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Best Dynamic Microphone Of 2024Buyer’s Guide And Comparisons
Microphones are a vital part of recording sounds from low bass to high treble. They can make a great performance even better by amplifying sounds that may have otherwise been missed. Microphones can be used to record voices, instruments, and any other sound you may be inclined to record and amplify. The type of mic you choose to use will depend on what your recording purposes are.
Whether you’re singing karaoke or performing in front of a live audience, you want a microphone that will make your voice sound as crystal clear as possible. If you were planning on using a microphone for any type of live performance, your best option would be to choose a dynamic mic. Dynamic microphones are ideal for live sound and are great at picking up sounds from instruments, making your performance as great as it can be.
These days, many different dynamic mics are available to the general public, making it difficult to sort through them all. How do you know which microphone will work well to serve your purposes? We went through the available options to find what sets some dynamic mics apart from others to help you find the perfect one. These are the best dynamic microphones in 2024.
Best Dynamic Microphones 2024
| Sound Range | Connection Type | |
|---|---|---|
| 50-20,000 Hz | XLR Connection | View Price on Amazon |
| -72db sensitivity | 1/4″ Plug | |
| 50-15,000 Hz | Includes Carrying Case | View Price on Amazon |
| 25-12,000 Hz | XLR Connection | View Price on Amazon |
| 50-15,000 Hz | XLR Connection | View Price on Amazon |
| 50-15,000 Hz | XLR Connection | View Price on Amazon |
| 50-15,000 Hz | USB/XLR Connections | View Price on Amazon |
| -54 db sensitivity | XLR Connection | View Price on Amazon |
| 50-7,500 Hz | XLR Connection | View Price on Amazon |
| 50-12,000 Hz | 1/4″ Connection | View Price on Amazon |
Whether you’re planning on doing a live performance, singing karaoke with friends, or recording something, you’re going to want a microphone that is dependable. This may be easier said than done, simply based on the volume of available microphones.
Once you’ve narrowed your choice down to a dynamic microphone, it can still be challenging to decide which one will work for you. Reviews are helpful, but there can be thousands to look through. To help with this vast endeavor, here are the top five best dynamic mics based on customer reviews.
1. Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone – The Best Dynamic Microphone Of 2024
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
[amazon fields=”B0002E4Z8M” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone” image_align=”center”]
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone has a wide range frequency of fifty to twenty thousand hertz, which makes it great for recording or live performances.
The Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone has a wide range frequency of fifty to twenty thousand hertz, which makes it great for recording or live performances. This dynamic mic uses a cardioid polar pattern to pick up both high and low frequencies. This pattern also provides an improved rejection of interference and electromagnetic hum.
The mic features a built-in pop filter to protect from explosive breath sounds, so there is no need to purchase any additional protection. It has a durable construction that provides long-lasting reliability. It requires a preamp with a sixty-decibel gain and an XLR connection.
This dynamic microphone from Shure comes with a detachable A7WS windscreen to help reduce outside sounds and assist with picking up close vocals. It uses a yoke mount with a captive stand nut, so you have complete control of the mic’s position.
Pros:
- Cardioid polar pattern to pick up frequencies
- Built-in pop filter to protect from explosive breath sounds
Cons
- Input gain is extremely low
2. Sennheiser MD 421 II
Sennheiser MD 421 II
[amazon fields=”B00GWTH2EU” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Sennheiser-MD421-II-Cardioid-Dynamic-Microphone” image_align=”center”]
Sennheiser MD 421 II
One of the most popular microphones, the Sennheiser MD 421 II Cardioid Dynamic Mic is versatile and just perfect for singing and band music. Its composite-hardened glass and steel structure make it a rugged, durable package.
Sennheiser, of course, is German and applies this design and manufacturing expertise to the sound equipment and their microphones in particular. Because of its versatility in being able to work in many settings, the MD421 it is highly popular.
It’s perfect for singing and band music, and fits well with guitars and drums. It has a full-bodied cardioid model with five settings that allow it to work with most instruments. This will help you to get consistent and realistic effects when the instrument or voice source is close to the microphone. It has outstanding feedback exclusion of intrusive sounds that can be heard from elsewhere making it a perfect microphone for studio and live work.
The composite-hardened glass and steel structure make it a rugged, durable package. Sennheiser, though, is proud of the sound quality this microphone offers and definitely delivers. It’s flexible and compatible with most instruments and conditions, but it’s the crisp and clear sound reproduction that makes this microphone so commonly used and known for.
On the downside, the microphone has a large body and a faulty clip design.
Pros:
- Versatile- can be used in multiple settings
- Outstanding feedback exclusion of intrusive sounds
Cons
- Large body and a faulty clip design
3. Behringer Ultravoice Xm1800s Dynamic Microphone
Behringer Ultravoice Xm1800s
[amazon fields=”B000NJ2TIE” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Behringer Ultravoice Xm1800s” image_align=”center”]
Behringer Ultravoice Xm1800s
Behringer’s Ultravoice Dynamic Microphone is a high quality mic with a wide frequency range of fifty to fifteen thousand hertz.
Behringer’s Ultravoice Dynamic Microphone is a high quality mic with a wide frequency range of fifty to fifteen thousand hertz. It features off axis rejection and integrated noise filter to help eliminate issues with feedback. It also has a cardioid pickup pattern to further assist with eliminating background noise and feedback. This pattern will also help pick up your voice, so you can get the amplification you desire.
This mic is available in a set of three and comes with an impact-resistant protective case and stand clips. They are built to last through whatever abuse microphones are prone to take when used by multiple people. The mics can be connected to any amp or PA system using an XLR cable.
Pros:
- Off axis rejection and integrated noise filter to help eliminate feedback issues
- Cardioid pickup pattern gives the desired amplification
Cons
- Not great for constant use or moving around a lot
4. CAD Audio KBM412 Dynamic Microphone
CAD Audio KBM412
[amazon fields=”B0002D0Q7W” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”CAD Audio KBM412″ image_align=”center”]
CAD Audio KBM412
CAD Audio KBM412 Dynamic Microphone features a frequency range of twenty-five to twelve thousand hertz, making it perfect for low frequency sources.
The CAD Audio KBM412 Dynamic Microphone features a frequency range of twenty-five to twelve thousand hertz, making it perfect for low frequency sources. Thanks to its ability to handle high SPLs, it was made to pick up sounds from bass drums and other large diameter percussion instruments.
This dynamic mic has a cardioid pickup pattern and a shock mount saddle to help isolate sounds and provide protection from interference. It features a tough build and swiveling abilities, so you can adjust it to the best possible pickup spot. It comes with a mic clip and requires an XLR connecting cable.
Pros:
- Perfect for low frequency sources
- Cardioid pickup pattern and shock mount saddle isolates sounds and protects from interference
Cons
- Can’t handle too much bass
5. AKG D5 Vocal Dynamic Microphone
AKG D5 Vocal
[amazon fields=”B000S5JKRQ” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”AKG D5 Vocal” image_align=”center”]
AKG D5 Vocal
AKG is a handheld dynamic microphone that was designed for both lead and backup vocals. It has a very rich sound that delivers a great vocal performance.
This mic from AKG is a handheld dynamic microphone that was designed for both lead and backup vocals. It has a very rich sound that delivers a great vocal performance. However, this mic has a frequency range of fifty to fifteen thousand hertz, making it great for other audio applications as well.
This mic uses a supercardioid polar pattern to give you the highest possible gain before feedback. It also features an AKG Varimotion diaphragm that can be tuned, so you won’t need any extra tuning resonators. It uses an XLR connecting cable and has a rugged construction for long-lasting durability.
Pros:
- Supercardioid polar pattern to give highest possible gain
- AKG Varimotion diaphragm eliminates the need for extra tuning resonators
Cons
- Sensitive to feedback
6. Mediasonic Professional Dynamic Microphone
Mediasonic Professional
[amazon fields=” B01F6EIO48″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Mediasonic Professional Dynamic Microphone ” image_align=”center”]
Mediasonic Professional
The raw sound emitted by the Mediasonic Professional Dynamic Microphone is super impressive. This unidirectional dynamic mic helps cut off all background noises and provides great value for the money.
The Mediasonic Professional Microphone emits a raw sound which is quite impressive. It is not just a dynamic mic but is also unidirectional. This means that its pickup pattern is great for cutting out a lot of background noise like that of an air conditioner’s.
But it is also pretty low and needs a lot of gain to run. If you need it to be louder, you can try increasing the gain by 12 Db to be more audible. Also, if you want to cut out the background noise further, use de-noising and some dynamics in the form of a compressor and an expander to eliminate even minute disturbances. With this setting, you’ll get a more professional sound. Furthermore, this mic is quite affordable and offers great value for the buck.
On unboxing the unit, you’ll find a quarter inch XLR cable which is a good length for such a cheap microphone. The cable is sturdy and will not be damaged easily.
On the downside, if you’re someone who moves a lot while using the mic, then this model might not be suitable for you. The sound becomes faint even if you move few inches away from the mic, both backwards and sideways. Other than this issue, this microphone is a good deal that you can consider.
Pros:
- Great pickup pattern that cuts background noise
- Durable XLR cable
Cons
- Sound becomes faint if you move a few inches away
7. Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Dynamic Microphone
Audio – Technica ATR2100-USB
[amazon fields=” B01HOYG0LW” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB ” image_align=”center”]
Audio – Technica
With a crisp sound quality, the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Dynamic Microphone accurately picks up audio and rarely any background noises. Flexible for both home and outdoor use, this is a good entry level dynamic microphone.
A number of reviewers praised Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB’s crisp sound quality. Its USB and XLR connectivity gave reviewers flexible options when they wanted to connect directly to their computer or an audio interface–which improves the sound quality of the audio input. It’s a very directional microphone that accurately picks up audio and rarely picks up any background noise.
Many reviewers reported that when used as a boom mic to film outdoor videos, it works pretty well. We have noted that it doesn’t pick up too many plosives so you don’t really need a pop filter so long as it’s used at a certain range. If you’re looking for a flexible microphone for both home and outdoor use, this is a good entry level microphone.
Some users mentioned the stand wasn’t sturdy and the USB connection was flimsy. They would use a different stand and USB cable that fits well with microphone.
Pros:
- USB and XLR for flexibility in connectivity
- Works well when used as a boom mic
Cons
- Stand not sturdy and flimsy USB connection
8. Pyle-Pro PDMIC78 Professional Dynamic Handheld Microphone
Pyle – Pro PDMIC78
[amazon fields=”B00P9V1ER8″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Pyle-Pro PDMIC78 ” image_align=”center”]
Pyle – Pro PDMIC78
The zinc alloy metal construction Pyle-Pro PDMIC78 Professional Dynamic Handheld Microphone is perfect for studio and stage recording. Its unidirectional dynamic feature of high-quality moving coil makes it apt for voice recording too.
Pyle-Pro PDMIC78 is a unidirectional, dynamic handheld microphone which is perfect for studio or on stage music recording. Thanks to the unidirectional dynamic feature of high-quality moving coil, it is ideal for voice recording too.
The unit includes an XLR cable of 15 feet. Also, it’s great for on-stage or studio use – thanks to its moving-coil dynamic feature, this microphone gives you a sturdy sound with high gain before feedback. It’s also unidirectional so that the microphone just picks up sounds immediately in front of it and the voice is replicated on stage without noise from instruments or microphones.
The PDMIC78 features an XLR input, giving you the best of your vocal performance and the highest quality sound possible. The PDMIC78 is built to last and can handle just about anything with a durable zinc alloy metal construction and a steel mesh ball-shaped grill.
On the downside, it’s a little expensive.
Pros:
- High-quality moving coil ideal for voice recording
- Durable zinc alloy metal construction
Cons
- Expensive
9. Pyle-Pro PDMIC58 Professional Dynamic Handheld Microphone
Pyle – Pro PDMIC58
[amazon fields=”B003GEBGA0″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Pyle-Pro PDMIC58 ” image_align=”center”]
Pyle – Pro PDMIC58
Pyle-Pro PDMIC58 Professional Dynamic Handheld Microphone is compatible with most audio systems and can be used by amateurs and professionals alike. It’s perfect for recording in the studio or out on the big stage.
For every musician, this handheld microphone is perfect for recording in the studio or out on the big stage for a performance that is larger than life. A unidirectional dynamic element of high-quality moving coil makes it ideal for voice recording. Steel Mesh Grill is used to reduce or eliminate popping sounds caused by the mechanical effect on the microphone due to fast-moving air.
Compatible with most audio systems, this microphone makes it a good value for your money. The microphone works on DVD players, video mixers, and home theater systems. Using XLR cables means that an undisturbed sound stream makes its way to long-distances. Also, it is shielded completely with minimal interference.
The Pyle Pro PDMIC58 microphone can be used by amateurs and professionals alike. It’s a great alternative to the “industry standard” mic, because an expensive piece of equipment is equal to the audio. It creates a dry, static-free sound and makes good audio of low voices. This design is safe for use by a child because there is no energy in the zinc alloy. It also feels good in the hand, and if dropped, it won’t break because it is well-built. And there is no on / off switch, so during a show it won’t turn off accidentally. Wherever you have an amplifier, it will work – in a mall, a party, or a garage.
The Expert Moving Coil Dynamic Handheld Microphone from Pyle Pro PDMIC58 does not have the same performance as a high-end model. In order to pick up your voice or the sound of the instrument, you have to be very close to it. Only if it is attached to a preamp can you get a good sound. Even if you can “make do” with an XLR cable hooked to your laptop, the sound is not going to be very good. Plus, there’s no mic stand.
Pros:
- Steel Mesh Grill to reduce or eliminate popping sounds
- Minimal interference and dry, static-free sound
Cons
- Does not pick up voice or sound unless the source is really close to it
10. Singing Machine SMM-205 Dynamic Microphone
Singing Machine SMM-205
[amazon fields=” B000XI6O2W” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” image_alt=”Singing Machine SMM-205 ” image_align=”center”]
Singing Machine SMM – 2015
The Singing Machine SMM-205 Dynamic Microphone features Wide-Frequency Response and High Sensitivity to add power to your performance. This microphone is even great for kids.
Use the Singing Machine Uni-Directional Dynamic Microphone to make your next show memorable. Plug the microphone into your karaoke machine’s accessible microphone jack and get your friends and family into the party. This Uni-Directional Dynamic Microphone Singing Machine features Wide-Frequency Response and High Sensitivity to add power to your performance.
For small children, the Singing Machine SMM-205 Microphone is great. Even a kid will have fun making noises in it and listening to the amplified voice. Throughout the house, you will be able to hear the kids without distorted sound. It’s ideal even as a second microphone, so the kids can sing duets.
The 10-foot cord is long enough to be able to dance around the room while singing, just as professionals do on television. It can even be used for educational purposes, with children singing to learn new vocabulary along with their favorite CDs. All in all, it will keep young people busy for hours. It gives a fine sound and can be used in a small setting by adults as well.
It’s decent enough to use for karaoke, but only if you use a USB microphone converter to power the cords. The sound appears to be less through a microphone/line import. You need to speak directly to the top of the amplifier, half an inch apart, in order to be heard. You may not be able to hear yourself if you try to sing toward the sides.
Pros:
- Wide-Frequency Response and High Sensitivity to add power
- Ideal for children
Cons
- Sound appears to be less through a microphone / line import
Dynamic Microphone Buying Guide
What Makes A Microphone Dynamic?
Not all microphones are built to handle the same types of recording or amplifying jobs. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and can be used for a variety of tasks. Each type of mic has unique characteristics that make it different from other types. This includes dynamic mics. These are a few of the characteristics that cause a microphone to fall into the dynamic category.
Gain Before Feedback
Dynamic microphones have a higher gain before feedback (GBF) than other types of microphones. This means you can add more amplification to your voice or instruments before getting distracting feedback sounds from the audio system, which is helpful to your overall performance. The decibel level where sound comes back into the microphone and causes ringing or other types of feedback noises is traditionally used to measure GBF. These noises distract from the performance and can have a negative impact on how people react, so having a high GBF is ultimately beneficial to you.
Moving Coil
Perhaps the thing that stands out the most when it comes to dynamic microphones is the moving coil magnetic diaphragm. The coil is connected to the diaphragm and sits inside a magnet. When the diaphragm moves, the coil also moves. This movement creates a small voltage signal, which converts the sound into an electrical signal and creates the amplification effect. Essentially, the moving coil is what makes dynamic mics work.
A dynamic microphone’s moving coil is excellent for capturing sounds reliably. The way the coil is built into the microphone gives it a high durability and allows it to be carried around by hand. It also gives the mic the ability to handle high Sound Pressure Levels (SPLs), which makes these mics great for use with guitars and drums.
Common Dynamic Microphone Brands
When deciding which is the best dynamic mic to buy, there are a lot of options to consider. It’s no surprise that some brands are better known than others. These commonly known brands have consistently created some of the top microphones available on the market today.
Shure
When people hear the word microphone, odds are they picture a Shure mic. Shure is by far one of the most well known audio companies in existence. The company was founded in 1925 as a one-man operation selling radio kits. Over the years, it has experienced various ups and downs, but has ultimately grown into a massive global leader in the audio industry.
Shure’s dynamic mics can be found in major recording studios and on some of the world’s biggest stages. It has received several honors and awards, including a GRAMMY award for its contributions to the music industry. S. N. Shure even has his handprints featured in the Hollywood Rock Walk of Fame.
Shure’s microphones have a strong history of performance and reliability. This company’s microphones were so well trusted it was commissioned by the U.S. government in the 1940s to make specialized mics for military purposes. Since 1965, its mics have adorned the Presidential lectern. For over ninety years, Shure has been dedicated to making tough, dependable products that last.
AKG
AKG is another respected company in the audio industry. Dr. Rudolf Goerike and Ernst Pless founded AKG in Vienna in 1947. It didn’t take long for the company to grow and develop into a well-known name in the industry throughout the world.
AKG microphones have been used in major world events. Most notably, the mics were used for the “Arctic Northeast” project, which showed how durable they are even in extremely low temperatures. The microphones were also used in the Russian MIR space station, showing just how dependable and trustworthy the company is believed to be.
This company has a long and reputable history of making quality products. These products, including dynamic microphones, are used and lauded by musicians around the world. AKG is committed to continuing this tradition of excellence in all of the products it creates.
Behringer
Behringer is a German company that was founded in 1989 by Uli Behringer. He started creating his own equipment because he didn’t have access to the equipment he needed at the university he was attending. Word got out and many students were soon requesting equipment from Behringer, leading to the start of a great company.
Behringer has since become one of the largest manufacturers of audio equipment in the world. The company is owned by Music Group, which also owns several other companies and operates in over one hundred and thirty countries worldwide. This company has made great products over the years and plans on continuing to do so for many years to come.
CAD Audio
CAD Audio began as the Astatic Corporation in 1931 when C.M. Chorpening and F.H. Woodworth set out to develop a static-free microphone for their ham radio transmitters. From there, it grew into a well-known and successful manufacturer of microphones.
Both the Army and Navy used Astatic products in WWII, showing how trustworthy the company was and still is. Its products can be found in a variety of professional settings worldwide from restaurants to airports to corporate boardrooms.
Astatic formed its Conneaut Audio Devices (CAD) division in 1988 in order to reach a wider customer base. CAD is now the company’s primary developer and manufacturer of microphones for both recording and live performance markets.
Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica was established in Tokyo in 1962 and is not simply one company, but is actually a group of companies throughout the world. This group of companies works hard to manufacture and produce the highest quality audio equipment possible and has delivered just this time and time again.
This worldwide corporation has without a doubt established itself as a global leader in the audio industry. Products from Audio-Technica have been used in many major global events including presidential debates. Its products have also become a major part of the Olympic Games, as well as other major sporting events. For over fifty years, it has made outstanding contributions to the industry and continues to do so today.
Features Any Dynamic Microphone Must Have
Whether you’re a professional or are using a microphone for personal enjoyment, there are a few important features that all of the best dynamic mics will have.
- Durability: Dynamic mics go through a lot. Often, they are used as handheld mics, which means they get handled frequently and can even be dropped from time to time. A good dynamic microphone will be able to handle all of the crazy wear and tear without losing a beat.
- Flexibility: The best dynamic mics will be able to handle a variety of jobs. They should be able to pick up a wide range of frequencies, so they can be used to amplify and record all sorts of instruments and sounds.
- Will not require a power source: Dynamic microphones should never require an input power source. In fact, they should actually generate power through the vibration of the coil. This lack of an external power source allows for a purer sound and prevents interference from external sources.
Conclusion
The audio market has a ton of different dynamic microphones to offer. Without question, some are better than others. It’s important to note that just because a microphone is expensive it doesn’t mean it’s high quality. Some of the best dynamic microphones are actually quite inexpensive. It’s better to look at what features a mic has to offer than to be fooled by a high price tag.
Finding the best dynamic mic doesn’t have to be complicated if you’re wiling to take a little time. It’s well worth it for such an important part of your live and recorded performances. Once you know what you’re looking for, it becomes a lot easier to narrow down the list of options.
Product images sourced from Amazon.com
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