The Microphone - All about the history and the application of microphones
The Microphone
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Shure MV7
Shure
USA, 2020Hybrid USB/XLR dynamic microphone inspired by the SM7B, designed for podcasters and streamers seeking pro-quality sound. More on Wikipedia...$249IR available not available -
RØDE PodMic
RØDE
Australia, 2019Compact end-address dynamic microphone tailored for podcasting, offering a rich, broadcast-ready vocal sound with internal pop filter. More on Wikipedia...$99IR available not available -
Aston Stealth
Aston Microphones
UK, 2019Innovative active dynamic microphone with four voicing settings and both passive and phantom-powered modes, excelled in broadcast and stage use. More on Wikipedia...$379IR not available -
Earthworks SR314
Earthworks
USA, 2019Stainless steel handheld condenser microphone offering extended frequency response and fast transient response, delivering studio-quality live vocal sound. More on Wikipedia...$699IR available not available -
HyperX QuadCast
HyperX
USA, 2019Stylish USB condenser microphone with selectable polar patterns and internal shock mount, popular among gamers and streamers for its quality and red LED aesthetic. More on Wikipedia...$139IR not available -
AKG Lyra
AKG
Austria, 2019Retro-styled USB condenser microphone with four-capsule array enabling multiple pickup patterns, offering 24-bit/192kHz audio for content creators and musicians. More on Wikipedia...$149IR available not available -
Austrian Audio OC818
Austrian Audio
Austria, 2019Flagship multi-pattern condenser with dual outputs (allowing post-pattern selection) and modern design, known for its high fidelity and flexibility for studio recording. More on Wikipedia...$999IR not available -
Deity S-Mic 2
Deity
China, 2018Short shotgun microphone offering low self-noise and a natural tone, providing an affordable alternative for indie filmmakers and location sound recordists. More on Wikipedia...$349IR available not available -
sE Electronics V7
sE Electronics
China, 2017Road-worthy supercardioid dynamic vocal mic featuring a specialized aluminum voice coil for crisp, lively sound and excellent feedback rejection.$99IR not available -
Lewitt LCT 440 PURE
Lewitt
Austria, 2017Modern cardioid condenser mic with a very low noise floor and a clean, detailed sound, suitable for vocals, instruments, and ASMR recording. This is a great mic with a AKG 414 feel.$269IR available not available -
Townsend Labs Sphere L22
Townsend Labs (UA)
USA, 2017Dual-capsule condenser modeling microphone system that, combined with software, emulates a wide range of classic microphones with remarkable accuracy. More on Wikipedia...$1499IR not available -
Aston Origin
Aston Microphones
UK, 2016Affordable large-diaphragm condenser with a sleek stainless mesh design, delivering a crisp, open sound on vocals and acoustic instruments. More on Wikipedia...$299IR not available -
Aston Spirit
Aston Microphones
UK, 2016Multi-pattern condenser microphone offering selectable cardioid, omni, and figure-8 patterns, known for its transparent sound and build quality. More on Wikipedia...$449IR available not available -
Slate Digital VMS ML-1
Slate Digital
USA, 2016Linear, flat-response large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed to be used with Slate’s modeling software, allowing it to emulate a variety of classic microphones digitally. More on Wikipedia...$799IR not available -
Soyuz 017 TUBE
Soyuz
Russia, 2016Luxury large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone handcrafted in Russia, offering a lush, vintage-inspired sound and build quality reminiscent of classic Soviet designs. More on Wikipedia...$4000IR available not available -
Audio-Technica BP40
Audio-Technica
Japan, 2015Broadcast large-diaphragm dynamic microphone delivering a robust, warm voice tone with a hypercardioid pattern, designed to compete with industry-standard broadcast mics.$349IR not available -
RØDE NT-USB
RØDE
Australia, 2014Convenient USB cardioid condenser mic with built-in headphone monitoring, delivering studio-quality audio for voice-overs and music recording. More on Wikipedia...$169IR not available -
Lewitt LCT 940
Lewitt
Austria, 2013High-end studio microphone blending a FET and tube circuit (controllable mix) with multi-pattern capability, offering extreme flexibility in tonal character. More on Wikipedia...$1699IR not available -
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
Audio-Technica
Japan, 2012USB version of the AT2020 condenser mic, providing plug-and-play connectivity and quality sound for home recording and streaming. More on Wikipedia...$149IR not available -
Apogee MiC
Apogee
USA, 2011Compact studio-quality cardioid condenser that connects directly to iOS devices and computers, ideal for mobile recording of vocals and acoustic instruments. More on Wikipedia...$229IR available not available -
Telefunken CU-29 Copperhead
Telefunken
USA, 2011Affordable high-fidelity tube condenser microphone delivering a warm, balanced tone on vocals and acoustic instruments, offering an entry into Telefunken’s classic sound. More on Wikipedia...$1295IR not available -
Shure KSM313
Shure
USA, 2010Bi-directional ribbon microphone with a dual-voice design (bright front, dark rear), providing versatility for guitar amps and vocals with robust build quality. More on Wikipedia...$1299IR available not available -
MXL R144
MXL
USA, 2010Entry-level bidirectional ribbon microphone providing a smooth, warm tone for recording guitar cabinets, vocals, and room ambiance at an affordable price.$99IR not available -
Samson Q2U
Samson
USA, 2010Handheld dynamic microphone with both XLR and USB outputs, popular for beginners in podcasting for its versatility and decent sound quality. More on Wikipedia...$59IR not available -
CAD E100S
CAD
USA, 2010Supercardioid large-diaphragm condenser microphone boasting an extremely low self-noise (3.7 dBA) and high sensitivity, excellent for detailed vocals and quiet sources. More on Wikipedia...$599IR available not available -
Shure Beta 91A
Shure
USA, 2010Boundary condenser microphone primarily used inside kick drums and on piano soundboards, capturing deep lows and attack without stand mounting.$239IR not available -
Blue Yeti
Blue Microphones
USA, 2009Versatile USB microphone with multiple pickup patterns (cardioid, omni, bidirectional, stereo), widely used for streaming, podcasting, and VO.$129IR available not available -
AKG C214
AKG
Austria, 2008Affordable large-diaphragm condenser based on the C414, offering a clear cardioid response for vocals and instruments in project studios.$399IR available not available -
Telefunken M80
Telefunken
USA, 2008Live vocal dynamic microphone with a condenser-like high-end response and tight supercardioid pattern, bringing studio-quality articulation to the stage. More on Wikipedia...$249IR available not available -
AKG D5
AKG
Austria, 2007Rugged supercardioid dynamic vocal mic with a crisp sound and high feedback rejection, engineered for lead vocals on loud stages. More on Wikipedia...$99IR not available -
Heil PR40
Heil Sound
USA, 2006Large-diaphragm dynamic microphone with extended frequency response, providing a warm yet articulate sound ideal for podcast and broadcast voices. More on Wikipedia...$329IR available not available -
Blue Snowball
Blue Microphones
USA, 2005Sphere-shaped dual-capsule USB microphone with cardioid and omni modes, popular for entry-level podcasting, voice chat, and demo recording. More on Wikipedia...$69IR not available -
Blue Bluebird
Blue Microphones
USA, 2005Cardioid condenser microphone with a bright character and sleek design, suitable for vocals, guitars, and percussion in home and project studios. More on Wikipedia...$299IR not available -
Shure KSM44
Shure
USA, 2004Premium multi-pattern condenser microphone offering selectable polar patterns and low noise for versatile studio use. More on Wikipedia...$999IR not available -
Sennheiser e 935
Sennheiser
Germany, 2004Durable cardioid dynamic vocal microphone providing clear, natural sound for lead vocals, with enhanced high-mid presence for cut-through. More on Wikipedia...$179IR not available -
Audio-Technica AT2020
Audio-Technica
Japan, 2004Popular entry-level cardioid condenser microphone offering balanced sound and reliability for home studio vocals and instruments. More on Wikipedia...$99IR available not available -
Audio-Technica AT4040
Audio-Technica
Japan, 2004General-purpose large-diaphragm condenser offering a smooth frequency response and high SPL handling for studio vocals and instruments. More on Wikipedia...$299IR available not available -
RØDE VideoMic
RØDE
Australia, 2004On-camera shotgun microphone designed for DSLR and camcorder use, capturing directional audio for video with clarity. More on Wikipedia...$149IR not available -
RØDE NT1-A
RØDE
Australia, 2003Extremely low-noise cardioid condenser microphone known for its clarity and detailed sound on vocals and acoustic instruments. This mic is extremely popular in home studios.$229IR available not available -
Blue Bottle
Blue Microphones
USA, 2003High-end tube microphone system with interchangeable capsules, revered for its rich, full sound and used in top-tier studios on vocals and instruments. More on Wikipedia...$3999IR available not available -
Behringer B-2 Pro
Behringer
Germany, 2003Dual-diaphragm multi-pattern condenser microphone that offers switchable cardioid, omni, and figure-8 patterns at a budget price, making studio multi-pattern functionality accessible. More on Wikipedia...$149IR available not available -
Shure Beta 52A
Shure
USA, 2002Tailored dynamic microphone for kick drums and bass instruments, capturing deep low end punch and attack. More on Wikipedia...$189IR not available -
RØDE NT5
RØDE
Australia, 2002Matched pair small-diaphragm condensers ideal for stereo recording of drum overheads, acoustic instruments, and live performances. More on Wikipedia...$429 (pair)IR available not available -
sE Electronics sE2200
sE Electronics
UK/China, 2002Renowned cardioid condenser microphone (used by notable artists) offering a balanced, classic sound on vocals and instruments with low self-noise. More on Wikipedia...$299IR available not available -
AEA R84
AEA
USA, 2002Large ribbon microphone with a classic tonality—rich lows and smooth highs—often used for vocals, strings, and brass, and capable of handling high SPL sources. More on Wikipedia...$1099IR available not available -
Shure SM7B
Shure
USA, 2001Renowned broadcast dynamic microphone with a smooth, full-range response, popular for radio, podcasts, and rock vocals. More on Wikipedia...$399IR available not available -
Sennheiser e 609
Sennheiser
Germany, 2001Flat-profile supercardioid dynamic mic designed to hang in front of guitar cabinets, capturing a bright, aggressive tone with ease. More on Wikipedia...$99IR available not available -
RØDE NTK
RØDE
Australia, 2001Valve (tube) condenser microphone delivering warm, full-bodied tone for vocals and instruments, with classic tube harmonics. More on Wikipedia...$529IR not available -
MXL 990
MXL
USA, 2001Budget cardioid condenser microphone that introduced many home studios to large-diaphragm mic sound, offering a bright tone suited for vocals and acoustic guitars.$99IR available not available -
Samson C01
Samson
USA, 2001One of the early affordable large-diaphragm condensers, delivering a clear, if slightly bright, sound for vocals and instruments in project studios.$79IR available not available -
Rhode NT4
RØDE
Australia, 2001Fixed X/Y stereo condenser microphone (two capsules at 90\xB0) simplifying stereo recording of ensembles, choirs, or environmental sound with a single unit.$529IR not available -
Microtech Gefell M 930
Microtech Gefell
Germany, 2000Compact large-diaphragm cardioid condenser mic made by Neumann’s sister company, offering pristine audio quality with low self-noise, favored in voice-over and music studios. More on Wikipedia...$1300IR available not available -
Shure KSM32
Shure
USA, 1999Transparent large-diaphragm condenser mic ideal for vocals and instruments, known for its natural sound and durability. More on Wikipedia...$549IR available not available -
Neumann KMS 105
Neumann
Germany, 1999Premium handheld supercardioid condenser vocal microphone bringing studio-quality sound to the stage, with excellent rejection and clear, airy highs. More on Wikipedia...$699IR available not available -
Shure Beta 87A
Shure
USA, 1998Condenser vocal microphone delivering studio-quality detail on stage, with a smooth top end and tight supercardioid pattern. More on Wikipedia...$249IR available not available -
Sennheiser e 835
Sennheiser
Germany, 1998Affordable cardioid dynamic vocal mic designed for live performance, delivering solid sound and feedback rejection on stage. More on Wikipedia...$99IR available not available -
Royer R-121
Royer Labs
USA, 1998Modern ribbon microphone offering a balanced frequency response and high SPL handling, a go-to for electric guitar amps and brass instruments. More on Wikipedia...$1295IR not available -
Neumann TLM 103
Neumann
Germany, 1997Modern large-diaphragm cardioid condenser offering extremely low self-noise and a presence boost, popular for vocals and voice-over. More on Wikipedia...$1100IR available not available -
Shure Beta 58A
Shure
USA, 1996High-output supercardioid dynamic vocal mic offering superior gain-before-feedback and crisp sound for live performances. More on Wikipedia...$159IR not available -
DPA 4060
DPA
Denmark, 1996Tiny omnidirectional lavalier microphone with very low noise and flat response, extensively used in theater, film, and hidden on instruments. More on Wikipedia...$450IR not available -
Audio-Technica AT4050
Audio-Technica
Japan, 1995Multipattern studio condenser known for its neutral, transparent sound, suitable for a wide range of sources from vocals to overheads. More on Wikipedia...$699IR not available -
SoundField ST250
SoundField (Calrec)
UK, 1995Portable ambisonic microphone system capturing a full 360° sound field (tetrahedral capsule array), used for immersive audio recordings and flexible post-production mixing. More on Wikipedia...$5000IR not available -
Neumann KM184
Neumann
Germany, 1993Compact small-diaphragm cardioid condenser ideal for acoustic instruments and overheads, known for its natural tonal reproduction. More on Wikipedia...$850IR not available -
Neumann KU 100
Neumann
Germany, 1993Binaural dummy head microphone with anatomically shaped ears, capturing immersive 3D stereo sound as heard by human ears, used for binaural recordings and VR audio. More on Wikipedia...$8000IR not available -
Sony C-800G
Sony
Japan, 1992Ultra high-end tube condenser microphone with built-in cooling system, revered for its crisp, forward vocal sound in pop and R&B productions (a go-to for many top artists). More on Wikipedia...$10000IR not available -
Oktava MK-012
Oktava
Russia, 1990Modular small-diaphragm condenser (often sold with multiple capsules) known for its warm, mellow sound, popular for drum overheads and acoustic instruments (often modified for enhanced performance). More on Wikipedia...$200 (with capsules)IR not available -
AKG D112
AKG
Austria, 1986Egg-shaped cardioid dynamic microphone tailored for kick drums and bass cabinets, delivering a tight low end and punchy attack. More on Wikipedia...$199IR not available -
DPA 4011
DPA
Denmark, 1986Reference-grade cardioid small-diaphragm condenser microphone providing natural, accurate sound, widely used in classical music recording and as instrument spot mic. More on Wikipedia...$2100IR available not available -
Crown PCC-160
Crown (AKG)
USA, 1986Phase Coherent Cardioid boundary microphone used on stage floors (Broadway, conferences) to pick up dialogue and stage performances with clarity across a wide area. More on Wikipedia...$350IR available not available -
Milab VIP-50
Milab
Sweden, 1984Multi-pattern FET condenser with a unique rectangular capsule, famous for its use on iconic recordings and valued for its clear, detailed sound on vocals. More on Wikipedia...$2000IR not available -
Shure SM81
Shure
USA, 1978Staple small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone with flat response and high SPL capability, widely used for acoustic instruments, drum overheads, and choral recording. More on Wikipedia...$349IR available not available -
Sennheiser MKH 416
Sennheiser
Germany, 1975Industry-standard short shotgun microphone for film and voice-over, offering a focused pickup and rich, crisp voice reproduction. More on Wikipedia...$999IR not available -
SM 7
Shure
USA, 1973The Shure SM7 is a professional cardioid dynamic microphone. It has been described as an industry- standard technical microphone , "iconic" for its focused, directional sound and its widespread adoption in radio , television and recording studios. In 2007-2008, the SM7B model became very popular for professional podcasting! Users include Mick Jagger and Michael Jackson.$500Dynamic Cardioid, Sensitivity −59 dBV/Pa (1.12 mV), Impedance 150 ohms, Weight 765.4 gramsDynamic Cardioid, Sensitivity −59 dBV/Pa (1.12 mV), Impedance 150 ohms, Weight 765.4 grams -
Schoeps CMC6 MK4
Schoeps
Germany, 1973High-end modular small-diaphragm cardioid condenser (Colette series) prized for its exceptionally natural and transparent sound in classical and location recording. More on Wikipedia...$1700IR available not available -
Sennheiser MD 441
Sennheiser
Germany, 1971High-end supercardioid dynamic microphone with a condenser-like clarity, excellent for vocals, horns, and detailed instrument capture. More on Wikipedia...$899IR not available -
AKG C414
AKG
Austria, 1971Famous multi-pattern condenser mic with multiple revisions, valued for its versatility on vocals, drum overheads, pianos, and more. More on Wikipedia...$1099IR not available -
AKG C451
AKG
Austria, 1969Small-diaphragm condenser microphone providing crisp, detailed reproduction of cymbals, acoustic guitars, and percussion. More on Wikipedia...$499IR available not available -
RE20
Electro-Voice
USA, 1968Large-diaphragm Dynamic mic, it has been described as an industry standard iconic microphone for its natural sound and its wide usage in radio, television and recording studios, nicknamed -the elephant dick-. User include Steve Wonder, Joan Jett and countless other. Also used on brass and drums, Hammond Leslie, Gtr and excellent for male rapper vocals$600Dynamic Cardioid
45 - 18.000 Hz
Sensitivity: 1.5 mV / Pascal -
Neumann U87
Neumann
Germany, 1967Iconic studio condenser microphone with a balanced, clear sound and selectable polar patterns, ubiquitous in professional studios. More on Wikipedia...$3200IR available not available -
Shure SM58
Shure
USA, 1966Iconic cardioid dynamic vocal microphone known for its durability and clarity, ideal for live vocals or speech. You have to own one! Its a must! really!$99Dynamic Polar Pattern Cardioid Sensitivity '-54.5' dBV/Pa Impedance 150IR not available -
Beyerdynamic M 201
Beyerdynamic
Germany, 1966Small-diaphragm hypercardioid dynamic mic providing detailed, tight capture of snare drums, toms, and acoustic instruments with minimal bleed. More on Wikipedia...$299IR not available -
Electro-Voice 635A
Electro-Voice
USA, 1965Sturdy omnidirectional dynamic "reporter’s mic" famed for its durability and clear speech reproduction in broadcast and field interviews. More on Wikipedia...$129IR not available -
Shure SM57
Shure
USA, 1965Rugged cardioid dynamic instrument microphone prized for its versatility on snare drums, guitar amps, and vocals. More on Wikipedia...$99IR available not available -
Beyerdynamic M 88
Beyerdynamic
Germany, 1962Classic hypercardioid dynamic mic with a wide frequency range, used on bass drums, vocalists, and brass due to its punchy yet balanced response. More on Wikipedia...$399IR available not available -
Neumann U67
Neumann
Germany, 1960Vintage multi-pattern tube condenser mic known for its smooth, silky tone, a workhorse for vocals and instruments in the 1960s. More on Wikipedia...$7000IR not available -
Sennheiser MD 421
Sennheiser
Germany, 1960Versatile cardioid dynamic microphone with a full-bodied sound, commonly used on drums, guitar cabinets, and broadcast vocals. More on Wikipedia...$379IR available not available -
Telefunken ELA M 251E
Telefunken
Germany, 1959One of the most sought-after tube condenser microphones ever made, offering a silky high end and rich midrange; vintage originals are rare and costly, with modern reissues used on elite vocal recordings. More on Wikipedia...$10000IR not available -
Sony C-37A
Sony
Japan, 1958Vintage tube condenser microphone with switchable polar patterns (uni/omni), known for its smooth midrange and often used on vocals in the 1950s–60s. More on Wikipedia...$3000 (used)IR available not available -
Beyerdynamic M 160
Beyerdynamic
Germany, 1957Double-ribbon hypercardioid microphone known for its smooth treble and tight pickup, often used on string sections, guitar amps, and drums (overheads). More on Wikipedia...$699IR not available -
RCA 77-DX
RCA
USA, 1954Multiplate ribbon microphone capable of various pickup patterns (via mechanical switch), known for its classic warm sound in broadcast and music studios. More on Wikipedia...$2500 (used)IR not available -
AKG C12
AKG
Austria, 1953Vintage tube multi-pattern condenser known for its airy top end and musical warmth, ancestor of many modern high-end studio mics. More on Wikipedia...$10000IR available not available -
Coles 4038
Coles
UK, 1953British bi-directional ribbon microphone designed by the BBC, revered for its smooth, natural sound on drum overheads, brass, and vocals. More on Wikipedia...$1300IR available not available -
Neumann M49
Neumann
Germany, 1951Classic remote-controlled multi-pattern tube condenser mic with a lush, smooth character, prized for vocal and orchestral recording. More on Wikipedia...$9000IR not available -
Neuman
Neuman
Germany, 1949The Neumann U 47 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone. It is one of the most famous studio microphones and was Neumann's first microphone after the Second World War. The original series, manufactured by Georg Neumann GmbH between 1949 and 1965, employed a tube design. Early U 47s used the M 7 capsule, then replaced by the K 47 from 1958. Units produced before 1950 were distributed by Telefunken and bear the Telefunken logo. This is a beatiful Mic vor Vocals and if a studio owns one you will find it standing right in front of the window in the vocal booth. More on Wikipedia...$11000Condensor, Polar pattern: cardioid and omnidirectional, frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (±3 dB) Sensitivity: 24.5 mV/Pa, ± 1 dBCondensor, Polar pattern: cardioid and omnidirectional, frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (±3 dB) Sensitivity: 24.5 mV/Pa, ± 1 dB -
Shure 55 SH
Shure Inc.
America, 1939
Iconic microphone, widely adopted in radio, television, and recording studios from the 1940s until the end of the 20th century, also known as the Elvis Mic. Other users include John F. Kennedy, Golda Meir, Ella Fitzgerald, Benny Goodman, Frank Sinatra and Fidel Castro.
$259 (Shure Super55)Dymanic Cardioid
50 - 15.000 Hz
EIA −150 Ω (270 Ω current)IR not available -
RCA 44-BX
RCA
USA, 1936Vintage bi-directional ribbon microphone with a rich, smooth tone, famously used in 1940s broadcast and studio recordings for vocals and instruments. More on Wikipedia...$3000 (used)IR available not available -
4038 Studio Ribbon Microphone
Coles
England, 1934The origins of the 4038 go back to 1934, when the BBC-Marconi Type A became the first pressure-gradient ribbon microphone to be manufactured in Great Britain. If you love the symbal sound on Pink Floyd's Dark side of the moon, this is your choise. Don't forgt to boost the top end +10 dB :-).about $1.500Ribbon, figure 8, flat from 30 to 15,000 Hzno ir -
CMV 3
Neumann
Germany, 1928In 1928, Georg Neumann GmbH introduced its very first product: the CMV 3. Known colloquially as the “Neumann Bottle” due to its bulky form factor, this landmark design employed a completely different method of capturing sound than existing designs which utilized carbon granules, metal ribbons, or magnetic coils. Instead, it used a thin moving diaphragm and a fixed backplate to turn sound waves into an electrical signal based on the change in capacitance between the two elements. The very first condensor Mic!about $3000Condensor, Diameter: 9 cm, height: 40 cm, weight: 3 kg.no ir -
Hughes Carbon Mic
David Edward Hughes
England, 1870The first microphone that enabled proper voice telephony was the (loose-contact) carbon microphone. This was independently developed by David Edward Hughes in England and Emile Berliner and Thomas Edison in the US. Although Edison was awarded the first patent (after a long legal dispute) in mid-1877, Hughes had demonstrated his working device in front of many witnesses some years earlier, and most historians credit him with its invention. More on Wikipedia...$? - UnknownIR not available
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