So I’ve got this friend that is a complete newbie in the “home recording” scene. He’s been playing guitar for years, but has never recorded anything. Now with all the hype of YouTube, he’s wanting to take it to the next step, and record a few covers and show the world his skills.
Recently we were talking about the equipment he would need, when he asked me what some great sounding microphones were that he could record with. His only problem was, that he didn’t have a whole lot of cash to invest in top of the line gear He wanted to keep it under $100. So these are what I recommended to him:
- – Behringer ECM-8000
- – Shure SM57
- – MXL 603
- – MXL V67G
Below is a short description of them each.
Behringer ECM-8000 – $54.99
The ECM8000’s ruler-flat frequency response from 15 Hz to 20 kHz and omnidirectional polar pattern give you a clear, accurate reading of any room’s unique sound characteristics. Like standard condenser mics used for recording or performance, the ECM8000 is phantom powered, from +15 V to +48 V. We’ve even included a rugged carrying case, microphone clip and stand adapter to ensure smooth operation every time.
Features
- – Exceptionally flat frequency response and ultra-high sound resolution
- – Works with phantom power from +15 – + 48V
- – Ultra-low noise transformerless FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion
- – Gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector for highest signal integrity
- – Conceived and designed by Behringer Germany
Shure SM57 – $99.00
The legendary Shure SM57 is exceptional for musical instrument pickup and vocals. With its bright, clean sound and contoured frequency response, the SM57 is ideal for live sound reinforcement and recording. The Sm57 has an extremely effective cardioid pickup pattern that isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise. In the studio, it is excellent for recording drums, guitars, and woodwinds. Outstanding performance, reliability, and application diversity make this “workhorse” the choice of performers, producers, and sound engineers worldwide.
Features
- – Pneumatic shock-mount system cuts down handling noise
- – Frequentcy response: 40Hz – 15,000 Hz
- – Contoured frequency response for clean, instrumental reproduction and rich vocal pickup
- – Extremely durable under the heaviest use
MXL 603S – $89.99
Designed with professional and working musicians in mind, the MXL 603 Instrument Microphone delivers the natural acustic properties you need for overhead drums, piano, string instruments, and more. Sharing characteristics of European and Japanese imports at a fraction of the price, a transformerless design provides a solid bottom and an extremely open top end sound. The MXL 603 can even handle guitar amp recording!
Features
- – Small-diaphragm capsule that captures extra detail
- – Transformerless design for a solid low end and an open top
- – Instrument microphone with a crisp, bright sound
- – Frequency range is between 30Hz-20kHz
MXL V67G – $99.95
The MXL V67G Condenser Microphone is often described as having a sound that is “old school tube mellow.” Designed mainly for vocals, the V67G mic combines Class A FET circuitry and a transformer-coupled output for a smooth, open, and pure sound. The MXL V67G mic comes through with killer vocals even in front of a busy mix. The condenser microphone’s great stage appeal is partially due to its round gold-plated grille and distinctive, vintage body. You’ll be amazed by the sound this cleverly designed MXL microphone provides and pleasantly pleased with the price.
Features
- – Gold-sputtered, 6 micron diaphragm
- – Solid state preamp
- – Comes with mic stand adapter
- – Optional MXL-57 isolation shockmount available
