Our top five condenser studio microphone picks for under R2000
If you are an upcoming rapper, singer, podcaster or looking to record unique samples you’re going to need a decent studio microphone…
Audio Technica AT2020
Whether you’re looking to record your own vocal tracks, voice-overs or sample your own sound effects and other instruments – a condenser studio microphone is an invaluable piece of kit in a music producer’s arsenal.
Let’s look at some of the good affordable options on the market…
Audio Technica AT2020
What is it:
The Audio Technica AT2020 is one of the top selling affordable studio microphones on the market, widely regarded for its wide use-cases from podcasts and gaming to the more musical applications like instrument tracking and vocals. It’s also incredibly lightweight, being the lightest microphone on this list – makes it great for travelling and field-work.
Key feature(s):
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Freq. Response – 20Hz – 20kHz
Dynamic Range – 124dB
Price:
R1995
Where to get
sE Electronic X1a
What is it:
The sE Electronics X1a is the more affordable version of their highly popular X1 and X1s microphones, the major difference being the diaphragm material – resulting in slightly less dynamic range. However, the X1a is still an exceptional microphone in this price-range, it’s got a 10dB attenuation and low-frequency roll-off for cutting out rumble and noise.
Key feature(s):
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Freq. Response – 20Hz – 20kHz
Dynamic Range – 134dB
Price:
R1995
Where to get
AKG P120
What is it:
AKG has been well-known in the microphone industry for a long time, the P120 is their most affordable condenser microphone for vocal use. It is a great all-rounder microphone, also featuring the attenuation and roll-off settings.
Key feature(s):
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Freq. Response – 20Hz – 20kHz
Dynamic Range – 130dB
Price:
R1916
Where to get
Samson C01
What is it:
The Samson C01 is the most affordable microphone on this list, it’s surprisingly good for the price however a bit lacking in the dynamic range, so if you’re looking to do field-work or recording of softer sources – this may not be the one for you. For voice-overs and vocal work, it will do the trick.
Key feature(s):
Polar Pattern – Hyper-Cardioid
Freq. Response – 40Hz – 18kHz
Dynamic Range – <120dB
Price:
R995
Where to get
Samson C01u
What is it:
The Samson C01u is not just a USB version of the C01, it actually boasts better frequency response and also ships with a nifty desktop stand. It’s incredibly affordable considering you don’t need to buy an audio interface, if it’s just mic recording that you’ll be doing.
Key feature(s):
Polar Pattern – Hyper-Cardioid
Freq. Response – 20Hz – 20kHz
Dynamic Range – <120dB
Price:
R1095
Where to get
Microphone choice is not just about the specs…
The subtle differences in microphones can really be heard on the more demanding tasks such as recording dynamic vocal takes. Once you’ve narrowed down your choice, be sure to check out some more in-depth reviews, audio examples or better yet – find a stockist and try it out for yourself.
