Studio Microphones you DON’T NEED (and some you do)!

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🛒 MICROPHONE LINKS
1) Neumann U 87 Ai Set: sweetwater.sjv.io/rQ4GZQ
2) AKG C414 XLII: sweetwater.sjv.io/DK0QY2
3) Rode NT1: sweetwater.sjv.io/aneDXN
4) Audio-Technica AT2020: sweetwater.sjv.io/5gnaEL
5) Shure SM58: sweetwater.sjv.io/ZQNEAK
6) Shure SM7B: sweetwater.sjv.io/5gaAj3
7) Shure SM57: sweetwater.sjv.io/nLyVQV
8) Neumann KM 184 Stereo Set: sweetwater.sjv.io/Mmn5bJ
9) Universal Audio SP-1: sweetwater.sjv.io/NkbEqq
10) sE Electronics Voodoo VR2: sweetwater.sjv.io/0ZQmYE
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Which microphones do you need for a home studio? Lets look at some high end, and budget options :)
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🎸🎹 MY STUDIO GEAR
AUDIO INTERFACES I USE
Universal Audio Apollo X4: sweetwater.sjv.io/9gGAVj
Antelope Audio Discrete 8 Pro: amzn.to/3qTbFav
STUDIO MONITORS
Adam Audio A7V (Pair): sweetwater.sjv.io/GmXnb9
Adam Audio T10S (Sub): sweetwater.sjv.io/XYyd4b
MIDI CONTROLLER KEYBOARDS
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII: sweetwater.sjv.io/QyA2RM
NI S61 MK2: sweetwater.sjv.io/B0Exqy
MIDI Control Surface
ICon QCon Pro G2: amzn.to/47PQhn0
MICROPHONES
Audio Technica AT2020: sweetwater.sjv.io/5gnaEL
Rode NT1A: sweetwater.sjv.io/5gy1X9
Shure SM57: sweetwater.sjv.io/nLyVQV
Shure SM58: sweetwater.sjv.io/ZQNEAK
Shure SM7B: sweetwater.sjv.io/5gaAj3
Warm Audio CX12: sweetwater.sjv.io/eKekOD
Neumann U87 AI: sweetwater.sjv.io/rQ4GZQ
Universal Audio SD-1: sweetwater.sjv.io/xkrz0A
Universal Audio SP-1 (Pair): sweetwater.sjv.io/NkbEqq
Rode NT5 (Pair): sweetwater.sjv.io/oqWxVb
Neumann KM184 (Pair): sweetwater.sjv.io/Mmn5bJ
Austrian Audio CC8 (Pair): sweetwater.sjv.io/rQ4G9v
HEADPHONES
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro: sweetwater.sjv.io/21k3Ba
AKG K240 Studio: sweetwater.sjv.io/EKjL2P
AKG K702: sweetwater.sjv.io/bae659
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: sweetwater.sjv.io/6eK07K
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro: sweetwater.sjv.io/OrJkzQ
Austrian Audio Hi-X55: sweetwater.sjv.io/4PYz29
Austrian Audio Hi-X65: sweetwater.sjv.io/daA2eM
Audeze MM500: www.audeze.com/products/mm-500
Audeze LCD-XC: www.audeze.com/products/lcd-xc
MIC PREAMPS
ART Voice Channel Tube Channel Strip: sweetwater.sjv.io/3eAjJn
Warm Audio WA-MPX: sweetwater.sjv.io/GmEr6n
RACK GEAR
Warm Audio WA-2A: sweetwater.sjv.io/eKvqRX
Warm Audio WA-76: sweetwater.sjv.io/AW0mKN
Warm Audio WA-1B: sweetwater.sjv.io/oqBEan
ART Head Amp 6 Pro: sweetwater.sjv.io/1re1bx
Samson S-Patch Plus: sweetwater.sjv.io/g1PDo2
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NI Komplete: www.pluginboutique.com/search...
FabFilter Pro-Q 3: www.pluginboutique.com/meta_p...
iZotope Ozone 11: www.pluginboutique.com/search...
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CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
00:44 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
01:42 Polar Patterns
02:29 Why You Don’t Need Expensive Microphones
03:58 Budget Condenser Microphones
05:14 The Problem with Condenser Microphones
06:22 Dynamic Microphones
07:32 The SM7B
08:41 Instrument Microphones
08:53 The SM57
09:44 Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
11:01 Ribbon Microphones
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#HomeRecording #CreativeSauce #HomeStudio

[@lawrencegreenwood4002]

So, without trying to brag, my first record has tens of millions of listens on Spotify (Whitley - The Submarine)...my second has far less, my third even less. I've used a U87 on every record except the first. What did we use on the first? A Rode NT1A, all with the exception of the most successful song on that album which was a Rode NT3 I plugged into a tape 4 track Portastudio. Seriously - the gear don't matter kids. I've learned that.

[@CreativeSauce]

Love it!

[@BeauStephenson]

Used 87s can go for as low as $1800 in some markets. I had a similar deal pop up and pilled the trigger on it. What surprises me most about it that I was not expecting based on similar microphones by other companies priced above and below it is the gorgeous frequency response from the lows, mids, to the highs. It's just fantastic. So much detail in the mids and the right amount of low end thump and top end shimmer for pretty much most things I record with it. Cannot recommend it enough. 90% of the sound of a microphone is the capsule, and in my opinion, Neumann is still the reigning king of capsules.

[@AnodyneHipsterInfluencer]

It's true but Soyuz is dragging around a big azz stick with their S17 and S23 capsules. Hand machined brass capsules with a tolerance of .2 microns. The former based loosely on the K67 capsule and the latter more closely based on Lomo's redesign of the CK12 capsule.

[@orderd29]

This was a nicely put together, informative video of something that can start to get very complicated and very overwhelming in a short space of time. Another gold star for Mr Enjo! ✴

[@ImYourOverlord]

The Rode microphone is a fantastic choice! Very versatile, I love the response, and I believe everyone will be happy with it, as I am, for both vocals and recording speaker cabinets.

[@rome8180]

Personally, I don't record with anything but a Shure SM7B anymore. I have a couple nice condenser mics, but I don't really use them. I find I get better results with the SM7B. For one thing, it does a much better job of rejecting background noise and room reflections. For another thing, I have a very sibilant voice. My S's are out of control on a condenser mic. The SM7B does a great job at taming them. Lastly, I just find it sits in the mix with very little effort. Bear in mind that I'm only using a mic to record my own vocals. If I was recording other singers or mic guitar cabs, I would use a different mic. It's also worth mentioning that most of my music falls in the genre of "rock." The SM7B is particularly suited to rock. All that said, I really think it's a mic that everyone should invest in.

[@rusgib3648]

Straight forward and informative. Thank you for getting to the point.

[@vitmedia]

Excellent video, Mike, thank you. I have been using a matched pair of SE Electronic SE8 small diaphragm condensers when recording acoustic guitar, and had really great results. A couple of days ago, though, when I was in a hurry to capture a chord progression before I forgot it, I grabbed the mic I had been using an hour earlier to record a voiceover - the SM7B. I was stunned at how fantastically rich and detailed it was and I've actually used that hasty recording in the final mix. I highly recommend people try out whavetever microphones they have on every source they ever want to record - the results can be unexpected (quite possibly in a bad way as well as a good way, but at least you'll know lol!).

[@sassulusmagnus]

Agreed re: the SM7B on acoustic guitar, especially on a rhythm part in a mix.

[@SoJesusChristMusic]

AT2020 is by far one of the best budget mics around. I’ve tested many mics and for the money the AT2020 blows most mics in the $200 mic range out of the park. Get yourself a good premium mic wire and a high quality preamp and that AT2020 will produce a brilliant result. A step up from that would be something like a C414.

[@matthewmargetts8516]

Excellent the way you put that into perspective. Thanks

[@WobbieWobbit1]

nice one... i have a Behringer B-1 and we knock along fine :) you are so right with your perspective on priorities!

[@jagdishsilikon7139]

Thank you Mike.... Felt like you were speaking my mind.... I already own an SM58 and AT2020 and next on my list is Rode NT1A 5th Gen.... Keep up the good work.... GOD bless always !!!!

[@CreativeSauce]

:) You'll love it

[@stevespringer122]

This is as good a review and comparison as I've seen. Informative, with very useful information. Subscribed!

[@mdp303]

I recorded my singer for years through a large condenser. I did a quickie recording on an IPad using an SM57 hand held ..best vocal sound I ever got it just matched her voice perfectly with almost no EQ, I just dropped a bit of the lower mids, sparkled it up a bit and lightly compressed

[@christianboddum8783]

I've got the RØDE NT-1 (nice and warm), NT-1A (for acoustic guitars) and the NT-1000 it's sits nicely between the two others and it fits my voice well, all at a very reasonable price 😉

[@Andrew-cu9lf]

I have watched 4,982 videos about choosing the best microphone. This was one is the best.

[@hpnascimento95]

Great video, Mike! That was super informative. On a side note, what do you think of those microphones that emulate high-end studio mics, such as the UAD Sphere?

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

Great info about mics from Mike. I wouldn’t mind having any mic from Neumann, however I am very much aware it’s not required. For the price of a U87, I would be able to replace my current live mixer and all the mics with ones representing a step up in quality.

[@WillKruger]

Again another excellent video about mics,,,,Mike. The Neumann U 87 is the Holy Grail of studio microphones, but well out of reach for mere mortals. I use a Studio Projects C3 (No longer made) and have for years with great results. But someone once said "All unhappiness comes from comparisons" :-)

[@CreativeSauce]

Haha, what an awesome saying Will! I always say "Dissapointment is married to expectations."

[@fb8966]

Recently learned a kit for the c1 is available to modify the eq curve to be 'the 'same' as the 87.

[@HardwiredMusicMaker]

Great video and on the money regarding expense/results. A couple of notes that I've found: Having a range of mics on hand and spending the time to match to the source can result in a ever so slightly better recording which results in less work mixing. Not the same as garbage in/garbage out (which is the result of bad instruments, bad playing, etc) but a higher quality mic generally doesn't require as much finessing in the mix. But sometimes at 58 on vocals IS the right choice - it's all in choosing the right mic for the job. The AT2020 is a little bit exaggerated in the top end similar to the RODE NT1a but I found it spectacular on women's voices - not so much on my own (baritone) voice. The NT1a was also disappointing only my own voice, but I'll bet it shines on many women's voices. The RODE NT1 (for only a little bit more than the NT1a) is a worthy addition to most home studios. But, as much as the mic choice can yield better results - the room itself can make a huge difference on recording vocals and acoustic instruments. I'm working with the singer in a band I play in and set up a recording studio in his garage. The walls and ceiling are all wood planks and the space sounds amazing. I put a RODE NT2 in figure 8 pattern about 3 feet in front of him and an acoustic guitar to record a demo for a song and quite a few professionals we know commented on how great the resulting sound is. They were shocked we recorded in a garage. In a good space for recording, putting a mic on OMNI mode instead of Cardioid can be a really nice way to record vocals because you can get intimate close results and strong 'belting' vocals a little further away without getting proximity effect changing the overall sound of the vocals because of small differences in distance. But if your space doesn't sound great, recording in OMNI will sound terrible. There are some fantastic deals that are really surprising out there. I found an ART T4 Tube Mic used for a few hundred dollars - I bought it and in researching the mic, it seems the mic was based on a so-so copy of a Telefunken tube mic, which a lot of people modded to become an actually good mic and then ART took the modded version as the base for their release. And yes, it is a wonderful mic comparable to many much more expensive mics I've used in other studios. If you're good with electronics soldering, there's a lot of people explaining how to mod mics and selling the upgrade parts.

[@Bad_Phil]

Great advice! Have you ever tried the Aston mic line? I am really liking the Aston Spirit. Great price point, really good specs and performance

[@rjpolancov]

Hi, Mike. Thank you for that detailed video. It's very handy for my studio. What type of mic would you recommend for a small choir?

[@davebops2478]

Thanks Mike, great video! I bought a Lewitt about a year ago (LCT441), and it's a very good and versatile mic.

[@goodtimejohnny8972]

I've had the Sure drum mic pack that has four SM57 and one Beta52. I noticed a rattle on one of the 57s and Sure's website states the problem and how to fix it. The capsule guard is the source of the rattle or vibration. They say to jamb some pieces of a tooth pick between the guard and the microphone. Also the Beta 52 stopped working. I had to have it repaired at a service center. A loose solder joint. I made the switch to Telefunken drum mic pack. At over twice the cost, the old saying you get what you pay for is spot on. Telefunken has a better sound and build quality with no problems to date.

[@Wizerslapski]

Waiting for my sp1 pair to ship to me. Looking forward to using them!

[@GregRband]

Great info! Thank you!

[@LoweCommotionStudio]

I have an NT1a that is nice and I've just upgraded the guts to an old MXL990 for cheap and it's amazing now. I've only begun using it in the last few days and I'm glad I sacrificed the 990.

[@TJF1GH]

I used the Blue bird for years and loved it but I just got a Neumann Tlm 103 Nickel and love it sooooo much

[@AzaleaMusic]

Excellent, well-balanced advice, Mate! 👍 Thanks much.

[@geraldaugustus739]

Another nice halfway point is the TLM103 by neumann, which used the U87 capsule without any of the polar pattern switching. as you said, most people will get away with cardiod for pretty much all applications

[@ryanjay6241]

TLM102 > TLM103

[@figjams]

great video, Mike! So right on

[@InSurrealtime]

My old Oktava mk-319 is still going strong. It just always works for my voice.

[@blueishxx]

excellent recommendations thank you

[@ironweedstudios]

Thanks, Mike!

[@florrymccarthy6746]

Excellent video. Great information etc. Just a silly note. I love the SM57 for my live vocals at gigs etc I find the SM58 especially the beta 58 adds too much bass/ proximity effect to my already naturally bass heavy vocal tone. Might be interesting to hear your explanation and experience of the proximity effect and any used advantages of indeed disadvantages Loving your content Well done

[@ImYourOverlord]

The Shure Beta series mics do have different frequency response from their non-Beta counterparts, so that's an important consideration.

[@blakecamp5848]

Had the NT1a sold it and picked up the Neat King Bee2 better suited to my voice. So many quality mics to chose from based on budget, how ever it all comes down to what type of voice you have and the mic that will best suit your voice. Great video thankyou.

[@Mambojambo157]

That’s why I use harp mics for my voice

[@youthmanrecords965]

FUN FACT ! The capsule in the SM7b is almost identical to the sm57 and sm58 I believe the only diff is a transformer or a capacitor inside to improve bottom end response.

[@NickolasSteffen]

I’ve been loving my Earthworks Ethos.

[@jonkthompson]

I have 2 mics, the NT1 (not the NT1-A) and I think it is awesome with my deep male vocals or voice-overs...I also use an SM7B. Both of my mics I run through my Cranborne EC1 preamp (this thing is a beast) and then into my Motu M4. These 2 mic imo are the only mic's I'll ever really need for my home studio. I have an ART Voice-Channel but the preamp in the EC1 is so good I rarely use it.

[@davidm6298]

Very good video for people starting out. Mics are really hard to to figure out and probably one of the most expensive gear to spend money on because so many to buy. I think your comment about focusing on the lyrics, the music really is spot on. Get the song right, people will listen regardless of the mic. Lots of low fi hit songs out there.

[@ryanjay6241]

Mics are hard to figure out because they're very personal. I've gone through MANY of them over the years - some mics just don't work on some voices at all. As long as you're not buying bottom-barrel mics, most of them are fine - but not everyone will like all of them on their voice. One somewhat loved mic I particularly hate on my voice is the AT4047 - it has a huge warming/thickening bump that many people love, but I absolutely hate on my voice. My suggestion is, if possible, find somewhere that will let you test out 3-4 mics, get them in your studio, and figure out which one works best for you.

[@jr0706]

I use an MXL 990 and it does everything I need, acoustic guitar, amp, and voice.

[@dangale123]

I got an SE Magneto for £40 from a second hand shop. Best mic I’ve ever owned for voice over work. No need to have any acoustic foam or tiles on my otherwise bare walls of the spare bedroom, I’m able to record beautiful sounding stuff straight in to a usb mixing desk (Behringer Q1002USB) into Audacity recording software (which is free). It’s an excellent budget mic and set-up.

[@davesuchy4712]

Excellent information!!!

[@marsrivers]

Two o my arsenal mics! sounds fantastic and professional.. You have to know your hardware to know their weekneses and compensate them in the mix or in the recording process.

[@BPMusic06]

Shure SM57 is incredibly underrated for vocals. Slap foam filter on there and it’s magic.

[@Yoda8945]

Add a transformer input preamp and you will discover what magic that the SM57 delivers.

[@DWHarper62]

Since that's what Zappa used on stage then you are correct...

[@jimdukeproject]

I’ve used my 57 for vocals.

[@mycosys]

I wish influencers like you would mention the Sennheiser e935 more - its well known as the dynamic that 'sounds like a condenser'. It has great detail esp for female voice and its as easy to handle and cheap as the SM58/57. For male voice the AKG D5 has a great radio sound for the money too.

[@MikeSquiresUK]

Great video - switching to a (relatively) cheap condenser mic (a Sontronics STC-2) was a noticeable improvement over using a dynamic mic for me (even thouigh it was the trusty SM58), and is definitely one piece of gear I wish I'd been able to invest in years ago. Also, big shout out to the furniture-as-acoustic-treatment crowd - it's suprising how well just pointing the mic towards the window and closing the curtains works! :)

[@youthmanrecords965]

Many albums by big name bands have used a regular sm58 on vocals. Same diaphragm as the sm7b

[@ryanjay6241]

A lot of people recommend an SM7B, but you're not going to get a modern vocal sound from a 7B, no matter what you do. It all depends on what you're recording though. I personally would never recommend someone to start there, as most likely they're not going to hear what they want. However, mic placement is *very very* important. Depending on the wall, what's between in, what's inside it, what it's made from, will all have a massive impact on the sound. If your ears aren't well trained/you're not critically listening, there can be tons of reflection/buildup in frequencies from your surroundings ruining your recordings without you noticing. Acoustic treatment is always advised - but if you can't afford it (and even if you can), position the mic and LISTEN. A few degrees of angling or a few inches here and there can make a MASSIVE difference to the sound, depending what's behind the mic. Huge rule, always be listening, always use your ears.

[@garyshirinian]

First time watching your video. What do you think of RODE NT1. Thx

[@DieselWeazel]

Thanks for mentioning budget friendly alternatives for us up and coming players.

[@zeenuf00]

Shure KSM 32. Save up the $600 and get it. Here's what happens when you buy $100 condenser mics. You buy one, then you buy another, then another . . . then you have $500 worth of $100 mics that quite frankly suck. The $100-$200 mics are all hyped in the highs to try and sound 'airy.' What happens is that when you start stacking tracks, it's like razor blades in your ears. What you want in a condenser mic is as NEUTRAL sounding a mic as possible. Every mix engineer worth their salt just wants clean, well recorded vocals that they can process however they want without having to do a ton of surgery. Lots of engineers have a Rode NT1 kicking around. They use them for hallway mics when recording drums. The SM7B is a classic as well, but it won't be enough if you're recording all different kinds of vocals. There is always a good use for an SM7B though.

[@randydaniels9218]

Hi Mike and I hope you are well. The U87 maybe way out of line for most of us. The productions on microphones, headphones, and DAWs have been a Hugh help. I have 58s, NT1A, a T4 with multiple tubes and wonder if you ever considered a RE20. Found it very useful and if you have maybe I missed it. Keep on Producing Mike! God Bless from Nova Scotia.

[@coin777]

11:10 They kinda are great in a home studio if you record brass or wind instruments.

[@ShoebMortoza]

I would agree with all these good words. However, to my ear u87ai is the only mic that keeps your vocal note at the ceiling of the span of the note width at all time. It will keep your vocal tone intact at all time. Unlike all other mics where you insert a ball and get an egg at the other side.

[@eshortsax]

I love the SM57 on my sax as well as my KSM32 on saxes…now that I think about it the KSM32 may be the most expensive microphone I have at the moment lol (I do want to get a ribbon mic though). Thank you for another great video 😊

[@CreativeSauce]

Thanks for watching again! I've never recorded a sax, but it strikes me that a ribbon blended with an SM57 may work well.

[@nicktamer4969]

I do preffer ksm 32 on vocals than the U87. I always use it on sax as well. It work on everything without the aggressive trebbles of the u87.

[@travislee9662]

Check out the Royer R10 for a good affordable ribbon mic.

[@ncnoman]

i love the AT2020. its stayed in my locker for 8 years, and in fact been the one that when i needed to liquidate, stayed. in part because its resell value is negligible but also because its an excellent condenser. sounds great on vocals and guitar cabs. if you want an amazing guitar cab mic pairing for cheap grab an at2020 and an mxl r144 ribbon, and a couple mic stands.

[@BenvelMusic]

AT2020 isn't a good microphone sounds very harsh and digital on top end

[@aoz_sam]

⁠@@BenvelMusicsound like I recorded off my phone 😂😂

[@skoneal007]

Well done! Could you do a video on the UA/Townsend modeling microphones? Would this be a good option for a home studio being able to replicate many mics with just one investment?

[@hypnosecoachinghombach7517]

I'm using the Neumann KMS 105 / 104 plus in an untreated room when I record for my clients with a MixPre 3 II. Even with large windows, they pick up very little to nothing from the traffic from outside. So little in fact that I seldomly need noise reduction in post. They seem to reject anything except the voice. Even the reverb is missing. Neumann recommends them for the home studio. (KMS - Kondenser Microphone Stage)

[@mrmanch204]

I have been recording songs in my home studio for 30 years now and it gad to be done on a limited budget like most people have. Røde NT1 was the first for me, always good results. As mics became cheaper I used some others but eventually I bought a Røde NT2-A, this mic gecame my workhorse for years, it was money really well spent. Recently I have invested in a mic for live vocals a Røde M2, brilliant. And a Røde NTK valve condenser, which is superb. As you can see Ii like Røde. Best value, very reliable, not made in China and therefore good quality control.

[@jonlieberman997]

So well put. The microphone is way way less important than so many other variables. Going over budget can induce stress than is a creativity killer. I get anxious when I drag out a 10K microphone with some talent and circumstances when I would get a better performance from a 57 and a very relaxed space for the musician.

[@Bob-of-Zoid]

I want an old Telefunkin U47! Zappa said they smell funky!😜

[@markpetersglobalfm]

very informative the key ? ive been in the business 40 years and i found this informative and useful nice job thank you

[@ryanjay6241]

I've never heard a Rode that I liked. The AT2020 is actually a great choice for the very low budget range - I'd say at around that price range it's one of the best you can find. It's not like the U87 is the "super end all" of microphones either - it's a rather neutral mic and still may not fit what you're after. It's not particularly airy compared to some of the C12 clones or a C-800G. The 87 is loved because it rarely sounds *bad*, but often other mics sound better. I think another great low budget option is the Sony C-80 - it's closer to the $600 mark, but IMO sounds far better than any Rode or the AT2020.

[@alanhaynes418]

I find that you really need to use a microphone in a wide range of applications over an extended period to get to know it's strengths and weaknesses. For example, the Rode NT1a and the AKG C414xlii are both relatively bright sounding condensers. However, I find the results that I get from the AKG are almost always superior, and this does mount up when I've used it on several different instruments on the same song. Also, my recording area is far from ideal acoustically, and I find that the other polar patters, or especially combinations of them allow me, usually, to reduce off axis sound to a very low level. As an aside, when I finally bought one high end mic pre it made a huge difference to the quality of the sound I was getting from all of my mics - especially my vintage '60's Beyer M160, which had been a bit lacklustre on acoustic instruments - it improved incredibly and is now a valid option for any source.

[@jas_bataille]

Tbh the C414 is a lot more money. You don't *need* expensive microphone, but no one said they aren't useful. I for sure, as a live sound engineer, would choose my Shure Beta 87A over... well almost any vocal microphone used in live production. Fosho. And the C414 over it in a proper studio for vocals, almost no questions asked.

[@christianlandstrom]

Aston Spirit is my go to microphone for vocals

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

Rode NT1, and AT 4040 and Blue Yeti are My mics ohh and ofcourse My Alcatel phone which despite being cheap actually captures very useable audio.

[@SoJesusChristMusic]

I already have the TLM 103, U87ai, C214 but I’m wanting to get one of the 414’s but there’s two I’ve been debating between. XL & XLS. Which is better for vocals?

[@trebleboost7]

I’ve been loving the Sennheiser MD441 for vocals. Not cheap but not terribly expensive either.

[@stupendousmusic4190]

Probably the most useful mic of all: it can be used on literally everything.

[@violao206]

News Flash: The Audio Technica AT2020 is not a real LDC mic. It is actually a side-address SDC, but it still sounds impressive. I recommended it to my younger brother for his 1st recording mic and he returned an amazing track that he produced with another pal who has the same mic. They covered a classic Beatles "Two of Us" and just knocked it out of the park. #Impressive

[@corvinking4996]

I've noticed such an upgrade from my TLM 103 to my U87AI that I gave my 103 to a friend. Totally worth it for me!

[@who_is_dis]

Yeah, i agree - I jumped from the 102 and the difference is enormous 😂

[@mirkomarkovic3438]

That's cause the TLM 103 is an overhead mic

[@who_is_dis]

@@mirkomarkovic3438 Says who? 😂

[@mirkomarkovic3438]

@@who_is_dis almost everyone i know in the industry. in fact i was talking to joe barresi and ross hogarth today about what to do with the tlm 103. Overheads or trashcan was the answer....

[@charlessellers5594]

I actually challenged myself by using Pyle 57s for every track in a recording. The Pyle 57 is a knock off of the Sure SM57, it has a similar response. However, I bought ten of them for about $100. If you're just starting out and can't afford several SM57'S, try a couple of these.

[@francispower1418]

When it comes to affordable ribbon mics I have yet to meet anyone who wasn’t surprised at how good the Royer R-10 is for the money. It’s still a chunk of change (around $600 new in the USA) and no, you don’t ‘need’ one. But they are beautiful mics and at well under half the price of the legendary R-121 perform so well many of us would never be able to tell the difference. My mid price condenser mic of all work/alternative to the AKG C414/U87 is an SE 4400a. To each their own. There are several equally excellent and competitive choices out there at well under the $1K mark, generally sufficiently under that with the change you can go get yourself that SM57 you really can’t not have and still have enough left overt for a pop filter and a packet of chips!

[@ChannelForty2]

Mike you have taught me so much, I just wanted to say I am grateful for your videos! So much valuable information an you pass it along perfectly! Keep it up!

[@frashighflyingbirds]

Have a t-bone sc450 from Thomann which is amazing value for money. Recored brilliant vocals and guitars with this👌🏻

[@CreativeSauce]

100% - fantastic microphones!

[@andyhampton1338]

My wife is about to step onto a plane back from Germany and will be bringing with her one of these -t.bone SC 450 (which @Mike recommended on a previous video) I’m very excited to hear the difference from the SM58 I have always used!

[@RobertJones-on3vb]

I was surprised the Rode M5's didn't get a mention. I recently started using a stereo pair with an old NT1 across the room on acoustic guitar, and it's the best recorded acoustic sound I've captured in my 20+ years of recording. I've also used a pair of NT1's with a room mic, and that sounds nice and airy, but the M5's stereo image is just more precise IMO. Love this video though, appreciate another perspective.

[@BeauStephenson]

Yes, the M5s are nice. What blew me away, though, was a recent purchase I made from a Swedish mic builder who sells the Line Audio CM4 pencil condensers. $70 a piece, hand built in Europe, $90 total after shipping and taxes. And it plays at the same level as a Scheops or Josephson. Check them out if you haven't yet!

[@emiel333]

Great video.

[@henrikhjortshj6671]

Great video. I do lots of voice overs and the Røde is my go to mic for years. But I also havde none some great voice recordings with a simple Shore SM 58..... so it is all posible.

[@nicktamer4969]

A sm58 (in good shape) is perfect for recording vocals.

[@dirkwachter9406]

Thanks for the video and best regards from Germany. You should consider the LEWITT Pure Tube. Thanks.

[@fredscallietsoundman9701]

I have a beat up grand piano in my living room, and I record it with one sole SM57 because it's not a very precise microphone, and any more detailed mic would only pick up all the defects like rattling strings, squeaky pedal, etc...

[@Rivenworld]

For Ribbon mics, the Rode NTR active ribbon mic takes some beating but they do seem a bit difficult to get hold of now, last price I saw was around £500, a great all purpose ribbon mic that requires phantom power.

[@stupendousmusic4190]

The NTR mic is an excellent mic as is the sE VR2 (and VR1). I'm a ribbon lover, and I have to say that besides the Beyerdynamic M 160 and M 130, the Shure KSM313 and sE RNR1 are beyond reproach❣ Ribbons in general are awesome.

[@frubo_ssg]

Sir…I own the NT1A, the U87Ai and the 414s but for my ears the NT1A is by far not a 95% U87Ai or a 414. BTW: at 4:12 you showed the NT1 - my first large condensor and I still love and use it! Much much better than the NT1A and I recommend to save some more money and get this one instead of the NT1A. There is a big chance that it's still in use yearsssss after. Just my thoughts.

[@f.fonseca]

Great video! I've been learning a lot from your content, especially the mix and release series. Thank you very much for your help. I have one question regarding mics. I currently own and use a Behringer C1 for my small home recordings. It's not great, but it came with my audio interface and has helped me learn much about this topic. However, my room has really poor acoustics, sort of a metallic echo, and my recordings end up with a lot of unwanted harshness. I've considered buying a second mic, maybe a dynamic, to solve this issue. Since I want to record my voice, but maybe more importantly my acoustic guitar, I was leaning towards the SM57, a friend of mine said that it was an all in all microphone. My question is: will I truly be satisfied, using the Shure for both purposes? Thank you so much for your help! Also, I have some covers of my own, it would be great if you could check them out and give me your thoughts. Stay well!

[@CreativeSauce]

Many people love the SM57 on acoustic guitar. I personally find it a little 'boxy' sounding, BUT it depends on the song/mix. You may end up having EQ out some mid frequencies, and pushing up some highs, to get a crisper feel - if that's what you want. IMHO, it will not sound as 'nice' as the C1, but will help with the room issues.

[@f.fonseca]

@@CreativeSauce TYSM, I will have that in consideration

[@martindye]

Fantastic quality video, I found the sound a bit boomy and soft in your recording of this video though, that might be my preference for dialogue though.

[@yucafries7681]

Ribbons are more useful imo than most dynamics or small diaphragm condensers. If I were limited to four mics I’d pick an sm7b, a U87, and a pair of ribbons or alternatively an SM7b, a pair of 87s, and a stereo ribbon 😝

[@jwardcomo]

Thanks!!!!

[@Rhythmattica]

Just want to say... Im a AT lover... For a Dynamic , my best experiences so far , that even slap the m88 etc.. id the ATM29He.... Its honestly the closest dynamic ive personally used..... (my experience) to a larger condenser mic...

[@williamsporing1500]

The good old SM58…. I’ve got one I’ve had since around ‘76? Most of the paint is gone, there’s dents on the screen, there’s rust on the screen. Yea, she’s seen a lot over the decades, but still my only stage mic.

[@AidanSeanMor]

video is about studio microphones

[@Hue_Nery]

AT2020 is a great mic. I've seen mods for this mic and heard them but stock they just sound great. Honestly, I feel they sound better stock than modded. Great mic for acoustic guitars. Great for overly boomy guitars. I've even made mics from part sourced from no name manufacturers in China. Cheap $40 circuit boards paired with a K47 capsule. got a U87 looking Shell. All totaled $130 Canadian Pesos. and a bit of elbow grease.

[@jirosaves_theworld]

Legend for "Shure"....... nice pun, Sir lololol my AT2020 still holding best even after 8 years+++

[@Sarsour_]

Awesome content!

[@CreativeSauce]

Thank you :)

[@parasiteunit]

TBH - I go with the school of "cheap and costly"... You get two mics. A budget level (the Berhinger Shure clones are great) And as good a nic as you can afford - think AKG, Marantz (have one - it's okay, brilliant spoken vocal mic though), Rode are great too ... Maybe a decent external phantom power block if you're not 100% happy with your preamps.. You're good to go. As for recording - find a rehearsal room that isn't charging the earth... Take a laptop and decent USB audio interface with you and something to act as noise baffles and hey presto! Easy vocals... Done that a good number of times.

[@em8969]

My Nt1A has never been reliable, I bought it from new and it stopped within a month, I put it on the shelf for months, sent it to rode twice, had the capsules replaced and it stopped working the next day. In my opinion a terrible but wonderful mic when it works. I use an at2020 and it’s a tank. I also use a sm58a and it’s working well.

[@slikjmuzik]

I do just fine with my TLM102, Warm Audio 273, Klerk Teknik 1176 and Pulteq clones into good conversion. Not an expensive chain and it sounds pro. Obviously you need to be able to sing and you want to record in a space that has some kind of treatment, not a plain room.

[@CreativeSauce]

Honestly, that's all good gear!

[@michaelkeene5950]

SM57’s and SM58’s do actually have other differences besides the windscreen. They have different transformers. The 57’s frequency range goes down to 40hz whereas the 58 cuts off at 5hz. The frequency curve is also different with the 57 having a cut starting at 200hz and the 58 cut starting at 100hz. The 57 also had a 10 ohms higher output than the 58. Something about the difference in the windscreens make the 57 more unidirectional than the 58. Small differences, but not exactly the same.

[@Hue_Nery]

I would like to know where this info can be found because according to Shure, the differences are the grill and a frequency bump at 5kHz. That's all.

[@socialite1283]

What mic did you use for making this vid?

[@resslerartstudios]

I love'my akgc414...but the SM57 can do anything!!!

[@BurninSven1]

All you need is a cheap big membrane condencer usb mic from gear4music end of story. The neuman u87 is good I tried it but so are many mics today.

[@wrongbeach35]

Your video just made me buy a Neumann u87 ai

[@mohammedabduljabbar-kg4wp]

You forgot to mention that a high end microphone recording aplified by a high quality preamp can make the source sit better in the mix!

[@COSTANtheCOSTY]

mixing songs recorded with a NT1A i always find it to be incredibly harsh. It's not that it can't sound good, but in order to keep the sound "detailed" the way i like it i've had to resort back to the weiss mastering deesser, which ofc sounds great but also annihilates my CPU (compared to something a little more "musical" like the SPL one by plugin alliance). A cheaper more "fake top end" sounding mic might not necessarily be the better option (especially when it comes to internal resonances when singing off-axis) but most times produces less of an ear piercing sound which is not as difficult to make sound good

[@danylatulippe]

Ribbon mics sound fantastic for some use case, but one thing to remember: NEVER EVER send phantom power to a ribbon mic. They are usually very sensitive in this way.

[@chinmeysway]

I think you can w newer ones now daze

[@BK-bv2id]

If my chemistry teacher had explained organic chemistry the same way u explained this.. I'd have definitely passed with merits.