In this day and age, YouTube is by far the largest platform to promote your content and have it reached by a broad audience.
But to do it successfully is not easy at all. Not only does your content have to be unique, but it also has to be quality. Those who try to make it as a singer on YouTube know this very well.
Another fact that everybody is well aware of is that you should have a good voice. But having it is nothing if it can’t be perceived well by your audience.
So a good set of equipment is crucial, namely a good microphone. Below are some of the finest, best microphones for YouTube singers, with additional info and tips.
#1. Rode NT1-A
The Rode NT1-A is a product with a high reputation among singers who commit to their crafts.
Its sound is crisp and has an incredible pickup pattern that allows for a versatile singing style to flourish. Moreover, it’s embedded with a self-noise level of 5dbA, making it a superb option for home studios or records.
The mic has a flat frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, which allows for a wide range of configurations and noise reductions.
Comes with the microphone is a studio-grade pop shield and shock mount, making great additions to your repertoire.
How to use:
It’s effortless to use the microphone. There’s a gold dot on the face of the NT1-A, which indicates the cardioid pattern’s front and pickup area. Make sure that you have it facing the sound source you wish to record.
It would be best if you used the supplied pop shield attachment for all vocal recordings. Since moisture on the capsule can cause condenser microphone problems, the pop shield will provide extra protection and reduce it. Placement of the mic and pop shield can be varied depending on the room acoustics or vocal style.
Results:
Rode NT1-A is a cardioid condenser microphone, mostly known for its fantastic audio quality and sensitivity.
Due to its low noise, excellent pickup pattern, and minimal distortion capabilities, among many others, Rode NT1-A seems the best mic for singing on YouTube.
Pros
- Low noise, excellent pickup pattern
- High SPL of 137dB
- 10-year extended warranty
- Dynamic, wide range
- Pop shield and shock mount included
Cons
- Not a high-end microphone
- Has some durability issues
- Incompatible with moist environments
- Inconsistent noise issues
- Can be overly sensitive
#2. AKG Project Studio P220
Another cardioid condenser microphone, and this time it’s the AKG Pro P220 from the famous AKG.
The P220 is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone with a 1-inch true condenser capsule with a cardioid polar pattern used to reduce unwanted ambient sound from other sides and the back.
Additionally, a low-cut filter at 300Hz is also featured to allow you to cut unwanted low end from your sources, while its selectable -20 dB pad enables the mic to handle SPLs up to 155db.
Also included are a spider shock mount and aluminum carry case to increase the durability further.
How to use:
The AKG Project Studio P220 requires the use of phantom power, an audio interface such as the popular Scarlett 2i2, or any other recorder which supplies phantom power over XLR.
This bundle comes with a pop filter and an extra XLR-XLR cable for more comfortable usage.
It is very well packaged and has its box to keep it in. Although not connecting directly to a laptop, you can use an audio interface or audio mixer, recommended with a USB connection to aid.
Results:
The microphone is an advanced, quality professional microphone designed for handling high sound pressure levels and delivering the clarity needed for recording the best music mixes.
There’s no doubt that this is one of the best microphones for YouTube singers.
Pros
- 1” True Condenser Capsule
- Cardioid polar pattern
- -20db pad
- Low-cut filter at 300Hz
- 155dB maximum SPL
- Extra XLR-XLR cable
- Includes a spider shock mount, carry case, and a pop filter
Cons
- Package deliveries can be incomplete
- Can be quite tricky to install and use properly
- Can’t connect to laptops
#3. Audio-Technica AT2020
World-famous for producing cost-effective, high-quality audio equipment, needless to say, any product from the brand Audio-Technica is trustworthy.
However, the Audio-Technica AT2020 still stands out among the rest as one of the absolute best microphones.
The microphone has high-SPL handling and wide dynamic range, which allow for unmatched versatility. The cardioid polar pattern helps reduce pickups of sounds from the sides and rear for superior isolation.
What’s unique about the mic is that it’s also custom-engineered to provide extended frequency and outstanding transient response.
How to use:
This microphone requires 48V phantom power for proper operation. All mic cables must be wired consistently. Note beforehand the Audio-Technica emblem on the front and position it to face the sound source for direct recording.
The cable must be secured to the mic stand or boom, and a slack loop must be left at the mic to ensure the most effective shock isolation and reduce the possibility of pulling the mic out of its mount accidentally.
Results:
The AT2020 is an excellent mic with high-quality construction and many features that leave competitors drooling.
It stands on the higher-end side of microphones and certainly can justify its price. This might just be the one microphone to accompany your YouTube singing career.
Pros
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range
- Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm
- Rugged design for durability
- Threaded stand mount for easy placement
Cons
- Inconsistent volume
- Doesn’t pick up sounds as well
- Difficult installation
- Can be staticky
- Issues connecting to the PC
#4. Stellar X2
Most low-cost condenser microphones have a noticeable harsh and bright tone that makes them hard to sit in a mix, causing fatigue over time.
The Stellar X2 however, is different in that its capsules have a K67 style and are carefully hand-tuned and made with pure brass and high precision machinery for good sensitivity.
Stellar X2 comes with custom-designed transformer-less JFET circuits, which utilize gold traces for high conductivity and better performance.
Also include accessories such as an aluminum flight case, a spring shock mount, a foam wind cover, and a leather pouch.
How to use:
To use the Stellar X2 for a computer, it’s required that you use an additional audio interface with 48V.
The package does not come with either cables or 48V phantom power supply so you need to get them, however, they’re quite cheap so it’s quite easy to get it all ready and working in no time.
The microphone has a low noise floor which makes it a right mic for voiceover work or for recording vocalizations or other types of singing.
You will need a pop filter for voice and singing, but for instruments and cabs, it isn’t required.
Results:
Stellar X2 is an excellent sounding microphone with quality construction and a fair price, a decisive advantage over its competitors.
It’s widely praised for both voiceover work and other music vocal applications, which warrant its position as one of the best mics for singing on YouTube.
Pros
- Good price
- K67-styled durable capsules
- Custom-designed transformer-less JFET circuits
- Tons of gain with very low noise
- Balanced and neutral frequency response
Cons
- Requires an additional 48V phantom power
- Needs a pop filter
- Has durability issues
- Can be staticky
#5. AKG Pro Audio C214
If you’ve already acquainted yourself with AKG, you might have already heard of the C414, a legend. The C214 is similar to the C414 but more affordable and improved.
It has an outstanding dynamic range and ultra-low noise for close-up recording of up to a 156dB SPL.
It also has a switchable 20dB attenuation pad for loud recordings and comes with an H85 universal shock mount and a robust metal carrying case for storage and transportation.
How to use:
The mic has a roadworthy design with an all-metal die-cast body to withstand usage in all environments. As it is a condenser mic, it requires phantom power to function, and you need to buy an additional XLR cable.
The mic will raise high frequencies so that it will be suitable for mid-range vocals and louder sounds, but for vocal ranges in the low frequencies, it can be relatively inefficient.
Results:
The price for this mic is steep. That said, you have the willingness and money to spend, it will pay off due to its robust construction and high durability with many features offered.
It is modeled and tweaked after C414, so you can rest assured that what you get will be quality.
Pros
- Outstanding dynamic range and low noise
- High SPL of 156dB
- Switchable 20dB attenuator pad
- Integrated suspension
- Durable, roadworthy design
Cons
- Deliveries can be faulty
- Fragile microphone mount
- Can sound harsh, not clear for vocals
- Loose rear shielding
#6. AKG Pro Audio P420
The AKG Pro Audio P420 features the unique, distinct legendary AKG sound quality and a dual-element design that accommodates cardioid, Omni, and figure-8 patterns, which allow you to tweak until you have the perfect setting for you.
The package also comes included with a shock mount and a metal case for extra durability. It’s also additionally equipped with a -20dB pad and a bass-cut filter switch to allow easy removal of unwanted noise or low frequencies.
How to use:
The box doesn’t come with any cable, so you need an audio interface that supports XLR devices and connections.
Since this is a condenser microphone, an audio interface that can help phantom power is required.
The mic has a very stable bottom end similar to that of a ribbon mic, so it can be very useful for recording neutral, warm, and possibly deep vocals.
But due to the ability to change the patterns, the mic should work immensely well for other types of singing, too, including groups.
Results:
Very versatile and well-built, AKG Pro Audio P420 is one of the best microphones for singing on YouTube that anyone could ask for.
The price is reasonable while the quality is excellent and expresses AKG’s high standards for music recording instruments.
Pros
- Versatile, selectable polar patterns
- Low noise and high dynamic range
- Switchable attenuation pad for SPL applications up to 155db
Cons
- Can have sensitivity issues
- Deliveries are not up to standard
- Durability issues
- Need more additional parts to get it working
#7. Samson C01
Samson C01 is a multi-purpose studio condenser with a large dual-layer 19mm microphone to offer a wide dynamic range and a smooth, natural frequency response for warm bass tones, accurate midrange, and extended top end.
It also features a cardioid polar pattern with excellent off-axis rejection.
Samson C01 is possibly the mic with the most robust construction on the list. It has a rugged design and includes a massive gauge mesh grille and gold-plated XLR connector.
A swivel mount that is compatible with any standard mic stand is also included for extra versatility.
How to use:
The C01 requires a phantom power supply from either a studio mixer or a phantom power supply box. To use this microphone with a laptop or a smartphone, you will need an audio interface.
The LED indicates 48V phantom power, so you can be notified whenever the mic is ready and working.
Note the hyper-cardioid pattern and position the mic correctly so that it allows you to pick up more of the sounds you want and less of the sounds you don’t want.
Results:
Samson’s C01 has all the performance features that you demand from a large-diaphragm studio condenser microphone.
A mic that captures accurate, detailed, and smooth audio with warm bass tones and extended top end, C01 is the perfect solution for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, or an overhead drum mic.
Pros
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Large, dual-layer 19mm diaphragm
- Heavy-gauge mesh grill
- Gold-plated XLR connector
- LED indicates 48V phantom power
- Smooth, flat frequency response
Cons
- Can be staticky
- Noise issues
- Heavier set than others
- Can require a specific vocal style to record well
#8. Blue Spark SL
The Blue Spark SL brings the legendary Blue studio sound and versatility to the recording.
It has a custom-designed cardioid condenser capsule that excels at capturing the most creative moments. It also includes a high-pass filter and a -20dB pad for ultimate versatility.
The mic works great with home studio USB audio interfaces and can deliver transparent sound with superb details and rich harmonic content.
A wooden storage box and a custom shock mount for extra durability also come with the package.
How to use:
As the Spark XL is an XLR microphone, it can’t connect directly to a computer, so it’s required that you use a proper interface or a mixer that is compatible with your device to use the mic with it. A pre-amp or mixer that supplies phantom power is recommended.
Spark SL comes with a custom shock mount, but a stand or boom arm does not and can be purchased separately depending on your purposes.
Results:
While known most for its extreme versatility in recording, Blue Spark SL is more than just that: it is made with care and can be your designated mic for a long time while retaining peak usage.
For these reasons, it absolutely can be said as among the best microphones for YouTube singers.
Pros
- Cardioid polar pattern
- High-pass filter and -20dB pad
- Custom-designed capsule with JFET design
- Frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz
Cons
- Durability issues with the pad switches
- Relatively cheap built
- Defective deliveries
- Thin sounds
#9. Shure PGA27-LC
Tailored and designed for superior reproduction, the PGA27 microphone from Shure features a large cardioid diaphragm, highly durable design, construction, and a high SPL threshold for capturing a wide variety of vocal, acoustic, and amplified sources.
Not only is it versatile, but it’s also durable while looking slick and clean, with updated industrial design, black metallic finish, and grille for unobtrusive visual presence that aligns with high durability.
A shock mount is included for more stability when using and minimization of unwanted noise.
How to use:
Aim the microphone towards the desired sound sources and away from unwanted ones for the best recording.
The Shure logo marks the front of the microphone, so this is what you should position to face your subject of recording.
This microphone is a condenser one and requires phantom power to operate and needs a balanced microphone cable.
It’s recommended that you use a USB audio interface with an XLR microphone input that provides +48V phantom ability to deliver directly to a computer.
Results:
Microphones from Shure have always delivered unmatched sound quality and durability, making them essential for stage performance and studio recording worldwide, with PGA27 as the latest proof of that.
If there’s one thing any aspiring YouTube singer needs, it’s a Shure microphone.
Pros
- Updated, slick industrial design
- High-pass filter to reduce unwanted low-end signal
- -15dB switchable attenuator
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Shock mount included
Cons
- Quite expensive
- Quite tricky to get used to
- Can be too sensitive at times
#10. Behringer C-1
Behringer C-1 is a professional, large-diaphragm condenser microphone that delivers unsurpassed audio quality.
It has a cardioid pickup pattern for outstanding sound source separation and feedback rejection. Also featured is an ultra-low noise, transformerless FET input that further eliminates distortion.
C-1 is ideal as both the primary and support microphone for studio and live applications, with its rugged construction suitable for many settings.
Comes with a swivel stand mount and a transport case for portability and transportation.
How to use:
As this is a condenser mic, it’s required that you have a phantom power supply, from at least +36 to +52V. If the mic is connected to a microphone preamp and supplied with phantom power, the LED on the mic will light up.
The stand mount adapter that lets you mount the mic on mic stands can be attached and detached easily for usage with a commercially available suspension mount, offering another benefit that comes with purchasing the package.
Results:
Built to be your go-to condenser mic for years to come while having exceptional construction, the Behringer C-1 is one of the best mics for YouTube covers that you could ask for since it fulfills both the durability and quality needed.
Pros
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Pressure-gradient transducer with shock-mounted capsule
- LED indicator for phantom power operation
- Ultra-rugged construction
- FET input
Cons
- Self-noise and noise issues
- Low volume
- Bad quality mount and case
FAQs
There are several things you need to learn firsthand to get into the business of music recording.
In particular, and for the reason of this list, we will note down here a few notable questions and answers to them when it comes to microphones.
#1. What is the Best Microphone for Youtube Covers and Singing at a low price?
Most of the mics above are quite affordable. But Samson C01 might be the best one for you if you have a tighter budget while also looking for great quality. Otherwise, Behringer C-1 might also be good although it’s not as versatile as the C01 and thus might not satisfy your needs, especially for recording covers and singing.
#2. Can you plug a condenser mic into a computer?
Yes but it’s a more complicated process than with a dynamic mic. You will need a mixer to provide phantom power and keep the condenser running as needed.
You will also need a good sound card that can also support a ¼ inch jack.
#3. Is a condenser mic better for vocals?
Absolutely. Condenser microphones are best used for capturing vocals due to it being able to obtain extended frequencies while keeping flat frequency responses.
Because of this, they are very useful for long recording sessions such as during music recording. Their detail and accuracy are outstanding, with the thin diaphragm able to pick up delicate sounds such as vocals.
#4. Can I use a condenser mic live?
Despite most often being found in studios, they work quite well in live sound environments as well.
Due to the wide range of frequencies that they can absorb and notice, they are great for frequency transients like cymbals and drums.
Although the large-diaphragm condensers might not work so well because they’d be too sensitive.
#5. What do you need for a condenser mic?
Condenser mics are quite complex and thus you need to take note of several things before using them.
First, you will need to get power from an external source to supply phantom power by connecting the mics to mixers or others using XLR cables.
Second, the durability of condenser mics are quite inconsistent so you need to be careful with them.
#6. Can you use a condenser mic without phantom power?
You can, but this is not recommended because it might cause a lot of problems when using a condenser without phantom power.
Because of the way they work, their output is very high impedance and thus requires a powered, external circuit to reduce it.
#7. Is a USB microphone good for recording vocals?
USB mics come in a wide variety of styles and formats, but generally speaking handheld ones are great for recording vocals and interviews than other types.
They aren’t quite at the professional level of condensers yet but they’re getting better, especially if you like something more portable.
Conclusion
As with almost anything, one has to see it to believe it. In this case, one has to listen to it.
That being said, the names provided in this list will certainly give you something to think about: they are all high quality, revered, well-liked and above all, have successfully delivered on their promises from time to time.
There’s not a bad choice here when it comes to the best microphones for YouTube singers.
Thank you for reading.
