Quick-Access To the Best Dynamic Mics for Vocals👇

Are you creating music in a home studio? Are you thinking about starting a radio show or podcast… Or even performing live with your band?

Your vocal is the focal point of every home recording. It is the message in your podcast and the connection to the audience at a live gig. Show your voice the respect it deserves and present it with the perfect dynamic mic!

Regardless of your budget, this article will have the ideal dynamic mic for you! This list is compiled from extensive research and organized into categories to help you on your way.

From budget to top picks, and USB’s to XLR’s… you’ll find your perfect match in this post.

If you really want to help your audience and build your fan base, it’s time to take the next step by adding a mic upgrade to your armory.

In fact, upgrading your mic is probably the single biggest way to level-up the quality of your production.

Let’s take a look at the best dynamic microphone for vocals.

Shure SM7B

Expect smooth and spotless vocals with the SM7B. Used by many professional and well-known podcasters, this mic brings true professionalism to the table.

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The Shure SM7B is our top pick on the list. It is definitely a mid-to-high level mic where price is concerned, but it is worth every penny. It is as clean as a whistle, and the emphasized mid-range delivers vocals with pristine clarity

The Top 11 Dynamic Microphones For Vocals

Top Pick: Shure SM7B

Shure SM7B

Expect smooth and spotless vocals with the SM7B. Used by many professional and well-known podcasters, this mic brings true professionalism to the table.

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The Shure SM7B takes vocals very seriously… and with a huge reputation, it lives up to the hype.

It sports a rugged build for ultimate reliability. Podcasters who buy this mic tend to stick with it forever, because it’s pretty tough to find an upgrade that’s better.

A telltale sign of amateur recordings is background noise tarnishing the audio.

But thankfully, this won’t be an issue with the SM7B.

With an improved rejection of electromagnetic hum and an internal shock mount, this mic has the potential to create super-clear recordings.

It also boasts a built-in pop filter to help filter out plosives and ‘pops’ from the vocals.

Its tight cardioid polar pattern isolates the voice even in the harshest of rooms. The frequency response has slick bass roll-off and some coloration in the presence frequencies to provide the ultimate singing microphone.

When Michael Jackson stepped into the recording booth to record ‘Billie Jean’ he was faced with the SM7B’s older brother, the Shure SM7… an accolade that speaks for itself.

With a seriously high production budget, the SM7B was used to capture one of the most iconic vocal takes of all time.

For recording vocals, voice-overs, podcasts and in fact… any recording of the voice, the Shure SM7B is an icon. Rest assured, this mic will take you to the next level.

Shure SM7B Key Features:

• Built-in pop filter
• Internal shock mount
• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 20,000 Hz
• Bass roll of and mid-range frequency boost
• Works best when used with the Cloudlifter CL-1 box

Best Budget: Behringer XM8500

Behringer XM8500

We love the price of the XM8500! Performance and recording mics need not break the bank, and this dynamic mic will offer all the qualities you need to get started with live shows or recording.

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You’re determined to improve your live performance by acquiring a dynamic mic. Or you’re ready to embellish your studio with a dynamic microphone for recording.

Well, don’t let high prices get you down. The Behringer XM8500 delivers a ton of quality for the cost!

Dynamic mics have never been so affordable thanks to Behringer. However, the price is not the only notable feature of this microphone.

Let’s have a look….. Firstly, the cardioid polar pattern offers excellent source separation, and is great at feedback rejection.

Pops, clicks and breath noises are concealed with a clever two-stage pop filter. An internal shock isolation system effectively reduces handling noise, ensuring that your performance takes center stage.

And if you need further convincing, the XM8500 comes with a 10-foot XLR cable to further its value for the money.

Of course… more expensive dynamic mics will offer improved sound quality. However, this mic’s frequency range matches more expensive competitors, and you can expect an accurate capture.

You will struggle to find a better dynamic microphone for the price than the Behringer XM8500!

Behringer XM8500 Key Features:

• Two-stage pop filter
• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• An internal shock isolation system
• Microphone stand adapter included
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 15,000 Hz

Runner Up: Electro Voice RE-20

Electro Voice RE-20

Designed for the voice, the RE-20 is a top of the range mic, capable of delivering your broadcasts with clarity and high quality. The RE-20 could take your podcasts to the places you've dreamed of.

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The Electro Voice RE-20 is manufactured with precision in mind. Offering true professional quality with a rugged construction, it packs in everything you would expect a top-level dynamic mic to include.

Reliability is covered with a rugged steel casing. You also get an internal shock mount to help reduce vibration-induced noise.

The inner workings of the RE-20 are actually pretty fascinating as well. The heavy-duty internal pop filter is catered for reduction of the proximity effect, whilst the Variable-D design helps it to excel for close-in vocal work.

This mic is used for some of the most decorated radio shows, podcasts, and voice-overs. If you’re starting a podcast, it will immediately set you apart from the crowd. Frankly speaking….. it is as good as it gets.

Other features include voice-tailored frequency response, a large diaphragm, a humbucking coil, a bass roll-off switch, and a studio performance that actually mimics that of a condenser.

The Electro Voice RE-20 is a classic. It will engage your audience with the finest of detail in your voice whilst capturing minimal background noise….. leaving your words to be the focus of the show!

Electro Voice RE-20 Key Features:

• XLR Connector
• Built-in pop filter
• Internal shock mount
• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Frequency Response: 45 Hz-18,000 Hz

Best Under $200: Rode Podmic

Rode Podmic

The Rode Podmic brings you broadcast quality audio for under $200. This great-sounding mic will please your listeners and help you to grow and help your fan base with its accomplished sound.

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The Rode Podmic is specifically designed for speech and broadcast. This dynamic microphone will capture speech in such a way that it is sure to captivate and engage with the listener.

So how does it do this?

Unfortunately, we don’t all have the privilege of broadcasting in an acoustically treated studio setting. This dynamic mic caters to your needs when broadcasting in imperfectly acoustic rooms. Superior peripheral noise-canceling makes your voice the focal point… whatever the surroundings may be.

An all-metal body with a ceramic finish ensures that the Podmic will be well protected, so it will help you to sound your best for years to come. The internal pop filter combats plosives expertly to clean the audio further.

But let’s talk about features for a moment.

This mic contains a broadcast-quality dynamic capsule that is optimized for speech applications.

It requires no phantom power, of course… and it also gives you a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz. This basically means that it is capable of capturing virtually every frequency of the human voice without a problem.

It looks sleek, it sounds rich, and it is built like a tank. It really ticks all the boxes.

The Rode Podmic provides studio-level quality at a price that even new musicians, producers, or podcasters can afford.

Rode Podmic Key Features:

• Internal pop filter
• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Designed for speech applications
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz
• Optimized for use with RodeCaster Proconsole

Best Under $100: Shure SM58

Shure SM58

This Shure dynamic mic is tailored for smooth and silky vocals. Appearing on stages around the world, the 58 will give you premium tech at a very reasonable price.

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Why fix something that isn’t broken? Launched in 1966, the basic design of the Shure SM58 hasn’t changed since.

I have personally been using this mic for years… and as many others who have used it will tell you, the Shure SM58 is standard-issue equipment for the working class musician.

I’ve set these up in front of guitar cabinets, used them for live vocals, used them to record vocals in the studio, used them for podcasting/YouTube… I’ve even used it to mic an acoustic guitar!

If you’re a vocalist on a budget, the Shure SM58 is an ideal solution. A professional, durable dynamic microphone for singing or spoken word.

Shure Shure SM58 Key Features:

• Built-in pop filter
• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Built-in shock mount system
• Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 15,000 Hz

Best USB: Samson Q2U

Samson Q2U

If you want versatility from a dynamic mic, the Samson Q2U is ideal for all uses.

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Offering both USB and XLR connections, the possibilities are endless. Whether it be connecting to a laptop computer, audio interface, mixing desk, or PA system, most users find that this mic fits into almost any type of situation.

Musical recording, podcast broadcast, and live performance are all easily achievable with the Q2U.

The cardioid dynamic pickup captures sounds directly from the front of the mic, with great rejection to the sides and rear.

The Samson Q2U is the ultimate starter pack for recording and podcasting. Included is a desktop stand, a pop filter, and both USB and XLR cables. As long as you have a computer, this purchase will have you recording immediately.

Samson Q2U Key Features:

• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• XLR and USB output connection
• Headphone connector 1/8″ / 3.5 mm
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 15,000 Hz
• Includes a desktop stand with mic clip, a pop-filter and USB and XLR cables

Best for Live Vocals: Sennheiser e945

Sennheiser e945

The e945 is the pinnacle of dynamic mics for live vocals. It is rugged, reliable, sports a supercardioid pickup pattern, and also boasts a neodymium ferrous magnet to keep it stable in any environment.

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Stepping on stage can be daunting. You need confidence in your equipment so you can focus on what is important… your performance. The Sennheiser e945 has your back!

Let’s start with the build. It features an all-metal construction ensuring it is rugged and reliable. But it also ships with a 10-year warranty, giving you even more protection… which is awesome.

It features a super-cardioid pickup pattern. This narrower pattern provides excellent rejection from other on-stage instruments, and helps you to focus-in specifically on where the mic is pointed.

If your performance is energetic and you prefer holding your mic, the e 945 is designed to help you out. The capsule is shock-mounted to reduce handling noise.

Seinnheiser has an illustrious reputation for creating live microphones. The Sennheiser e945 lives up to all reputation. In our opinion… this is the quintessential dynamic microphone for vocals.

Sennheiser e945 Key Features:

• 10-year warranty
• Shock-mounted capsule
• Supercardioid Pickup Pattern
• Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz – 18,000 Hz

Best Wireless Dynamic Mic: Shure BLX24/PG58

Shure BLX24/PG58

You can truly own the stage with this wireless mic kit. It offers a great range without compromising on sound quality.

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Tired of wires restricting your performance? The Shure PG58 is the complete wireless dynamic microphone to enhance your stage presence.

This specific bundle includes the Shure PG58 wireless dynamic microphone, and the BLX24 Wireless System… giving you everything you need to take your wireless game to the professional level.

The PG58 offers everything you expect from a Shure dynamic microphone….. The highest sound quality and reliability.

The bundle is easy to set up with the one-touch ‘QuickScan’ feature. This is particularly important in those stressful moments when setting up the stage on a strict time limit.

The frequency response is tailored for vocals, ensuring that your singing will punch through the mix and sound awesome.

If you’re contemplating enhancing your stage presence by investing in a wireless microphone, the Shure BLX24/PG58 may be the one for you. With a 300 foot range, you will be left to do what you do best….. wow the audience.

Other features include a power and battery status LED, XLR and ¼” output connectors, and the trusted rugged and reliable Shure construction that so many have come to trust and rely on.

You will need 2 AA batteries to power the mic. But aside from that, this bundle gives you everything that you’ll need to get the job done.

Shure BLX24/PG58 Handheld Wireless System Key Features:

• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Microphone Clip Included
• Tailored Frequency Response
• Easy pairing with ‘QuickScan’ frequency feature

Other Microphones We Reviewed

The selections above are the industry-best… but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some other awesome options for those of you looking for dynamic microphones.

These were the ‘runners up’ to our top favorites.

Shure SM7B

Expect smooth and spotless vocals with the SM7B. Used by many professional and well-known podcasters, this mic brings true professionalism to the table.

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Audio Technica ATR2100

The ATR2100 frequency response is smooth, making it ideal for capturing voice.

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Podcasting, home studio recording, voice-over and on stage use are also made easier with both USB and XLR connections. Included with the purchase are a desktop stand and both USB and XLR cables to get you started with your podcasting within a flash!

ATR2100 Key Features:

• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Can be used with USB or XLR
• Built-in headphone jack for monitoring
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 15,000 Hz

AKG D5

Considering the price of the AKG D5, it offers clean and crisp singing and speech reproduction.

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The Shure SM57 is an industry standard dynamic microphone. It is a mainstay in the music business, and will be for years to come.

Combating the harshest of sound pressure levels, it is perfect for clean instrument reproduction. But it is also awesome for capturing vocals as well.

If you require crisp and clean reproduction, the Shure SM57 is bound to improve your studio.

Shure SM57 Key Features:

• Cardioid Pickup Pattern
• Contoured Frequency Response
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz – 15,000 Hz
• Speeches at the White House are delivered through the SM57.

AKG D5

Considering the price of the AKG D5, it offers clean and crisp singing and speech reproduction.

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It will also add clarity to your home recordings or podcasts. It delivers exactly what you need from a dynamic microphone.

AKG D5 Key Features:

• Built in pop filter
• Supercardioid Pickup Pattern
• Frequency Response : 70 Hz – 20,000 Hz

Who Should Buy A Vocal Microphone?

Shure SM7B

Expect smooth and spotless vocals with the SM7B. Used by many professional and well-known podcasters, this mic brings true professionalism to the table.

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If you plan to start a podcast, radio show, or YouTube channel, you will need a vocal microphone. Similarly, if you’re setting up a home studio or performing live, you should be ready to invest in your talent.

There are already microphones in laptops and phones, and live venues may have ‘house’ equipment. However, investing in a microphone is about owning your talent and ensuring it is delivered with quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best recording mic?

Both condenser and dynamic microphones can be used for recording. It is false to think that high-quality vocals can only be recorded on condenser microphones.

Neither is better than the other. The key is to find which is best suited for you.

With its elimination of background noise and ability to capture true and crisp audio, we highly recommend the Shure SM7B for home studio and podcast needs. It has a track record of recording vocals to the highest quality.

What are the best wireless microphone systems?

Wireless systems can cost a fortune. Considering the affordability of the Shure BLX24/PG58, our research suggests that it is the best wireless system.

It ticks all the boxes. A great reach, superior sound quality, and a reasonable price to get you started using wireless technology at your shows.

What is a dynamic mic?

Dynamic mics are known for their durability, especially when compared to their condenser counterparts. Using electromagnetism, dynamic mics convert sounds into electrical signals.

Attached to the rear of a membrane is a moving coil surrounded by a magnet. When sound waves hit the microphone, the membrane moves along with the coil in sequence to the sound source.

The coils’ movement induces a small signal voltage converting the sound into an electrical signal.

Conclusion

Choosing the best dynamic microphone for vocals can be somewhat of a challenge. There are so many mics to search through!

In our opinion, the Shure SM7B is truly deserving of our top pick. Of all the mics reviewed, the SM7B will noticeably improve your home studio or podcasts.

We understand that mics aren’t cheap! If your budget is lower, the Behringer XM8500 will add quality to your production without breaking the bank. This would be an ideal starter mic to get you up and running.

In terms of live vocals, the Sennheiser e945 will improve almost any ‘house’ equipment found in smaller music venues. With 70 years of experience, Sennheiser has built the e945 with live performance in mind….. and it excels!

Which is your dynamic microphone? Add one to your toolbox and begin creating. It is time to take the next step.