Best Microphone for Voice Over in 2023: Get Ready to Record
Whether you’re a professional voice actor, a podcast host, or just a hobbyist, having the best microphone for voice over is essential for getting good audio quality.
I have been a vocalist for many bands and also completed many voiceovers myself, so I know how important a quality mic is. I still use my lovely Beyer Dynamic TG-X60 for singing; even though it’s twenty years old, it’s that good!
I’ve checked out these mics and rounded up the best ones so that you can make an informed decision. Read on to find out more about each one and how they compare.
Rode NT1A Microphone
This mic is perfect for budget-conscious users looking for high-quality sound without breaking the bank.
The Rode NT1A provides clear and detailed sound, low-noise, and deals well with a wide range of voices.
Neumann TLM 103 Microphone
The Neumann TLM 103 is an industry standard mic, and for good reason.
Experience incredible clarity and warmth in your recordings with this professional-grade mic, perfect for voiceovers.
Shure SM7B Microphone
Experience premium audio performance with the Shure SM7B – the dynamic microphone designed for voice-overs and podcasters.
Get crystal clear sound quality with noise attenuating technology.
So What Are The Best Microphones For Voice Overs?
1. Rode NT1A Microphone
My Top Pick
Overview
The Rode NT1-A is one of the best all round condenser microphones for voiceover work. It’s a large-diaphragm condenser mic, and I like its warmth and clarity, making it ideal for capturing the nuances of your voice in high quality audio.
With its low self-noise rating of just 5dBA, it’s one of the world’s quietest microphones, so you can be sure that any background noise won’t interfere with your voice recording.
It also comes with a ton of essential accessories, so you can get up and running right away. The Rode NT1A is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Versatile condenser mic with a cardioid pickup pattern, providing clear and detailed sound.
- Output contacts are gold-plated and shock mounting for the internal capsule.
- It has a unique voicing that gives some warmth and depth to the sound.
- The double-meshed pop shield is both unobtrusive and effective in reducing plosives and sibilance.
- A high pass filter helps reduce background noise and low-frequency rumble from recordings.
Pricing
The Rhode NT1A is currently priced at around $200.
My Take
After checking out the Rode NT1-A microphone for recording voiceovers, I can confidently say that it is an excellent choice for anyone looking to record with clear and detailed vocals. It has a large diaphragm, low noise, and deals well with a wide range of voices.
I think this mid-budget mic is worth the investment for anyone serious about getting the best results for their recordings.
2. Neumann TLM 103 Microphone
Best mic for professionals
Overview
This mic is the priciest option on my list, so it might not fit everyone’s budget. However, if you’re looking to elevate your voiceovers, it’s definitely worth considering.
The Neumann TLM 103 Microphone is a large diaphragm condenser mic designed to bring the renowned Neumann sound into the home and project studio. It features a cardioid pickup pattern and a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, making it ideal for voice-over work.
The capsule design is based on the legendary U 87, giving it an unmistakable sound quality that has made it a favorite among professional voice actors and recording engineers. With its minimal self-noise and wide dynamic range, the TLM 103 is perfect for capturing clear, detailed audio in any setting.
Key features
- One of the best mics for capturing the vocal clarity and warmth of the human voice.
- Large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the classic K67/87 capsule of the legendary Neumann U 87.
- Cardioid pickup pattern for a clear, focused voice recording.
- Frequency response of 20HZ-20kHz for capturing a wide range of sound frequencies.
- Minimal self-noise for high-quality recordings with low background noise levels.
- Durable nickel construction that can withstand the rigors of everyday use in a professional studio setting or on location recordings.
- Compact design that makes it easy to transport and set up quickly in any environment.
Pricing
This mic comes in at around $1200 from most stores, and with this, you really get what you pay for and the reason it’s the most popular microphone among professional voice over artists.
My Take
This is truly a superb mic. If you’re serious about your recording voice over projects, and have the budget, then this is the one to go for. It has a wonderfully warm sound with plenty of crisp detail and clarity that will make any voice shine.
3. Shure SM7B Microphone
Best mic for podcasters
Overview
When I first started out as a vocalist, I always used their awesome SM58, it’s all any singer wanted at that point and still popular today. Shure is a trusted and respected brand, and that applies to their voiceover mics too.
The Shure SM7B is the iconic dynamic vocal microphone that has been heard in countless recordings, podcasts, and live performances. This microphone is perfect for professional voiceovers, and especially for podcasters who want to capture their voice with clarity and precision.
With its smooth, flat frequency response, the SM7B is suitable for a wide range of applications, from music to speech. It features noise attenuating technology and bass roll-off and midrange emphasis controls to help you get the best sound possible.
Key Features
The SM7B has a number of key features that make it an excellent choice for voice overs and podcasters alike:
- The SM7B has a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response that is appropriate for music and speech in all professional audio applications.
- The cardioid polar pattern ensures that sound is only picked up from one direction – the front – so you don’t have to worry about background noise or other sounds interfering with your recording.
- The SM7B has a low-noise floor thanks to the noise-attenuating technology that helps reduce unwanted interference while you’re recording.
- Bass roll-off and midrange emphasis controls allow you to customize the sound of your recordings to get the exact tone you want.
- The SM7B is made with top-grade construction materials, so it can withstand regular use without any issues.
- Last but not least, the Shure SM7B delivers legendary sound quality that will take your voice over recordings to a whole new level.
Pricing
You can buy the Shure SM7B from retailers for approx $400, which is a decent price for such a high-quality microphone. The investment will pay off in the long run as it lasts for years with proper care and maintenance. (I also still have my Shure SM58 from years ago, so they do last!).
My Take
So obviously, I’m a little biased toward the Shure mics, but this really is an excellent option for voice work, especially for podcasters. The SM7B has a smooth, flat frequency response and noise attenuating technology that will help you create recordings with a crystal clear and smooth sound quality.
I also think the price tag is competitive, given the premium audio performance this mic delivers. If you are looking for a professional dynamic microphone for your studio, the SM7B is definitely worth considering.
4. Audio-Technica AT2020 Microphone
Best mic for beginners
Overview
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their voiceover setup. Whether you’re just starting out or more experienced, this microphone has the features and sound quality you need. This cardioid mic does a good job of capturing sound from the front while rejecting unwanted noise from the sides and back.
Its high SPL (sound pressure level) helps to minimize distortion even at high volumes.
The AT2020 also comes with a low-mass diaphragm that provides superior transient and extended frequency responses. The result is a crystal-clear and natural sound that’s perfect for the human voice.
In addition to its impressive sound quality, the AT2020 also comes with an integrated shock mount that helps reduce handling noise from vibrations or bumps. Its XLR connector allows you to connect it to other recording equipment easily.
Key Features
- This microphone can be used for various applications. It’s perfect for recording voiceovers, podcasting, streaming, and vlogging.
- The AT2020 produces high-quality sound that will make your recordings stand out from the rest.
- The AT2020 is built with a durable design that can withstand wear and tear over time.
- Setting up this microphone is easy, so you can start recording quickly and easily.
- Its plug-and-play compatibility makes this microphone compatible with almost any audio interface, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues when setting up your recording equipment.
Pricing
The Audio-Technica AT2020 currently retails for around $80 -$100.
My Take
The Audio-Technica AT2020 condenser mic is a good choice for anyone looking for a quality sound and a wide dynamic range. The custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm captures subtle details and nuances in the audio, making it perfect for recording vocals. It is incredibly versatile, allowing you to use it in both home and project studios, and it’s also suitable for musicians and podcasters.
5. Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 Microphone
Best mic for versatility and outdoor use
Overview
The Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 microphone is a short shotgun condenser microphone that provides exceptional sound quality and accuracy. Its lightweight design also makes it easy to use in handheld situations. The microphone is incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of audio applications, from location recording to studio recordings.
It features an integrated preamp with phantom power, a wide frequency response (30Hz to 20kHz), and low-noise circuitry that reduces background sounds.
This microphone is perfect for capturing audio in noisy environments or when you need an extra bit of clarity and accuracy. With its rugged construction, it can also stand up to tough field conditions. It’s widely used by professionals for outside broadcasts, radio stations, and podcasters.
Key Features
This mic is a professional-grade microphone designed for voice overs and other audio production needs. Here are the key features:
- The short shotgun interference tube design of the Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 provides excellent directivity and a compact design, making it ideal for film, radio, television, and outside applications.
- The microphone is moisture resistant, making it suitable for use in humid conditions.
- With its low noise floor and high sensitivity, this mic delivers a clear sound with minimal distortion.
- This microphone can be used for video production, documentary work, voiceovers, and more.
- The rugged construction ensures that it can withstand tough environments without compromising on sound quality or performance.
- Thanks to its low-handling noise design, you won’t have to worry about distracting background noise when using this microphone for voiceovers or other audio production needs.
Pricing
The current price of this mic is around $900.
My Take
The Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 Microphone is a great option for podcasters and voiceover artists looking for a high quality mic that won’t break the bank. It’s well made, easy to use, and offers great sound clarity in noisy environments.
Its rugged construction ensures it can stand up to tough field conditions, and its affordability makes it an attractive option for any budget-minded producer or podcaster.
6. Tonor TC20 XLR Microphone Kit
Best budget mic
Overview
The TONOR TC20 XLR Condenser Microphone is a great choice for voice overs. It’s an all-in-one package that comes with everything you need to get started, including the microphone itself, a boom arm, a shock mount, and a pop filter.
The cardioid polar pattern ensures excellent sound suppression off-axis, so you can be sure your voice will come through loud and clear. Plus, the maximum SPL of 5.000 makes it perfect for recording in any environment.
Plus, it’s easy to set up and use – just plug it in and start recording!
Key Features
The TONOR TC20 XLR Mics for voiceovers are decent quality microphones kit that offers a range of features and benefits. Here are the key features:
- Cardioid polar pattern with excellent off-axis sound suppression, providing clear, accurate sound recordings.
- Includes a T20 Boom Arm to adjust the microphone to the perfect angle for recording.
- Shock mount reduces unwanted noise from vibrations and bumps during recording.
- Pop filter helps reduce plosives and sibilance in recordings.
- Ideal for recording, podcasting, streaming, voiceovers, and home studios.
- Compatible with most audio interfaces and digital recorders on the market today.
- Easy to set up and use – no need for professional installation or technical knowledge!
Pricing
This budget mic packs a big punch, and you can buy one for just $50 in most places.
My Take
Despite its price, this budget mic does a good job and can compete with mics over $100 in my opinion. You also get a great range of extras to get you started. Although the sound quality won’t compete with most on this list, I wanted to include it to show you the value of getting started on a small budget.
7. Blue Yeti USB Microphone
Best USB starter mic
Overview
The Blue Yeti USB mic is trusted by millions of creators and streamers and is one of the best-selling USB microphones for voiceovers, YouTube, podcasting, and much more.
I have to say, I was rather taken by this mic, it genuinely delivers and is full of great features at a bargain price point.
The Blue Yeti USB Microphones offer powerful broadcast-quality sound with four different pattern settings to choose from cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo. It also features an onboard master volume control, a headphone output, a mute button, and adjustable gain control.
Plus, it’s designed with a unique positionable design so you can pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your audio experience.
Setting up the Blue Yeti is easy – plug it into your PC or Mac via USB, and you’re ready to go. There’s no need for a separate audio interface – all you need is your computer. With this versatile microphone at your disposal, you’ll be heard loud and clear every time.
Key Features
The Blue Yeti USB Microphone for voiceovers is a great choice for anyone looking to record in just about any environment. Here are the key features:
- The Blue Yeti offers four different recording patterns – cardioid, stereo, omnidirectional, and bidirectional – so you can choose the best one for your project.
- With its USB connection, the Blue Yeti is easy to set up and use right away.
- The microphone has a metal construction that makes it durable and long-lasting.
- It produces clear audio with minimal background noise thanks to its built-in pop filter and shock mount system.
- Whether you’re recording a podcast or streaming on Twitch, the Blue Yeti is perfect for any application that requires quality sound recording.
- You can easily adjust the gain control of the microphone to get the perfect sound levels for your recordings.
Pricing
This super USB microphone can be bought for as little as $80 and is worth every penny, in my opinion, especially for beginners.
My Take
The Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking to record clear audio on a budget. It offers versatile recording patterns and features that make it easy to use, making it perfect for beginners. Despite its low price tag, this mic delivers good-quality audio.
Different Types of Microphones Explained
Voiceovers require specialized microphones to capture the best sound quality. There are two main types of microphones used for voiceovers: dynamic mics and condenser mics.
A dynamic microphone tends to be more affordable and durable, making it a great choice for beginners.
They are designed to pick up sound from a specific direction, so they can be used in noisy environments. They also have a low output level, which makes them ideal for recording louder voices.
Condenser microphones are more expensive than dynamic mics but offer much higher sound quality and greater sensitivity.
These voice acting microphones can pick up subtle nuances in the voice that dynamic mics can’t, making them ideal for professional voiceover work. Condenser mics also have a higher output level, which makes them better suited for recording softer voices.
Whichever microphone you decide to use, make sure it is compatible with your recording equipment and has all the features you need to get the job done with the highest possible audio quality.
FAQs
Is a dynamic or condenser mic better for voiceovers?
The type of microphone you should use for voiceover depends on a number of personal preferences, the environment in which you’ll be recording, and the type of sound you’re trying to achieve.
Dynamic microphones are great if you need to record in noisy environments or find yourself traveling around often with your equipment. Their built-in shock mount helps protect it against noise interference. They also have improved resistance to feedback and the ability to pick up lower tones or bass frequencies compared to condenser mics.
However, they don’t tend to pick up as much “air” as condenser mics making them less than ideal for capturing higher-frequency sounds such as those found in speech and are more suited to live performances in the music industry, for example.
Condenser mics offer more sensitivity than dynamic mics meaning they can capture subtle nuances and details needed for vocal recordings such as spoken word or singing projects with greater impact. They can create very detailed recordings that really bring out the full range and depth of any sound source, especially vocals.
What is the voice acting industry standard mic?
While this is a personal choice, the accepted industry standard mic is the Neumann TLM 103.
Is SM7B good for voice acting?
For sure (excuse the pun), the SM7B is a good choice for voice acting. It has clear, crisp sound and outstanding noise cancellation properties that put it up there with the best mics out there for recording dialogue. It is a popular microphone for all types of voiceover work, from podcasts to audiobooks and even gaming videos.
Do you need a home studio to be a voice actor?
Not necessarily. Many voice actors like recording voice overs in their home studio or with a pro-level recording setup. You can also choose to use remote recording services and other online tools to capture your voiceover recordings without having to invest in costly equipment.
However, if you want the highest quality audio possible for your voiceover work, then setting up a home studio is the way to go. This will give you the flexibility to record in your own time and with higher-quality equipment, which will result in better audio for your projects.
Wrapping Up: Best Microphone for Voice Over
So there you go, I hope you now have more insight as to what type of mic fits your needs and can confidently choose the right one.
Everyone has different opinions, and what I have tried to achieve here is to give you the best advice based on my experience and a large selection to help narrow down your ideal mic!
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