The 4 Best Acoustic Guitar Microphones
If you are looking to record your acoustic guitar sessions, you probably know that there are many microphones available for this purpose. However, there are some with which you can get more out of your sound. Let's take a look at the 4 best acoustic guitar microphones you can get on the market.
- Comparison Chart for the Best Acoustic Guitar Microphones
- 1.- MXL 990 Microphones
- Buying Guide for the MXL 990 Acoustic Guitar Microphones
- 2.- MXL 770 Microphones
- Buying Guide for the MXL 770 Acoustic Guitar Microphones
- 3.- AKG P420 Microphones
- Buying Guide for the AKG P420 Acoustic Guitar Microphones
- 4.- Shure SM81-LC Microphones
- Buying Guide For the Shure SM81-LC Acoustic Guitar Microphones
- Important points that I should know before buying an acoustic guitar microphone of any make or model
- Which Acoustic Guitar Microphone Should I Buy?
- Conclusion
- Comparison Chart for the Best Acoustic Guitar Microphones
Comparison Chart for the Best Acoustic Guitar Microphones
1.- MXL 990 Microphones
Overall, the MXL 990 condenser microphone is a really good model to record any instrument. But when we get down to the details, it's one of the best mics out there for recording acoustic guitars.
Its classic design, generic finish, and low-price tag make it easy to dismiss, but the 990 is a respectable choice for an inexpensive setup. You wouldn't buy it to do a serious studio session, but it deserves consideration if you are a hobbyist or an artist looking for a simple and straightforward solution that works well.
Most modern condenser microphones, like the MXL 990, use gold plated Mylar diaphragms to achieve the highest fidelity and dynamic range.
Buying Guide for the MXL 990 Acoustic Guitar Microphones
The MXL 990 condenser microphone is ideal if you are a beginner and on a tight budget.
Price-quality ratio
Its price is really the most attractive thing. This aspect compared to the quality of its sound, makes it feel that it is cheaper than the value provided.
Highlighting Features
The MXL 990 is somewhat unique, as there simply are not many comparable condenser microphones in its price range. This is especially true when you consider that it is available in so many different configurations. Most budget condenser microphones suitable for hobby or professional audio work are outside the typical MXL price range.
Technical specifications
Where to buy the MXL 990 Acoustic Guitar Microphones?
We got these MXL 990 Acoustic Guitar Microphones in Amazon.com
- Micrófono condensador, rango de frecuencia: 30 Hz – 20 kHz, jueces características: riñón
- grenzschall ruido: 130 dB, cápsula de impresión: 6 micron goldbedampft, sensibilidad: 15 mV/Pa
- Impedancia: 200 ohmios, señal/ruido: 80 dB, nivel de ruido: 20 dB, llano Voltaje: 48 voltios
- Color: champán, accesorios, incluye: Micrófono araña (90), Maletín de transporte de MXL (negro)
2.- MXL 770 Microphones
MXL is a famous brand for manufacturing the latest generation microphones. It is preferred by audiophiles and audio professionals worldwide. MXL is also known for manufacturing products that have an excellent price / performance ratio.
The MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is yet another amazing MXL microphone and comes with the price-performance ratio that MXL is famous for.
The MXL 770 is easy to use for both beginners and professionals. This robust small-diaphragm studio condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern is ideal for both single and multiple voice recordings. While it is an excellent choice for voice recording, the 770 is also good for capturing instruments such as guitars, pianos, or brass. MXL brings affordability and quality to the 770 and is internally wired with Mogami cable.
Buying Guide for the MXL 770 Acoustic Guitar Microphones
The MXL 770 cardioid condenser microphone is without a doubt a high-quality microphone. Without a doubt, it is an essential tool for any aspiring musician or even a professional. It is one of the best microphones for recording acoustic guitars and even the smallest ukulele. The low price of this microphone is also unbeatable.
Price-quality ratio
The quality of an audio recording largely depends on the microphone used. With the variety of microphones available today, choosing the right one can be complicated. Not all are the same and some may cost way too much money. If you want high quality but don't want to run out of funds, then the MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a great choice. This is a very affordable choice.
Highlighting Features
This switchable multi-pattern condenser microphone is a versatile microphone that allows you to record crystal-clear audio, be it vocals or instruments. It has a simple design and a very robust construction. It also comes with a shock mount, pop filter, XLR cable, and cleaning cloth that will come in handy.
Technical specifications
Where to buy the MXL 770 Acoustic Guitar Microphones?
We got the MXL 770 Microphones for Acoustic Guitar in Amazon.com
- Con diafragma pequeño, cálido sonido con una claridad adicional en el extremo superior
- Utiliza un preamplificador FET de alta calidad con salida balanceada para un amplio rango dinámico
- Excelente para las voces, pianos y cuerdas
- Ideal para la grabación de hip-hop y el rock duro
3.- AKG P420 Microphones
This is a condenser microphone, so the sound quality you get is very good. It is considered the gold standard among affordable condenser microphones. The AKG P420 high-performance dual-capsule condenser microphone comes with three different polar patterns so you can record even the smallest detail.
Generally, AKG manages to offer some impressive models in all price ranges. Its dual-diaphragm P420 is a large condenser microphone that costs less than other models, although it looks suspiciously similar to the lower-priced P220.
The P420 looks like a common condenser microphone, nothing special, but it’s quite attractive. The grid makes up half the length of the microphone and is divided into three segments. Please note that the P420 features a lateral steering design, combined with a superior steering that is common in this market segment.
The P420's frequency response range ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz. It also comes with switches for a -20dB pad and a low cut filter, with the latter allowing you to cut -12dB at 300Hz, increasing the versatility of this microphone. The attenuation pad allows you to use the microphone for applications where high SPL is expected.
In fact, you can push this microphone up to a considerable 155dB SPL by simply pressing the switch. In addition to the microphone itself, you'll find an attractive aluminum case along with a very decent damper.
This microphone can be used for almost any application. It takes the voice very well, with a lot of warmth and clarity, while the recording of instruments is very easy.
Buying Guide for the AKG P420 Acoustic Guitar Microphones
It's really hard to find a flaw in this high-performance AKG P420 dual-capsule condenser microphone. You can buy it for a fairly low price, which makes it a real bargain.
Price-quality ratio
AKG has used quality materials for the all-metal chassis, with a weight that inspires confidence and a matte black finish. It feels like a microphone that should cost more than its price. Great value for money.
Highlighting Features
One of the main attractions of the P420 is its dual-diaphragm design, with a large one-inch diaphragm. Other than enhanced detail and clarity, this also means you get more than one polar pattern, with a choice of three in all: standard cardioid, omnidirectional, or figure eight.
The three polar pattern options offer more flexibility when recording room sounds or wide sound sources. Ultimately, this is a microphone that doesn't mind working hard. On top of that, it is extremely flat and there is almost no color added to what you are recording. Considering the relatively affordable price tag, this gives it great value.
Technical specifications
Where to buy the AKG P420 Acoustic Guitar Microphones?
If you haven't guessed yet in this review, the AKG P420 is a winner. We got these AKG P420 Acoustic Guitar Microphones at Amazon.com
- Micrófono AKG PERCEPTION-420 profesional de uso general
- Condensador de doble diafragma de una pulgada
- Cuerpo metálico robusto con rejilla de acero
- Patrón conmutable: Cardioide omnidireccional y figura octogonal
- Filtro de bajos conmutable
4.- Shure SM81-LC Microphones
This microphone is specially designed to record different instruments. With Shure's legendary audio quality, you can be sure this is one of the best microphones on the market.
The Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone is the product of choice for audio professionals around the world. With its design, frequency response, and even polar pattern, you know you're getting great quality. It gives you more control and depth with your recordings.
It is mainly used in studios for recording guitars, pianos, and cymbals, but is also suitable for a wide range of different instruments. It's considered an industry standard, and while there are many condenser microphones available on the market today, few of them can match the Shure SM81-LC in terms of quality.
The SM81-LC offers excellent definition, very consistent highs, low distortion, and high quality. However, for a perfect score we would expect slightly higher voltage sensitivity and a lower price.
The Shure SM81-LC is a great choice for acoustic guitars, albeit a little expensive. It gives you stunning definition with a rich, realistic finish and stunning clarity. Microphone placement is crucial, so take your time to try it and adjust if necessary.
By aiming at or away from the hole, you can control the amount of low end you get to find the ideal balance. I think it is highly debatable that the use of bright microphones has any advantage for guitars.
Buying Guide For the Shure SM81-LC Acoustic Guitar Microphones
The Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone may not be the best for vocals, but when it comes to instrument recording, it's a very good choice; especially acoustic guitars and cymbals.
Price-quality ratio
This microphone is expensive for most beginners. However for medium and professional levels it is an excellent option.
Highlighting Features
For its price, these mics are not only great, they're almost irreplaceable. The SM81-LC has colorless highs, very negligible distortion and is comfortable with a high SPL.
Construction is solid and there's not much else to add. The microphone comes with a plastic case, a support clip and wind foam. With the foam on, you can make some recordings outdoors; however it will pick up a lot of atmosphere. Lastly, don't forget that this microphone does not have an internal shock mount and should not be manual.
Technical specifications
Where to Buy the Shure SM81-LC Acoustic Guitar Microphones?
We got these Microphones for Acoustic Guitar Shure SM81-LC in Amazon.com
- El micrófono necesita alimentación phantom y da mejores resultados con una alimentación de 48 Vdc (IEC-61938). Sin embargo, funcionará con un techo dinámico y sensibilidad levemente disminuidos con una alimentación hasta 11 Vdc. Casi todas las mesas de mezcla modernas proporcionan alimentación phantom. Debes utilizar un cable de micrófono balanceado: XLR a XLR o XLR a TRS.
- El micrófono SM81 posee una construcción sólida. Funciona con alimentación phantom y puede funcionar en una gran variedad de condiciones de temperatura y humedad. Está equipado con un adaptador giratorio para soporte de micrófono, seguro de interruptor de atenuación, paravientos de espuma y estuche para transporte y almacenamiento. Otros accesorios adicionales disponibles.
- Respuesta en frecuencia de 20 Hz a 20 kHz. Curva de respuesta plana para una reproducción precisa de las fuentes de sonido.
- Bajo nivel de ruido y alto nivel de salida sin saturar. Baja distorsión en un gran intervalo de impedancias de carga.
- Su patrón polar cardioide, uniforme en la frecuencia y simétrico en el eje, ofrece un nivel máximo de rechazo y una coloración mínima de los sonidos fuera del eje
Important points that I should know before buying an acoustic guitar microphone of any make or model
When you hit the market looking for quality acoustic guitar microphones, you'll soon see that they sell for a pretty high price. This does not mean that you cannot get a reasonably priced condenser microphone that has good sound characteristics. Do a little research before committing to a microphone, and be sure to compare features, specs, and pricing.
Set Your Budget
Microphones for acoustic guitars can be cheap or very expensive. Some of these microphones will require specific stands to hold them upright. The more you spend the better features you have. With that said, it doesn't mean you can't find a good condenser microphone at an affordable price.
Obviously, high-end microphones will be packed with more features, but the sound quality you get on budget models may be exactly what you need. If you have a small budget, it is important to consider what is most important to you and what you are willing to sacrifice.
Diaphragm Size
There are commercially available condenser microphones with a small diaphragm size and others with a large diaphragm size. It's hard to tell if one is better than the other, as it completely depends on how you want to use them.
Small diaphragm condenser microphones are really good for close-up recording. When you place the microphone very close to the instrument you want to record, it will pick up the smallest details of your recordings. They also eliminate the effect caused by studio acoustics.
On the other hand, large diaphragm microphones are also good for close-up recording, but you can also get quality recordings from them when you place them at close range. If you are looking for more depth and a natural feel in your recordings, the large diaphragm microphones are perfect for you.
Be clear about the purpose
The purpose for which you are going to use the microphone is also important. The microphones come with different polar patterns to suit different styles and applications. If you are looking for a microphone to record, the best option for you is to opt for a cardioid pickup pattern. The cardioid pattern is really good at removing unwanted sound by focusing only on the source.
The Accessories
Some condenser microphones come equipped with a large number of accessories. One thing to keep in mind is that the more accessories it offers, the higher the price of the microphone.
Accessories with which the microphone is equipped may include microphone stands, dampers, stops, etc. But you must decide which accessories are really important and what you can get without having to buy them if you are on a smaller budget. Do not go for a microphone with many accessories if you are a beginner level musician. If you want to know more about condenser microphones, click here.
Which Acoustic Guitar Microphone Should I Buy?
The AKG P420 is one of the best condenser microphones you will ever find on the market for recording acoustic guitars. Everything about the AKG P420 is perfect for recording acoustic guitars. It has a large double inch diaphragm. This microphone also comes with low noise electronics and a transformer-free output to give you a wide dynamic range. It also comes with a switchable attenuation pad that can go up to 155 dB SPL.
The AKG P420 condenser microphone is quite possibly the best microphone when it comes to recording acoustic guitars at a fairly low price.
The Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone uses a cardioid polar pattern to give you minimal coloration and maximum rejection of off-axis sounds. It also has a wide frequency response that varies from 20Hz to 20kHz, giving you maximum detail in your recordings. Low-noise, high-output trim levers also come with this microphone.
Whether you're talking about durability or sound quality, frequency response, or polar pattern, everything about the Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone makes it the perfect choice for our readers.
The MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is one of the best microphones you'll find to record acoustic guitars on a budget. It comes with a small multi-use diaphragm, which makes it really good for close-up recording. Overall, the MXL 770 cardioid condenser microphone is the best solution for you when you're looking to record acoustic guitars on a budget.
And if you are much shorter on money, but want to get quality, the MXL 990 is the one.
Conclusion
We hope we have helped you with your decision by reviewing our recommended list. In the end, your choice will depend on your own taste and the budget you have available. Our 4 recommendations are of very good quality, each in its price range. Good luck with your purchase and enjoy it.
Comparison Chart for the Best Acoustic Guitar Microphones
Última actualización el 2024-04-20 / Enlaces de afiliados / Imágenes de la API para Afiliados
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