Best Condenser Microphones in India 2021 with price, pros & cons

 

Best Condenser Microphones in India

 

Introduction->

 

Hi, there! If you are on this page, I am sure you’re here to find out the Best Condenser Microphones in India.

One thing I am pretty sure about any music lover is whenever you ask them about which part of the song they hear first, their answer, in all likelihood, will be Vocals(Lyrics). Which makes the integrity of the recorded vocal very crucial to the overall mixing of the song.

Period, many musical instruments can be recorded in numerous varied ways, but there is hardly one way to record vocals that is by utilizing a microphone.

Condenser microphones have been traditionally used for this purpose for a very long time now.

Although you are looking for a condenser microphone for your studio, you must be admiring which microphone to pick that will be a perfect fit based on your requirements.

 

At this point, you should consider some important factors before purchasing a mic like sensitivity, frequency response, the polar pattern, and many more.

 

If you Don’t have time to read an article this long? Well, here is our Prime Picks for the Best Condenser Microphones for Vocals in India:

1. Audio Technica AT2035 {Best option}
2. Rode NT1A
3. AKG P120 Considerable {option}

 

Let’s now dive deep into the various condenser mics available in India, for vocals:->

1.  Audio Technica AT2020->

 

AT2020 is the most popular condenser mic in the budget in the world due to its transparency and tone factors. It is build of an all-metal body with a metal grill.

Underside the metal, the grill is another wired screen that is meant to act as a filter. It looks heavy and feels substantially large in the hands.

AT2020 mic has a cardioid polar pattern that is wider than usual. Which means that it captures some of the room ambiances. That is it can be considered both good and bad varying on the condition of application. To exclude some of the ambiances, the room needs to be treated acoustically.

Despite having a smaller diaphragm, the AT2020 has a wider frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz. Accordingly, it is also reasonable at picking up low frequencies.

 

It also furnishes a slight boost at frequencies of 5kHz and is elevated for bell tonal characteristics. Self-noise is low but relatively obvious at high gains.

This mic has a balanced XLR connection and expects Phantom power for operation. There is a USB version of this mic too that directly attaches to a computer without imposing an Audio Interface or phantom power supply.

 

This microphone is certainly reasonable for recording all kinds of vocals because of its extensive frequency range and near-flat reaction.

 

Pros

• Moderately priced mic
• Good clarity and depth in general
• Heavy build

Cons

• Slight high self-noise, a drawback
• Tends to pick up some of the room ambiances which can be managed partially

 

 

2. AKG P120->

This mic is for the people who are really on a limited budget but want a microphone that can catch studio-quality audio, then AKGP120 should end your search. Likewise, it does not feel like a big-budget mic at all.

It has an all-metal body with a metal grill to conserve the diaphragm inside and feels quite sturdy in the hands.

 

The P120 comprises a cardioid polar pattern. Thus, it can be utilized for multi-mic applications as it is good at dismissing sounds from its back and sides.

 

The only drawback is that it picks up a bit more atmosphere noise comparing to other microphones on this list. On the other hand, a high SPL of 130dB ensures that this microphone can be used for very loud sound streams too.

It can be powered using the Phantom power voltage of around 44-50V. Insufficient input voltage might instruct unwanted hissing noises in the output.

The front of the microphone house two switches that are a low-frequency cut-off filter and a -20dB pad switch.

This microphone is adequate for both male and female vocals respectively. It delivers ample thick and calming high-end for female vocals. Across-the-board, this is one of the best budget mics to start your home studio with.

 

Pros

• Budget-friendly mic
• All metal build chassis
• This mic has a Balanced XLR connection
• It also comprises High SPL for loud sound sources

Cons

• Sensitive to the environment noises or the background noises.

 

:3. AKG P220->

AKG has some of the best microphones in the Indian market currently. The P220 is an amateur-level mic that lives up to the name. It has a heavy metal build that can take considerable mishandling. It also feels very heavy or hard in the hands.

P220 has a cardioid pattern and is good at dismissing sounds from the back axis and sides. It has picked up frequencies between the spectrum of 20Hz to 20kHz and has a decent low-end reaction. The P220 can sound a bit severe in the higher frequency ranges.

 

This mic also comprises a high pass filter switch that tosses off frequencies below 300Hz.

 

The mic also features a 20dB pad switch to lessen sensitivity in boisterous settings. Has a high SPL level which gives rise to it adequate for live performances and gigs as well. Nevertheless, self-noise can be bothersome for some people.

The mic has a balanced XLR connection and appears with a shock mount to minimalist disorders from tremors. It requires external power that phantom power for undertaking and, accordingly, the use of an audio interface is proposed.

 

Looking at the conditions and factors, the P220 is a good verbal microphone for people with a moderately bigger voice. Hoarse and high-pitched vocals could end up sounding a bit irritating to the ears. Although, some people might find that alluring.

 

Pros

• Very sturdy body build
• Comes with a shock mount with the pack
• Built-in pad and high pass filter are also given

Cons

• Relatively high self-noise, a drawback
• Noticeable high frequencies

 

 

4. Audio Technica AT2035->

This is the other product of Audio Technica is the AT2035. It is the top priority for limited-budget condenser mics. With a heavy metal body, the AT2035 is created like a tank and can overcome significant mishandling.

 

This microphone has a cardioid polar pattern but is more directional than the AT2020, making it better at opposing room ambiance. Its frequency reaction covers the human hearing range of 20Hz-20kHz.

Moreover, the AT2020 has a -10dB pad switch that can decrease sensitivity for applications in loud atmospheres like live gigs.

 

This mic is also furnished with a high pass filter that tosses off frequencies less than 80Hz for underestimating low rumbling noises and vicinity effect. Also has very low self-noise.

The AT2035 has equalized XLR output and employs 48V external power that is Phantom power to operate. The use of an audio interface is proposed for excellent results.

A true all-rounder and is not only meant for vocals but also a vast variety of applications such as gaming, recording, etc.

 

Pros

• Great transparency and tonal quality
• Low self-noise using this mic
• Heavy build

Cons

• Slightly expensive for novices

 

 

5. Rode NT1A->

It is also one of the most popular microphone choices for vocals. It has a heavy stainless-steel build this has no metallic inclusion in it and feels heavy. The pill has a gold plating and is covered by a strong metal grid.

 

The NT1A has a fresh directional cardioid polar pattern. Therefore, it can be deployed for multi-microphone applications. It picks up sounds for a frequency in the range of 20Hz-20kKz. That’s all you need. It is also advertised as the silent condenser ever.

 

It has an extremely low self-noise. Very delicate and is terrific at picking up softer sounds that may easily escape other mics.

The mic has a flat frequency reaction with a slight concussion at higher frequencies. It might sound a bit brutal for some high-pitched vocals.

The NT1-A has an equalized XLR output. It can operate on both 24V and 48V Phantom power respectively.

 

Pros

• Sturdy build body type
• High Sensitivity of mic
• low self-noise

Cons

• Sound harsh at high frequencies
• No pad-switch or high pass filter, a drawback
• Expensive for novices

Condenser or Dynamic – (Microphones) Which one is the Better option to record Vocals?

Dynamic microphones and Condenser microphones both are used for recording vocals. Still, there are some benefits of using condenser microphones in a studio background. Which are as follows:

 

Enhanced Sensitivity->

 

We have already discussed previously, Condenser microphones have a bigger output signal. This means that with the same level of infusion, the outcome of a condenser is much higher than that of a dynamic microphone. Accordingly, even the lowest of the vocals can be captured.

 

Decent Frequency reaction->

 

Ideally, the microphone should have a steady frequency response, that is it should have the exact output gain for all of the frequencies. While it is ridiculous to have a faultlessly flat frequency response, condenser microphones have a much flatter response as compared to dynamic mics.

 

Aesthetic presence->

 

These microphones have a vast frequency range as compared to dynamic microphones. Condensers mics have a soft diaphragm that can catch higher frequencies nicely. They also have more gain in the lower frequency indexes.

Due to this, condensers mics can record with more simplicity and presence.

 

Types Of Microphones:

 

In general, there are two kinds of microphones used for recording vocals Dynamic and Condenser. These microphones are greatly distinct from one another in terms of frequency answer and sensitivity.

Condenser microphones require an external source of power to operate. That is the reason they are called Active Microphones.

 

Whereas, Dynamic microphones, operate without any external source of power but generally have a weaker output signal that expects amplification. That is why they are called passive microphones.

 

• Dynamic microphone

These microphones work on the principle of Electromagnetic induction. A metallic diaphragm is rendered to tremble using sound waves inside the field of a magnet. This produces an electrical signal.

 

Accordingly, dynamic microphones do not require any external source of power. Nonetheless, the produced signal needs some kind of amplification that comes to be usable.

These microphones are very strong in terms of construction. They can handle a lot of mishandling and, hence, are used on stage. They can also handle very wild input signals and do not get altered handily. Their simple construction also makes them very cheap.

 

• Condenser microphone

These microphones have a capacitor, or we can say it simply as, two parallel metal plates with a gap in between. The gap changes accordingly as the sound waves are produced and, in turn, fluctuates the capacitance and the voltage across it.

 

The condenser mics, therefore expect an external power source to work accordingly.

These microphones have a more subtle construction. Nevertheless, proper to the large output signal, they can catch the sound in more detail, particularly the high frequencies. This makes them acceptable for recording vocals.

Condenser microphones are usually classified into two types which are, Large Diaphragm and Small diaphragm.

 

• Large Diaphragm

These mics have a membrane with a diameter of 1-inch or it can be more. These microphones are generally larger. Large-diaphragm microphones on the basic level, they too have a lower self-noise ratio.

They are better suited for recording sounds that have low transients, for example, vocals.

• Small Diaphragm

These usually have a smaller membrane. They are usually pencil-shaped and smaller in size comparing to Large Diaphragm microphones.

 

These have an intenser transient reaction. They can catch very high frequencies (obviously beyond human hearing). Small diaphragm condensers are adequate for recording musical instruments such as the acoustic guitar.

 

Factors to keep in Mind Before Purchasing a Condenser Microphone->

 

It can be very confusing at times before buying these microphones. This is because a microphone is attributed to a lot of technological terms.

Here are some simple factors to keep in mind while purchasing a condenser mic, please have a closer look at it:

 

Build:-

 

As you know, Condenser mics are not as strong as Dynamic mics. Still, there are a lot of condenser mics with a sturdy, metal build that conserves the soft electronics inside. It is particularly important to evaluate the build if you are planning to use the microphone for smaller or larger gigs.

 

Polar Pattern:-

 

Likely to be said that this is the most important thing to be looked at while purchasing any condenser microphone. The polar pattern is the diagrammatic articulation of the spatial gain measurement of the mic for several frequencies.

To say it in simpler terms, a polar pattern depicts how many frequencies the microphone catches when the origin of the sound is positioned at several positions around the mic.

 

The polar pattern comprises several directions. The most widespread ones are as below:

 

• Omni-Directional:-

 

The microphone of this type is equally delicate to sounds coming from all directions enclosing the microphone. This means the microphone will catch the same level of sound at every equal distant point around it.

Innately, every mic is Omni-directional.

They are useful when a single mic is expected to catch many sound sources, for example, a choir. One of the disadvantages of Omni-directional mics is, they also catch undesirable reverb and room ambiance.

 

• Heart-shaped

 

The most common polar pattern for most of the microphones. The cardioid polar pattern is also the name of this microphone and these are more sensitive to sounds in the face and less sensitive at the sides and rear.

They can also be subdivided into super and hyper-cardioid patterns when there the rejection from the back and sides is increased even further.

Cardioid mics are useful where there are distinct microphones for each sound source. They are also good at dismissing unwanted room reverb and ambiance.

 

• Bi-directional/Figure-of-8:-

 

These mics are more sensitive at the face and back. They dismiss sounds from their sides.

These are suitable for recording stereo sound. And are also convenient for recording two singers or a vocalist and any single instrument positioned diametrically opposite to each other.

 

• Multiple Pattern:-

 

Few microphones give you the option of shifting between different polar patterns. Such microphones are universal and can be used for a vast range of applications.

 

Frequency Reactions->

 

It is the output gain of the mic for distinct frequency ranges. Ideally, the microphone is supposed to have a flat frequency reaction.

 

Considering the sensitivity, the microphone is equally susceptible to all frequencies. This would give an even output.

However, it isn’t possible to accomplish a flawlessly flat frequency response. The flatter the response, the better it is.

 

Sensitivity:-

 

We have already discussed before that, Condenser mics have high sensitivity. This means that they have a greater output for the same input signal comparing it to dynamic mics. Sensitivity differs in different types of microphones.

However lower the number, we get more gain from the connected pre-amplifier to reimburse.

 

Signal to Noise ratio (SNR)->

 

 

Self-noise in a mic is distinguished as the amount of noise output generated without the existence of any external input signal. Condenser mics by design, tend to have some self-noise.

The ratio of the expected gain and the self-noise is known as the Signal-to-Noise-Ratio. A good mic will have a higher SNR.

 

Max Sound Pressure LEVEL(SPL)->

 

It is the number of input decibels that a mic can withstand before it begins to change. This characteristic is very important in the case of a condenser microphone as they are more sensitive.

 

This factor is also valuable in case you are intending to use your microphone in a live gig where the sound grades are high. Not important to mention, the higher the SPL level, the better it is.

 

Impedance->

 

If we say it in simple language, impedance is the percentage of resistance that an electrical circuit gives to the flowing current. In microphones, in general, there are two kinds of impedances are Output Impedance and Load Impedance.

 

Output impedance is the impedance of the microphone itself. The amount of number lower this number is, the better it is considered. Nonetheless, this specification is important only if you are using very long cables with it. Extended cables add to the impedance of the microphone and can result in degradation of the signal in case the total impedance is too elevated.

On the other hand, the load impedance is the impedance of the pre-amp that is to be engaged with the microphone for excellent results.

If following the general rule, the impedance of the pre-amp should slightly be equal to the rated load impedance. A pre-amp with a lower impedance than the load impedance of the mic can affect its SPL level.

 

Power Requirements->

 

As already mentioned, Condensers are effective microphones. Accordingly, they expect external power to regulate. This external source of power is called Phantom Power.

Condensers generally operate either 24V to 48V DC Phantom power.

 

If there is a case where you only want to connect your microphone, you should go for a USB Condenser. These condenser mics not only contain internal power circuitry but also have a built-in Analog to Digital converter. Thus, they can be immediately attached to a computer wielding a USB port.

 

Conclusion->

 

AKG P120 is simply unbeatable when the price or budget matter is considered.

But, if you want a microphone that is truly important for money then the Audio Technica AT2035 the clear winner.

 

With the thickness and simplicity in its sound and its warm tone factors, which is not excessively intense but full-sounding, it is the best condenser mic for recording vocals, especially if you are starting from a beginner or newbie level.

Good Luck Champs!!!

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