Aside from your talent and training, the equipment you use is essential to your success in the voice acting industry. After all, you can’t be recording voiceovers on your phone or on subpar mics — that simply won’t cut it. 

When starting out, buying a quality microphone will be one of your biggest upfront costs — however, the investment will be well worth it.

But, before we dive in and check out which voice over microphones are the best for voice acting success, let’s have a look at the key aspects you need to pay attention to when buying a new voiceover mic.

What Makes An Ideal Voice Over Microphone?

There are countless different microphone types on the market. However, not all of them are created equal. 

Whichever one you choose, make sure to take the following into consideration: 

• Low Self-Noise: A mic with a low self-noise rating helps to eliminate background noise in a soundproof room. 
• Sensitivity: If you’re already working with a soundproof recording space, make sure you choose a sensitive mic that helps to bring out the unique nuances of your recording voice. If your recording space is not soundproof, choose a low-sensitivity mic that helps to eliminate background noise by muffling sound waves. 
• Flat Frequency Response: You want to choose a microphone that makes you sound like you while it reproduces your voice most accurately. A microphone with a flat frequency response can do that. 
• Polar Response: The mic you choose depends a lot on your recording environment. Make sure to select one that is suitable for your home studio and has a consistent pattern of at least 0 degrees on-axis and 90 degrees to the side.
• Proximity Effect: Think about the sound you want to achieve and be known for. A mic’s proximity effect can help you sound professional, while it can also alter the tone of your voice if you move during your recording. Test a mic with proximity effect to see whether you like it.  

The Top 10 Voiceover Mics 

Generally, condenser mics are excellent for recording voiceovers, as they are able to pick up your unique voice nuances. Handheld mics, however, are not suited for voice-over artists. 

While I can recommend the best voiceover mics on the market to you, you will ultimately have to choose the one that suits you best. When searching for voice-over microphones, make sure you’re testing all the different ones available in order to find out what you like and dislike. If possible, borrow different ones from friends or colleagues to test them out for a few days in your own space. Soon enough, you’ll know which one to get for yourself. 

Additionally, when browsing through the following list of the best VO mics, you will notice a difference in prices. Here’s a secret, though: the most expensive mic isn’t necessarily the best one available. You will want to find a microphone that gets the job done, meets your requirements, and suits your budget. 

Without further ado, let’s get into what we’re all here for:

1. Rode NT1A

As the golden industry standard, Rode is one of the most popular microphone brands and stands for quality and reliability. The Rode NT1A, especially, is an excellent microphone to start your career with and is in the mid-budget range. Price: $229

2. Audio-Technica AT2020

If you prefer something more affordable, you can’t go wrong with the Audio-Technica AT2020. It’s durable, has great sound quality, and offers a wide dynamic range, which makes it great for beginners as well. Price: $99

3. Blue Yeti

Another steal on the market is the Blue Yeti. One of the best USB microphones out there, this low-budget condenser microphone requires background software that makes it a little harder to use for voiceovers — but it’s great for amateurs or basic YouTube narrations! Price. $129.99  

4. Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3

If you plan to record a lot outdoors and don’t mind spending a bit more, the high-end Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 — a tube condenser shotgun microphone — is perfect for you.  It offers high consonant articulation, feedback rejection, and low self-noise. Price: $999  

5. Blue Snowball iCE

An affordable and reliable condenser microphone for amateurs and streamers, Logitech’s Blue Snowball iCE is easy to use and works well in a variety of indoor settings. Price: $49.99  

6. Neumann TLM 103

Although it’s a bit pricey, the Neumann TLM 103 large-diaphragm mic is very popular — especially in the music industry, and for good reason. Overall, it boasts excellent noise reduction features and can also reduce plosives, which makes it great for capturing a truly natural sound. Price: $1,195  

7. Neumann TLM 102

Compact and robust, the Neumann TLM 102 mic features a built-in pop shield and a treble boost for silkier vocals — and is priced much lower than the TLM 103. Overall, this voice-over microphone is ideal for budding artists who want a high-quality sound without breaking the bank. Price: $699  

8. VO: 1-A Harlan Hogan Signature Series 

Created by iconic voice actor Harlan Hogan, the 1-A Signature Series was specifically designed for voiceover artists. Made to capture voices clearly and genuinely, it’s one of the most on-brand condenser microphones out there for people who want to perfect their craft. Price: $359  

9. Townsend Labs Sphere L22

The Townsend Labs Sphere L22 is a dual-capsule, large-diaphragm condenser mic that features dual outputs. Think of it as having two microphones at once — which is great for capturing full sound. Price: $1,499  

10. Electro-Voice RE-20

Known as one of the top dynamic microphones in the market today, the Electro-Voice RE-20 features excellent sound quality, a pop filter, and a shock mount! This nifty mic is popular among radio hosts, podcasters, and even musicians. Price: $449

How to Choose the Right Mic Brand for You

Choosing the perfect mic for your skills and career goals can be a daunting task — especially when there are so many options available out there. 

From testing microphones to preamp considerations, here's a quick guide to help you navigate your choices:

1. Test Before You Invest

If you're new to the world of microphones, consider borrowing one before buying. If someone you know owns a mic, ask if you can use it in your setting. By testing microphones in your environment, you can get a real sense of their capabilities and compatibility with your needs.

2. Explore Multiple Options

Even if the first microphone you try sounds amazing, don’t rush to purchase. It's important to compare various microphone types in order to determine the best fit for your needs. Different mics have distinct sound profiles, and what works in one setting might not in another.

3. Get Ready to Adapt

Your chosen microphone today might not be your forever choice. As your recording environment or requirements evolve, your microphone preference might change. That said, always be open to reassessing your choices in the future.

4. Focus on the Detail

While various microphones serve different purposes, condenser microphones are renowned for capturing detailed vocals. They're a favorite in the industry for this very reason. Meanwhile, dynamic microphones #.

5. Avoid Handheld Mics

For voiceovers or studio recordings, avoid handheld or stage microphones — these can #. Instead, opt for voice-over microphones that come with stands to ensure stability and eliminate noise from hand movements.

6. Price Doesn't Define Quality

A higher price tag doesn't always equate to superior quality when it comes to microphone types. Your best microphone will strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance. Some budget-friendly options might even surprise you with their quality!

7. Frequency Response is Crucial

When choosing a microphone, consider its frequency response. Some mics — like large-diaphragm ones — tend to enhance lower frequencies, making them ideal for deeper voices or specific instruments. On the other hand, small-diaphragm mics — with their quick response — excel in capturing high-frequency details, making them suitable for instruments.

Takeaway 

As you can see, there are many great microphones for voice actors on the market, and your choice ultimately depends on your recording room — as in, whether it’s soundproof or not —, your personal preferences, and, of course, your budget. 

Sure, having to pay a big amount for equipment may be painful at first — but, with time, you’ll see that the ease of use and audio quality make your work easier, your recordings better, and ultimately help you grow your business.

Ready to tackle voice acting? A VO’s Journey offers personalized training to help you understand the industry from within, and get a better handle on what to expect in terms of auditions, script interpretation, voice modulation techniques, and networking opportunities. With VO training courses available for all levels and interests, all that’s missing is… you.