The Best Dynamic Microphone for Every Budget

You can’t go wrong with a dynamic microphone. They’re generally more affordable, ruggedly built, require no power source, and often have great sound quality. They’re good for gigs, they’re good for recording, all-rounders really.

But finding a good quality microphone is still important. Today we’re looking at the best dynamic microphone for every budget.

What is a Dynamic Microphone?

So I’ve laid out the why you may want it, but if you’ve heard from a friend that you should get one but have no clue what exactly a dynamic microphone is, this section is for you:

A dynamic microphone works with a coil, magnet, and diaphragm.

As you speak or sing into the microphone, you move the diaphragm which is connected to a coil. The diaphragm moves up and down changing the air pressure and causes the coil to move up and down along with it. The magnet produces what’s called flux lines and as the coil moves, it cuts these flux lines.

This action turns acoustic energy into electrical energy to be transferred through the cable to the PA system and the speakers.

In fact, speakers work in the reverse. The electrical energy moves the coil around the magnet, which moves the cone creating air waves and essentially converts that electrical energy into acoustic energy again.

It’s these components and the fact that the microphone doesn’t need to be powered, unlike condenser microphones which require phantom power (48v) or a 9v battery, that makes them so robust and keeps the cost low.

How to Choose a Dynamic Microphone and When to Use It

How to Choose a Dynamic Microphone

Pop Filters and Wind Shields

If you can get a mic with these built in, it will go a long way. P and B sounds create loud pops in microphones that don’t have these features. Wind shields are great for reducing heavy breath sounds and of course, wind noise. They even help a little with S sounds, although a de-esser VST plugin like Spitfish may be necessary in a recording environment.

Polar Patterns

In terms of pickup or polar patterns, dynamic mics generally only come with a cardioid or omnidirectional polar pattern. If you want to avoid picking up sound from all over, avoid omnidirectional microphones. The cardioid (shaped almost like a heart), picks up sound at a 180-degree angle only and reduces background noise greatly. Occasionally you come across a supercardioid microphone which is even more directional.

Good Frequency Response

You’re looking for a flat frequency response as well as a wide frequency response, depending on your needs. A flat frequency response just means that a certain frequency range isn’t boosted. You may find some mics, when tailored specifically for vocals or instruments have boosted frequencies and some that roll off. This is great if that’s what you want. But if you want an all-rounder, look for a flat frequency response.

If you’re micing up drums and guitars, a wide frequency response is best. At least 50Hz to 20kHz for multiple applications. For vocals and and instruments that are within the same frequency range as vocals, even up to 14 to 15kHz will suffice.

For kick drums, you may need even lower. Often mics in professional settings for use in front of a kick drum is a lot bigger than a standard dynamic mic and will start down at 20Hz to really catch all the frequencies well.

Good Construction

In terms of everything else, you just want to make sure the microphone is well-constructed. Metal housing and capsules are generally good for regular gigging. You also want to keep an eye out for those with shock mount cartridges. This will reduce the noise caused by handling the mic such as cable noise and putting it in a mic stand.

Wired or Wireless?

You also need to choose between a wired or wireless microphone. If you want the best signal and sound quality at a lower budget, it’s best to stick to a good old wired microphone.

You can check out the specs as well to make sure that it has what you need. You can check out how to do that in the video below:

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Dynamic mics are a good option for anyone who likes to be energetic on stage and in a studio environment, they work well for micing up drums and amps. But you can get away with using them for vocals in the studio too if you like their sound.

The Best Dynamic Microphones

As with all audio equipment, prices vary due to the materials used in construction and of course, as we all know, particular brand names go a long way. But often those brands that are well established and are industry standards, have reached that level because of great quality.

You’ll find decent dynamic mics for all budgets though, so let’s get started.

Best Budget Buys

These are all under $80 at the time of writing and will be suitable for those starting out or who want a budget back up microphone.

Behringer SL75C Dynamic Microphone

For home recording or if you want a minimal investment to go gigging, this mic with its cardioid pickup pattern will do okay. It will do even better if you can get into tweaking the EQ. This way you can boost and cut frequencies to make it sound better. Having said that, many people say that the sound quality is that of a much more expensive mic, and close to the Shure SM57 (an industry standard).

It has a wide frequency response to pick up vocals, drums, and guitars. Although it looks small at the top, the construction includes a wind and pop filter. It also has a shock mount system to prevent handling noise. This Behringer comes with a 3-year warranty. Keep it safe in the rugged plastic carry case. Put it on a mic stand easily using the included stand adapter.

Most people find that this microphone suits their needs well and has good sound quality. But there are one or two complaints about the sound quality being far from professional standards.

Pros:

• Wide frequency response
• Cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise
• Good sound quality
• Includes a wind and pop filter
• Has a shock mount system to lower noise levels
• Comes with a plastic carry case and microphone stand adapter
• 3-year warranty

Cons:

• A few complaints about the sound quality

Tonor TW-630 Wireless Dynamic Microphones 2-Pack

If you would like to give a wireless microphone a go (x 2), this is a good entry level set. You need to be in line of sight of the receiver when using these mics, and if there is little to no radio frequency interference (RFI), you can get a range of 200ft. You can also switch between frequencies to locate a range with minimal interference.

You get 6 hours per charge of pretty good frequency response (50Hz-15kHz) and sound quality. It also has anti-howling built in for better sound. These mics are constructed from metal for durability. You also get a 2-year warranty with this set. Note that these are only the mics with a rechargeable receiver, USB charging cable, anti-slip rings and mic covers. Not a whole system. AA batteries for the mics are excluded.

Most people are happy with the sound and connectivity. But there are a few complaints about the signal range not being as advertised and the mics cutting out frequently.

If you want Tonor mics and wireless system, check out this deal with the TW-820.

Pros:

• Great if you hate cables
• You get two mics
• Wide frequency response
• Durable metal construction
• The receiver is rechargeable
• Includes USB charger, anti-slip rings, and mic covers
• Comes with a 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Doesn’t come with a system (only a con if you don’t already have one)
• No volume control
• AA batteries for the mics aren’t included
• Some complaints about connectivity

Amazon Basics Dynamic Microphone

Despite the low price, this microphone is rated high, with some people saying it’s comparable or at least, nearly as good as the Shure SM58 (which is an industry standard).

It has a cardioid pickup pattern and comes with a wind and pop filter for clearer sound. The construction involves zinc housing, a steel capsule, and an enamel finish to bring it all together. Zinc is a fairly weak metal, but there are very few complaints about damage, so they may in fact have used an alloy. It also has an on/off switch and comes with a male XLR cable.

Most people feel the sound quality is good and the noise level is low. There were however a few complaints about the sound quality, this may indicate either inconsistent quality or simply be due to the difference in how people listen.

Pros:

• Good sound quality
• Cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise
• Comes with a wind and pop filter
• Durable
• Comes with an On/Off switch
• Fairly low noise levels
• Includes a male XLR cable

Cons:

• There are a few complaints about sound quality (muffled sound)
• One or two complaints about the microphone not working

Shure SM48 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

If you want to get closer to professional quality sound without breaking the bank, you can’t go wrong with the Shure SM48. Shure as you may have guessed is known for rugged mics with excellent sound quality. You can reduce the price a little bit more if you go for the option without the On/Off switch. You get a storage/carry bag and mic stand adapter with the mic.

This microphone is tailored for vocals. In particular, it shines at the mid-range frequencies producing a brighter tone. It has low frequency roll off to reduce booming effects when the mic is too close. The frequency response is 55Hz to 14kHz. The shock mount cartridge reduces handling noise and the pop filter takes care of explosive sounds and wind noise. It comes with at least a 1-year limited warranty.

Most people are very happy with the sound quality. There are a few complaints about the insides coming out when they pulled the cable out. Some people found the sound too soft and in some cases, muddy (note that poor quality cables can also cause this, so buy a good cable). Also, some people expressed regrets about not getting the model with the On/Off switch, if you feel you might too, best to spend the extra few bucks.

Pros:

• Tailored for vocals (emphasis on a bright mid-range)
• Low frequency roll off to prevent unwanted noise
• Cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise
• Built-in pop filter
• Shock mount cartridge to reduce handling noise
• Rugged construction
• Includes storage/carry bag and mic stand adapter
• Includes a Shure limited warranty

Cons:

• If you choose to forego an On/Off switch, make sure your sound engineer is alert to mute when necessary
• Some complaints about the innards coming out during cable removal
• A few complaints about sound quality and volume

Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone

If you love being on stage and recording straight to your computer when you’re home, this is a great option. This mic comes with an XLR cable for connecting to a PA system and a USB cable to plug into your computer. It has a cardioid pickup pattern to reduce background noise and a frequency response of 50Hz to 15kHz. The mic also has a pop filter for better sound quality.

In addition to the two cables, you also get a desktop mic stand, windshield, and mic clip. While you can choose to get the podcasting pack which includes more items, it’s great if you already have headphones. There is a headphone jack at the bottom of the mic. You also get a 1-year warranty.

For home recording purposes, most people are happy describing the sound as clear. While not many have used it for stage, it does respond well to singing, and likely using an EQ will help. There are some complaints, mainly about having to plug the mic in and out of the computer after switching your computer on each time and, it’s more with the USB cable, but hissing noise. The XLR cable seems to do much better.

Pros:

• Use it on stage (XLR cable) or plug it into your PC (USB)
• 50Hz to 15kHz frequency response
• The cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise
• Good clear sound
• Comes with a pop filter and windshield
• Also includes an XLR cable and USB cable
• Comes with a desktop mic stand and mic clip
• There’s a handy headphone jack at the bottom of the mic
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• The mic needs to be plugged in and out every time you start your computer
• A few complaints about hissing and volume issues when using the USB cable

Mid-Range Budget Buys

These microphones are a little more pricey and generally will be okay for use in professional settings. All of these are under $300 at the time of writing.

AKG D5 Dynamic Vocal Microphone

AKG is another popular brand in the industry. This mic is tailored more for vocals and although I would recommend a microphone that can pick up lower frequencies, you’ll get by fine on the 70Hz to 20kHz frequency response. That is if you only intend to use it on vocals or instruments that have the same range as vocals.

The supercardioid pick up pattern eliminates a lot of background noise, since won’t pick up noise from the sides and only a little from behind the mic. So be sure to position this mic just right to pick up your voice. The double shock mount system prevents most if not all handling noise. It doesn’t come with a windshield or built-in pop filter. It comes with a bag for the mic and a mic stand adapter.

Most people are happy with the mic describing the sound as clear with just the right amount of warmth. It also provides good volume. There are a few complaints about it being sensitive to feedback and some people felt it didn’t represent the lower frequencies well. This mic is covered by a 2-year warranty in countries outside the US and Canada. If you’re in North America or Canada, you get a limited warranty.

Pros:

• The frequency response (70Hz to 20kHz) is adequate for vocal work and instruments that are higher pitched
• The supercardioid polar pattern eliminates a lot of background noise
• Has a double shock mount system for reduced handling noise
• It comes with a mic stand adapter and carry bag
• Rugged construction
• Clear, warm sound
• Good volume

Cons:

• Doesn’t come with a built-in pop filter and windshield
• There are a few complaints about lack luster low-end representation
• Some complaints about sensitivity to feedback

Shure SM57 Dynamic Mic

You’ll find this microphone in many professional studios and on stage, both for instruments and vocals. It’s highly durable, made for regular use in all kinds of situations. It has a frequency response of 40Hz to 15kHz. The cardioid pattern and pneumatic shock mount reduce unwanted noise. It has a built-in pop shield and windshield in the capsule too.

It’s also designed to handle high sound pressure levels (SPL) without distorting the sound. No wonder it’s used so widely on drum kits. It picks up soft-spoken voices every bit as well as belters, screamers, and loud amps. This mic is known for having instruments and vocals sound true to their natural tone. The mic comes with a stand adapter and carry bag.

Most people are very happy with the sound and that it handles volume well. The complaints, which are well in the minority claim that they got counterfeit or refurbished SM57s. Occasionally, people get defective units in terms of poor construction and bad sound quality, which may well be what these “fake/refurbished” mics are.

Pros:

• Has set the industry standard for instruments and vocals due to impeccable sound quality
• Frequency response of 50Hz to 15kHz
• The cardioid pattern reduces background noise
• The pneumatic shock mount reduces handling noise
• The pop shield and windshield prevent noise even further
• Handles very high volumes without distorting
• Very durable
• Comes with a stand adapter and carry bag
• Shure warranty included

Cons:

• Some complaints about poor sound quality

Shure SM58 Dynamic Mic

I would be remiss if this mic wasn’t on the list too. While the SM57 is more for instruments, the SM58 is tailored for vocals, whether it’s for speaking, singing, growling, or screaming. It has a cardioid pickup pattern, a frequency response of 50Hz to 15kHz, and bass roll off to control proximity effect.

The steel mesh grill and metal construction provide extra protection while the pneumatic shock mount and built-in pop filter and windshield reduces noise. It’s built to withstand the rigors of regular touring and energetic stage performances, but works perfectly well in a controlled studio environment too. The sound quality and durability is what has turned this mic into an industry standard.

You can keep the costs a little lower by selecting the option that excludes the cable and On/Off switch. But look at the options to see which will best suit your needs.

Most people are happy with the sound quality and feel it has the right balance between a bright and dark sound, and that it handles high and low volumes equally well. The complaints are mostly about the cables and stands that come with the combo deals rather than the actual mic.

Pros:

• Has set the industry standard for vocals due to the great sound quality and durability
• Frequency response of 50Hz to 15kHz
• The cardioid pattern reduces background noise
• The pneumatic shock mount reduces handling noise
• The pop shield and windshield prevent noise even further
• Handles high and low volumes well
• Comes with a stand adapter and carry bag
• Shure warranty included

Cons:

• Most complaints were about the cables and stands in the combo deals (poor quality and wrong stand)
• Some people regret not selecting the model with the On/Off switch

Sennheiser Pro Audio e935 Dynamic Microphone

Sennheiser is another name you’ll often see in professional settings. Sennheiser mics are known for their neodymium ferrous magnet with boron which makes them stable at extreme temperatures. The e935 is tailored for vocals, both live and in studio. It has a frequency response of 40Hz to 18kHz.

The cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise. The hum compensating coil reduces electric interference. The shock mount system reduces handling noise. The construction is rugged and suitable for energetic performers. Sennheiser is so confident about the quality of this microphone, that you get a 10-year warranty. Included is a storage bag and microphone stand clip.

Most people are very happy with the clarity of the sound, especially for higher pitched vocals. There are a few complaints that low-end frequencies aren’t picked up as well (this includes bass singers) and that the mic picks up ambient sound as well as the voice.

Pros:

• Clear, crisp sound
• Picks up high-pitched vocals well
• The frequency response is 40Hz to 18kHz
• Good noise reduction due to cardioid polar pattern, hum compensating coil, and shock mount
• Handles extreme temperatures well thanks to the neodymium ferrous magnet
• Rugged construction
• Comes with a mic stand clip and carry pouch
• 10-year warranty

Cons:

• There are a few complaints about the mic being sensitive to background noise
• Some complaints about how well the mic picks up low-end frequencies

Higher-End Microphones

So you’ve seen in the previous category that you don’t need to pay an arm and a leg for a good professional quality microphone. But if you like these mics and you got the bucks, go for it.

Shure Super 55 Deluxe Vocal Microphone

If you’re looking for a mic with a more retro look, this mic will do well, especially if you like the additional blue accents. You can get the black and silver cardioid mic at a lower price than this silver and blue supercardioid mic. The supercardioid model will cut out even more background noise. The Super 55 is tailored for vocals, for both singing and speaking with a frequency response of 60Hz to 17kHz.

The chrome-plated die casting ensures a rugged construction. The blue (or black if you go for the cardioid model) is foam. The shock mount cartridge reduces handling noise. You get higher gain before feedback which is great for live situations. The integrated swivel stand mount is included and allows the mic to tilt backward 80 degrees and forward 45 degrees. You also get a carry bag with a zip.

Most people are happy with the sound and the look of the microphone. But there are some complaints, mainly about it being sensitive to plosive sounds (no pop filter) and that it doesn’t pick up the lower frequencies so well. Some people mentioned that their mics are quite soft, these may clearly be defective.

Pros:

• Specifically tailored for vocals
• Frequency response is 60Hz to 17kHz
• Both the cardioid and supercardioid polar patterns reduce ambient noise (supercardioid does a better job of it)
• It handles loud volumes well
• Resilient chrome-plated die-cast construction
• Includes the swivel mount and a carry/storage bag
• The swivel mount bends backward 80 degrees and forward 45 degrees
• Covered by the Shure warranty
• Looks great if you like vintage microphones

Cons:

• No built-in pop filter
• Some complaints about the low-end frequencies dropping off

Electro-Voice RE320 Dynamic Microphone

This mic is a great all-rounder. It works for instruments and vocals in a variety of settings. There is a dual-voicing switch which creates two response patterns: one for vocals and instruments within roughly the same frequency range (general curve) and one for basses and kick drums (kick curve). The frequency response is 30Hz to 18kHz.

There is a built-in pop filter and hum bucking coil, as well as a foam windshield to significantly reduce noise. The variable-D proximity control further minimizes unwanted noise. The cardioid pickup pattern helps to prevent background noise. It’s also constructed to be highly durable with a neodymium magnet for stability at extreme temperatures. A stand mount, ⅜ adapter, and carry bag come with the mic.

Most people are happy with the sound quality, how well it reduces noise, and that it suits both male and female voices. There are a few complaints, mostly about buzzing or poor sound quality, these are very much in the minority. This microphone does come with a warranty, I suspect it may be three years.

Pros:

• Dual voice switch for mid to high frequencies (general curve) and low frequencies (kick curve)
• Frequency response of 30Hz to 18kHz
• Suitable for instruments ranging from kick drums to soprano vocals and other high-pitched instruments
• Built-in pop filter and hum bucking coil for noise reduction
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces background noise
• Highly durable
• Neodymium magnet provides stability at extreme temperatures
• Includes a stand mount, ⅜ adapter, and carry bag
• Comes with a warranty

Cons:

• A few complaints about sound quality and buzzing (very few)

Sennheiser MD 421 II Cardioid Dynamic Mic

This mic is tailored for a studio environment, but can also do live concerts in a pinch. It depends on whether the sound works well for you. Because it’s a broadcast mic too, you can use it for that podcast you’ve wanted to get going and even a radio station too. It’s built to handle the high SPL that comes from loud instruments like drums and amps on loud settings. The cardioid pattern makes it ideal for group singing too.

The frequency response is 30Hz to 17kHz. It features feedback rejection, five position bass roll off, and reproduces the sound naturally. It handles close proximity pretty well too. The rugged construction (glass composite housing and hardened steel basket) is also dust and humidity resistant. The mic comes with a microphone clip and a 2-year warranty.

People describe this mic as having a clear sound and are happy with the way it hands high SPL. Note that it doesn’t come with a pop filter, which is something that people who sing mention. But other than that, there isn’t anything that’s bad about this microphone. It’s been around for a long time in the industry for good reason.

Pros:

• Clear sound
• Feedback rejection
• Five position bass roll off for noise reduction
• Handles high SPL just fine
• Works for instruments and vocals
• The cardioid polar pattern is suitable for group singing
• Frequency response of 30Hz to 17kHz
• It works well even at close proximity
• Comes with a mic clip
• 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Doesn’t have a built-in pop filter

Sennheiser MD 441-U Dynamic Microphone

This microphone is one that you’ll pay dearly for, but most people agree that it’s worth every penny. One of its claims to fame is the high signal-to-noise ratio. The hum buck coil, spring capsule mounting, feedback rejection, supercardioid polar pattern, and built-in pop filter reduce noise significantly. It handles high SPL very well and doesn’t have too much of a proximity effect.

The five position low frequency contour switch and two-position high frequency switch provide excellent clarity while allowing you to choose settings that suit your voice. The sound as close to the real thing as possible. Essentially, it’s a dynamic mic with the benefits of a condenser mic thrown in. It’s suitable for vocals and instruments in a live or studio setting. The frequency response is 30Hz to 20kHz.

The all metal construction is very durable and you also get a 2-year warranty. This mic comes with a mic clip included. People enjoy the great sound quality and how it makes their voices and instruments sound natural. Although there are one or two people out there who feel it’s over-rated. There isn’t really any downside to the 441-U.

Pros:

• Frequency response of 30Hz to 20kHz
• Suitable for vocals and instruments
• Does well in both studio and live concert settings
• Built-in pop filter
• Hum buck coil and feedback rejection
• Supercardioid pickup pattern for ambient noise reduction
• Handles high SPL well
• Includes five position low frequency contour switch and two-position high frequency switch
• High signal-to-noise ratio
• Durable all metal construction
• It’s a dynamic mic with many of the benefits of a condenser mic
• 2-year warranty

Cons:

• None

Conclusion

Buying a microphone can be confusing. But there are at least good options in every budget category that will suit your needs. Just remember, that a little EQ can go a long way. So don’t write a mic off without trying that first. But if you truly are unhappy with the sound, rather return it and get one that sounds good with your voice and/or instruments.

If the mic you choose doesn’t have a built-in pop filter, they’re pretty affordable to buy separately, just make sure it will fit the particular mic you have. The same goes for a windshield, but I’ll let you in on a trick we learned in college. Getting creative with some wire and pantyhose will save you some money and work when you’re in a bind.

Happy mic shopping and of course, gigging and recording too!