Thanks to the speed at which technology has advanced, we now have a huge variety of options when it comes to recording, streaming, broadcasting, and producing podcasts.
In fact, thanks to the development of high-quality voice over microphones, now, virtually anyone can produce awesome content from the comfort of their own home.
Whether it be recording voice acting work, narrations, vocals, podcasts, or other projects, the best voice over microphones can make an incredible difference.
However, with so many to choose from, trying to pick out the very best can be tough.
The fact you’ve landed here would suggest you already know that. Don’t worry though, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the best voice over microphones on the market.
Best Voice Over Microphones 2023
In this article, we’ll take you through our list, showing you what each one has to offer. We’ve even included a handy buyer’s guide to help you choose the right microphone for you.
Let’s begin!
#1 Blue Yeti USB Microphone
The first voice over microphone on our list is the Blue Yeti USB microphone. When it comes to ease of use and high-quality performance, this microphone takes some beating.
For starters, its USB connection makes it super easy to use. Simply plug the microphone into your device and you’re already on your way.
Relatively affordable, the Blue Yeti voice over microphone can be used for gaming, streaming, recording, studio work, narration, and podcasting.
This microphone is actually used by a number of famous content creators including podcaster, TV personality, and actor Naomi Kyle.
When it comes to sound quality, we were pleased with what we found. This microphone offers excellent sound and multiple pattern selections (omnidirectional, stereo, bidirectional, and cardioid).
With four different recording modes, you’ll appreciate just how clear the sound from this microphone is.
In our opinion, it well outperforms its price tag. The size of the microphone is pretty great too, making it a great choice in most home settings.
Overall, this microphone is well-built, packed with features, and high performing.
Pros
- Well-priced – This microphone is sold at a fair price.
- Feature packed – The Blue Yeti comes with a number of useful features.
- High-performing – At the end of the day, this microphone performs well.
Cons
- Suited to beginners – The Blue Yeti isn’t the best choice for professionals.
Also Available At
#2 Rode NT-USB USB Condenser Microphone
Next, we have a condenser microphone from the well-known brand Rode. Rode is famous for their high-quality, high-performance XLR microphones so it isn’t a surprise to see one on this list.
However, this microphone is slightly different from the usual microphones Rode produces.
Rode decided to incorporate USB into this microphones design. This makes the microphone much more versatile, requiring no extra drivers to work.
While the sound quality of a microphone is crucial, its build is also important. With the Rode NT-USB microphone, Rode has excelled.
The Rode NT-USB is solid. You can rely on it to handle all your needs while standing strong and performing well.
In fact, the adjustable stand the microphone sits on is one of our favorite things about the mic.
It allows the user to quickly and effortlessly adjust the microphone to their streaming or recording needs.
In terms of sound performance, the Rode NT-USB stands tall above other microphones on the market.
Functioning at 16-bit/48kHz, the sound is clear and crisp. Sound can also be monitored easily via the headphone amp to guarantee the best performance.
Pros
- Neat features included – This microphone comes with a tripod, pop filter, carry pouch, and 20 feet USB cable.
- Great sound quality – The sound recorded on this mic is excellent.
- Durable – This microphone was built to last.
Cons
- Pricey – The Rode NT-USB is more expensive.
Also Available At
#3 Fifine Studio Condenser USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a professional-style voice over microphone but have a tight budget to stick to, look no further than the Fifine studio condenser microphone.
A quality option for anyone looking to record voice overs, this microphone has smooth, natural sounds and can easily pick up even the faintest of sounds.
Despite its low price tag, the Fifine condenser microphone offers users accurate and clear sound reproduction. This makes it an awesome option for most professional or amateur settings.
When we reviewed this microphone we were amazed by how much it has to offer, considering how affordable it is.
The microphone comes loaded with neat features that make recording much easier.
Some of these include a built-in shock mount, a pop filter, a bundled desktop stand, and a plug-and-play design.
As if that wasn’t enough, this microphone also looks the part. Stylish, sleek, and compact, this microphone won’t look out of place on a podcast or during live streams.
Pros
- Affordable – This microphone is incredibly priced.
- Versatile – Use the Fifine condenser USB microphone for all your recording needs.
- Feature-rich – This microphone comes with a wide variety of useful features.
Cons
- Not as good as more expensive models – More expensive models still perform better than this microphone.
Also Available At
#4 Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
The next voice over microphone on our list is the Shure SM7B vocal dynamic microphone.
If you have a large budget and need a microphone that can support your professional needs, this could be the best microphone for you.
When it comes to recording, this microphone is up there with the very best. It has a high output level and a wide frequency response.
This makes it one of the best microphones at capturing the subtle nuances in the human voice.
The SM7B comes with all the bells and whistles we would expect from a high-end microphone.
This includes an internal pop filter that reduces plosives, rugged construction to make the microphone resistant to handling noise, and a low-noise floor that prevents other noise in the room from interfering with your recordings.
When testing this microphone, we found it to be easy to use, reliable, and extremely versatile. We found that it could be used for a wide range of applications aside from recording voice overs.
The only downside was the microphone’s high price tag.
Pros
- Wide frequency response – This microphone will capture your voice perfectly.
- Built-in pop filter – No need to worry about plosives ruining your recording.
- Versatile – Use this microphone for all your recording needs.
Cons
- Expensive – The SM7B is extremely expensive.
Also Available At
#5 Blue Snowball Ice Microphone
We’ll finish our list with another excellent budget-friendly option. This time, we have the Blue Snowball Ice microphone from Logitech.
The Blue Snowball microphone is a great condenser mic that provides clear sound.
It may be a more basic microphone than the others on our list, but if you need something simple, reliable, and versatile, it’s perfect for you.
Having said that, we wouldn’t recommend it for professional use.
If you seek clear audio recording for your voice overs, whether it be for a YouTube video or podcast, this microphone will have your back.
It’s super easy to use too. Simply plug the microphone into your Windows computer or Mac and start recording. No software or additional drivers are required.
For your convenience, Logitech has also included a neat adjustable stand for the microphone that will help you find the position that suits you best.
In terms of features, we were thrilled by how many this microphone has.
The best is the microphones’ three polar patterns which give you the opportunity to use directional and Omnidirectional recording.
Pros
- Budget-friendly – The Blue Snowball Ice microphone is very well-priced.
- Easy-to-use – This microphone couldn’t be any easier to use.
- Retro appearance – The mic’s retro design looks great.
Cons
- Quite basic – The Blue Snowball is fairly basic.
Also Available At
Buyer’s Guide – How Do I Choose the Best Microphone For Voice Over?
Now you know more about the options you have available to you on the market, it’s time to start thinking about which microphone suits you best.
While this may seem pretty straightforward at first, there are actually a lot of important factors to take into consideration.
If you don’t take these important factors into consideration, you could quite easily purchase a microphone that doesn’t match your needs and requirements.
Therefore, we’ve decided to help by putting together a handy buyer’s guide.
In our buyer’s guide you’ll find the most important things you have to consider when purchasing a voice over microphone.
Let’s take a look, shall we?
Connector Type: USB or XLR?
USB mics, like the Rode NT USB, are incredibly user-friendly. With plug-and-play simplicity, they are easy to set up and use, requiring no additional equipment. They draw their power directly from the device they’re plugged into, negating the need for external power sources or batteries. This ease of use and portability make them an appealing choice for beginners or for those who have a mobile recording setup.
On the other hand, XLR mics are often hailed by professionals for their superior sound quality. These mics, like the large diaphragm condenser mic or dynamic mics, require an audio interface to connect to your computer, but this additional step brings the advantage of higher audio quality. An audio interface can provide phantom power necessary for some microphones and better preamps for cleaner, more robust audio. This setup might be more complex and less portable, but the results are often worth it.
It’s essential to weigh these options against your specific needs as a voice actor. If you’re constantly on the move and need a more portable setup, a USB mic might be the way to go. However, if you’re setting up a dedicated recording space and striving for the best sound quality, it could be worthwhile investing in an XLR mic and an audio interface.
One of the first things you need to think about when choosing a voice over microphone is the type of connection it uses.
This is important for a number of reasons, the main one being that it has to work with your devices.
The type of connection you choose can also impact how easy the microphone is to use.
The two connection types you have to choose from are traditional XLR microphones and USB microphones.
If you’re in the market for a compact, easy-to-use microphone, a USB microphone is probably your best choice.
This type of microphone is usually a lot smaller and easier to set up, making it a great option for beginners.
On the other hand, if you need a more professional voice over microphone that offers more versatility and professional recordings, you should probably consider an XLR mic.
The Type Of Microphone
Next, you need to think about the type of microphone you need. The two most common options you have to choose from are condenser microphones and dynamic microphones.
While they both do the same job, both have different operating principles.
Before making your purchase, it’s important to know more about both types of microphones.
Dynamic Mic
Dynamic microphones can be as big as studio microphones or as small as your smartphone. They are a type of universal microphone that can be used for a variety of different applications.
They smooth voice imperfections and don’t require phantom power. They also work brilliantly in noisy environments.
Condenser Mic
On the other hand, we have condenser microphones. Condenser microphones are specifically designed for use in a studio, making them a better option for voice over work.
They have a bigger diaphragm than dynamic microphones, making them more sensitive. This helps to achieve a richer-sounding, more natural voice.
Diaphragm Size
You are also going to have to think about microphone diaphragm size before you make your final decision. Like our ears, microphones have a diaphragm that captures sound waves.
Generally speaking, most voice over actors prefer to use a microphone that has a larger diaphragm.
They prefer this because a microphone with a larger diaphragm produces a richer tone. Having said that, both small and large diaphragms have their advantages.
Smaller diaphragms are better at capturing low-mid to high-frequency sounds and are more capable of handling higher sound pressure.
This helps to reduce the amount of background noise picked up during recordings.
Larger diaphragms help the user capture all the audio equally. A microphone with a larger diaphragm will produce warmer, deeper voices without the need for post-processing.
Microphone Size
Another important thing to consider is the size of the microphone you need. If you only have a small setup, you aren’t going to want an oversized microphone.
This will reduce the space you have for everything else and can often lead to interference with recordings as the microphone can be knocked or moved.
Alternatively, if you plan on live streaming or recording YouTube clips with your microphone you might want a slightly bigger microphone, particularly if you have a larger setup.
The main reason for this is down to the overall aesthetics of your setup. You want the best-looking setup for your videos and a smaller microphone might not look as good.
Having said that, the size of the microphone you choose ultimately comes down to your personal preferences.
Durability
You need to purchase a microphone that is made to last. A microphone that hasn’t been well built can easily break after a short period of time.
For obvious reasons, this isn’t something you want from a product you’re spending a lot of money on.
Therefore, you have to ensure the product you buy is solid, versatile, and very well-made.
Luckily for you, all of the microphones on our list are designed to last. They all have a solid structure made out of durable plastic and metals.
The best way to identify how durable a microphone is by reading reviews and product descriptions. From the reviews and descriptions, you will be able to work out how well-made the microphone is.
Sound Quality
When shopping for a voice-over microphone, you should consider factors such as frequency response (ideally emphasizing the vocal range for natural sound), clarity, low self-noise levels for cleaner recordings, and the inclusion of a pop filter to manage plosive sounds.
How to make your mic sound better.
The microphone’s polar pattern is also important, with a cardioid pattern being preferable for voice-over work to reduce ambient noise. Other considerations include sensitivity (the ability to detect quiet sounds), consistency of sound over time for long-term projects, and the microphone’s inherent sound quality or ‘color’, which can add richness to the voice.
Budget
Finally, you also need to carefully think about how much money you have to spend on a microphone.
Voice over microphones vary massively in price. Some cost as little as $30, whilst others cost well over $300.
With that in mind, you can save time and money by first working out how much you need to spend, can spend, and want to spend.
By doing so, you will be able to stop yourself from spending money you don’t have and save time by heading straight to the microphones you know you can afford.
You’ll also be able to identify the types of microphones you can afford and work out which features you don’t need. All of this helps you make a successful purchase that you won’t later regret.
Polar Pattern or Directional Type: Cardioid or Omnidirectional?
When delving into the world of microphones, one of the first aspects you’ll likely encounter is the concept of “polar patterns.” Simply put, a polar pattern is the sensitivity map of a microphone – it indicates where a microphone “listens” to the sound from. If you’re wondering where this factor comes into play for a voice-over artist, the answer lies in your recording environment.
Different microphones can pick up sound from various directions, including the front, sides, and back. The three most common polar patterns you’ll come across are omnidirectional (picks up sound equally from all directions), bidirectional or figure-8 (picks up sound from the front and back), and cardioid (picks up sound primarily from the front).
For most voice-over work, a cardioid pattern is often the go-to choice. Named for its heart-shaped pattern, a cardioid microphone focuses on the sound coming directly from the front and reduces noise from the sides and rear. This ability to minimize background noise is invaluable, particularly if you’re recording in a space that’s less than completely quiet.
But remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all here. Your choice of polar pattern should be determined by your unique circumstances. Maybe you’re in a soundproof studio, or perhaps you’re recording in a bustling home office. So, before making a decision, consider the nature of your recording environment and how different polar patterns may interact with it.
In summary, choosing the right polar pattern is an essential first step in ensuring your voice is captured with clarity, depth, and authenticity. When in doubt, opt for a cardioid pattern, especially if you’re just starting your voice-over journey.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone is essentially its ability to capture different pitches or frequencies of sound. This spectrum is measured in Hertz (Hz) and is a crucial factor to consider for voice actors and voice over artists.
The human voice generally falls within the range of about 80Hz to 15kHz. However, each voice is unique, and the frequencies that shape its characteristics can vary. The important thing is to select a microphone with a frequency response that captures these unique elements of your voice accurately. The goal is to ensure good sound quality where your voice sounds natural, with all its nuances fully expressed.
For example, if you’re going for a high quality audio recording with a large diaphragm condenser mic, such as the Rode NT1 or an Audio Technica model, check the microphone frequency response. These mics are known for their wide dynamic range and low self noise, which can capture the complexities of the human voice efficiently.
It’s worth noting that while USB mics tend to be convenient, they may not always offer the same breadth of frequency response as their XLR counterparts. However, some versatile mics like the Rode NT USB aim to bridge this gap, providing a more comprehensive frequency response than many typical USB mics.
Remember, you’re not just recording sounds, you’re recording voice overs, a task that demands the best microphones for capturing the intricacies of the spoken word. You want only your voice to shine through, not a distorted or incomplete version of it. So, do your research, understand your voice, and choose a mic that complements your vocal recording needs, giving you high quality sound consistently.
Durability
When you’re immersed in the world of voice overs, whether as a budding voice actor or an established voice over artist, the durability of your microphone becomes a critical factor to consider. The last thing you want is for a minor bump or a drop to damage your primary tool for audio recording.
Durability is especially vital if your voice over work involves travel or if you frequently move your setup around. In these scenarios, a robust and hardy microphone that can withstand the rigors of movement is invaluable.
Dynamic mics, for instance, are typically seen as more durable than their condenser counterparts. These mics can often handle high sound pressure levels and physical stress better, making them a reliable choice for on-the-go voice actors.
However, it’s important to note that a mic’s durability shouldn’t compromise its sound quality. A tough exterior is useless if the mic doesn’t perform well in capturing your voice. Handheld mics, such as some dynamic models, can offer a blend of durability and satisfactory audio recording quality.
One other aspect to think about is the kind of support the mic manufacturer provides. Brands like Audio Technica and Rode offer robust customer support and warranties, which can be a lifesaver if something does go wrong.
So, while you’re focusing on low noise floor, high quality sound, and a mic’s polar response, remember to consider its durability too. After all, a good microphone is an investment, and you’ll want it to stand the test of time and usage.
In conclusion, understanding your recording environment, usage, and requirements can guide you to the right microphone connectivity option, helping you to deliver professional-grade vocal recordings.
Additional Accessories
Various additional accessories can significantly enhance your audio recording quality and your overall experience as a voice actor. Two of the most important accessories to consider are pop filters and shock mounts.
A pop filter is designed to minimize the ‘plosive’ sounds – those harsh “P” and “B” sounds that can cause distortion in your recording. Some microphones come with a built-in pop filter, which can be a handy feature for ensuring a cleaner sound profile. However, standalone pop filters are available and can be a flexible addition to your recording setup, allowing you to adjust positioning as needed.
Shock mounts serve to isolate the microphone from any physical vibrations or movements that might cause unwanted noise. If your recording space is prone to such disturbances, a shock mount is a worthwhile investment. Like pop filters, some mics come with a built-in shock mount, but you can also purchase them separately.
Finding the Right Mic for Your Voice
When it comes to voice over work, perhaps the most personal decision you’ll make is selecting a microphone that suits your unique voice. While technical specifications and features are critical, the final test is how well a microphone captures and reproduces the individual characteristics of your voice. This involves understanding your voice’s tonal quality, pitch, and dynamic range, and then matching these to a microphone that can showcase them to their fullest extent.
For example, some mics are known to enhance lower frequencies, which could be a perfect fit for voices that are deep and resonant. Conversely, mics that favor higher frequencies could be an excellent match for lighter, more delicate voices.
Large diaphragm condenser mics, such as the Rode NT1 or certain Audio Technica models, are generally well-regarded for vocal recording. They offer a broad frequency response and dynamic range, and often deliver a natural, full-bodied sound that can complement a variety of voice types. These mics also typically feature a cardioid pattern, making them a good choice for focusing on only your voice and reducing unwanted noise.
USB mics, while sometimes lacking the depth and detail of XLR mics, can still be a good fit for certain voices and are often more convenient to use. For instance, the Rode NT USB is designed to provide high-quality sound in a convenient, easy-to-use package.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to ensure your voice sounds authentic and clear, whether you’re recording for audiobooks, animation, commercials, or any other voice over work. Testing different microphones can be incredibly helpful in this process. Many music stores or professional audio equipment retailers will allow you to test different models to see which best suits your voice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use A USB Mic With An iPad?
Generally speaking, you will need an additional adapter to connect a USB microphone to your iPad or Android tablet.
This is because most iPads and USB tablets don’t have USB connectivity capabilities.
Having said that, there are some models that do, so it could be worth finding out first.
What is the best dynamic microphone for vocals that a voice-over artist should consider buying?
Yes, dynamic microphones can be a great choice for voice-over work, especially in environments with background noise, as they tend to be less sensitive to ambient sound than condenser microphones.
A top choice in this category is the Shure SM7B, known for its flat, wide-range frequency response that ensures natural sounding vocals. The Heil PR-40 is another strong contender with a smooth frequency range suitable for professional audio applications.
Are Dynamic or Condenser Microphones Better for Voice Overs?
While both types of microphones work very well and can both be used for voice overs, condenser microphones are generally considered better for voice overs.
This is because they have a wider frequency response which helps them easily reproduce the full range of your voice.
Is a condenser mic good for voice overs?
Yes, a condenser microphone is often a great choice for voice-over work. They’re known for their sensitivity and broad frequency response, which allow for capturing a wide range of vocal nuances, leading to a rich and detailed sound.
However, they also pick up background noise more readily than dynamic mics, so a quiet and well-treated recording environment is crucial.
What Do You Need For Voice Acting?
If you plan on voice acting, there are a number of important things you need. For starters, you need a quiet room with great acoustics, a reliable microphone, lots of practice, and patience.
Aside from that, there isn’t actually that much-specialized equipment that you need.
Why YouTubers Need Good Voice-over Gear
Good voice-over gear is important for YouTubers. It helps keep the audience interested, shows professionalism, and makes the message clear.
It meets what viewers expect and works well in different situations. Also, it’s good for using the content in other ways, like in podcasts. So, it’s a good investment for better content.
What microphones does Broadway use?
Broadway uses professional-grade microphones for clear and high-quality sound. These often include lavalier or lapel mics, such as the Sennheiser MKE2 or the DPA 4061, which are small and can be hidden on actors’ bodies.
For larger productions, shotgun mics like the Sennheiser MKH 416 might be used to pick up sound from a distance. The specific microphone depends on the show’s needs and budget.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, five of the best voice over microphones that you will find on the market right now. In this article, we’ve shown you exactly what to expect from a voice over microphone.
We’ve looked at what they are capable of, what features they come with, and what to look for when you decide to buy one.
While the options on our list vary, they are all guaranteed to offer you exceptional performance and reliable results.
All that’s left to do now is for you to narrow down our list and identify the voice over microphone that suits your needs and requirements best.
