The Vocal Microphone and Methods of Recording Vocals

     Another important factor when recording your musical masterpiece is the type of vocal microphone you use. There are two types, Dynamic and Condenser. Dynamic mics are usually used for live performances or recording the guitars. Condenser mics are ideal for vocals because of ther sensitivity and mid to high range of sound detection. For someone on a budget the MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount is the perfect mic especially since its only $79.99. If you think that is a lot of money than just consider the fact that most condenser mics are $149.99 and up.


MXL mic with pop filter

      Now that you know a good mic to use it would be wise to take advice on different atmospheres to record. The ideal position of a vocal recording would be in a small room with acoustic foam covering the walls to reduce the reverb which could cost arount $1,500. Since most people can't afford that, people have come up with alternatives that still have the same effect. One method would be to go in a roomy closet and, if you can, purchase a $20 Foam Mattress Topper to cover some of the walls around you. Finally if that is too much money or effort you can find the most enclosed room in your house and get a pop filter which will reduce the popping sound of the p's and t's in the song. You will place this pop filter between the singer and the microphone.

Your First Microphone



SM57

      Basically your first mic will stay with you for a while so you want to make a descent choice. Now regular people may be thinking that a microphone would only be for singing, well they're wrong. Your microphone can be used for singing but also for recording the electric guitar, bass guitar or drums. It is important to take this into consideration in order to stretch your dollar. There are many types of microphones so first we're going to explain a guitar mic.
     The Shure sm57 , a dynamic mic, is my preference because of its unique ability to be right up against the amplifier which is the best spot to get closest to the actual sound of the guitar. I also enjoy using it because of its ability to use it overhead on the drums and for back up vocals. This would cost about $100 which is standard even though the quality matches $150 to $200 competitors.

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