Quick-Access To The Best Voice-Over Microphones For Your Money 👇

Many people fail to realize that voiceovers are a true art form.

But like any other art form, they require a certain level of technological sophistication to do correctly.

If you are into doing this type of work, then you may be looking for the best mic for voiceovers for your budge or price range.

But if you’re like a lot of people, you may not quite know where to start, either.

There are a lot of microphones on the market. Which one should you choose?

To help you solve this problem, we’ve compiled a list of 19 of the best mics for voice over work available… and have further sifted through them to find our top 7 favorite mic options for people interested in leveling-up the quality of their recorded vocals!

Let’s dive in and find you the perfect microphone!

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B has a crisp, clear sound that you will absolutely fall in love with. This mic is a staple on professional channels… because it is literally the best in the biz!

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The Shure SM7B is one of the most well-known microphones in public circles. You will see it in popular podcasts all day long, and will see many professional YouTubers who also use it. With all of that being said, its amazing technical specifications really make it a no-brainer as the top-pick on our list.

The Top Best 7 Mics for Voice Over Work

Our Top Pick: Shure SM7B

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B has a crisp, clear sound that you will absolutely fall in love with. This mic is a staple on professional channels… because it is literally the best in the biz!

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The Shure SM7B is a top-notch, high-class performance dynamic microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern.

It records clean, professional sound, and has an internal ais-suspension shock isolation system… which simply means that all that electronic noise that gets recorded with lower-grade mics is virtually eliminated with this one.

It comes with a detachable wind-screen that reduces plosive sounds, and allows for a warmer, more natural sounding voice recording. Add that to the easy mount that lets the vocalist move the mic up and down as needed, and you’ve already got some professional-level equipment already included!

It’s important to note that this is a high-end microphone, and may require some additional equipment to get the ideal professional sound you want. We’ve found that the Cloudlifter preamp mic activator is a great pairing to knock the sound out of the park!

The Shure SM7B is an extremely versatile mic: it’s great for voiceover work, vocals, and even recording instruments. With its cardioid pickup pattern, it picks up both the highs and the lows of a voice without issue. If you’re looking for a quality mic that will get the job done right, this guy is for you!

Shure SM7B Key Features:

• XLR
• Dynamic mic
• Cardioid pickup pattern
• Wide range frequency response
• Built-in pop filter
• Internal shock mount
• Rejection of feedback and noise
• Solid construction and cartridge protection
• Detachable windscreen included

Runner-Up: Electro Voice RE-20

Electrovoice RE-20

The Electro Voice RE-20 delivers a warm, clear, and detailed sound for any voiceover work. It delivers natural and professional vocal tones by rejecting unwanted sound.

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The Electro Voice RE-20 is a wonderful audio tool. It is a dynamic mic with a cardioid pickup pattern, and works for a huge range of different types of tasks. From recording music in a studio, to recording someone’s voice in their office, to a podcast or YouTube voiceover… this mic can do it all.

It’s considered the standard mic for radio recording because of how easy it is to use with anyone’s voice. It’s perfect for podcasts or voiceover work for radio stations, mostly thanks to it’s vocal pickup quality and cardioid pickup pattern.

It also operates without any proximity effect.

The Electro Voice RE-20 is durable, heavy-duty, and all-encompassing for voiceover work.

RUNNER UP Key Features

• Dynamic mic
• Cardioid pickup pattern
• Heavy-duty internal pop filter
• Internal shock mount
• XLR
• Blast and wind filters over every opening
• 54 mm diameter

Best Budget Pick: Audio Technica AT2035

Audio Technica AT2035

The Audio Technica AT2035 is a large-diaphragm mic that is durable, comes with a shock mount, and produces great sound without breaking the bank!

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The Audio Technica 2035 is a phenomenal studio-quality mic offered at an ideal price point. What more could you ask for? This is a large-diaphragm condenser mic, which means that the sound it captures is full and clear.

It has a sturdy construction, and is durable enough to withstand the normal wear-and-tear of studio work.

Also included with the mic is a shock mount, which helps to reduce reverberation and isolate vibration. A shock mount will usually set you back at least half again the price of a mic for most beginner and intermediate-level options if you want a good one, but this custom mount is included with the mic… and it already fits perfectly!

The Audio Technica 2035 is sensitive, responsive to a wide range of vocal frequencies (be they singing or voiceover vocals), and picks up minimal background noise.

With all of this included for a super-accessible price, this mic will absolutely not leave you disappointed.

Audio Technica 2035 Key Features:

• Cardioid polar pickup pattern
• Large diaphragm
• Wide dynamic range
• Custom shock mount
• XLR
• Provides little coloration
• Includes noise-damper and sound head

Best Mic Under $200: MXL770

MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The MXL770 is a heavy-duty condenser mic with a small diaphragm and a wide range that is well under the $200 mark. Its balanced bass with high-end clarity records every nuance for ideal voiceover work.

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The MXL770 is a condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, meaning that it does a great job of picking up each nuance of the vocalist’s voice. Ideal for vocals, instrument recording, and voiceover work, this mic will help you to have the best recording for the least amount of work.

Complete with a shock mount and a durable storage case for trips outside your own studio (or even live vocal work), this mic is perfect for any job you might throw at it. The small diaphragm shape of the mic head ensures that it captures a clean and natural sound as well.

It has a warm, rich tone, and picks up everything from a deep timbre to a higher soprano register.

The MXL770 is a great mic for a great price.

MXL770 Key Features:

• Multipurpose condenser mic
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Condenser mic
• Small diaphragm
• Shock mount included
• Durable storage case
• Low frequency reduces rumble noise
• Multicolored design options

Best USB Mic: HyperX QuadCast

HyperX QuadCast

The HyperX QuadCast is a durable stand-up mic with several polar patterns to choose from, making it versatile and multipurpose! A solid mic with a full, balanced sound and easy USB compatibility.

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The HyperX Quadcast mic is everything you could ask for in a USB mic. It is easy to set up, produces an ideal, full sound for voiceover work, and comes with a bundle of accessories and perks!

For example, it comes with an anti-vibration shock mount that is easily affixed to anything you may already have in your studio. This is a great find for anyone looking to stream, record, or do any kind of simple at-home voiceover work.

This mic has made several appearances in reviews on our site. In fact, it was rated as our Top Pick in our Top 16 Best Computer Microphones For USB review!

It also boasts physical gain controls for use in real time, and a built-in pop filter.

The mute function allows for optimal control from the user, and the variety of pickup patterns makes it easy to switch between functions like stereo and cardioid without taking the whole rig apart!

The HyperX QuadCast is an amazing addition to any Twitch, game recording, or YouTube sound toolbox, mostly because of its versatility and how easy it is to switch between modes.

Best USB Mic Key Features:

• Condenser mic
• Anti-vibration shock mount
• Built-in pop filter
• Mute sensor LED indicator
• Mount adapter included
• Compatible with many devices and recording programs
• 4 polar pattern options
• Solid but lightweight build
• Audio headphone jack

Best Budget USB: Fifine Condenser Mic

Fifine Metal Condenser Recording Microphone

The Fifine Condenser mic is an inexpensive, high-performance USB mic at an accessible budget! If you’re looking to upgrade on the cheap, this is your guy!

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The Fifine Condenser USB mic packs surprisingly good audio and a user-friendly design into an affordable package.

This mic is great at picking up vocals, and is also pretty good at distinguishing them from background noise. Considering that gamers, streamers, and podcasters alike are often recording over something while gaming, this feature is a must.

Included with this sturdy cardioid mic is a tripod desk stand. This makes it super-easy and convenient to set up right out of the box.

Whether you’re podcasting, streaming for gamers, or recording directly into your YouTube channel, the Fifine Condenser USB mic is a fantastic choice for anyone on a budget.

Fifine Condenser Mic Key Features

• Cardioid polar pattern
• No phantom power required
• Plug and play USB mic
• Sturdy metal construction
• Tripod desk stand included
• Compatible with PC and Mac operating systems
• Volume control for voice input

Best Studio Bundle: Focusrite 2i2 Studio Bundle

Focusrite 2i2 Studio Bundle

This Focusrite 2i2 Bundle is a must-have because of the audio interface, excellent condenser mic, headphones, and pro-recording software that comes included!

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The Focusrite 2i2 Studio Bundle is a must-have if you’re looking to put together your very first voice over studio.

The difficult thing about getting started in voiceover work is finding out what equipment is best for you, and making sure it works every time. With a studio bundle, you eliminate the mystery of functionality, and get straight to the quality of the recording.

This mic is built well, gives you excellent portability, and even includes some accessories that you don’t usually see sold in the same bundle. It comes with headphones, an interface, a mic, and even a cable!

You even get some free software thrown in as a bonus!

Long story short, if you’re looking for an all-inclusive bundle, can’t wait to get started, and don’t want the stress of pairing everything together yourself, look no further than the Focusrite 2i2 Studio Bundle.

Focusrite 2i2 Studio Bundle Key Features:

• Cardioid mic
• Cardioid polar pickup pattern
• 10’ XLR cable
• Headphones
• Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface
• ProTools Audio Software
• Compatible with Windows and Mac OS

Who Should Buy a Microphone for Voiceover Work?

Technology has made it possible for virtually anyone to take their art form from concept to practice.

But regardless of what kind of audio you are trying to produce, one fact remains.

You are going to need a microphone.

The truth of the matter is that you don’t really need anything fancy.

You don’t need to spend tons of cash on a mic just to get started.

It really all comes down to this.

Right now, you possess the means to record video and audio… even if all you have is a smartphone in your pocket!

But if you wish to upgrade from a basic level to a higher-quality level of audio, and you intend to take your voice-over craft as seriously as possible, then you should absolutely look into buying a microphone for your voice over work.

(Interested in recording audio straight to your phone? Check out our review of The 11 Best Microphones for iPhone here!)

Without quality audio, you’re simply never going to be able to level up the technology part of your craft or hustle.

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B has a crisp, clear sound that you will absolutely fall in love with. This mic is a staple on professional channels… because it is literally the best in the biz!

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Important Features to Consider

When you’re comparison shopping for microphones, or even reading this simplified list of microphone specifications, there is a lot of terminology thrown around. Instead of sending you down a jargon wormhole, here are the most important features that came up in our research.

• Condenser vs. Dynamic: A condenser mic is generally more sensitive, and is more sought-after in a studio setting for capturing higher-quality sound. Whereas, a dynamic microphone is sturdier, and more likely to be seen in live-vocal applications.
• Cardioid pattern: Aka the ‘unidirectional’ pattern, this pattern blocks sound coming from the sides and rear of the mic. This makes it so the mic only picks up sound directly in front or above the handheld mic.
• Bidirectional pattern: This pattern rejects most of the unwanted noise, and captures sound from more of the mic’s area. That makes bidirectional mics the best if you’re handling the mic a lot, or having multiple people share one mic.
• Omnidirectional: These mics record sound from all directions around the mic. This makes it more likely that off-axis sounds are going to be picked up. This doesn’t necessarily degrade the quality of the mic, it just makes the sound a little less crisp if there’s a lot happening immediately around the speaker.
• XLR vs. USB: Aka External Line Return vs. Universal Serial Bus, distinguishes between different microphone connectors. An XLR mic utilizes a specific three-pronged adapter, whereas a USB plug-in allows the mic to feed directly into your computer audio recording abilities. USB is usually simpler and more convenient in a home studio… while XLR is almost always better in a live setting where you are using hardware/solid state based equipment instead of software-based programs.
• Phantom power: Phantom power sends electrical current through a cable from a condenser mic. This means that the mic requires preamplification power to travel long distances, while also providing power to polarize the transducing element in the mic. Phantom power is provided by a preamplifier. Condenser microphones require this, while dynamic microphones do not.
• Diaphragm size: Diaphragms can be either wide or small. These are based on the width of the microphone capsule. This distinction is only used for condenser mics. Wide mics are best for recording distinctions and fluctuations, like for vocals and distinct instruments. Small diaphragms are better for precise recordings, like piano, acoustic instruments, and choirs.
• Plug and play: This terminology is usually attributed to USB mics because the sound is so easily recorded by the mic plugged into the computer, and can be immediately played back using the audio functions of the computer. A single cable is all that is needed to make both the mic and the playback work (as long as you have some kind of digital audio workstation).
• (Interested in some awesome USB mic options? Check out our review of the 19 Best USB Mics for Rap Vocals here!)

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of microphone is best for voice over work?

Voiceover work is a tricky endeavor, and is used for a wide variety of things. Podcasting, streaming, YouTube videos, lectures, and vocals alike all need a microphone. Specifically, the best mic for voice recording is a condenser microphone.

It delivers a precise, clear sound, and is usually equipped with noise-elimination technology that removes ambient technical noise from the final recording.

Check out this list of The Best 9 Microphones for Vocals for some more awesome vocal-mic options!

How do I choose a microphone for my voice?

The best way to go about choosing a microphone for your vocal work is to decide what features are most important to you. If you already have your set-up and are simply looking for an upgrade, you don’t need an entire audio bundle.

With that being said, sometimes the best way to figure out which microphones sound best with your voice is simply to try a bunch of them out.

Start shopping online for mics that seem to have good reviews, pick out the one that seems to suit you well, and try it.

Unfortunately, it is sometimes difficult to know for sure if you will like a mic or not based solely on what is written online. Trial and error, at some point, will need to come into play.

What is a good cheap microphone for recording vocals?

The Audio Technica AT2035 is a premium mic that is well within any reasonable budget. It delivers quality sound, comes with an adjustable shock mount, and has a wide diaphragm… which is perfect for recording vocals. It’s sensitive, responsive, and easy to use.

What is the best professional microphone?

The Shure SM7B is our top-pick, and is also an excellent professional quality mic. It delivers a crisp and clear sound… but also removes the presence of all ambient noise.

It is simply an awesome mic with a very good track record, and if you don’t mind spending the money on it, you really can’t go wrong with it.

Other Recording Microphones We Reviewed: Mini Reviews

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B has a crisp, clear sound that you will absolutely fall in love with. This mic is a staple on professional channels… because it is literally the best in the biz!

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Though we’ve given you a ton of choices above, we found a lot of other qualifiers in our research. What follows is a list of excellent contenders for the top slots we reviewed, but that didn’t quite make our list.

• Alternate Top Picks
• Alternate Budget Picks
• Alternate USB Mics

Alternate Top Picks

Rode NT1-A

The Rode NT1-A condenser mic has a low self-noise level, making it ideal for professional recording applications.

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This is also a steal because of all the accessories that come with it: the shield, shock mount, 20’ cable, and even a dust cover come included with this cardioid mic. All this, plus an excellent sound, makes this mic a winner in a lot of situations.

Rode NT1-A Key Features:

• Bundle includes pop shield, shock mount, cable, and dust cover
• Condenser mic
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Wide diaphragm
• Low self-noise level

VO: 1A Harlan Hogan Signature Mic

The VO: 1A Harlan Hogan Signature Mic was developed specifically for voiceover work.

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It can be used with both USB and XLR cables, is versatile, and packs quite a punch. It produces a smooth sound on both the highs and the lows, recording the nuance of the vocalist with little to no tweaking required.

VO: 1A Key Features:

• Catered specifically to voiceover work
• Condenser mic
• BOTH USB and XLR Output capabilities
• Quick mic clip
• Durable travel case

Audio-Technica AT4040

The Audio-Technica AT4040 mic is equipped with acoustic elements that ensure longevity and quality audio.

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The cardioid pickup pattern means that the speaker’s voice is all that the mic picks up, no ambient noise included.

At4040 Key Features:

• Cardioid pickup pattern
• Condenser mic
• Wide diaphragm capsule
• XLR output
• Bass rolloff switch

Avantone CV-12

The Avantone CV-12 pro condenser mic is great for voiceover work.

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It provides rich, smooth, and detailed vocal recordings, while the large diaphragm tubing ensures that the vocalist’s unique vocal tones really shine through.

Avantone CV-12 Key Features:

• Large diaphragm tube
• Condenser mic
• Power supply included
• Durable travel case included
• 9 Polar patterns

Neumann U-87

The Neumann U-87 is a top-of-the-line condenser mic.

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Complete with three polar pickup patterns, you can use this mic for anything. The high pass filter eliminates muffled sound and ambient noise, while the wide diaphragm construction makes it easy to use for any and all vocal purposes.

Neumann U-87 Key Features:

• Wide-diaphragm
• Condenser mic
• High pass filter
• 3 switchable polar patterns

Rode NTK

The Rode NTK is a reliable condenser mic with a power supply.

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The cardioid polar pattern and wide dynamic range promise that the depth of the vocals will translate easily to the audio recording. Add that to the high level of noise rejection technology in the mic, and you’ve got a mic that gets only the voice, none of the noise.

Rode NTK Key Features:

• Cardioid polar pattern
• Valve condenser mic
• Wide dynamic range
• High level of rejection
• Dedicated power supply

Blue Mic Bottle Tube

The Blue Mic Bottle Tube comes with a rugged case and a power supply.

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Complete with a vintage, detailed sound aesthetic styling, this mic is as great sounding as it is versatile.

Blue Mic Bottle Tube Key Features:

• Rugged travel case included
• 4 different capsule bottle caps
• Tube condenser mic
• Vintage sound and styling

Alternate Budget Picks

Samson G-Track Pro USB Condenser Microphone

The Samson G-Track Pro has made appearances on several of our lists… mostly due to its plug-and-play USB usability, and the fact that it gives you pretty decent audio at a super-affordable price.

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Samson G-Track Pro Key Features:

• All-in-one USB mic and interface
• Front panel mixer contains a mic level, instrument level, and headphone volume
• Dual 1” condenser capsules give you three different selectable polar patterns
• High definition audio at a great price-point

Alternate USB Mics

Audio-Technica AT2020USB

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB microphone offers excellent audio quality for recording vocals and instruments directly to your computer via USB.

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The AT2020 USB Mic delivers excellent quality. USB mics have an industry reputation for sacrificing quality for convenience, but this mic undermines all of those assumptions. It has a wide range of sound recording capabilities, from the highs to the lows, with the convenience of a USB mic to boot. In addition to the great sounds it records, it also comes with mix and volume controls, along with a headphone jack that lets you listen and control your audio recordings in real time.

AT2020 USB Plus Key Features:

• USB Plug & Play
• Condenser mic
• Built-in mix and volume control
• Headphone jack
• Tripod desk stand included

Blue Yeti Nano USB Microphone

The Blue Yeti Nano USB Microphone provides exceptional audio clarity and features, making it a great choice for various recording needs.

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The Blue Yeti is a condenser mic whose tri capsule technology ensures near studio-quality sound. It has four polar pattern setting options, allowing for versatility and optimal control of your final product. The mic itself also has gain and volume settings, in addition to a mute function.

Blue Yeti Key Features:

• Plug & Play capabilities
• Comes in a variety of colors and designs
• Headphone jack
• Condenser mic
• Switch between 4 pickup patterns
• Gain, volume, and mute settings all on mic
• Tri Capsule array

Samson Meteor USB Mic

The Samson Meteor USB Mic is a portable microphone with plug-and-play capabilities, ideal for users needing a convenient setup.

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It is compact, foldable, and can be attached to any mic stand you may already have. It comes complete with a headphone jack for real-time audio playback, and an indicator light.

Samson Meteor USB Mic Key Features

• USB Mic
• Plug & Play capabilities
• Largest diaphragm of any USB mic
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Headphone jack
• Power peak and Mute indicator
• Fold back leg design
• Mic stand adapter

Rode NT-USB

The Rode NT-USB microphone combines the quality of a condenser mic with the convenience and functionality of USB connectivity.

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Plug and play ease-of-use and a cardioid polar pickup pattern are the main attractions on this one, though it also has a headphone jack built into it!

Rode NT USB Key Features

• Plug & Play USB
• Cardioid polar pickup
• Headphone jack
• Tripod desk stand
• Headphone and level mix knobs

Conclusion

There’s a lot to learn about microphones… but don’t let that deter you.

If you’re looking to get started in the streaming business, podcasting sphere, or your own home studio for voice over work… just focus on finding a mic that fits within your budget, that will also offer you an upgrade to what you are currently using.

You don’t need to go ham and drop a ton of money on a mic to start leveling up!

If you’re on a budget, consider the Audio Technica 2035.

If you’re ready to drop a bit more cash on a mic, and want the best in the biz, then go with the Shure SM7B.

In either case, never stop creating! Keep up the good work, and keep making those voice overs!