Ribbon microphones are the most natural mics that you can use to capture the sound of an instrument, a voice, and even the ambience of a room. Due to their figure-of-8 polar pattern, massive low-end pick-up, and natural high-frequency roll-off, ribbons really hear more like your ears than any other mic out there.
Although, are ribbon mics good for vocals?
For decades, ribbon microphones have served as the first choice of many audio engineers to record vocals. ... There is an AEA ribbon mic for every engineer and their specific vision in the studio or live on stage. When it comes to vocals, AEA has several microphones that will lend singular sound to any project.
As well as, what is the best budget microphone? The best cheap microphones available today
Shure SM57. This hall of famer is still going strong. ...
Shure SM58. Vocal specialist half-brother of the '57. ...
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone. ...
SE Electronics sE7. ...
IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio. ...
AKG P120. ...
Nady CYM-2 kit. ...
IK Multimedia iRig Mic Cast HD.
Not to mention, are ribbon mics fragile?
People often correlate the ultra-thin ribbon element with a higher risk of tearing and breaking. Though ribbon mics may not be able to withstand as much abuse as dynamics, they are still some of the most durable mics out there.
Is a ribbon mic a condenser?
Though ribbons have a high-frequency roll-off, it is a smooth and natural roll-off that is akin to the roll-off that human beings hear with their ears. This is unlike condenser microphones, which boost those high frequencies.
BESTSELLER NO. 1 in 2021
MXL 550/551R Microphone Ensemble
This all-in-one Recording Ensemble delivers outstanding performance for both vocals and instruments
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Two microphones that cover a wide range of vocal and instrument applications
BESTSELLER NO. 2 in 2021
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Black, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications
The price/performance standard in side address studio condenser microphone technology
Ideal for project/home studio applications; The noise level is 20 db SPL
High spl handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
Custom engineered low mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source. Output connector: integral 3 pin XLRM type
Black speckles on the mic is the finish of the item. Audio technical case style: R7
Condenser design for studio-quality vocal and instrument applications; ideal for acoustic guitar, overheads, piano and group vocals
Excels in high-SPL applications with extended response for smooth, natural sonic characteristics
Low-mass element for superb transient response
Corrosion-resistant contacts from gold-plated XLRM-type connector
Rugged design and construction for reliable performance
Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
BESTSELLER NO. 5 in 2021
Behringer C-3 Professional Large Dual-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
Professional large dual-diaphragm condenser microphone for studio recording and live applications
Ideal as main and support microphone for studio and live applications
Selectable cardioid, omnidirectional or figure eight pickup pattern
Pressure-gradient transducer with shock-mounted dual-diaphragm capsule
Perfect for acoustic instruments, overhead, piano, etc.
BESTSELLER NO. 6 in 2021
MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Multi-purpose condenser microphone
Excellent for vocals, pianos, stringed instruments, and percussion
Balanced bass response with high end clarity
Low frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted rumble
Low noise FET preamp with balanced, transformerless output
Patented design
Versatile for streaming and podcasting
BESTSELLER NO. 7 in 2021
PEMOTech USB Microphone Kit for Computer, Studio Recording Microphone for Singing, Gaming Podcast Condenser Microphone Set with Adjustable Arm Stand Shock Mount for Streaming, YouTube
【Excellent Sound Quality】PEMOTech professional condenser microphone is designed with professional sound chipset. It can provides sampling up to 24bit/192khz, which makes your recordings crystal clear. It also features a 16mm capacitive sensor and widely frequency response (20hz-20khz) make microphone perfect for singing, voice-over, livestreams, podcast, YouTube videos, meetings and gaming.
【Plug and Play Anti-Interference USB】The microphone has an anti-interference USB 2.0 data port, which can easily connect your computer to the Linux operating system without additional driver software or external sound card. Dual shielded USB cable reduces interference. In this way, you can easily show excellent recording effects in podcasting, live broadcasting, video calling or most other scenes.
【Durable Arm Set】Strong zinc alloy desktop stand with built-in anti-scratch pad, wide mouth up to 2 inches, suitable for most desktop computers. Adjustable and foldable arm frame, convenient to carry. And allows you to adjust the appropriate angle and height to show your perfect voice.
【High Compatibility】Suitable for all laptops, PCs and mobile phones. However, if you want to connect your phone, you need an OTG adapter (not included). Strong output, no distortion, low power consumption. The shock mount keeps the microphone stable and has damping function. It is especially suitable for video voice, streaming media, podcasting, youtube, Skype, conference, etc.
【What You Get】1 x USB recording microphone; 1 x solid microphone bracket; 1 x shock proof frame with damping function; 1 x sponge wind shield; 1 x double-layer recording circular Pop Filter; 1 x USB Microphone connection cable with anti-interference magnetic ring;1 X instruction manual
BESTSELLER NO. 8 in 2021
Aokeo AK-60 Professional Condenser Microphone, Music Studio MIC Podcast Recording Microphone Kit with Stand Shock Mount for PC Laptop Computer Broadcasting YouTube Vlogging Skype Chatting Gaming
The Standard for Affordable Studio Condensers: The price and performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technology, making it ideal for project/home-studio applications.
Sound Source Isolation: Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source.
Eliminate Interference: The inner side of the microphone isolation shield is made of absorbing cotton insulation that can reduce sound reflection when recording.
The professional condenser microphone adopts the completely new audio circuit. Capture rich, full-bodied sound from sources that are directly in front of the mic. The cardioid pick-up pattern minimizes background noise and isolates the main sound source. NOTE: * REQUIRES 5V OF POWER FROM PLUG IN SOURCE TO WORK AND A SOUND AUDIO INTERFACE DEPENDING ON YOUR DEVICE*
Shock Mount: The shock mount is made of solid metal and effectively reduces the trill caused by vibration. Audible is easy to understand while making sure your message is loud, clear and banish the dreaded hissing and lisping sounds from our Aokeo Premium Pop Shield Filter. Note: "This does not come with any STAND, you will have to purchase one separately"
BESTSELLER NO. 9 in 2021
Behringer C-2 Studio Condenser Microphones, Matched Pair
2 matched condenser microphones for stereo studio recording and live applications
Ideal as main and support microphones for studio and live applications
Cardioid pickup pattern for effective feedback elimination
Low-mass diaphragm for ultra-wide frequency response and ultimate sound reproduction
Switchable low-frequency roll-off and input attenuation
BESTSELLER NO. 10 in 2021
sE Electronics SE4400a Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Multi-pattern Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Shockmount
The ribbon elements in some vintage ribbon microphones can be harmed or even destroyed by the presence of phantom power. For this reason, it is commonly recommended that phantom power be turned off when using ribbon microphones. ... They require phantom power to operate and obviously will not be damaged by phantom power.
The AT2020 is overall my favorite cheap microphone for recording, but it can also hold up to live use. Audio Technica has an entire line of similar microphones that will grow with your budget, but the AT2020 is a respectable place to start. It also features a -10db pad and a bass roll off switch.