Looking for a start in recording with a condenser microphone? – the following mics come in at under £100 and should suit the amateurs needs perfectly.
Bare in mind that you may need other components – condenser microphones require phantom power – your audio interface or mixing desk may already have that, it would be worth checking.
Also if you don’t own one already you’ll need a Stand, add to this a Microphone Cable, Shock Mount and a Pop Filter.
As well as the Microphones listed below I’ve added some links to the above items it is possible you would need.
If you have a budget then it may be worth you factoring in these items as well.
Also be aware that some of the following microphones come with shock mounts and/or pop filters.
Behringer C-1
The C-1 is a professional and super-affordable large-diaphragm condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. It provides all the performance you’d expect in a top-notch professional condenser microphone: exceptionally flat frequency response, ultra low-noise transformerless FET input circuitry and incredible audio transparency.
With its high-quality transducer and gold-plated XLR output, the C-1 is very neutral-sounding and truly delivers on the promise of noise-free transmission. It also offers a phantom power LED indicator and a swivel stand mount. Whether miking acoustic or electric instruments or using it for vocals or drums, the C-1 is an excellent choice for both live and studio applications.
Behringer C-1 £29 @ Dolphin Music
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Samson C01
Great for recording vocals, acoustic instruments and for use as overhead drum mics, the new Samson C01 large diaphragm condenser microphone is accurate, detailed, smooth with warm bass and extended top end. This sturdy microphone has a large 19mm diaphragm that produces a smooth flat frequency response. It features a heavy gauge mesh grill screen, a gold plated XLR connecter and an LED indicating 48V phantom power. The unit includes a swivel stand mount and an optional SP01 shock mount is available.
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SE Electronics sE1000a + FREE SE Electronics POP Shield!
The sE1000a is sE’s new entry level condenser mic for studio vocals and instrument recording. Get FREE sE Electronics Pop Shield when you buy the sE1000a!*
It has a 1/2” capsule tuned to accept low frequencies just like a larger diaphragm mic. Sister product (analogue only) to the USB1000a, the sE1000a performs well above its price point and looks the business!
Flight case is not included, but can be bought separately. The mic ships with a built-on shock cradle
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SE Electronics SE2000 + FREE pop Shield
The sE Electronics SE2000 Condenser Microphone is perfect for recording vocals and acoustic instruments.
The SE Electronics SE 2000 is a large diaphragm, cardioid pattern microphone that utilises a one inch, centre terminated, gold sputtered mylar diaphragm capsule. This works in conjunction with low noise Class A, FET circuitry and a transformer balanced output stage.
The SE2000 features a wide frequency response with a very subtle presence lift, which makes it suitable for recording studio vocals as well as most acoustic instruments and ensembles.
All SE microphones are closely matched, making them ideal for stereo applications, and the SE2000’s are particularly recommended for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. 48 Volt phantom power is required.
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Art M-One Studio Condenser Microphone
— The M-One cardioid FET condenser microphone delivers solid quality and outstanding performance in an extremely cost effective microphone. The low-mass diaphragm and upgraded capsule delivers an incredibly clear tone with accurate sonic detail, making it perfect for a wide range of recording and live sound applications.
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AKG Perception 120 Microphone
— The Perception 120 is a 2/3-inch diaphragm true condenser microphone that offers solid build quality, outstanding performance, and excellent value
More Details:
General-purpose cardioid recording microphone
Extended frequency response
Roadworthy construction
Switchable 20 dB preattenuation pad
Switchable bass cut filter
Designed and engineered by AKG in Vienna, Austria
The Perception 120 is a 2/3-inch diaphragm true condenser microphone that offers solid build quality, outstanding performance, and excellent value. The low-mass diaphragm delivers a clear sound with accurate sonic detail. A switchable 20 dB preattenuation pad and bass cut filter make the Perception 120 an excellent choice for a wide range of recording and live sound applications.
Backed by AKG’s six decades of experience in making microphones and input from sound engineers around the world, the Perception 120 now brings AKG studio quality to musicians and project studio applications
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Additional info that may be of help:
Condenser microphones need phantom power – these preamps have that available and also give you control over the sound.
ART Tube MP Preamp
The Tube MP is the worlds most popular external tube microphone preamp. Whether youre working with a digital, computer or analog recording system, the Tube MP`s TEC award nominated design will allow you to obtain professional recording studio results at a fraction of the cost of comparable equipment.
Professional quality sound combined with professional features like: a hand-selected 12AX7a tube, phantom power and phase reverse are what have made the Tube MP a staple in thousands of studios worldwide. For a minimal investment, a Tube MP can provide the single largest improvement to the sound of your studio.
Behringer Tube Ultragain MIC100
The Tube Ultragain MIC100 is a vacuum tube mic/line preamplifier with integrated limiter for studio, live and hard disk recording applications. It features a carefully selected 12AX7 vacuum tube with UTC technology for exceptional warmth and lowest noise. Thus, the MIC100 can be used to eliminate the “dull” sound of standard digital recorders and sound cards. Also, it perfectly complements studio-grade condenser microphones.
When used as a high-end DI-box, it ensures outstanding signal integrity. The Tube Ultragain MIC100acomes with phase reverse switch, +48 V phantom power and 20 dB pad. balanced inputs and outputs provide the finishing touch.
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Shock Mounts
Electro-Harmonix SM-1 Mount
Gear 4 Music Cheapo Option
Microphone Stand:
Microphone Cable:
XLR Cable £3.95 @ Gear 4 Music