The Best Cheapest Microphones for Quality Audio

In the world of audio recording, finding the perfect microphone can be a daunting task, especially when you're on a tight budget. Fear not, for this article is here to guide you through the best cheapest microphone options available in the market. Whether you're a musician, podcaster, or content creator, we've got you covered with top-notch choices that won't break the bank. So, let's dive into the realm of high-quality sound and discover the hidden gems that will elevate your audio game without emptying your wallet.

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Specifications

Mic Type: Fixed-charge back plate permanently polarized condenser

Audio Patterns: Cardioid

Connection Type: XLR

Recording Sample Rate: 48 kHz / 16-Bit

Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz

Famed for its remarkable sound quality, robust build, and reasonable price tag, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a popular entry-level cardioid condenser microphone. Priced just at $99, it has quickly risen to be the go-to option for aspiring musicians, voice actors, and content creators searching for one of the best cheapest microphones to equip their home studios.

Sturdy Design & Construction: A Reliable Companion

The AT2020 showcases a side-address design with a 16mm diameter capsule, a touch smaller than the standard 1-inch capsule found in large diaphragm microphones. Yet, this doesn't compromise the warmth or body of its sound reproduction. Its notably robust construction and the durable feel in hand further underscore its standing as one of the best cheapest microphones in terms of build quality.

User-Friendly Features: Minimalist Excellence

Being a fixed cardioid microphone, the AT2020 doesn't provide the option to switch polar patterns—a common characteristic within its price bracket. However, this shouldn't be viewed as a major drawback. With no high-pass filter or pad, this microphone offers a plug-and-play, point-and-shoot style, making it an ideal choice for those seeking the best cheapest microphone with no superfluous frills.

Superior Sound Quality: A Symphony of Clarity

The AT2020 impresses with its ability to reproduce the full frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hz, delivering a crystal clear and detailed sound. It is especially adept at recording vocals and acoustic instruments in a home studio setting. One of its key strengths lies in its remarkable rejection of background and ambient noise, making it an excellent choice even for rooms with limited acoustic sound treatment. These qualities solidify its position as one of the best cheapest microphones available.

Effortless Setup: Ready When You Are

To get the AT2020 up and running, you'll need an audio interface or mixer equipped with 48V Phantom Power and an XLR cable for the microphone. A popular choice for an audio interface is the Scarlett 2i2 3rd generation. Packaged with a basic stand mount and a soft vinyl case, the AT2020 is ready for action right out of the box.

Celebrated Users: Endorsed by the Best

The AT2020 enjoys popularity among renowned recording artists, content creators, and audio engineers, including personalities such as Billie Eilish and Mac DeMarco. Its widespread acclaim pays tribute to its exceptional sound quality and affordability, marking it as one of the best cheapest microphones in the industry.

Conclusion: Your Ideal Home Studio Companion

If you're on the hunt for an affordable, high-quality microphone for your home studio, the Audio-Technica AT2020 should undoubtedly be on your radar. Its sturdy build, impressive sound quality, and ease of use have made it a favorite among novices and professionals alike. Offering reliable and budget-friendly audio solutions, the AT2020 should be your top contender when considering the best cheapest microphones.

Specifications

Mic Type: Large-diaphragm condenser microphone

Audio Patterns: Cardioid

Connection Type: XLR

Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz

If you're in the hunt for the best cheapest microphone that doesn't compromise on sound quality, the MXL 990 Condenser Microphone could be your perfect match. Famous for its outstanding performance, this wallet-friendly microphone is the ideal choice for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.

Build Quality: Durability that Impresses

The MXL 990 is a testament to durability, particularly considering its price range. The package includes a custom shock mount, mic stand adapter, and a carrying case, adding convenience to your recording sessions. The inclusion of Mogami cable sets this microphone apart from its rivals, making it a value-packed contender for the best cheapest microphone on the market.

Features: Tech Specs that Deliver

As a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone, the MXL 990 is equipped with a FET preamp and a transformer balanced output. It houses a pressure gradient condenser microphone with a 6-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm and offers a frequency response of 20 Hz – 20 kHz, along with a cardioid polar pattern. For operation, it requires 48V phantom power sourced from an audio interface or mixer.

Performance: Excellence in Sound Quality

The MXL 990 is celebrated for its silky, sweet high end, and tight, solid bass. It is perfect for recording vocals, making it a leading choice for the best cheapest microphone. The microphone also excels in spoken word applications such as voice-over and podcasting. It effectively captures quiet audio and subtle details, ensuring noise-free recordings.

Drawbacks: Considerations to Keep in Mind

Despite its numerous advantages, the MXL 990 comes with a few drawbacks. It may sound overly bright and harsh for some applications, and its diaphragm diameter falls short of the one-inch standard by a quarter-inch, meaning it's not a true large-diaphragm condenser. Additionally, the microphone lacks some extra features found on other condenser microphones.

DIY Modifications: Unleashing its Full Potential

The MXL 990 has piqued the interest of DIY enthusiasts due to several modifications that can elevate its sound quality further. These tweaks can help users extract even more value from this top choice among the best cheapest microphones.

Conclusion: Your Home Studio's New Best Friend

The MXL 990 is a dependable large-diaphragm condenser microphone, ideal for home-based producers, musicians, and podcasters seeking the best cheapest microphone. Its affordable price, sturdy build quality, and impressive performance make it a favourite among recording professionals, enthusiasts, hobbyists, and home studio owners alike. If you're on the market for a well-constructed, budget-friendly studio microphone, the MXL 990 is worth your consideration. Discover the difference for yourself and understand why it's touted as one of the best cheapest microphones available.

Specifications

Mic Type: True condenser microphone

Audio Patterns: Cardioid polar pattern

Connection Type: XLR

Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz

Are you searching for the best cheapest microphone that offers versatility and exceptional performance? Look no further than the AKG P120. Specifically designed for project studios and home recording, this condenser microphone delivers clear sound and accurate sonic detail, making it the perfect choice for capturing vocals, speech, and instruments.

Impressive Features: Affordable Excellence

The AKG P120 is a back-electret microphone featuring a 2/3" diaphragm, offering remarkable value without compromising on sound quality. With a self-noise level of 19dB, it is an ideal option for home studio enthusiasts in pursuit of the best cheapest microphone. The P120 also includes an attenuation pad, which effectively limits the input signal from loud sources, preventing overloading of the electronics. Additionally, it features a low-cut filter of -6 dB at 300 Hz.

Durable Build Quality: Built to Last

Renowned for their impressive build quality, AKG microphones consistently deliver exceptional durability, and the P120 is no exception. Its rugged metal body ensures it can withstand regular use and even potential mishandling. The reliable electronics further establish the P120 as a solid contender for the best cheapest microphone available on the market.

Performance: Clear and Reliable

The AKG P120 excels in capturing vocals and acoustic instruments, providing a relatively neutral sound across the frequency spectrum with a moderately hyped top end, which is common in budget condenser microphones. It serves as an excellent choice for vocalists looking to embark on home recording or audio engineers seeking a reliable and affordable microphone. While it may not offer as many features as its siblings, the AKG P220 and AKG P420, and may not capture the low end and mids as fully, it remains an exceptional beginner mic for those on a tight budget. The P120 performs exceptionally well in basic studio applications like vocals and acoustic guitar.

Conclusion: Unparalleled Performance on a Budget

The AKG P120 stands out among its similarly priced competitors as one of the best cheapest microphones available, offering high performance and affordability. With its clear sound, accurate sonic detail, and durable build, it is an excellent choice for both home recording studios and project studios. Backed by the reputable AKG brand, the P120 proves to be a reliable and valuable addition to any recording setup. Experience the difference for yourself and elevate your audio quality with this top contender for the best cheapest microphone.

Specifications

Mic Type: Condenser microphone

Audio Patterns: Supercardoid

Connection Type: USB

Recording Sample Rate: 16-bit audio at a 44.1kHz to 48kHz

Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz

Meet the best-kept secret in the world of affordable audio equipment: the Razer Seiren Mini. Renowned for its superior sound quality, compact design, and wallet-friendly price, this USB microphone is quickly cementing its reputation as the best cheapest microphone for gamers, streamers, and content creators alike.

First Impressions & Design

The Razer Seiren Mini takes sophistication to a whole new level with its minimalist design. The microphone comes in three colors - Classic Black, Quartz Pink, and Mercury White - each oozing elegance and class. Its 6.5-inch stature not only contributes to its sleek look but also showcases the device's unparalleled efficiency in design.

A standout feature is its supercardioid polar pattern, an asset for those who want their voice to take center stage without the background noise. Unlike conventional microphones, you communicate into the side of the device, making it a side-address microphone and optimizing the sound capturing process.

Simplicity at Its Best

With no complicated buttons or knobs, the Seiren Mini champions simplicity and ease of use. Users can readily adjust the volume through their streaming software or the microphone properties menu, eliminating the need for a headphone jack. This plug-and-play device is the perfect fit for those seeking the best cheapest microphone that's both easy to set up and use.

Performance

Don't be fooled by its size and price; the Seiren Mini packs a punch when it comes to performance. Its sound quality rivals that of its pricier counterparts, producing a balanced, warm sound and significantly reducing background noise.

The microphone's compact design is ideal for those with limited desk space or who prefer a minimalist setup. It seamlessly blends into any setting, ensuring the focus stays on the user during streaming or video calls.

Conclusion

The Razer Seiren Mini is a game-changer for those in search of a compact, affordable, yet high-quality microphone. It stands out in the crowded market of budget microphones as the best cheapest microphone, offering exceptional value at just £38 If you're a gamer, streamer, or content creator, consider the Razer Seiren Mini: a reliable, efficient, and impressive solution for all your audio needs. Experience the unmatched audio quality of the best cheapest microphone, the Razer Seiren Mini, and elevate your content creation journey today.

Specifications

Mic Type: Condenser microphone

Audio Patterns: Dual Pattern

Connection Type: USB

Recording Sample Rate: 16-bit audio at a 44.1kHz

Frequency response: 20-18,000 Hz

Venture into the realm of top-tier, affordable, and versatile audio equipment and discover the Samson Go Mic. Standing tall as the best cheapest microphone with both portability and flexibility, it caters to podcasters, streamers, musicians, and digital recording enthusiasts seeking superior audio quality without straining their budgets.

Unfold Your Sound

The Go Mic's innovative fold-up design makes it the ultimate pocket-sized companion for professional recordings on the go. Whether you're tucked away in a studio or broadcasting live from a bustling café, this microphone delivers the sound quality you need, wherever you need it.

Features & Specifications

The Samson Go Mic offers an impressive dual pick-up pattern with cardioid and omnidirectional options. Choose cardioid mode to capture sound directly in front and reject noise from the sides and rear - perfect for intimate, single-person podcasts or streams. For multi-subject interviews around a table or group recordings, switch to omnidirectional mode, which absorbs sound from all directions.

Performance That Defies Size

Despite its small size, the Go Mic stands tall in the ranks of the best cheapest microphones, delivering exceptional audio quality. However, it's worth noting some users have reported sporadic static or garbled sound. To truly understand the audio capabilities of the Go Mic, check out Stu's review, which includes sound clips demonstrating the microphone's performance in both 10dB and cardioid/omnidirectional settings.

The Perfect Companion for Content Creators

The Samson Go Mic is a valuable asset for those requiring a compact, adaptable microphone for a variety of recording situations. From narration and podcasting to streaming and voice-over work, its portability and diverse pickup patterns have cemented its popularity amongst content creators seeking reliable, high-quality audio on the move.

Conclusion

The Samson Go Mic is a powerful, compact USB microphone that offers unparalleled convenience and versatility for all your recording needs. With its unique design, dual pickup patterns, and remarkable audio quality, it has won the hearts of podcasters, streamers, and musicians as the best cheapest microphone. If you're in the market for a portable and adaptable microphone that delivers quality without burning a hole in your pocket, the Samson Go Mic is certainly worth considering.