Hey there, 

We are back with another blog to help new and upcoming voice over artists like you grow their business! Aside from your talent and training, the equipment you use is essential to your success in the industry. You can’t be recording voiceovers on your phone or on subpar mics. 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 microphones are the best for voice acting, 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 types of microphones on the market, and 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 have a soundproof recording room, choose a sensitive mic that helps to bring out the unique nuances of your recording voice. If your recording space is not soundproof, then choose a low-sensitivity mic which 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 to record 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 mics and testing out different ones available, you will 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. 

When browsing through the following list of the best VO mics, you will notice a difference in prices. 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. 

1. Rode NT1A – As the golden industry-standard, Rode is one of the most popular microphone brands and stands for quality and reliability. The NT1A 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 an Audio-Technica mic. Its AT2020 model is durable, has great sound quality, and offers a wide dynamic range. Price: $99

3. Blue Yeti – Another steal on the market is the Blue Yeti USB mic, one of the best low-budget condenser microphones on the market. Price. $99.99  
4. Sennheiser MKH 416-P48U3 – If you plan to record a lot outdoors and don’t mind spending a bit more, this high-end Sennheiser 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 mic for amateurs, the Blue Snowball iCE is easy to use and works well in a variety of indoor settings. Price: $39.99  
6. Neumann TLM 103 – Although it’s a bit pricey, this Neumann large-diaphragm mic is very popular, especially in the music industry and, for good reason; it boasts excellent noise reduction features and can also reduce plosives. Price: $1,009  
7. Neumann TLM 102 – Compact and robust, this Neumann mic features a built-in pop shield and a treble boost for silkier vocals and is priced much lower than the TLM 103. Price: $699  
8. VO: 1-A Harlan Hogan Signature Series  – Created by iconic voice actor Harlan Hogan, this condenser mic was specifically designed for voiceover artists. Price: $359  
9. Townsend Labs Sphere L22 – The L22 is a dual-capsule, large-diaphragm condenser mic that features dual outputs. Price: $1,499  
10. Electro-Voice RE-20 – Known as one of the top dynamic microphones, the RE-20 features excellent sound quality, a pop filter, and a shock mount!  Price: $449

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, whether it’s soundproof or not, your personal preferences, and, of course, on your budget. Having to pay a big amount for equipment may be painful at first, but with time, you will see that the ease of use and audio quality makes your work easier, your recordings better, and ultimately helps you grow your business.

Thanks for reading!

Anthony