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8 Best Dynamic Microphones in 2024

Top Picks for Versatile and Reliable Performance

10 Best Dynamic Microphones in 2023

Are you an aspiring podcaster, musician, or live performer looking for a reliable microphone that won’t break the bank? Do you need a mic that can handle high sound pressure levels without distorting or picking up too much background noise? If you nodded your head, then dynamic microphones are exactly what you need.

Dynamic microphones are a favorite among vocalists, broadcasters, and performers for their durability, versatility, and excellent sound quality. They’re perfect for capturing everything from powerful vocals to amplified instruments in live settings, and they’re built to withstand the demands of frequent use.

You’re in the right place if you’re on the hunt for the best dynamic microphones. We’ve thoroughly tested each microphone on this list, and we’re here to guide you in finding the perfect mic to meet your needs.

In this guide, we’ll also explain how dynamic microphones work and what to consider when choosing one. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which dynamic microphone is right for you.

Overall BestShure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Best for InstrumentsShure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Best for BroadcastElectro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone
Best for VersatilitySennheiser Pro Audio Professional MD 421-II
Best for Kick DrumAKG Pro Audio D12VR Dynamic Microphone
Best Budget OptionSamson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone
Best for PodcastsRode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Best for StreamingElgato Wave:3

How Does a Dynamic Microphone Work?

A dynamic microphone has an induction coil that links to a diaphragm in the microphone capsule, surrounded by a magnetic field generated by a magnet. Input sound waves force the diaphragm to move, inducing a voltage created by the magnetic field, which carries the coil. A transformer amplifies the voltage and sends a mic-level signal out of the microphone.

Dynamic mics are long-lasting and adaptable. For example, they are less likely to overload. Moreover, they do not distort the sound as condenser microphones when recording high-sound-pressure-level (SPL) sources like drums, guitar amps, horns, and vocalists. Dynamic mics are ideally used as portable vocal mics for live performances because their capsules are typically not as delicate as those found in condenser microphones.

They also have poorer sensitivity than condenser microphones, which means that for them to function, they require higher SPLs, which translates to louder sources.

Are Dynamic Mics Good for Recording Vocals?

The quick answer is yes, and the reasons they are the best for recording vocals are as follows.

Sound Clarity

Condenser microphones have high sensitivity and are extremely strong. They can capture every nuance of sound in crystal-clear clarity. Because of differences in design and materials, most dynamic microphones cannot achieve the same level of clarity as the best condenser microphones.

Although condenser microphones may be ideal in some situations, this does not mean that they are always the best option. Furthermore, a condenser microphone’s ability to pick up everything can be a problem for singers who want their vocals to sound clear and distinct.

As a result, dynamic microphones are likely to be less sensitive. So, for example, if you’re recording in a noisy environment, you’ll always have to cope with the noise. In addition, unlike condenser microphones, they do not require phantom power to be used. As we see, it’s not uncommon for computer fans, hard drives, and lawnmowers to malfunction and interfere with your recordings. A dynamic microphone instead of condensers allows you to record the vocals without dealing with the additional noise.

The S and T Sounds

Condenser microphones tend to highlight a singer’s S and T sounds more than other microphones. Your go-to de-esser plugin will usually do the trick, but they don’t always perform as expected. On the other side, with a dynamic microphone, you don’t need a de-esser, even with solid compression, because it doesn’t catch all that extra high-frequency stuff.

Harsh Sounds

Unlike condenser microphones, dynamic microphones do not have a high frequency response. On the other hand, condensers can sound too bright and harsh when used in certain situations.

If your condenser microphone is producing a harsh sound, you may want to consider switching to a dynamic microphone. However, it won’t have the high-end detail or roughness that a good condenser would provide compared to a condenser.

Finally, when using dynamic microphones, make sure your preamp has plenty of gain. For example, you need a preamp to provide adequate gain without introducing additional noise by using dynamic microphones.

Things to Consider When Buying a Dynamic Microphone

Most dynamic microphones are sturdy, have a narrow frequency range, and are at a low price point. Contrarily, a good-quality condenser mic can be challenging to find and can be excessively expensive. A dynamic microphone is the best option when the sound source is physically demanding, such as on a stage at an outdoor concert or containing undesirable background noise.

It may appear to be a negative, but the fact that dynamic microphones are less transparent than condenser mics can be a benefit when used in creative ways. Moreover, many different types of vocal recordings can benefit from dynamic microphones. They are particularly effective for recording multiple people in a room simultaneously (podcasting, voiceovers, and singing).

To make sense of the market for voiceover equipment, you’ll need some guidance. It’s essential to know the features of a dynamic microphone before deciding.

1. Polar Patterns

The form of a microphone’s sensitivity field, also known as its polar pattern, is referred to as the directions from which it takes or ignores incoming sounds. These are the polar patterns that occur most frequently:-

Unidirectional: One can only record using a cardioid mic in front of the microphone. Ideal for use in voiceovers, singing, and streaming applications.

Bidirectional: The microphone picks up sound in front of and behind it, ideal for one-on-one discussions and interviews.

Omnidirectional: An omnidirectional microphone detects a sound from all directions, making it a perfect choice for doing interviews around a circular table.

2. Frequency Response

A microphone’s frequency response describes the frequency range it will grab when recording sound. Hertz, the unit of frequency measurement, is used to measure the lowest and highest frequencies in this range. For example, a microphone with a wide frequency response range of approximately 80 Hz to 15 kHz would be an excellent candidate for use as a vocal microphone.

On the other hand, Snares and toms require a lower frequency range, starting at roughly 50 Hz, while a bass drum mic requires a lower frequency range, down to 40 Hz or even 30 Hz.

3. Sensitivity

We measure the sensitivity of a microphone in various ways, and its value indicates how faint of a sound it can pick up. Knowing that the microphone’s sensitivity increases with decreasing numbers are probably all that is necessary to understand this concept. It is true even though a different system is applied.

We use the decibel scale to measure what’s known as the sound pressure level (SPL), which is another name for how loud something is.

Therefore, in a sense, it is the reverse of sensitivity because it describes the maximum loudness that a mic can handle. For example, suppose the mic needs to handle loud instruments like drums. In that case, this is a significant consideration, and around 100 decibels (dB) is the average level, whereas 130 dB is considered a high SPL.

4. Impedance

When purchasing a microphone, it is essential to check and ensure that the impedance has the appropriate value. For the most part, microphones are designed to be used with low impedance loads and have a low impedance by design.

The input impedance of an amplifier to which a crystal or ceramic microphone is connected must be at least one megaohm (M) due to the high impedance of these microphones.

5. Connectivity

The XLR and USB connection methods, two of the most frequent ways to connect devices for streaming, have some significant distinctions. First, you will not be able to connect XLR cables directly to your personal computer. To connect an XLR microphone, you must invest in either a mixer or an audio interface. Thanks to these additional investments, you will have a greater degree of control over the sound, which will result in an improvement in the sound quality as a whole.

In addition, XLR cables are considerably more robust and long-lasting than their USB counterparts; as a result, an XLR microphone will be able to outlive its USB-based equivalent in a significant amount of time.

6. Pop Noise Filter

A pop filter muffles the close sounds. When you speak words that contain difficult letters, such as B’s, P’s, T’s, and so on, you produce explosives in the form of bursts of air that come out of your lips. The function of a pop filter is what its name suggests: it removes pops from the sound of your vocal performance.

To be more specific, it directs the air that you expel from your mouth in various ways. Therefore, there is no sudden and powerful impact when it hits the microphone. Because of this, the recording of your plosives won’t come out as being very harsh.

7. Applications

Most dynamic microphones come in handheld devices and for singing and speaking voices. However, because dynamic microphones have capsules that can withstand high sound pressure level (SPL), you can utilize them to mic nearly any source of sound provided that you are at a proper location.

It is common to employ dynamic microphones when recording loud instruments such as guitar speaker cabinets, drums, and percussion instruments. Even though more specialized microphones can perform better, it is comforting to know that dynamic microphones can be flexible when necessary; nevertheless, this comes at the expense of reducing the sound quality.

8. Proximity Effect

The increase in low frequencies that you can hear while getting closer to a microphone is the proximity effect. Rappers and rock singers looking to boost their low-end power can benefit significantly from the proximity effect.

Some microphones are constructed with less of it in today’s market, while others offer more proximity effect. Because of this, certain manufacturers have to give tone variation lines in their frequency charts when the mic is close by to give users a heads-up on what to expect when they record.

9. Max Sound Pressure Level

This criterion indicates the maximum amount of pressure, measured in decibels (dB), that a microphone can withstand before it begins to distort the sound it produces. As a result of the volume changes depending on the frequency (for instance, it is louder at lower frequencies or vice versa), this specification typically contains a @ frequency label, making things more difficult.

Because dynamic microphones do not contain built-in electronics that can cause overload, the mechanical movement of the mic diaphragm constrains their capabilities, so thankfully, you do not have to worry too much about this. Therefore, they can withstand noise levels as high as 180 dB, which are exceptionally high decibels and not found in everyday environments.

If you experience distortion, the issue may be that the microphone is clipping the preamp into which you have plugged. The solution to this issue is straightforward: either increase the preamp levels, invest in a better microphone preamp, or move further away from the sound source to lower the volume levels.

10. Switch for On and Off

To avoid the microphone from being turned off by accident, many professional handheld models lack an on/off switch. However, some people still favor having this additional control, which can be helpful for more intimate gatherings in which you have to step away from the microphone frequently.

Top 8 Dynamic Microphones for the Best Vocal Performance

To find the best dynamic microphones for various uses and budgets, we’ve tested them. Following is the list of the top 10 dynamic microphones we’ve tested.

There is no particular order to our list; we simply wish to cover a variety of solutions for various purposes while also presenting both high-end and low-end options. In conclusion, you should have a good idea of which is a good dynamic microphone for your needs.

1. Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Overall Best

What Impressed Us

  • Excellent noise rejection and durability
  • Versatile for recording various instruments and vocals
  • High SPL handling and long-term reliability
  • Great value for its price

What Disappointed Us

  • May not be suitable for delicate sound sources
  • Requires a foam filter to avoid vocal plosives

We selected the Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone as the overall best due to its exceptional sound quality and versatility. This microphone is a favorite among professional vocalists and podcasters for its smooth, warm sound and excellent noise isolation.

The SM7B excels in capturing vocals with clarity and depth, making it perfect for studio recordings and broadcasts. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures focused sound capture, reducing background noise. The built-in air suspension shock isolation and pop filter minimize mechanical noise and plosives, ensuring clean recordings.

In addition to its superior performance, the SM7B is built to last with a robust construction. The frequency response is wide and flat, allowing for natural sound reproduction across various applications.

In conclusion, the Shure SM7B is the best choice for those seeking a high-quality dynamic microphone. Its exceptional sound quality, versatility, and durability make it an essential tool for professional audio recording.

View on Amazon: Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone

2. Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone

Best for Instruments

What Impressed Us

  • Rugged and reliable build
  • Warm and clear sound
  • Excellent handling noise reduction
  • High SPL levels
  • Affordable price
  • Industry standard for live vocals

What Disappointed Us

  • Can sound too warm
  • Not ideal for high-fidelity sound

The Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone is our top pick for instruments due to its legendary durability and clear sound reproduction. We selected this microphone for its ability to handle high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for miking instruments.

The SM57 excels in capturing the nuances of instruments, whether it’s a snare drum, guitar amplifier, or brass instrument. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures excellent isolation from other sound sources, focusing on the instrument you’re miking. The contoured frequency response enhances the sound of instruments, providing a clean and precise audio output.

In addition to its robust performance, the SM57 features a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use. Its versatility makes it a staple in both professional and home studios.

In summary, the Shure SM57 is the best choice for instrument miking. Its durability, clarity, and versatility make it an essential microphone for any audio engineer.

View on Amazon: Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone

3. Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone

Best for Broadcast

What Impressed Us

  • Excellent noise rejection and proximity effect minimization
  • Smooth sound with a flat frequency response
  • Versatile for various applications, including vocals, instruments, and broadcast
  • Durable and affordable
  • Effective for capturing low-end frequencies

What Disappointed Us

  • Size and weight can make it difficult to use in certain applications
  • May not be ideal for transient-heavy sources like cymbals and acoustic guitars

The Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone stands out as the best for broadcast due to its exceptional voice clarity and professional-grade features. We selected this microphone for its ability to deliver clear and natural voice reproduction, making it a favorite among broadcasters and podcasters.

The RE20 excels in providing a smooth and consistent sound with its Variable-D technology, which minimizes proximity effect. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures focused sound capture, reducing background noise and ensuring clear voice transmission. The built-in pop filter and internal shock mount further enhance the audio quality by minimizing plosives and handling noise.

In addition to its superior voice capture, the RE20 is built with a durable metal body that ensures long-term reliability. Its wide frequency response and high SPL handling make it versatile for various broadcasting applications.

In conclusion, the Electro-Voice RE20 is the best choice for broadcast professionals. Its exceptional voice clarity, durable construction, and professional-grade features make it an industry standard for broadcasting.

View on Amazon: Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone

4. Sennheiser Pro Audio Professional MD 421-II

Best for Versatility

What Impressed Us

  • High-quality sound with a full-bodied cardioid pattern
  • Versatile and suitable for various applications
  • Durable and can handle high sound pressure levels
  • Five-position bass rolloff switch for adjustments
  • Industry standard for recording instruments and vocals

What Disappointed Us

  • The microphone clip is fragile and prone to breaking
  • Off-axis response can be problematic, leading to issues with bleed and phasing

The Sennheiser Pro Audio Professional MD 421-II is our top pick for versatility due to its wide range of applications and robust performance. We selected this microphone for its ability to handle various sound sources with clarity and precision.

The MD 421-II excels in capturing both vocals and instruments, making it suitable for studio recordings, live performances, and broadcasting. Its five-position bass roll-off switch allows for precise control over the low-frequency response, making it adaptable to different recording environments. The cardioid polar pattern ensures focused sound capture, reducing background noise.

In addition to its versatile performance, the MD 421-II features a durable construction that can withstand heavy use. Its clear and natural sound reproduction makes it a favorite among professionals for a wide range of applications.

In summary, the Sennheiser MD 421-II is the best choice for those seeking a versatile dynamic microphone. Its adaptability, robust performance, and high-quality sound make it an essential tool for any audio professional.

View on Amazon: Sennheiser Pro Audio Professional MD 421-II

5. AKG Pro Audio D12VR Dynamic Microphone

Best for Kick Drum

What Impressed Us

  • Offers multiple sound options with its active filter and different EQ curves
  • Provides a modern, bright sound suitable for rock and metal genres
  • Well-made with a metal surround and a hinged XLR/mounting thread for easy placement
  • Can be used for both inside and outside kick drum recording

What Disappointed Us

  • May not be the best choice for vintage or classic kick drum sounds
  • Relatively expensive compared to other dynamic kick mics

The AKG Pro Audio D12VR Dynamic Microphone stands out as the best for kick drum due to its powerful low-frequency response and robust construction. We selected this microphone for its ability to capture the deep, punchy sound of kick drums with precision.

The D12VR excels in providing a tailored frequency response that enhances the low-end punch and attack of kick drums. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures focused sound capture, isolating the kick drum from other sounds in the mix.

The microphone’s large diaphragm and high SPL handling make it perfect for capturing the powerful sound of kick drums.

In addition to its impressive sound capture, the D12VR features a durable metal body that can withstand the high-pressure levels and physical demands of kick drum miking. The integrated bass resonance chamber further enhances the low-frequency response, providing a rich and full sound.

In conclusion, the AKG Pro Audio D12VR is the best choice for kick drum miking. Its powerful sound capture, durable construction, and tailored frequency response make it an excellent tool for drummers and audio engineers.

View on Amazon: AKG Pro Audio D12VR Dynamic Microphone

6. Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone

Best Budget Option

What Impressed Us

  • Excellent noise rejection capabilities
  • Affordable price
  • Versatile connectivity options (USB and XLR)
  • Good sound quality for voice applications
  • Easy to use and set up

What Disappointed Us

  • May require a pop filter for optimal performance
  • Handling noise can be an issue without a shock mount

The Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone is our top pick for the best budget option due to its affordability and versatile features. We selected this microphone for its ability to deliver high-quality sound at an accessible price point.

The Q2U excels in providing clear and detailed audio with its dynamic capsule and cardioid polar pattern. Its USB and XLR connectivity options make it versatile for both digital recording and live sound applications. The built-in headphone output allows for real-time monitoring, enhancing its usability for podcasting and home recording.

In addition to its budget-friendly price, the Q2U features a durable construction that ensures long-term reliability. The microphone comes with essential accessories, including a desktop stand and windscreen, making it a comprehensive package for beginners.

In summary, the Samson Q2U is the best choice for those seeking a budget-friendly dynamic microphone. Its combination of affordability, versatility, and high-quality sound makes it an excellent option for home studios and beginners.

View on Amazon: Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone

7. Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone

Best for Podcasts

What Impressed Us

  • Affordable
  • Internal pop filter
  • Broadcast-quality sound
  • Durable build

What Disappointed Us

  • Stand not included
  • XLR interface

The Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone stands out as the best for podcasts due to its professional sound quality and robust build. We selected this microphone for its ability to deliver clear and natural voice reproduction, making it perfect for podcasting.

The PodMic excels in providing a smooth and consistent sound with its dynamic capsule and cardioid polar pattern. The microphone’s tailored frequency response enhances the clarity and presence of vocals, ensuring professional-quality recordings. The built-in pop filter minimizes plosives, ensuring clean and clear audio.

In addition to its superior voice capture, the PodMic features a durable metal body that ensures long-term reliability. The microphone’s compact design and built-in mounting system make it easy to integrate into any podcasting setup.

In conclusion, the Rode PodMic is the best choice for podcasting. Its professional sound quality, durable construction, and user-friendly design make it an essential tool for podcasters seeking high-quality audio.

View on Amazon: Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone

8. Elgato Wave:3

Best for Streaming

What Impressed Us

  • High-quality audio with a cardioid polar pattern
  • Proprietary “Clipguard” technology to prevent audio distortion
  • Built-in pop shield and zero-latency monitoring
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Compatible with both Windows and Mac

What Disappointed Us

  • May not be as durable as some other microphones due to its plastic build
  • Limited adjustability for advanced audio editing

The Elgato Wave:3 stands out as the best for streaming due to its advanced features and superior sound quality. We selected this microphone for its ability to deliver clear and professional audio for live streaming and content creation.

The Wave:3 excels in providing detailed and accurate sound with its condenser capsule and cardioid polar pattern. The built-in digital mixer and proprietary Clipguard technology ensure distortion-free audio, even during loud and dynamic performances. The Wave Link software allows for easy control over multiple audio sources, making it a comprehensive tool for streamers.

In addition to its superior audio performance, the Wave:3 features a sleek and compact design that fits seamlessly into any streaming setup. The microphone’s USB connectivity ensures easy integration with computers, enhancing its usability for live streaming and digital content creation.

In summary, the Elgato Wave:3 is the best choice for streaming. Its advanced features, professional sound quality, and user-friendly design make it an essential

View on Amazon: Elgato Wave:3

Frequently Asked Questions About Dynamic Microphones

What is a Cardioid Dynamic Microphone?

Cardioid microphones have a high gain in the front and sides of the microphone but have a low gain in the back of the microphone. The directional sound pick-up pattern of a cardioid microphone has a heart-like shape, where the microphone gets its name from.

You can use cardioid microphones in applications where sound must be acquired from the front and sides but not the back. One possible illustration of this would be a musical performance, in which a singer would be performing in the front, a band would play instruments on the sides, and viewers would be seated in the rear. It may only be necessary to record the music, the singer in the front, and the band on the side, but capturing the audience in the back will not be required. Microphones with cardioid polar patterns are useful and applicable in situations like this.

How Do Dynamic Microphones Work?

The diaphragm located inside the microphone capsule connects to a wire coil called the voice coil. A magnetic field keeps this coil in place.

Sound waves cause the diaphragm’s coil to move and cut through magnetic flux lines formed by the poles of a magnet.

It results in the generation of an electrical signal within the coil of the microphone. This signal is then transmitted outside of the microphone and into a preamplifier.

 Whenever the moving diaphragm forces the voice coil to move across the magnet’s magnetic field, it gives rise to an electric signal. This signal then directly corresponds to the sound recorded by the device.

Are Dynamic Microphones Good for Vocals?

It doesn’t matter if you’re recording a podcast, a voiceover, or singing: dynamic microphones are the way to capture high-quality vocals. Apart from this, they are ideal for situations where you have to record multiple people in the same location. There is a wide variety of different models available at various price points.

Final Words

After analyzing the reviews, we highly recommend the Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone and the Sennheiser Pro Audio Professional MD 421-II.

The Shure SM7B stands out for its exceptional sound quality and versatility, making it ideal for studio recordings, podcasts, and broadcasts. Its smooth, warm sound and excellent noise isolation ensure professional-quality audio.

The Sennheiser MD 421-II is a versatile choice that excels in capturing both vocals and instruments with clarity and precision. Its robust performance and adaptability make it a favorite among professionals for a wide range of applications.

Both microphones offer outstanding performance and reliability, ensuring you get the best audio experience for any recording or broadcasting needs.