The Best Mic for Voice Over
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Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Mic for Voice-Over
Recording voiceovers or doing voice acting is a career that requires a lot of discipline, dedication, and practice. Recording professionals and voice actors know how important it is to select the proper recording gear — interfaces, preamps, acoustic treatments, pop filters, and most importantly, a microphone. Without a proper microphone, the audio quality of your voice won’t be crisp or clear enough and will make your work sound poor.
Getting the best microphones for voiceovers will ensure that your audio will have a clean, pro-grade quality. However, people often wrongly assume that microphones for recording voiceovers are expensive. That is not necessarily true. There are numerous decent microphone options in the market that you can purchase without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll be ranking the best microphones for voiceovers. These mics were picked based on a number of factors such as sound quality, durability, features, budget, and more. Whether you’re a professional voice actor who needs to update your gear or someone who is just starting out in voice recording, this guide can hopefully help you choose the right microphone that suits you.
What is the Best Mic for Voice Overs?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall | Best Studio Quality | Best Premium |
Blue Yeti ProBlue Yeti Pro is the top choice among voice-over professionals and recording studios. It easily captures clear and crisp voice-overs and instrumentals. | Røde NT1ARøde NT1A is preferred by recording studios due to its sensitivity to capture ambient sounds yet still filter out background noises. It produces a clear sound quality that's highly regarded by sound engineers. | Neumann TLM 103Featuring a classy metal build, Neumann TLM 103 is the ultimate premium mic thanks to its capability to decrease self-noise, increase the sound pressure level handling, and aid in feedback suppression. |
Sound Quality: Design: Features: | Sound Quality: Design: Features: | Sound Quality: Design: Features: |
Let’s Go Over Each Mic for Voice Overs
#1: Blue Yeti Pro
If you’re planning on getting a voice-over microphone that consistently delivers quality recordings, picking up the Blue Yeti Pro will be one of the best decisions you’ll ever have. With a beautiful build, this affordable voiceover mic offers both USB and XLR connectivity, as well as multiple pickup pattern options, making it highly flexible and versatile.
From acoustic guitar and bass to speech and vocals, the Yeti Pro is a favorite option for many content creators worldwide. Thanks to its tiny stature, this mic can be used not only in your own home studio but also in your mobile workstation, or even when you’re on the road. Moreover, its multiple recording modes can be adjusted according to your preference.
The Yeti Pro also offers a built-in headphone amplifier for zero-latency monitoring, volume control, and microphone gain control. With these features and options, it’s not a wonder that the Yeti Pro is highly regarded as the best microphone for recording voice-over personalities.
Pros and Cons of the Blue Yeti Pro
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ USB or XLR recording capability ✔ Easy to use ✔ Zero-latency monitoring | ✖️ Can take a bit to initially configure its digital and analog modes |
#2: Røde NT1A
The Rode NT1A is a condenser microphone that’s a popular choice among voice-over talents and studio engineers from all walks of life. This utilizes a cardioid polar pattern, capturing sound only from the front. It’s capable of delivering high-quality audio with impressive dynamics.
The NT1A provides audio that’s crisp and clear, making it incredibly flattering for any type of audio source. It also has a very low self-noise and blocks off-axis sound quite easily. When used in a vocal booth, this mic delivered clarity that sparkled.
Inside, the NT1A has a JFET impedance cover that ensures the conversion of sound waves into studio-quality recordings. It requires the use of audio interfaces or phantom power as this mic is equipped with an XLR input.
While this mic will surely capture ambient sounds, fret not for it comes with its own filter that reduces noises in your recording. This cardioid condenser microphone also comes with a shock mount, cable, and dust cover in the package.
Pros and Cons of the Rode NT1A
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Has low self-noise ✔ Excellent build quality ✔ Comes with its own pop filter and shock mount | ✖️ Pricey |
#3: Neumann TLM 103
If you’re looking to level up your voice-acting game with a premium microphone, look no further because the Neumann TLM 103 might be the perfect one for you. The TLM 103 is a microphone that delivers superb sound quality for voiceovers. Moreover, it’s also considered the standard for recording solo vocals in the studio.
Unlike most music and recording gear used in the studio, the TLM 103 has a large diaphragm yet a small stature. However, don’t let its small footprint deter you as this microphone is packed with premium features. Its internal circuitry decreases self-noise, significantly increases the sound pressure level handling, and aids in feedback suppression. Additionally, Neumann made certain that the TLM 103 is truly premium as it has a rugged casing made of metal with a nickel finish for its external build.
Most people who used the TLM 103 said their voices sounded natural and clean. This cardioid condenser microphone also works efficiently against plosives and pop noises, removing harsh overtones or buzzing. The TLM 103 is a good choice for home studio recording artists, especially those who are looking for an alternative to broadcast or studio mics.
Pros and Cons of the Neumann TLM 103
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Extremely low self-noise ✔ Has a wide frequency response range ✔ Premium internal and external build quality | ✖️ Expensive |
#4: Harlan Hogan VO
The Harlan Hogan VO is one of the best microphones for voice-overs and even novice audio producers. This exceptionally pricey mic supports both USB and XLR connections. You can plug the Harlan Hogan VO into your audio interface unit at home or use it as a standalone USB mic on the road. Thanks to its dual connectivity, the Harlan Hogan VO is very convenient to have.
Designed by voiceover legend Harlan Hogan and manufactured by Marshall Electronics, this condenser mic places emphasis, quality, and attention to detail in the frequency response of the human voice. The mic delivers a deep, rich bass sound without the voice sounding muddy and also provides a silky-smooth top end without sounding harsh.
Thanks to its quality and consistency, the Harlan Hogan VO is an excellent mic for any voiceover artist of any experience level. Additionally, the Harlan Hogan VO comes with a hard case, a shock mount, XLR cable, a quick clip mount, as well as two replacement mount bands.
Pros and Cons Harlan Hogan VO
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ XLR and USB microphone ✔ Includes a head case and shock mount in the package ✔ Great for voice actors of any level | ✖️ Can be very sensitive |
#5: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is one of the most popular USB mics out there. This convenient condenser mic doesn’t need any kind of pre-amp, allowing you to plug in and start recording from your computer right away. This microphone is an upgrade of the AT2020USB mic, hence the ‘+’ (plus) in its name.
Different from a lot of USB mics in the market, the AT2020USB+ comes with a self-monitoring feature. You can just plug your headphones in the mic’s included headphone jack and hear yourself while you’re recording your voiceover performances.
It includes a built-in amplifier, allowing you to use it directly within any recording software and without having to do much post-production gain adjustment. This feature also allows you to record a variety of dynamic vocal performances without losing quality or picking up signal noise. Aside from voiceovers, the AT2020USB+ is also great to use for streaming, video calls, and beginner singers who want a solid microphone for vocals.
Pros and Cons of the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ USB connection ✔ Direct monitoring headphone jack ✔ Cardioid condenser microphone | ✖️ Has no shock mount or pop filter included |
#6: Shure SM7B
Condenser mics are often the first choice for voice-overs but there are also dynamic mics that can deliver too. One excellent dynamic microphone for voiceovers is the Shure SM7B. This mic is highly popular and is considered one of the top vocal microphones in the world.
Aside from being utilized in a vocal studio setting, this dynamic cardioid mic is also used in radio stations, home setups, and even in loud voiceover performance pieces. It delivers a rich yet neutral low-end sound, making every recording sound smoother, pleasant, and true-to-life — sometimes, even better.
The package includes a pop filter that protects against plosives and electromagnetic hums, effectively eliminating noise for narrations. Best of all, this dynamic studio recording mic has a price tag that won’t break the bank, making it an attractive option for artists and performers who need a dynamic solution while still capturing detailed sounds.
Pros and Cons of the Shure SM7B
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ All-around microphone ✔ Includes a pop filter ✔ Cardioid polar pattern | ✖️ Can be pricey |
#7: Sennheiser MKH 416
Need to record narration outdoors? Then the Sennheiser MKH 416 is the one that you should be on the lookout for. Considered as the “gold standard” by professionals, the MKH 416 is a classic directional shotgun mic that’s rugged, lightweight, and user-friendly. It’s well-loved in the film and TV industry, so much that some productions specifically request it for filming.
This microphone is equipped with feedback suppression, producing an excellent audio quality that’s clear on vocals while still capable of recording natural ambiance. It also features high directivity to capture the audio source. You can reposition the mic and target the right voice artists without sacrificing sound quality. If you need to capture overheard ambiance for specialty vocal recordings, definitely consider getting the MKH 416.
Pros and Cons of the Sennheiser MKH 416
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Suitable for outdoors and adverse climate conditions ✔ Highly directional ✔ Very low self-noise | ✖️ Pricey |
#8: Samson G-Track Pro
If convenience and power are what you want in a microphone, the Samson G-Track Pro is an excellent choice. A USB mic, the G-Track Pro comes with a built-in audio interface and has a recording resolution that’s comparable to other condenser mics. This mic ushers in a new era of recording for voice-over artists.
Some have described the G-Track Pro as a full-fledged USB audio interface tucked in the body of a condenser microphone. It’s equipped with three switchable polar patterns, a master mute button, mono/2-track recording options, a mic volume control button, and an instrument volume knob.
As a USB mic, the G-Track Pro doesn’t need any kind of preamp and is capable of direct audio recording, making it highly convenient. Aside from recording voiceovers, the G-Track Pro is also a great option for capturing guitar, bass, and keyboard lives
Pros and Cons of Samson G-Track Pro
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Zero-latency direct monitoring ✔ Equipped with numerous controls ✔ Has an integrated stand base | ✖️ Bulky and heavy |
#9: MXL 770
Condenser microphones can be rather pricey or even outright expensive. Fret not though, for there are options in the market that aren’t heavy on the pocket. One of them is the MXL 770. Despite its low price point, it definitely doesn’t skimp on quality.
The MXL 770 is armed with a FET preamp that allows the mic to capture a wide dynamic range. Aside from voiceovers, the MXL 770 also performs with instruments such as piano, strings, guitars, and the like. Its small diaphragm produces a low noise when recording, making it ideal to use in a non-acoustically treated space.
It’s also great for recording voices in close proximity. The mic is heavily praised for being very balanced and having a fantastic overall quality to price-tag ratio.
Pros and Cons of the MXL 770
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Affordable ✔ Can be used for many applications ✔ Includes a shock mount in the package | ✖️ Can be sensitive ✖️ Tends to favor high frequencies |
#10: Blue Snowball iCE
Individuals who want to dip their feet in the world of voice acting may feel apprehensive about acquiring a high-priced microphone. It’s a good thing that there are mics that offer ease of use, convenience, and solid audio quality at a budget that beginners can use. One highly-praised microphone that’s ideal for novices is the Blue Snowball iCE.
The Snowball iCE is a USB condenser mic that can improve Skype or FaceTime audio or boost sound quality for YouTube recordings and more. It provides three different polar patterns, allowing it to be used effectively for directional and omnidirectional recording. It’s very easy to set up; just plug it into your computer, let it install its drivers, and you’re good to go.
The mic is also equipped with a thumb switch, allowing you to switch polar patterns effortlessly and efficiently. Moreover, the Snowball iCE has an attractive almost retro design that makes it eye-catching enough to be displayed on camera when recording YouTube videos.
Pros and Cons of the Blue Snowball iCE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Budget-friendly ✔ Great for beginners ✔ Convenient to use | ✖️ Can be sensitive to background noise |
Two Main Types of Microphones
There are two main types of microphones: dynamic and condenser. Both types can be used to record voice-overs. While they can be used for voice recording, these two types have their unique strengths and differences. Let’s take a look at them.
Condenser Mics
Condenser mics are specifically designed for studio use. Voiceover and recording industries consider condenser mics as the standard due to their high-quality sound and can deliver lively middle and upper frequencies.
A condenser microphone has a thin diaphragm, allowing it to react quickly to very faint sound waves. This high sensitivity makes a condenser microphone excellent for capturing detailed sound.
Dynamic Mics
Most microphones fall into this type. A dynamic microphone is often used for a variety of applications, such as broadcasts, live events, interviews, outdoor recordings, and the like. Dynamic microphones are less sensitive than condenser mics, making them ideal to use in noisy rooms as they can isolate your voice and won’t pick up any background noise. Most dynamic mics produce a warm sound.
How To Choose The Best Microphone for VoiceOvers
Recording voiceovers is a serious career and passion for many individuals. However, without a good microphone, the audio quality of your voice work may come out muddy or unlistenable. To ensure that you acquire the best microphone for voice recording, here are some characteristics that you should consider.
Frequency Response and Sound Quality
The frequency response determines the range of sound that the microphone can capture. It also decides the microphone’s overall sound quality. A microphone with a large diaphragm can pick up lower frequencies such as a deep voice, while a microphone with a small diaphragm is designed to pick up higher frequencies such as a female voice.
A microphone that has a frequency response range from 85 Hz to 255 Hz is optimized for the human vocal range, making it ideal for doing voice-overs.
Polar Pattern
Also known as a pickup pattern, this determines the “active” area of the microphone. Simply put, it is the direction or angle at which a microphone is sensitive to sound. The best microphone for recording voice-overs typically has a cardioid polar pattern as it records in one order and the side sounds but not the back sounds.
Other microphone polar patterns that are used for more specific cases include subcardioid, omnidirectional, bi-directional, and shotgun.
Connection Types of Voice-Over Microphones
This is the most important factor when purchasing a microphone for voice-overs. XLR connectivity is the more traditional option but with the rise of online content creation over the years, USB connectivity has become incredibly popular.
USB Mic
If you’re on a budget and want a microphone that’s pretty much plug-and-play, then a USB microphone is the one for you. Most USB mics are condenser microphones. Many of these microphones have great sound quality. Moreover, they’re also compact and have a built-in audio interface already. Aside from recording voiceover performances, USB mics are best used for non-commercial applications, lectures, podcasts, and the like.
XLR Mic
A microphone with an XLR connection is a little more complex to use than a USB microphone. XLR mics are versatile and are more professional but they require additional gear, such as an audio interface and an XLR cable, to work.
They are available in a vast range of prices, from affordable to premium, and they have more upgrade options than mics that utilize a USB connection. They’re best used for home and professional studios, outdoor recording using a camera or portable recorders, and on-stage use.
Is a USB Mic Good for Voice Overs?
Yes, USB mics are great for voice-over work. They are portable and convenient; they don’t require the use of audio interfaces as they already have one built-in, allowing anyone to just plug them in and go. They also offer great audio quality that allows them to be at par with more professional microphones.
These mics are also compatible with a vast range of devices and are affordable. USB microphones are the perfect solution for both professionals and those who are just getting started in voice-acting work.
Do I Need a Mic for Voice Overs?
Yes, a microphone is necessary for recording voiceovers. A high-quality microphone is important for capturing clear, high-fidelity audio that will sound professional and engaging to your audience.
There are a variety of microphones available, and the best one for you will depend on your budget, the type of recording you’re doing, and your personal preferences. Some popular types of microphones for voice-over include condenser microphones, dynamic microphones, and shotgun microphones. You may also need additional equipment, such as a pop filter or a mic stand, depending on your setup.
It’s worth investing in a good microphone if you plan to do voice-overs regularly, as the quality of your audio can have a significant impact on the success of your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any alternatives to the microphones in this guide?
If any of the aforementioned microphones are not available for you to purchase, there are several mics that you acquire instead. One is the Townsend Labs Sphere L22, an analog modeling mic. It combines the dual-channel mic with an audio plug-in for a digital audio workstation application. This mic is a must-have for any professional audio engineer.
Another mic that you can look into is the Lewitt LCT 440 Pure. It’s a microphone that’s designed for recording instruments or singing vocals but it’s also great for voice-overs. It has a maximum sound pressure level of up to 140 dB and offers a rich bass response with a boost to its high-end frequencies, giving your voice tone a bright and pleasant sound.
Microphone brand Rode has two more microphones in its lineup that are excellent to use for voiceovers. The Rode Procaster is a good fit for audiobook recordings, long narrations, YouTube videos, and such. It has a built-in pop filter to minimize plosives. While it’s most optimal for voicework, it also delivers good results on guitar and bass cabinets.
Another microphone from Rode is the Rode NTK. Tube mics aren’t on most people’s radars when it comes to selecting microphones as they have a unique structure and usage. Tube microphones are built with a vacuum tube inside, hence the name, that converts sound into data. The NTK produces a warm sound that’s analog-tape quality reminiscent of the classic mic of the 1960s.
Can I use a condenser microphone without phantom power?
It is still possible to use a condenser mic without phantom power. You will need an XLR to USB preamp to use condenser microphones without phantom power. You may also use an audio interface to power your mic.
What can I use with a dynamic mic to record voiceovers and boost the signal?
Dynamic microphones, especially ribbon mics, have lower output levels than condenser mics. To be able to record voiceovers and get the very best sound from dynamic mics, you should consider getting a phantom-powered mic preamp. A level booster leverages phantom power to amplify dynamic mics by up to 25dB without channeling the power through the mic itself.
Final Note
There you have it, a guide to the best voice-over microphones in the industry. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, these microphones can aid in leveling up any voice-over project that you have.
When choosing a mic, jot down the list of essential features that need to meet your specific tasks. The most optimal mic for you is the one that can make your unique voice sound amazing.
Editor’s Choice
Blue Yeti Pro
If you’re looking for the best microphone for voiceovers, the Blue Yeti Pro has you covered. The Yeti Pro has risen up in the ranks of the best USB microphones in the market thanks to its great sound quality and ease of use. This microphone is highly flexible and versatile as it’s equipped not only with USB but XLR connectivity as well.
What makes the Blue Yeti Pro an extremely popular choice for voice recording is its multi-pattern selection. Additionally, the Yeti Pro also has a tri-capsule array, allowing you to record in any type of situation. With a price that won’t completely break the bank, the Blue Yeti Pro is a solid condenser mic that’s packed with features, making it an excellent choice for voice actors, professional or otherwise.
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