10 Best Microphones For Guitar Amps
As a guitarist, microphones are a must-have in your audio production arsenal. Among other amplification instruments, they are a common tool shared among audiophiles and stage performers alike.
Nevertheless, the straight line that sets audiophiles’ microphones apart from those for heavy-duty guitar players cannot be erased. This is in the same sense that the microphone models most ideal for bassists may not be a replacement for the acoustic guitar mics. Therefore, in your search for the best microphone for guitar amps, it is important to consider all the fundamental facets to guide your buying decision.
By the way, with the availability of almost a thousand options on the market in different styles, designs, volumes, and tones, creating your own buying guide may not be as easy.
So to speak, in this post, I have recommended 10 top-liners, all picked from the sweet spots of the market, just for you. Each recommendation has been reviewed to detail and has been given a headline that highlights what and who it is best for.
Right here, whether you’re an expert guitarist or a beginner strings player, you’ll find:
- The Best Microphone For Electric Guitar Recording
- The Best Acoustic Guitar Microphone
- The Best Microphone For Bass Guitar
- Best Clip-On Instrument Mic For Guitar Amps
See my complete A-list below for an overview before a slide-by-slide product review of each selected model.
My A-List Of The Best Mics For Guitar Amps
| Image | Title | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Top | Aston Microphones Spirit Large Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone | Buy Now |
| Sennheiser E609 Silver Super Cardioid Instrument Microphone | Buy Now | |
| Aston Microphones Origin Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone | Buy Now | |
| MXL 990/991 Recording Condenser Microphone Package | Buy Now | |
| Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone - Black | Buy Now | |
| Audio-Technica PRO 35 Cardioid Condenser Clip-on Instrument Microphone | Buy Now | |
| Saramonic SmartMixer Professional Recording Stereo Microphone Rig for iPhone and Android Smartphones | Buy Now | |
| Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Black, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications | Buy Now | |
| HEIMU Clip On Instrument Condenser Microphone + Universal Clip (for Guitar) | Buy Now |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Great. Uh? See the review of each below.
Top 10 Microphones For Guitar Amps
From time immemorial, large diaphragm-based mics are a thing for every audiophile, thanks to their capacity to tailor out the details of sounds and their ultimate ability to amplify low acoustic signals into conceivable highs.
Enter the new large-diaphragm generation, the Aston Spirit model changes the game with multiple polar patterns condenser, boasting itself as the industry standard. At just a single soft press of a button on the silver body, you can switch through two distinct polar patterns to select the one most suited for the venue. From Omni, cardioid to figure-of-eight polar patterns, Spirit offers more versatility by expanding on both highs and lows when you want and, in the other case, filtering out the lows and pounding your highs.
- Designed and built in the UK
- Multi-pattern Microphone
- Built-in Pop filter using the latest stainless steel mesh knit technology
- End Caps Direct to stand microphone mounting
- Capsule The Aston Sound Developed by Professional Artists, Engineers, and Producers
- Industry-standard
Who is it for? About just every musical nerd looking for industry-standard dynamic mics that consistently deliver sparkling harmonics and a clean open sound. Whether you’re a vocalist that plays the guitar in the club or in a much larger setting, this is the guitar amp for you. If you’ve ever had a good experience with the Aston Origin and you think it’s the best so far, the Aston Spirit blows the effing door away.
What’s grande about it? A waveform spring head protection, recognized with all Aston mics, does not only serve as a shock prevention system but equally offers an off-axis rejection to keep your vocals and guitar plays clean and free from unwanted noise or feedback. This feature together with the integrated 80Hz frequency filter is most especially needed by stage performers in need to pound music to a large audience whilst eliminating the inevitable stage feedback and noise.
And did I mention that Spirit is the NAMM TEC 2017 award winner? See the complete features of this dynamic mic below for a breakdown of the mic’s elements.
Features
- Type of transducer; condenser
- Acoustic operating principle type; principle gradient
- Polar patterns; cardioid, Omni, figure-of-eight
- Low-cut filter; 80Hz
- Frequency response range; 20Hz to 20, 000Hz
- Signal-to-noise-ratio; rel. 94dB SPL
- Required phantom power; 48V
- PAD switches; -0dB/-10dB/-20dB
- End caps hole (stand mounting points)
- Pop filter
- Waveform spring head
- Equivalent noise level; 14dB
- An award-winning mic for vocals and guitars
- Standard direct to stand Mounting
- Custom finish chassis
- Comes with a built-in pop filter
- Shock-resistant and off-axis rejection for a clean production
- Controlled amplification with smooth audio output
- A balanced circuitry with a high-end transformer
- Versatile unit with multi-pattern options
- Best value for the money
- Great for both recording electric and recording acoustic
- Quite heavy
- No USB mount or XLR is included in the pack
Other than being merely an instrument miking unit for recordings and live performances, Shure SM57-LC is a highly dynamic unidirectional mic for church services, stadium performances, and other musical production.
The design finds the link and builds all of its features on the borderline that sets recording mics and performance microphones apart. Though offering a fewer frequency response range of 40Hz-15, 000Hz counter most of the models on my list, Shure SM57-LC offers a rich vocal pickup and a reasonably clean instrumental production at the steal price of $100.
- Contoured frequency response is clean, instrumental reproduction and rich vocal pickup
- Professional-quality reproduction for drum, percussion, and instrument amplifier miking
- Uniform cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main source while reducing background noise
- Extremely durable under the heaviest use
- Frequency response 40 to 15,000 Hz
- Connectivity: Wired
- Ideal for both recording acoustic and recording electric
- Tailored microphone cartridge design for clear reproduction of sound source
- Cardioid polar pattern picks up audio from the source while rejecting unwanted noise
- Updated industrial design with black metallic finish and grille for unobtrusive visual presence
- Two available options: (1) with 15-foot XLR-XLR cable, or (2) without cable
- Stand adapter for mounting to a microphone stand
So what’s dynamic about it? The contoured frequency, I’d say. That allows Shure SM57-LC to be ideal for rehearsals, clubs, and even in a stadium with 10, 000 seat capacity. Add to that its high ability to handle knocks perfectly, thanks to its rugged body build. And together with the pneumatic shock mount and the uniform cardioid pattern, you can expect wholeness and naturality in your sound amplification and equally rest easy that the background noise and handling are taken care of.
See the complete specs, cons, and pros below.
Features
- Frequency response range: 40Hz-15, 000Hz
- Transducer type: dynamic moving coil
- Connector: 3-pins professional XLR male
- Output impedance: 30ohms
- Sensitivity: -56dBV/PA
- A25D swivel stand adapter
- Great mic at a steal price
- Hardly picks up background noise
- Ideal recording guitar amp used through amp out
- Pop-free and breath-free when used with a windscreen
- Zero scrimps on sound quality
- A highly directional mic for 10, 000 capacity stadium
- Industry-standard unit for all-purpose
- Needs a windscreen to be perfect
- Not the best for recording
Get in here if you’re the budget-maker music producer looking for an everything-in-one-place ribbon mic for your business. Sennheiser E609 is another dynamic one not only for your guitar amp but for other instruments. This ribbon mic is especially beneficial for the band of vocalists and guitarists.
Toms, Brass, Banjo, Drums, and just name any style of guitar. Sennheiser E609 is engineered to elevate your natural tone without adding colour. Standing mounted on a Stand right in front of you 30mm away, and consistently, zooming in on your vocals and guitars, Sennheiser E609 ensures that your highs are highs, that your lows are lows, and that your mids remain undistorted whilst still pushing all tones between 40Hz and 15, 000Hz frequency response based on your preference.
- Hum compensating coil reduces electrical interference
- Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron keeps mic stable regardless of climate
- Super-cardioid pick-up pattern provides isolation from other on-stage signals
- Metal construction-rugged and reliable
- 10-year warranty
- The unique lateral design does not require a clip and may be hung from a speaker cabinet
- 3-6,000 Hz midrange peak captures instruments true sonic character
- Capable of greater than 150 dB SPL with full fidelity
- Includes clip and protective pouch.
- 10-year warranty
- Recommended for both recording acoustic and recording electric
- Hum compensating coil reduces electrical interference
- Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron keeps mic stable regardless of climate
- Super-cardioid pick-up pattern provides isolation from other on-stage signals
- Metal construction-rugged and reliable
- 10 year warranty
- Unique lateral design does not require a clip and may be hung from a speaker cabinet
- 3-6,000 Hz midrange peak captures instruments true sonic character
- Capable of greater than 150 dB SPL with full fidelity
- Includes clip and protective pouch.
- 10 Year warranty
As expected of every super-cardioid design, this one offers more isolation for a far more undisturbed amplification, be it on stage or in the studio. On top of that, the flat profile of the capsule allows easy and extremely close contact between the mike and your instrument. This setup doesn’t only support space management, it equally allows for more direct amplification.
Well, that’d make my sounds full of hisses and hums…
I hear you say. Well, …it’s the other way round.
To eliminate the possibilities of that, Sennheiser E609 has its capsule protected by a rugged steel inlet bracket, shielding away all the vibrations and shocks.
Did I mention that you receive a clip for hanging it up to your instruments? Needless to say, a protective pouch is also included to keep your investment safe when not in use.
Features
- Polar pattern: super-cardioid
- Connector: XLR 3
- Transducer type: dynamic
- Sensitivity: 1.5mV/Pa
- Nominal impedance: 350ohms
- Terminating impedance: 1000ohms
- Frequency response: 40Hz to 15, 000Hz
- Weight: 150g
- MZQ 100 clip
- Protective pouch
- Advanced shock-mount design
- Has a compensating coil
- Rugged metal body, built to last
- Extremely advanced shock mount design
- Flat capsule profile for a direct contact
- Lightweight
- One of the strongest ribbon mics
- Easy to set up with an instrument and use
- Dynamic mic at a smart price point
- Rich in details with low handling noise
- One of the best mics for recording acoustic
- Offers less signal when recording on a DAW (you may need to crank your mix up)
At times, getting shackled to a mounted mike can be tiring. By the way, why blare all the noise when playing to 3-6 people when you can reduce your footprint and play at a sensible volume with a micro Clip-On mic?
Enter the Audio Technica 35, a little chip-like cardioid condenser mic for your guitar amp. Clip it on bass, it pounds. Set it up with acoustic, it keeps your acoustic as natural. Stick it to your electric guitar amp, it performs.
- UniMount clip permits accurate positioning, provides shock resistance and protects all elements
- Cardioid pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source
- Extended frequency response captures subtle nuances of the performance
- 6 (1.8 m) cable permanently attached to the microphone
- UniMount clip permits accurate positioning, provides shock resistance and protects element
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
- Extended frequency response captures subtle nuances of the performance
- 6 (1.8 m) cable permanently attached to microphone
If you don’t have the big budget needed to purchase a wireless mic but want a free performance so you can display your creativity without mudding your sound in the least, this is for you.
The Audio Technical 35’s cardioid pattern allows for sound isolation, preventing the possibility of sounds getting picked up on the sides for a more directional amp. In the same light, though the key function of the integrated Unimount clip is to secure an accurate positioning to your instrument, it equally offers shock resistance and protects your music elements from distortions, especially those caused by your breath.
Features
- Polar pattern: cardioid
- Frequency response: 50Hz to 15Hz
- Low-frequency roll-off: 80Hz 18dB octave
- Impedance: 250ohms
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 64dab, 1000Hz at 1Pa
- Required phantom power: 11-52V DC
- Maximum input sound level: 145dB SPL
- Dynamic range: 115dB, 1, 000Hz
- Switches: roll-off and flat
- Output connector: 3-pin XLRM
- Cable length: 6ft
- Unimount clip
- A cost-effective replacement for wireless mics
- Accurate positioning on guitars, trumpet, sax, and other instruments
- Shock resistant
- Featherweight unit
- Easy to use and store away
- Offers the perfect sound isolation
- Reduces footprints
- Extended frequency response range for a micro mic
- One of the best mics for electric guitars
- You may need a better XLR connector tag=evianchrist
If you want to pick up a clip-on mike from the low price point of the market without jeopardizing quality and efficiency, this is for both your studio recordings and live performances.
HEIMU Clip-On Instrument condenser mic is a solid body mike for your guitar amps, your dobro, your Ukulele, and even for your mandolin. Regardless of if this is your first experience clipping a mic to an instrument, setting this guitar amp up with your guitar is exceptionally intuitive and easy.
- The Instrument Microphone for Guitar is perfect for PA amplification and live recording of acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin, ukulele, and dobro.
- It offers practically unlimited placement possibilities.
- The sound it provides is considerably more natural than an internal microphone or pick-up.
- The mounting mechanism makes it easy to move the mic between instruments with one hand.
- The adapters for wireless systems give you flexible, simple, and affordable possibilities. You are no longer bound to one wireless system. As circumstances change, you can just switch your adapter, instead of incurring the cost of a whole new microphone. And when you make the switch, you won’t hear any loss or change in sound quality.
- Flexible and easy one-hand mounting
- Gentle yet secure adhesion to instrument
- Compact, discreet size
- Detachable cable and versatile gooseneck extender
- Flexible adapter system cooperate with mixer
Just wind up the attachment clamp to reach the height of your guitar body and wind it down on your guitar for a firm grip. With that accomplished, you may then mount the portable mic on the clamp for an extremely close contact that eliminates the noise.
With that out of the way, your PA, or your mixer connects with that setup for your live shows. And you may just decide not to include a PA in your chain, especially when performing to a small audience.
The complete specs, why you will love it, and why you won’t, all are highlighted below.
Features
- Operation principle: pressure gradient
- Directional principle: super-cardioid condenser
- Frequency response range: 20Hz to 20, 000Hz
- Cartridge type: pre-polarized condenser
- Nominal Sensitivity: -3dB at 1, 000Hz
- Equivalent noise level: 26dB
- Output impedance: 30ohm to 40ohm
- Connector type: microdot XLRM
- Microphone length: 45mm
- Cable length: 1.8mm
- Capsule diameter: 5.44mm
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 94dB SPL
- Power requirement: 48V phantom power or 5V DC
- Crisp acoustic sound
- Best Clip-On mike at a low price
- Extended frequency response range
- Adjustable attachment clamp
- Versatile mike for all guitars, Brass, saxophone, and violins
- Beginners-friendly
- Highly portable
- Controls sound pressure
- One of the best mics for electric guitars
- Ready to use right out of the box
- Phantom power needed
For all podcasters, broadcasters, Youtubers, and other live-streamers online, this is the real deal. The MXL 990/991 is a complete studio package of two mikes, with each boasting a built-in gold-splattered diaphragm for professional quality sound. The first member of the twin that is tagged the model name 990 is for your vocals. It tightens your bass and makes it solid whilst at the same time it offers sweet, silky highs, all for your vocals. The 991 which is the second member of the two is specially designed for your instruments. This is not relegated to your acoustic or electric guitar alone both equally for your drum overheads and pianos.
Whether you’re producing digitally or you’re getting this for your analog studio production, this is the solid pair of condenser mics that pays for itself. As an addition, your package comes delivered in a high impact case alongside two mic stand adapters. With one of the mics stands, the MXL MT-100 hard-mount mic stand adapter is dedicated to the 990 and the second, the MXL H-03 hard-mount mic stand adapter for the 991 mics, you can finally save money and avoid spending on stands.
- Gold-sputtered diaphragms create a professional sound
- Perfect for digital and analogue recording
- Includes a high-impact carrying case and mic stand adapters
- OFFERS A COMPLETE KIT FOR RECORDING AND LIVE GIGS - The MXL 990 / 991 Package includes vocal and instrument microphones that deliver silky sweet high-end and tight low and mids.
- CAN BE USED WITH VARIOUS INSTRUMENTS - The 990 microphone can handle up to 130dB SPL making it ideal for vocal miking and suitable for acoustic guitars. The 991 mic has a high 137dB SPL for recording drum overheads and horns.
- ISOLATES AMBIENT NOISE - Both microphones have a cardioid polar pattern, which picks up sounds in front of the mic capsule while blocking unwanted noise from the sides and rear.
- PRODUCES NEUTRAL SOUND - The 990 vocal microphones FET preamp and large-diaphragm deliver a nicely balanced sound with a hint of high-end sizzle and lower noise floor.
- INCLUDES - MXL 990 / 991 Recording Microphone Package; Hard Mount Mic Stand Adapters; Rugged Carry Case. 2-Pack of Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cables - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). Blucoil All-in-One Microphone Boom Arm Plus Pop Filter.
Below, I have highlighted the features of each mike separately but the pros and cons are put together.
Features of MXL 990
- Mike orientation; pressure gradient
- Mike type; condenser mic
- Diaphragm type; 6-micron gold-splatter
- Frequency response range; 30Hz to 20, 000Hz
- Polar pattern; cardioid
- Sensitivity; 15mV/Pa
- Sound-to-noise ratio; 80dB
- Equivalent noise level; 20dB
- Impedance; 200ohms
- Maximum SPL; 130dB
- Phantom power requirement; 48V
- Weight; 1.2lbs
Features Of MXL 991
- Mike orientation; compressor gradient
- Mike type; condenser
- Polar pattern; cardioid
- Frequency response range; 30Hz to 18, 000Hz
- Sensitivity; 15mV/Pa
- sound -to-noise ratio; 78dB
- Output impedance; 110ohms
- Maximum SPL; 137dB
- Phantom power requirement; 48V
- Equivalent noise; 18dB
- Weight; 0.35lbs
- Great mics for both professional and home studio
- Nice, clear sound delivery with no distortion
- Two quality mics at the price of one
- Great control of sound pressure
- One of the greatest ribbon mics
- Ideal for DAW and EQ connection
- Perfect recording electric guitar amp mic for podcasters and YouTubers
- Instrument doesn’t need to be too close to the mikes
- Doesn’t come with a USB connector
Here is yet another perfect option for your studio production. And as expected, it’s coming from yours truly, Audio Technica. The AT2020 takes studio performance to a whole new level, positioning itself as the audiophile’s guitar amps mic. It spots a custom-engineered, low-mass diaphragm with a far more superior response transient when compared to the other 20 series members.
Though having the same frequency response range shared among large-diaphragm microphones, the AT2020 integrates a cardioid pattern that helps to reduce pickups from the two sides of the mic.
- The price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technology
- Ideal for project/home-studio applications; The noise level is 20 db spl
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
- Custom engineered low mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
- Cardioid pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source. Output connector:integral 3 pin XLRM type
- Black speckles on the mic is the finish of the item. Audio Technica case style: R7
- CAPTURES EVERY NUANCE OF VOCALS AND ACOUSTICS - The Audio Technica AT2020 features 16mm low-mass diaphragm that captures every sonic detail across the 20Hz~20kHz frequency range.
- HANDLES HIGH SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS - The versatile microphone can be used for recording vocals, string instruments, and even a Leslie amp. It has up to 144dB SPL and a dynamic range of 124dB.
- PROVIDES BETTER NOISE ISOLATION - The cardioid polar pattern of AT2020 reduces the sound pick up from the rear and sides. You can record vocals and instruments clearer with this mic!
- IDEAL FOR PROJECTS AND HOME STUDIO APPLICATIONS - The low 20dB self-noise of AT2020 makes it well-suited for sophisticated digital recording. Its custom-engineered diaphragm provides a superior transient response.
Other than being an instrument amps microphone, the AT2020 is also an ideal choice for your audio interface in the studio or during a live performance. Overall, if you’re looking for consistency in your production both for vocals/acoustic and recording an electric guitar, this may be all you need to boost your tone or kick it over to your dedicated PA system.
Features
- Polar pattern: cardioid
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 20, 000 Hz
- Maximum input sound level: 144dB SPL @1, 000 Hz
- Open circuit sensitivity: -37dB
- Noise level: 20dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 74dB at 1, 000 Hz
- Dynamic range: 124dB at 1, 000Hz
- Output connector: 3-pin XLRM (integral)
- Impedance: 100ohm
- Phantom power requirement: 48V DC
- Weight: 345g
- Best guitar recording mic for studio and home
- Extensive frequency from a low-mass diaphragm
- Comes packaged with the perfect Mount
- Standard performance condenser-based mike
- Rugged construction for durability
- Suitable for hiss-free and hum-free vocals
- Great for sax, bari, and guitar amps
- A bit heavy and may not stand firm on the included low-quality mount
Now, this may be more than just a mic but I’ve picked it particularly for bloggers, podcasters, YouTubers, and recorders both in the studio and on the go.
Saramonic SmartMixer is a complete set that includes a mixer, 2 microphones, and a mobile phone holder. The mixer itself is a two-channel mixer that connects with your Androids and smartphones. It may not be a heavy-duty interface but it accomplishes everything you need in your mixer and connects with your IOS system for your video production while boasting its own amplifier and phantom power.
- Professional Recording Stereo Microphone Rig Produces Studio Quality Audio for your Smartphone
- Features: Two 3.5mm Stereo Mic Inputs, one mini-XLR input, Headphone Monitoring Jack, Phantom Power Switch, and Accessory Shoe (To Mount Video Lights and Other Accessories)
- LCD Level Meter Monitoring
- Volume Control Knob
- Includes: SmartMixer, Two Condenser Microphones, Smartphone Holder, Video Stabilizing Grip, Mini-XLR to Standard-XLR Cable, 3.5mm output cable for iOS, 3.5mm output cable for Android, User Guide, 1 Year Warranty
- 【Audio Interface for Smartphones】The Saramonic SmartMixer is a compact and lightweight recording microphone, ideal for producers of YouTube videos, podcasts and field recording musicians. Compatible with iOS and Android Smartphones.
- 【Easy for Recording】A volume control knob and level meter allow easy adjustment of the input level, while a headphone monitor output allows you to monitor the input and playback signal during music recording.
- 【 High-Quality Recording】The SmartMixer comes with two condenser microphones that allow for high-quality recordings straight from the box. Though it also supplies 48V phantom power to the single mini-XLR input making it suitable for any condenser microphone.
- 【Various Combination】The Saramonic mic allows for any smartphone from 52mm to 82mm wide. The aluminum hand grip gives complete control over the positioning of the camera and microphones.
In the same set, there are two portable condenser mikes connecting to the same mixer through a mini XLR input, most ideal for other balanced mikes you may use with it in the future. This allows you to mix, play your acoustic or other guitars, while still making vocals. All at the same time.
Just mount up your mobile device on the device holder and connect the two mics to the mixer where you adjust the input volume of your mixes and monitor your adjustment on the level meter and you’re good to go.
The device holder allows you to easily hold the setup and record on the go. See the complete features below for the bigger picture.
Features
- Frequency response range: 20Hz to 20, 000Hz
- Power requirement: 9V alkaline or lithium battery
- MINI jack phantom power: 48V
- Noise level: 82dB at 1, 000Hz
- Weight: 0.74kg
- One MINI XLR
- One standard XLR
- 2 condenser mikes
- Output cable for IOS: 3.5mm
- Output cable for android: 3.5mm
- Smartphone holder
- Video stabilizing grip
- The volume control knob on the mixer
- Headphone monitoring jack
- LCD level metering display on the mixer
- A lot of money for more than a mic
- Tiptop quality and craftsmanship
- A cost-effective way to take phone
- Best choice for easy handheld recording on the go
- A highly portable, versatile design
- Ideal for bi-directional vlogging
- Extensive range of frequency response
- Each mic has a windscreen for a distortion-free recording
- No wireless connection to phones
The AKG Perception 220 is another option for audiophiles and it is designed to be easy to use for recording. It is a large-diaphragm condenser mike that has been engineered from the ground up for lead vocals, bass, and acoustic or recording electric guitar.
You’re buying this only if you’re looking to be at the top of every teeny tiny detail of your sound. Though, this doesn’t mean that you can’t cut the unwanted sounds away as AKG features a bass-filter option for frequency filtration. Also, to avoid clogging up the mic capsule with high-frequency signals, which will otherwise lead to distortion, AKG 220 integrates a sturdy PAD attenuation that allows easy signal passage into the active circuitry.
- Audio frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Max SPL: 155 dB
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/pa
- Pattern and type Capsule: Condenser
- Pattern: Cardioid Type: mounted applications primary: studio Secondary: stage other: not applicable physical x W x (D): 6.3 x 7/weight: 1lb. 2oz. (530G)other case: metal clip: shock mount
- Rugged all-metal body and robust design withstands tough day-to-day use
- Switchable bass-cut filter eliminates rumble or footfall noise
- Switchable attenuation pad for high SPL applications up to 155 dB SPL
So, what are you getting in the package? A professional aluminium storage case to keep your investment safe and warm. A standard condenser mike that is reasonably portable and lightweight for easy mounting and handling. And finally, a tough, stable Mount dedicated to the mike. More on the features below.
Features
- Polar pattern; cardioid
- Range of frequency response; 20Hz to 20, 000Hz
- Sensitivity; 20mV/Pa
- Equivalent noise level; 16dB
- Signal to noise ratio; 78dB
- PAD attenuation; -20dB
- Bass cutter-filter; 300Hz/20dB
- Electrical impedance; 200ohms
- Power voltage; 44V to 52V
- Audio output; balanced XLR
- Noise-free lead vocals
- A lot of frequency response
- Distortion-free sounds, thanks to the PAD
- Rugged and robust design
- Easy to use and comes with a standard Mount
- Acoustic guitar amps mike, also for bass
- Ideal for drums too
- No on and off switch
Finally, here is the last one on my list. Though designed from the ground up with singer-songwriters, acoustic or electric guitar players, and vocalists in mind, I am personally recommending the Aston Origin to every heavy metal player out there looking for a mike that does really pounds it.
Call it a high-performance cardioid condenser mike that has a 1-inch gold capsule dedicated to it on the inside. It was the first mike from the manufacturer, Aston, which has now become the inspiration behind the engineering of the Aston Spirit mike which I have reviewed previously.
- Designed and Built in the UK
- Built-in Pop filter; Built-in Pop filter using the latest stainless steel mesh knit technology
- End Caps; Direct to stand microphone mounting
- Chassis 2-millimeter solid stainless steel laser cut and etched body
- Capsule; The Aston Sound; Developed by Professional Artists, Engineers, and Producers
- Designed and Built in the UK
- Built in Pop filter ; Built in Pop filter using the latest stainless steel mesh knit technology
- End Caps ; Direct to stand microphone mounting
- Chassis 2 millimeter solid stainless steel laser cut and etched body
- Capsule ; The Aston Sound ; Developed by Professional Artists, Engineers and Producers
My final verdict is that, if you’re looking for transparency in a naturally smooth and direct sound, and pound your bass for a large audience, you’re striking a good deal with this one. I also recommend it to DJs and other events as well.
See the complete features, pros, and cons below.
Features
- Transducer type; condenser
- Acoustic operating principle; pressure gradient
- Polar pattern; cardioid
- Frequency response range; 20Hz to 20, 000Hz
- Sensitivity; 23.7mV/Pa at 1, 000Hz
- Maximum SPL; 127dB
- Sound to noise ratio; 74dB
- Low-cut filter; 80Hz
- PAD switch; -10dB
- Equivalent noise level; 18dB
- Phantom power requirement; 48V
- Easy to mount on a pop filter
- Great for both high-end state recording and professional stage performances
- Clean drum overhead sound
- Has a dedicated built-in pop filter
- Standard built-in mounting port
- No shock Mount nor XLR cable included
Choosing The Right Microphone For Guitar Amps; The Ultimate Guide
Suppose you found yourself walking through the front doors of Harbor Freight with a few bucks in your wallet, this guide below will be your sidelight toward the right shelf with your perfect guitar amp microphone.
- Polar Pattern; the polar pattern of a microphone determines the direction from which your production is perceived and to what degree in accuracy and clearness. It also determines from what angle you’ll have to deal with background noise. So it makes sense to be sceptical when selecting from the 5 fundamental types of mic polar patterns. For instance, you’re performing on the stage or any other setting where there are much feedback and background noise, a cardioid polar pattern will be ideal. On the other hand, an omnidirectional pattern is more sensitive, it will pick up sounds from all directions and is therefore common among studio guitarists and audiophiles who want to be in contact with the details of their production. You may also either go for a bi-directional pattern that can reject background noise at 90degrees or a changeable pattern that is more dynamic.
- Frequency response; while vocals and guitar-play go hand in hand, the popular opinion that they must both be amplified at the same level is completely biased. When I am vocalizing and playing my acoustic guitar, I want to have my guitar music in the background. But again, it depends on whether that’s what you want too or you’d rather push your vocals to the background instead or both at the same level. For someone like myself, the ideal frequency response range of my guitar mic would be 80htz to 50, 000htz. While that of my vocal would be 30htz to 40, 000htz. Again, it depends on your preference and your events.
- Proximity effects; almost every mic out there sounds warmer and deeper the closer you move your sound source to it. In this case your guitar. But while your manufacturer may not include information about your mic’s proximity effect on the description unlike you would find a frequency response curve on all, a quick test will reveal what you need to know. By moving your guitar closer bit by bit as you play, you will figure out how strong the proximity effect is from distance to distance.
- Sensitivity pressure level; you’re most likely to find something like SPL written on your mic’s description. It is an acronym for sensitivity pressure level which is a measure of the mic’s signal-picking strength. Some mics can pick up as low as 100dB sounds while others are only able to pick anything above 140dB. The sensitivity pressure level of your amplifier should be decided upon with your music production purpose and environments in mind. As a street performer or a professional guitarist who plays for large audiences, you want to keep your music clean and distortion-free. That is where a mic with a high SPL value is important to avoid picking the unwanted low signals from your environment. Right? On the flip side, a low SPL value microphone is a great choice in a studio setting that is noise-free.
- Material; the material with which your mike is designed has a lot to say about how long your investment will last and how much maintenance is needed to keep it in a good shape for that long. In my opinion, though aluminum is great, opting for better material will be decided by your budget as there are better materials other than aluminum.
Conclusion
Having your own mike with you wherever and whenever you dim it fit to use it is a must. You can finally play without ever having to be a burden to that buddy of yours. In this article, I have recommended some of the best microphones for guitar amps. I can only hope that you’ve found the one for your needs.