENT APPLICATION - The mic provides a smooth 30Hz - 18kHz frequency response and high -36 dB mic sensitivity. It can handle up to 125dB SPL - perfect for vocals, acoustic guitars, woodwinds, and small percussion instruments.
  • INCLUDES - Blucoil Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone; 10-Foot 3-Pin Balanced XLR Cable; Mic Shock Mount; Windscreen; Soft Pouch. Blucoil Adjustable Microphone Tripod Stand with Boom Arm, Dual Mic Clips, 3/8" to 5/8" Threading Adapter, and Cable Organizers. Blucoil Audio Microphone Pop Filter Double Layer Mask Shield for Studio Recording and Broadcasting with Stand Clip Stabilization Arm, Swivel Mount.
  • REQUIRES 48V PHANTOM POWER - You'll need to connect the condenser microphone to a USB audio interface or mixer with +48V phantom power use it for recording or podcasting.
  • REJECTS BACKGROUND NOISE FROM THE REAR - The cardioid mic captures the audio source in the front of the mic capsule and blocks unwanted ambient sounds off-axis.
  • REPRODUCES CLEAR, NATURAL SOUNDS - The Blucoil Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone has a small 0.6" diaphragm that delivers excellent transient response and does not add any tonal coloration.
#TOP 3

OneOdio ON55 Wired Vocal Microphone

OneOdio

Features

  • Vocalist microphone: The ON55 wired dynamic microphone has a wider frequency response and higher sound pressure tolerance, with amazing detail and powerful vocals under a sturdy moving coil design. It is suitable for both stage and recording studio.
  • Sturdy metallic design: Metal enclosure process with abrasion resistance and scratch resistance; smooth surface for comfort holding. Rust resistance metal wire mesh head, highly durable and fall resistance, and the built-in sound-absorbing cotton effectively improves the noise reduction effect.
  • Moving-coil wired microphone: Professional performance level sound head with cardioid pickup pattern, and clear and bright tone. Audio compression expansion technology is adopted to enhance the dynamic range. The anti-howling function is set to effectively reduce the impact of ambient noise, and the sound quality is more pure.
  • A 16ft XLR to 6.35mm cable: Made of copper core wire wrapped with soft adhesive. After annealed and softened, the copper core wire is produced by painting and baking for many times, creating an enthusiast level sound quality; the pure copper core plug has high resistance to external electromagnetic interference, with no noise and current sound.
  • Compatibility: Widely used in amplifier machine / sound console / mobile speakers / sound cards and other music equipment, very suitable for KTV, bar, wedding, classroom, street singing, coffee shop and any other scenarios.
  • Package content: Handheld microphone x1, 16ft audio cable x1, microphone clip x1, manual x1.
#TOP 4

Shure BETA57A Super Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

Shure

Features

  • Hardened steel mesh grille that facilitates use of proximity effect and resists wear and abuse
  • Neodymium magnet for high signal–to–noise ratio output
  • Tailored frequency response provides drums, guitars, vocals, and horns with studio quality sound
  • Also in the box: 1 - A25D Stand Adapter, 1 - 95A2050 5/8” to 3/8” (Euro) Thread Adapter, and 1 - 26A21 Storage Bag
  • Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
  • Dynamic instrument microphone provides high gain before feedback in demanding environments. It features a steel mesh grille for durability, shock mount to minimize transmission of unwanted noise, and a neodymium magnet for high signal-to-noise ratio.
  • Legendary Shure quality and reliability
  • Uniform supercardioid pattern for high gain-before-feedback and superior rejection of off–axis sound
  • Minimally affected by varying load impedance
#TOP 5

Shure SM48 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Shure

Features

  • Built-in "pop" filter that reduces explosive breath sounds and wind noise
  • Frequency response tailored for vocals, with brightened midrange and bass rolloff to control proximity effect
  • Shock-mounted cartridge for exceptional ruggedness and reduced handling noise
  • Cardioid pickup pattern rejects off-axis sound and provides superior gain before feedback
  • Supplied stand adapter and carrying/storage bag
#TOP 6

Shure PGA48-XLR Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Shure

Features

  • Tailored microphone cartridge design specifically for clarity in the standard frequency range of speech
  • Updated industrial design with black metallic finish and grille featuring classic silver ball grille
  • On/Off switch for discrete control of microphone operation
  • Stand adapter for mounting to a microphone stand
  • Cardioid polar pattern picks up audio from the source while rejecting unwanted noise
  • Three available options: (1) with 15-foot XLR-XLR cable, (2) with 15-foot XLR-QTR cable, and (3) without cable
  • Zipper pouch included for additional protection during storage or transport
  • Legendary Shure quality design and construction for exceptional performance in rigorous environments
#TOP 7

Behringer B 906 Dynamic Microphone

Behringer

Features

  • Super-cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise and feedback
  • Switchable low-cut, flat and high-frequency boost to match instruments
  • Frequency response designed for guitar amplifiers, percussions and brass instruments
  • Professional dynamic microphone for instrument and vocal applications
  • Extremely high signal output which lets the sound cut through
#TOP 8

MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

blucoil

Features

  • DELIVERS CRISP AUDIO RECORDING - Create high-quality audio content with the Blucoil USB Audio Interface. Plug an instrument or the MXL 990 in the interface and record directly on a Mac/Windows PC
  • SIMPLE AND VERSATILE SETUP - The Blucoil Mic Stand enables you to achieve crisp, isolated audio from MXL 990. Attach the microphone to the boom arm for a clean and camera-ready set up in the studio or on stage. Plus, the included pop filter blocks plosives and sibilance.
  • OFFERS DIRECT MONITORING - Turn on the Direct Monitor switch and listen to the mic/instrument input signal in real-time without any latency via headphones. The Blucoil Interface also offers 1/4" outputs if you wish to monitor via studio monitors and speakers.
  • INCLUDES - MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Champagne); Shockmount; Adapter for Mic Stand; Carrying Case. Blucoil Portable USB Audio Interface; USB Cable; 3M Adhesive Pads. Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Mics and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil Adjustable Microphone Tripod Stand with Boom Arm, Dual Mic Clips, 3/8" to 5/8" Threading Adapter, & Cable Organizers. Blucoil Audio Microphone Pop Filter with Stand Clip Stabilization Arm, Swivel Mount.
  • REPRODUCES CLEAR, FULL-BODIED SOUND - The MXL 990 Microphone enhances your voice or acoustic guitar with silky sweet high-end while retaining the tight lows and mid-range. Its low-noise FET preamp and balanced output offer a low 20dB self-noise and high 130dB SPL handling.
#TOP 9

MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

blucoil

Features

  • OFFERS DIRECT MONITORING - Turn on the Direct Monitor switch and listen to the mic/instrument input signal in real-time without any latency via headphones.
  • YIELDS FULL-BODIED SOUND - The MXL 990 Microphone features a 20mm condenser capsule, low-noise FET preamp, and balanced output. It enhances your voice or acoustic guitar with silky sweet high-end while retaining the tight lows and mid-range.
  • INCLUDES - MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Champagne); Shockmount; Adapter for Mic Stand; Carrying Case. Blucoil Portable USB Audio Interface with 48V Phantom Power for Windows and Mac; 5-FT USB Cable; 3M Adhesive Pads. Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers, and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female).
  • DELIVERS CRISP AUDIO RECORDING - Create high-quality audio content with the Blucoil USB Audio Interface. Plug an instrument or the MXL 990 in the interface and record directly on a Mac/Windows PC
  • CAPTURES CLEAR SOUNDS WITH MINIMAL NOISE - The cardioid microphone picks up audio in front of the condenser capsule and blocks off-axis noise. It offers a low 20dB self-noise and high 130dB SPL handling.
#TOP 10

MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

blucoil

Features

  • INCLUDES - MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone (Black); Isolation Shockmount; Hard Case. Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers, and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil All-in-One Microphone Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter.
  • DELIVERS WARMTH AND CLARITY - Equipped with 30Hz-20kHz frequency response, the MXL 770 yields warm sound with extra clarity and a balanced midrange. This makes the condenser microphone excellent for vocals, pianos, and string instruments.
  • HANDLES LOUD INSTRUMENTS WELL - The MXL 770 microphone features a -10dB pre-attenuation switch. It can handle up a wide variety of sound sources, up to 137dB SPL. The condenser mic requires +48V phantom power to operate.
  • REPRODUCES DETAILED SOUNDS - The MXL 770 features a 22mm condenser capsule that accurately captures the nuance of your audio source. It delivers a solid low-frequency response and clear high-ends.
  • PROVIDES CLEAR AUDIO REPRODUCTION - The onboard low-noise FET preamp and transformerless balanced output offer a wide dynamic range. Its cardioid polar pattern captures the sounds you want in front and rejects off-axis audio pickup.
#TOP 11

MXL 990 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

MXL

Features

  • YIELDS FULL-BODIED SOUND - The condenser mic enhances your voice or acoustic guitar as it provides a neutral sound reproduction with a full, rich tone. You can use it for music recording and podcasting.
  • PROVIDES HIGH-QUALITY RECORDING - The MXL 990 microphone offers a low 20dB self-noise and high 130dB SPL handling. You can clearly record vocals or acoustics without worrying about distortion. *NOTE: Requires +48V phantom power to operate.
  • ENHANCES THE DYNAMIC OF VOCALS & GUITARS - The MXL 990 is equipped with a 20mm condenser capsule, low-noise FET preamp, and balanced output. It produces silky sweet high-end while retaining the tight lows, and mid-range.
  • INCLUDES - MXL 990 Condenser Microphone (Champagne); Shockmount; Adapter for Mic Stand; Case. Blucoil 20' Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Mics & Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil Audio Microphone Pop Filter Double Layer Mask Shield with Stand Clip Stabilization Arm. Blucoil Adjustable Microphone Tripod Stand with Boom Arm, Dual Mic Clips, 3/8" to 5/8" Threading Adapter, and Cable Organizers. 4-Pack of Blucoil 12" Acoustic Foam Isolation Panel Wedges with Adhesive Tapes.
  • OFFERS LOW-NOISE OPERATION - The cardioid microphone captures the audio source in front of the mic capsule and isolates background noise from the sides and rear. The included shockmount further reduce mechanical vibration pickup.
#TOP 12

Pyle 3 Piece Professional Dynamic Microphone Kit Cardioid Unidirectional Vocal Handheld MIC

Pyle

Features

  • TRAVEL CASE & ACCESSORIES - Beautiful hard travel case & storage bag for microphone clip holders & professional grade 26+ft. XLR-to-1/4 cables supplied, perfect for professional studios & on-stage vocal performances all over the globe.
  • DYNAMIC - For optimal clarity and punch, robust & resistant to moisture, achieving high gain before feedback, makes this microphone ideal for live vocal applications and for recording amplified instruments.
  • ULTRA-WIDE FREQUENCY RESPONSE - for brilliant and transparent sound with integrated pop filter and windscreen to minimize breath and pop noises you can count on it to come through after countless gigs and studio applications.
  • UNIDIRECTIONAL - Cardioid pickup pattern captures source signal such as guitar amplifier or vocalist, while shunning off-axis sound minimizing background noise & feedback reproducing audio without interference from instruments or speakers on stage.
  • HIGH QUALITY - Rugged, all-metal construction for maximum reliability featuring a zinc die-cast case and steel mesh windscreen with anti-dent ring. A perfect all-purpose, versatile stage and recording microphone.
#TOP 13

Behringer SL 84C Dynamic Cardioid Microphone

Behringer

Features

  • three- pin XLR connector for highest signal integrity
  • Ultra-wide frequency response for brilliant and transparent sound
  • Extremely high signal output lets your voice cut through
  • Integrated spherical wind and pop noise filter
  • Dynamic vocal microphone with smooth mid-frequency presence
#TOP 14

Karaoke Microphone,Fifine Dynamic Vocal Microphone

FIFINE TECHNOLOGY

Features

  • A XLR TO 1/4” CABLE INCLUDED-Allowing the karaoke microphone to be directly plug in amplifier speaker or karaoke machine that has 1/4” (6.35mm) mic in jack. Protected by two-tire PVC, it’s thick enough for brilliant, transparent sound transmission with no loss. 14.8ft-long enough to move unimpeded so you can concentrate on nothing but the performance.
  • FLAT, WIDE-RANGE FREQUENCY-The smooth frequency range is solid at 50 to 18 kHz, suited well for handling high sound pressure levels. It is tailored for spoken word, vocals, various instruments. Having no power requirement makes dynamic microphone the ideal choice for any live applications.
  • RUGGED AND RELIABLE METAL CONSTRUCTION-A dynamic microphone for speaker that is robust, simpler to operate with suitable size and shape for your hands, being a better option for public speaking. Built-in pop filter for protection against plosives. An external on/off switch on it for easy control of audio.
  • CARDIOID DYNAMIC MICROPHONE-Wired microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern for greater gain while simultaneously minimizing feedback. Ideal for live situations where noise cancellation is needed,that makes handheld microphone remarkable for presentation, wedding, conference, church, interview and solo performances.
  • OPTIMAL SPEECH INTELLIGIBILITY-Such is vocal microphone that it delivers an low distortion for clean sound output,precise reproduction of speech and vocals with excellent intelligibility. Suitable for recreational activities, such as singing, karaoke, home party and performance, indoors or outdoors.
#TOP 15

Pyle Professional Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Pyle

Features

  • ULTRA-WIDE FREQUENCY RESPONSE: for brilliant and transparent sound with integrated pop filter and windscreen to minimize breath and pop noises you can count on it to come through after countless gigs and studio applications
  • CABLE INCLUDED: Professional grade 15 ft. XLR-to-1/4 cable supplied. This Pyle PDMIC59 is perfect for your bedroom, professional studios and on-stage vocal performances all over the globe
  • HIGH QUALITY: Rugged, all-metal construction for maximum reliability featuring a zinc die-cast case and steel mesh windscreen with anti-dent ring. A perfect all-purpose, versatile stage and recording microphone
  • UNIDIRECTIONAL: Cardioid pickup pattern captures source signal such as guitar amplifier or vocalist, while shunning off-axis sound minimizing background noise & feedback reproducing audio without interference from instruments or speakers on stage
  • DYNAMIC: For optimal clarity and punch, robust & resistant to moisture, achieving high gain before feedback, makes this microphone ideal for live vocal applications and for recording amplified instruments
#TOP 16

Professional Handheld Moving Coil Microphone

Pyle

Features

  • ULTRA-WIDE FREQUENCY RESPONSE: For brilliant and transparent sound with integrated pop filter and windscreen to minimize breath and pop noises you can count on it to come through after countless gigs and studio applications
  • CABLE INCLUDED: Professional grade 15 ft. XLR-to-1/4 cable supplied. This Pyle PDMIC78 is perfect for your bedroom, professional studios and on-stage vocal performances all over the globe
  • UNIDIRECTIONAL SIGNAL: Cardioid pickup pattern captures source signal such as guitar amp or vocalist while shunning off-axis sound minimizing background noise & feedback reproducing audio w/out interference from instruments or speakers on stage
  • HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: Rugged, all-metal construction for maximum reliability featuring a zinc die-cast case and steel mesh windscreen with an anti-dent ring. A perfect all-purpose, versatile stage and recording microphone
  • DYNAMIC MICROPHONE: For optimal clarity and punch, robust & resistant to moisture, achieving high gain before feedback, makes this microphone ideal for live vocal applications and for recording amplified instruments
#TOP 17

Weymic® wm57 Dynamic Vocal Classic Style Microphone Audio Instrument Classic Professional Dynamic Cardioid Unidirectional -

WEYMIC

Features

  • Pattern:Uni-Directional dynamic microphone
  • Professional Microphones
  • best instrument microphone
#TOP 18

MXL 990 991 Recording Condenser Microphone Package

MXL

Features

  • INCLUDES - MXL 990 / 991 Recording Microphone Package; Hard Mount Mic Stand Adapters; Rugged Carry Case. 2-Pack of Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cables - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil All-in-One Microphone Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter.
  • PRODUCES NEUTRAL SOUND - The 990 vocal microphone's FET preamp and large-diaphragm deliver a nicely balanced sound with a hint of high-end sizzle and lower noise floor.
  • ISOLATES AMBIENT NOISE - Both microphones have a cardioid polar pattern, which picks up sounds in front of the mic capsule while blocking unwanted noise from the sides and rear.
  • OFFERS A COMPLETE KIT FOR RECORDING AND LIVE GIGS - The MXL 990 / 991 Package includes vocal and instrument microphones that deliver silky sweet high-end and tight low and mids.
  • CAN BE USED WITH VARIOUS INSTRUMENTS - The 990 microphone can handle up to 130dB SPL making it ideal for vocal miking and suitable for acoustic guitars. The 991 mic has a high 137dB SPL for recording drum overheads and horns.
#TOP 19

MXL 990 Blizzard Cardioid Condenser Microphone

MXL

Features

  • INCLUDES - MXL 990 Blizzard Condenser Microphone with Red LED Lights; Adapter for Mic Stand. Blucoil 20' Balanced XLR Cable - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Mics & Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil Audio Microphone Pop Filter Double Layer Mask Shield with Stand Clip Stabilization Arm. Blucoil Adjustable Microphone Tripod Stand with Boom Arm, Dual Mic Clips, 3/8" to 5/8" Threading Adapter, and Cable Organizers. 4-Pack of Blucoil 12" Acoustic Foam Isolation Panel Wedges with Adhesive Tapes.
  • PROVIDES VERSATILE USAGE - The smooth 30Hz - 20kHz frequency response of the MXL 990 Blizzard makes it ideal for voiceovers, podcasting, gaming, and home/studio recording. *NOTE: This condenser mic requires +48V phantom power to operate.
  • OFFERS A COOL GLOW FEATURE - Upgrade your computer set-up and light up your desk MXL 990's chilling blue light. There 4 built-in LED bulbs inside the mic grille automatically light up when you plug the mic in an audio interface or preamp.
  • PROVIDES CRYSTAL-CLEAR VOCAL REPRODUCTION - The MXL 990 Blizzard features a 6-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm tube that captures the audio source's tight lows and midrange. It even picks up the sweet, silky high ends.
  • REPRODUCES CLEAR SOUNDS - The cardioid polar pattern of MXL 990 Blizzard ensures clear pick up of your voice or acoustic guitar. It rejects off-axis sounds coming from the rear and sides.

Some Factors You Should Know About microphones for vocals and guitar

Which mic should I use for singing?

The Shure SM58S Vocal Microphone is designed for professional vocal use during a live performance, and can also help with sound reinforcement, and studio recording. The Shure SM58S Vocal Microphone is designed for professional vocal use during a live performance, and can also help with sound reinforcement,…

Should I mix instruments or vocals first?

Start mixing the instruments first, then move on to the vocals. By saving the vocals for last and starting with the instrumentation, you help ensure that your vocals (the most important part of any song) sit on top of the mix.

Can you record guitar and vocals on the same mic?

Have you ever tried to record your acoustic guitar and vocals at the same time? Perhaps you feel you lose some vibe when you overdub the guitar first and then the vocals second and you want to capture a more authentic performance. The good news is you can totally do it, and you only need one microphone to pull it off!

Are vocals better in stereo or mono?

Recording Vocals with One Mic Stereo is designed to create a convincing sound image between loudspeakers. Therefore, if you are recording vocals and instruments in multiple locations, stereo captures the images of the sounds much better than mono.

Editor's Notes

A considerable amount of time and effort was put into this review. We took the time (over 69 hours to be exact) to deep dive into the topic, analyzing at least 735 customer reviews. Eventually, we came up with a list of the most noteworthy models with an average rating of 169. The products you'll find in this compilation are available at $1359 on average (as of 03-10-2023).

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.