We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The LA Times editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more

Best Dynamic Microphones for Any Musician

  1. AKG P2 Bass Instrument Dynamic Microphone
  2. Shure PGA57-XLR Dynamic Microphone
  3. Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
  4. Rode M1 Vocal Dynamic Microphone
  5. BLUE Encore 200 Studio Grade Phantom Powered Active Dynamic Microphone
  6. Audio Technica AE2500 Dynamic Microphone
  7. Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
  8. Sennheiser MD 421-II Dynamic Microphone
  9. Neumann BCM 705 Mic Dynamic
  10. AKG Drum Set Session 1 Drum Mic
  11. Buyer's Guide

In the world of audio engineering, dynamic mics are plentiful. Trendy, versatile, and quite easy to use, dynamic microphones are a great tool for those looking to upgrade their microphone collection. Whether you are a professional singer wanting to boost your live sound quality, a video streamer browsing for an affordable microphone option, or a karaoke enthusiast, dynamic microphones are a great choice.

There are many types of dynamic microphones available on the market. To help you navigate through these many features, we have compiled a list of dynamic microphones to help you out. Read on to find out which is best for you!

Here Are The Best Dynamic Microphones of 2022

AKG P2 Bass Instrument Dynamic Microphone - Best Dynamic Microphone Overall

The AKG P S 3 makes the most sense for those who are looking for a reasonable and fitting dynamic mic that can suit a need for rugged build, affordable pricing, and great sound. This handheld cardioid device can easily be muted and unmated via an easy-access switch, making it great for those who are also giving seminars or don’t want their microphone to be on all the time. An internal windscreen helps to protect sound against breath noises and other unwanted artifacts, which also makes this a great tool for those who aren’t necessarily as experienced in the world of speaking into a microphone (and trust us, there are a lot of people who fall into this category). The unit also comes with a handy stand adapter and zip bag, making it easy to travel with and put to use as soon as you’re ready to go.

Shure PGA57-XLR Dynamic Microphone - Runner Up

Contrary to the layman’s perception, microphones aren’t just made for capturing vocals. Take a look at any stage and you’ll see that drum kits and guitar amps are also paired with mics that are there to subtly yet seamlessly get the job done. Enter the Shure PGA57, a dynamic microphone that is ideal for those types of uses, particularly with snare drums and amp cabinets. The unit’s cardioid pickup pattern captures a direct signal of the source that it’s being pointed at, while carefully filtering out any unwanted ambient room noise. Because it’s a Shure microphone, this unit is also built to last, so feel free to give it the kind of regular abuse that you would usually reserve to initiating the newest crew member on his first national tour.

Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone - Honorable Mention

It’s rare to encounter a microphone that not only can do it all, but also not break the bank for someone seeking such a valuable tool to add to their arsenal. Shure’s SM57 dynamic microphone somehow manages to fall into both of those categories. Great for use in both studio and live environments, this mic also can be used as a handheld or can sit in a stand mount for optimal use. It’s built rugged enough that it can take a (relative) beating and still perform its function, which is one reason why it gets used so frequently on the road. Its natural presence peak also works to bring out extra clarity in instruments such as guitars and the human voice.

Rode M1 Vocal Dynamic Microphone - Consider

If you’re looking for a live dynamic microphone to use for vocalists, the Rode M1 is a serious option to consider. A rugged die-cast body and sturdy dynamic capsule ensure that you won’t have to baby this thing when you should be focusing on delivering the best performance; an internal pop-filter also helps to reduce any unwanted frequencies that are unpleasant to the ear. This mic also has a feedback rejecting pick-up pattern, which any vocalist will tell you is a must-have when it comes to the tool that they’re going to be using to project their voice throughout a loud room. Gold-plated XLR connectors give this mic a sense of style and elegance, but that’s not where the fun stops. The Rode M1 also comes with a lifetime warranty, so even if it should fall victim to some sort of accident, you may be covered.

BLUE Encore 200 Studio Grade Phantom Powered Active Dynamic Microphone - Best Budget Dynamic Microphone

Blue Microphones’ enCORE 100 is a dynamic cardioid microphone that is specifically designed for capturing vocals onstage. To that end, the unit’s aria dynamic capsule has been tuned to capture a natural performance while providing clear and detailed sound. Blue’s propriety capsule mount is also conducive to onstage performance, as it blocks out nearly all handling noise without the use of pads or filters. Because it’s a Blue, this thing also has a distinct style that sets it apart from other budget dynamic microphones; a hand-painted logo and laser-engraved trim ring gives this unit a sense of style. Because this mic has been built to take on the road, it’s only right that it comes equipped with a soft-grip microphone clip and soft-lined storage pouch for easy travel and application.

Audio Technica AE2500 Dynamic Microphone - Best Dynamic Microphone Overall

Audio-Technica boasts their AE2500 dynamic microphone as the ultimate kick-drum mic, and with its bevy of features, it’s not a far-fetched claim. Built with a dual element design, the AE2500 actually acts as both a condenser and dynamic microphone, which grants it the ability to capture the aggressive attack that kick drums have while also maintaining the round tonalities produced by the shell. The elements in this microphone have been positioned to create a perfect phase relationship, which would be nearly impossible to do if you were to use two separate microphones to achieve the sound that this single unit is capable of producing. Because this mic has been built to handle the low-end thump of the kick drum, the AE2500 also comes with an 80Hz low cut filter build into the condenser part of the mic. The AE2500 also comes with a shock mount and breakout cable as added accessories.

Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone - Honorable Mention

It’s rare to encounter a microphone that not only can do it all, but also not break the bank for someone seeking such a valuable tool to add to their arsenal. Shure’s SM57 dynamic microphone somehow manages to fall into both of those categories. Great for use in both studio and live environments, this mic also can be used as a handheld or can sit in a stand mount for optimal use. It’s built rugged enough that it can take a (relative) beating and still perform its function, which is one reason why it gets used so frequently on the road. Its natural presence peak also works to bring out extra clarity in instruments such as guitars and the human voice.

Sennheiser MD 421-II Dynamic Microphone - Best Dynamic Microphone Overall

Sennheiser’s MD 421 II dynamic microphone features a five position bass roll-off switch and feedback rejection that helps to cut out unwanted bleed-through frequencies that often occur in live and recording setups. The aforementioned bass roll-off switch controls proximity effect, which allows you to place the unit close to your audio source while still maintaining a clear and clean signal free of any unwanted bass boost. The unit’s acoustic components within the microphone’s inner chassis have a reduced sensitivity to dust and humidity, ensuring that this thing will last longer even in the less ideal environments you could bring a dynamic microphone into. The MD 421 II also works well with exceptionally high sound pressure. This unit also comes with a handy mic clip so that you can get started with it soon after purchasing.

Neumann BCM 705 Mic Dynamic - Best Dynamic Microphone Overall

Neumann’s BCM 705 is a dynamic hypercardioid microphone that features the same sound as the company’s 104 condenser microphone, at a fraction of the cost. The microphone itself is mechanically suspended in a way that reduces sensitivity to stand movement and handling shocks, which helps to prevent any unnecessary noise in the recording process. Lower frequencies are enhanced via an enlarged and acoustically coupled capsule, which was made from a design based around the Profi Power Sennheiser MD 431 handheld stage microphone. An integrated pop screen helps build resistance to wind, while still promoting clear high-frequency response. The BCM is designed for close mic techniques, but it can also work when placed slightly further from the audio source.

AKG Drum Set Session 1 Drum Mic - Best Dynamic Microphone Overall

Those who are looking to get more out of the sound of their kick drum would do well to check out the AKG D12 VR dynamic microphone. This mic is ideal for both studio and live environments. This unit applies phantom power to activate three different filter curves; one hades a low-frequency boost, a second is a midrange cut, and the third combines the first two filters while adding a presence boost for clarity. A C414 transformer adds an additional rich quality to the high-level signals processed by this microphone. The D12 VR’s thin diaphragm and bass-optimized capsule chamber also help to harness the huge bass tones that come from a kick drum.

Buyer's Guide

Dynamic microphones are ideal for recording vocals in a variety of situations, including podcasting, voiceovers, and singing. Do you want to invest in a good-quality dynamic microphone? Read this guide to choose the best dynamic microphone for your musical needs.

What is a dynamic microphone, and how does it differ from a condenser microphone?

The two primary types of microphones are dynamic and condenser. These are pretty distinct from each other in terms of many features. Budget level, usage, and mechanics are all examples of these variations.

The most basic form of the microphone is a dynamic mic, often known as a moving coil mic. These don't require any external power (a.k.a. "Phantom Power") because there are no active electronics inside. As a result, they're typically less costly than condenser microphones.

Dynamic microphones are usually less sensitive than condenser microphones in terms of performance, making them less appropriate for catching the subtleties of acoustic instruments, delicate vocals, or high frequencies. On the plus side, their strong SPL (sound pressure level) handling capability makes them excellent for usage with electric guitar amplifiers, percussion, and live/loud voice performances.

Which are some differentiating features of dynamic microphones?

When it comes to selecting a great microphone, there are several things to consider when determining which mics are best for you.

Your usage

High-quality dynamic microphones are the way to go for stronger sound sources like guitars, basses, and drums. The most alluring feature of dynamic microphones is that almost all of them are multi-purpose workhorses. It means that you can use them for different applications without worrying about the sound quality. When selecting a microphone, it's also crucial to ensure that the mic can withstand the source material's loudness without distortion.

Your performance preferences

Many artists, particularly vocalists, will choose to use a microphone. While many people may use a normal dynamic mic to record their voice, others will insist on using a hand-held condenser mic.

Your budget

Microphones are available at various price points, and your budget mainly dictates the quantity and quality of microphones you use. Fortunately, many of the essentials of live sound are both affordable and long-lasting, giving you a lot of bang for your buck.

How to know which is the best dynamic microphone for you?

Because unidirectional microphones effectively isolate sound sources and prevent feedback, you'll probably use them in most situations. Whether you need the frequency response of a condenser mic or a dynamic mic depends on the sort of instrument you're recording and the sound you want to achieve.

Singing or Speaking Vocals

Some great vocalists prefer dynamic microphones over condenser mics because dynamic mics provide a richer, thicker sound and wear better over time.

Drums

Each drum has its mic in many live sound systems. A dynamic mic is typically an excellent choice for the snare drum since it demands a mic that can tolerate a high SPL. A decent low-frequency mic is required for a kick drum and a flat-response condenser mic captures the brightness and high frequencies of cymbals well. Several manufacturers provide drum multi-mic kits that include all of the microphones you'll need.

Guitar Amplifiers

A standard guitar amp, believe it or not, contains sonic qualities comparable to the human voice. A dynamic vocal or percussion mic will suffice in most cases. Another reason dynamic microphones work well on guitar cabinets is that they can generally withstand high SPLs.

Bass Amplifiers

Like a guitar amp, you can efficiently create a lot of volumes with the help of a bass amp. It also helps you in producing and recording an array of tones when used in a microphone of decent large-diaphragm.

When choosing a mic for a bass cabinet, a fair rule of thumb is that if it sounds well on a kick drum, it'll probably sound good on bass guitar as well. It's also popular to mix the mic's cabinet sound with a direct bass signal from an amp's direct out, a direct box, or an amp emulation.

What to look for while buying dynamic mics?

When it comes to choosing the ideal dynamic microphone, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Value

When acquiring a gadget, everyone wants to get their hands on the best possible deal. So, be mindful that the dynamic microphone is worth the money you spend on it. The more money you pay for a dynamic microphone, the better features it should have and the better it will function.

Reliability

When purchasing a microphone, this is a critical aspect to consider. You must ensure that it is compatible with your smartphone, apps, computer, camera, or any other device you want to use. In the long run, purchasing a suitable microphone will save you a lot of worries.

Reputable brand

It's critical to find a dynamic microphone that was designed and marketed by a reputable company. If you buy a mic from a company that isn't well-known or isn't recognized for reliability, you'll have a good possibility of obtaining a mic that doesn't perform well or has subpar sound quality. It is advised that you choose a product for which you can read reviews, watch videos, and see how satisfied other buyers are so you can be confident in your purchase.

XLR or USB connector

You must first decide if you require a USB or XLR pick. The difference between these two sorts is how they connect to the device you intend to use. You don't want to buy a model with the wrong output since you'll have to return it, but some feature both inputs and outputs.

Longevity and dependability

It is quite important to choose a mic that is both robust and dependable. You will most likely expect to utilize this microphone for at least a few years, so it's critical that you pick one that's known to endure a long time and can tolerate a few minor dings.

How much does a dynamic microphone cost?

When it comes to purchasing a microphone, the old adage "you get what you pay for in life" remains true, but with some crucial exceptions.

Dynamic microphones are less expensive than condensers, yet they function better in particular situations, such as live recording performances. If you're on a budget, a good dynamic mic will cost around $135. In general, dynamic microphones can cost somewhere around $100 to $300.

Best Dynamic Microphones FAQs

Q: When do you think you will be using a dynamic microphone?
A: On instruments with a lot of low-mid energy, dynamic mics are frequently utilized. Because most dynamic microphones come with a bass roll-off, you can expect them to be ideal for high-end music instruments.

Q: Is it possible to capture vocals using a dynamic microphone?
A: Dynamic microphones are a low-cost option. Traditionally employed as an instrument mic, the dynamic microphone has captured everything from guitar, bass, and drums to singing voices, vocal screams, and everything in between at virtually any decibel level.

Q: Do you really need dynamic microphones?
A: High sound pressure levels can be handled using dynamic microphones. As a result, they're perfect for capturing loud noises or being used in a live environment. So, you can work in a studio where you don't have to worry about noises being too loud, and you want to record the nuances of your singing.

bestcovery team.jpg
Our research team searches out the best of everything so that you can confidently pick the perfect products and services for your needs.
Related Content
Go to top