PHILADELPHIA - Here are some top choices if you're in the market for a new vocal microphone.  The Neumann TLM 102, Shure SM58, and Neumann U 87 are all great choices. These vocal microphones are professional grade, have custom-developed aluminum voice coils, and have low handling noise levels.


Neumann TLM 102

The Neumann TLM 102 is a versatile, omnidirectional vocal microphone that comes in black or nickel. It is equipped with a swivel to stand mount. Its advanced modulation and enhanced effects make it an excellent choice for vocal recordings. These features ensure a crisp and clean sound and help add personality to recordings. The microphone records in HD and comes with onboard audio controls for volume, pattern selection, and mic gain.

The Neumann TLM 102 boasts a high sound pressure level, with a linear response up to six kHz. It has a slight boost at higher frequencies, which makes it a good choice for recording vocals. The microphone's flat frequency response also means it can accurately capture a wide range of frequencies without losing any detail. The microphone is also extremely lightweight, weighing only 260 grams. In comparison, the Rode NT2A weighs 860 grams.

Shure SM58

If you're looking for a good vocal microphone that will last for years, you'll want to consider the Shure SM58. This USB microphone is designed for podcasting and recording in different environments, and it's built to be durable. The SM58's midrange bump and natural bass roll-off help you achieve great vocal clarity, and its cardioid polar pattern rejects unwanted noise.

The Shure SM58 features an internal shock mount and a sturdy metal chassis. It also has a replaceable steel grille and pop filter. It's the perfect microphone for public speaking, home recording, podcasting, and live performances.

Neumann U 87

Neumann's new U 87 Ai vocal microphone has three switchable polar patterns to enable the recording of voices with a variety of characteristics. These include spaced pair, XY, and Blumlein polar patterns. It is also capable of mid-side recording. The U 87 Ai uses a K67 capsule with its own DC-DC converter.

The U 87 Ai features upgraded electronic components while keeping the capsule unchanged. This gives it greater operational headroom and a reduced bias voltage resistance, allowing for a 10dB increase in sensitivity for identical sound pressure levels. In addition, the microphone's signal-to-noise ratio has been improved by 3dB. It features a switchable 10dB pre-attenuation pad that minimizes the effects of low-frequency interferences.

If you're looking for a microphone for your studio, you should check out the Neumann U 87 Ai MT. It is popular among singers and voice-over artists, thanks to its timeless sound and transformer-balanced output. It also boasts low noise levels and optimal signal purity, making it perfect for any genre.

Sennheiser V7 VE

The Sennheiser V7 VE vocal microphone is a professional-grade vocal microphone that delivers rich natural sound in a durable handheld chassis. It features a super-cardioid polar pattern, a custom-developed aluminum voice coil, and a neodymium magnet for low handling noise. Its rugged construction makes it ideal for gigging musicians.

The dynamic V7 microphone has been custom-designed to produce a smooth, natural sound from any instrument or voice. Its super-cardioid capsule shape helps isolate the voice from other sounds on stage and ensures ample gain before feedback. It also features Proven Neodymium magnets for excellent sensitivity and tight production tolerances for superb sound quality.

AKG C414 XLII

If you're looking for a great vocal microphone, the AKG C414 XLII is an excellent choice.  This microphone features switchable polar patterns and a high-end response that's very clear. It's also resistant to electromagnetic and electrostatic interference. However, this microphone is susceptible to the proximity effect, leading to boominess when vocals are recorded too close. This can be a legitimate concern, especially if you're recording vocals that aren't muddy.

AKG's C414 XLII is a variant of the C414 XLS. It features a compact, box-shaped design and a gold grill. Its frequency response is similar to stage-vocal condensers and is ideal for professional studios. It also comes with a windscreen and pop filter.