The internet is flooded with options suggesting the best Microphone for Voice acting, but only a few are the right and versatile options. If you are a voice actor, then you must be aware of the importance of a good microphone for highlighting your talent and bringing confidence and quality to your simple recording session.
A good mic is not all about its specs, you also need to consider other options like compatibility, price, and sound quality. And if it satisfies all your needs, then it can be considered as the right choice for you. So, here is a list of the most versatile and best microphones for voice acting. So, let’s dig into the article to find the best option for you.
Shure SM7B
Whether recording a deep baritone, taming the brittleness of a high soprano, capturing whispers, or recording gunshots, the Shure SM7B is a must-have. This microphone is widely used by professionals around the world for recording voiceovers, ADR, radio sessions, and podcasts.
It is surely a Quintessential microphone with a flat and wide frequency response and high-quality sound delivery. Moreover, its base roll-off and mid-range boost control give you proficiency over a wide range of voice genres. It also features a rugged surface cover to ensure lifetime sustainability and durability.
Furthermore, its classic cardioid polar pattern can cancel out or isolate all the off-axis noises. Its internal air suspension shock isolation eliminates all noise transmission to provide you with a high-quality and smooth sound output with no interruption.
However, the mic has only one polar pattern, and it is unnecessarily large both in weight and size. Moreover, it is also not a budget-friendly option.
Specs
| Mic Type | Dynamic mic | Polar pattern | Cardioid |
| Audio frequency response range | 50 to 20 000 Hz | Sensitivity | -59 dB/Pa |
| Impedance | 150 ohms | Audio output type | XLR 3-pin |
| Diaphragm size | 19 mm | Max sound pressure level | 180 dB |
| Weight | 800 grams | Length | 7.6 inches |
| Diameter | 4 inches | Construction material | Metal |
| Color | Dark gray | Switches | Bass roll-off |
| Windscreen | Yes | Shock mount | Yes |
Pros
- It can be used for many other activities, including voice acting
- Made with metal
- Very durable and reliable
- Has the features to minimize the background noise
- A presence boost can make the vocals clearer
- Comes with a built-in shock mount
- Compatible with a lot of devices with XLR output
Cons
- Not a budget-friendly option
- Have to buy a good preamplifier for it
- The size and weight of this microphone is more than needed
- It only has one polar pattern (cardioid)
MXL Mics 770
It is surely one of the most compact, reliable, and high-quality large diaphragm condenser mics available in the market. It is an ideal choice for producers, musicians, and content creators thanks to its incredible vocal and instrument sound recording capabilities.
It can seamlessly capture the audio of all frequencies and bass levels. Moreover, with its low-frequency roll-off switch feature, you can easily cancel out all the surrounding noises and unnecessary bass rumbles.
Despite its low price tag, its natural cardioid pickup pattern provides excellent tracking of vocals, stringed instruments, and pianos with beautiful warmth and clarity. This mic is a must-have for high-profile sound quality during professional podcasts, broadcasts, and voiceovers. Moreover, its multipurpose cardioid pickup pattern is a wise choice for vocal recording and instrument string sounds.
It also features a shock mount and a custom-fitted hard shell case to ensure both style and durability. However, the key function of this mic is to record voiceovers. Moreover, it also has a loud self-noise, making it inconvenient for professional recording sessions.
Specs
| Mic type | Condenser mic | Diaphragm | Large |
| Diaphragm size | 16 mm | Color | Black |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Audio frequency response range | 30 to 20 000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | -30 dB/Pa | Max sound pressure level | 137 dB |
| Noise level | 20 dB | Impedance | 150 ohms |
| Audio output type | XLR audio output | Phantom power | Yes |
| Power requirement | 48 volts | Shock mount | Yes |
| Carrying case | Yes | Weight | 500 grams |
| Length | 6 inches | Diameter | 2 inches |
| Filter | Yes | Signal-to-noise ratio | 74 dB |
| Total harmonic distortion | 0.5 percent |
Pros
- Very light on the pocket
- The audio quality is amazing
- The cardioid polar pattern also allows you to record audio from one direction without any extra noise.
- It comes with a shock mount, high-pass filter, and carrying case
- It can be used for voice acting and instruments
- The build quality is solid
Cons
- No advanced feature
- The self-noise of this mic is higher than usual
- Needs a phantom power supply to operate
- Not so durable
- No accessories are provided in the box in some regions
- Mainly focused on voice recordings
Marantz Pro MPM1000
If you are looking for a high-quality condenser mic with a spectacular sound delivery, sleek body, and budget price range, then Marantz Pro MPM1000 must be a great option for you. The microphone can capture vocals and instrument sounds thanks to its adjustable cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 modes.
Although the sound quality is not top-notch, it is surely better than its competitors in the same price range. The mic is perfect for recording podcasts, video commentaries, and instrument sounds. It can isolate all the unnecessary surrounding noises and provide the most clear and detailed sound results in any environment.
With its large diaphragm, it can capture both subtle nuances and bombastic guitar strings. However, the sensitivity and sound pressure level of this model is not satisfactory. Moreover, it also lacks advanced features. It is only recommended for voice-over recording sessions.
Specs
| Mic type | Condenser mic | Diaphragm | Large |
| Diaphragm size | 18 mm | Load | Less than 1000 |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Sensitivity | -38 dB |
| Max sound pressure level | 136 dB | Noise level | 20 dBA |
| Impedance | 200 ohms | Audio output type | XLR audio output |
| Phantom power | Yes | Power requirement | 48 volts |
| Construction material | Metal | Color | Black |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 77 dB | Diameter | 2 inches |
| Weight | 300 grams | Length | 7 inches |
| Self-noise | 17 dBA | Audio frequency response range | 20 to 20 000 Hz |
| Windshield | Yes | Tripod Stand | Yes |
| Cable included | Yes | Shock mount | Yes |
Pros
- Very affordable mic
- Good quality audio
- Comes with cardioid (reduces background noises)
- Solid and durable build
- The self-noise is less than 20 dBA
Cons
- Needs a 48 V phantom power to work
- Limited features in this price range
- Only recommended for voice acting
- The sensitivity and sound pressure level are not enough
Audio Technica AT2020
From subtle and nuanced vocals and guitar tones to screaming music volumes, the Audio Technica AT2020 can capture all types of sounds. It is a classic stellar mic with incredible sound quality at a budget price. It is ideal to be used both as a home or studio mic, thanks to its comfortable interface and reasonable price.
Audio Technica AT2020 is a condenser mic that features SPL handling and a wide dynamic sound range to amplify its versatility. Moreover, it also has a tailor-made low-mass diaphragm to facilitate an extended frequency response and quick transient response. Furthermore, it also has a relatively low self-noise, which is perfect for sophisticated and professional recording sessions.
Additionally, its cardioid polar pattern retains its focus on one main sound stream while isolating all surrounding noises. It also features a pivoting, threaded stand mount to provide a secure and comfortable mic placement. However, the mic does not include any advanced features. It has a very low sound pressure level limit and is very sensitive to plosive sounds.
Specs
| Mic type | Condenser mic | Diaphragm | Large |
| Polar pattern | Cardioid | Diaphragm size | 16 mm |
| Audio frequency response range | 20 to 20 000 Hz | Sensitivity | -37 dB |
| Max sound pressure level | 144 dB | Noise level | 20 dB |
| Phantom power | yes | Power requirement | 48 V |
| Impedance | 100 ohms | Audio output type | XLR |
| Construction material | Metal | Color | Black |
| Threaded stand | Yes | Protective pouch | Yes |
| Shock mount | No | Filter | No |
Pros
- Impressive audio quality
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces background noises
- It is also very affordable
- Solid build quality with durability
- The self-noise is also very low
- It can be used for many other things, including voice acting
Cons
- Requires a 48 V phantom power to work
- No shock mount is provided with it
- Does not have advanced features
- Very sensitive to plosive sounds
- Very low sound pressure level limit
Bottom Line
When it comes to voice acting, having the right microphone is essential for high-quality recordings. Several options are available, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The Shure SM7B is a versatile and widely used choice, but it’s a bit expensive. The MXL Mics 770 is affordable and good for voice recording. The Marantz Pro MPM1000 is budget-friendly and suitable for voice-overs. The Audio Technica AT2020 offers impressive sound quality but is sensitive to certain sounds. The best microphone for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
