Dynamic microphones for your budget

When it comes to dynamic microphones, one thing is clear: they’re the unsung heroes of the audio world, quietly (or loudly!) capturing everything from your karaoke belters to rock concert screams. Whether you’re a budget-conscious podcaster or a stage-hardened musician, there’s a dynamic mic out there with your name on it—whether it’s scribbled in crayon or etched in gold. In this post, we’re diving into the world of dynamic microphones across different price ranges, from affordable workhorses to premium champions. So grab your headphones, tune your ears, and let’s find the perfect mic for your budget and needs!

Dynamic microphones use electromagnetic induction to turn sound into an electrical signal, making them durable, simple, and perfect for loud sources like drums or live vocals. Their frequency range, usually 50 Hz to 15 kHz, varies by price—cheaper mics may miss some clarity, while pricier ones deliver refined sound and better performance. Common polar patterns, like cardioid and supercardioid, focus on sound from the front, minimizing unwanted noise. Whether budget-friendly or high-end, all dynamic mics resist feedback, thrive in noisy environments, and don’t need external power, making them a go-to for reliable audio capture.

Budget-Friendly Dynamic Microphones (Under $100)

1: Behringer XM8500

• Price: ~$20
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Impedance: 150 ohms
• Unique Features:
  • Shock-mounted capsule reduces handling noise.
  • Extremely durable build for live performances.
• Ideal For: Entry-level vocalists and small-scale podcasters.

2: Samson Q2U

• Price: ~$70
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Connectivity: USB & XLR
• Unique Features:
  • USB and XLR outputs for versatile use.
  • Built-in headphone jack for real-time monitoring.
• Ideal For: Versatile podcasters and home studio setups.

3: Audio-Technica ATR2100x

• Price: ~$80
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Connectivity: USB & XLR
• Unique Features:
  • USB-C support for modern setups.
  • Smooth frequency response with minimal handling noise.
• Ideal For: Streamers and content creators seeking quality audio.

4: Pyle PDWM2135

• Price: ~$50
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 16 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Includes wireless capability.
  • Affordable yet reliable performance.
• Ideal For: Beginner performers or karaoke enthusiasts.

Mid-Range Dynamic Microphones ($100 – $400)

5: Shure SM58

• Price: ~$100
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Impedance: 150 ohms
• Unique Features:
  • Renowned for vocal clarity.
  • Built-in pop filter for reduced plosives.
• Ideal For: Live performances and vocal recording.

6: Shure SM57

• Price: ~$100
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 15 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Versatile for instruments and vocals.
  • Iconic in studio and stage settings.
• Ideal For: Instrument and vocal mic applications.

7: Sennheiser e835

• Price: ~$130
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 16 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Enhanced feedback rejection.
  • Warm, detailed vocal sound.
• Ideal For: Vocalists requiring professional sound quality.

8: Electro-Voice RE320

• Price: ~$299
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 18 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Smooth sound with minimal coloration.
  • Variable-D technology for off-axis rejection.
• Ideal For: Broadcasting and instrument recording.

9: Rode PodMic

• Price: ~$100
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Specifically tuned for podcasting.
  • Internal pop filter for clear speech.
• Ideal For: Podcasting and streaming setups.

10: AKG D5

• Price: ~$150
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 70 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Feedback-resistant supercardioid design.
  • Crisp and clean high-end response.
• Ideal For: Live vocals and stage performances.

Premium Dynamic Microphones ($400 and Above)

11: Shure SM7B

• Price: ~$399
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Flat, wide-range frequency response.
  • Internal air suspension shock isolation.
• Ideal For: Professional podcasts and vocal recording.

12: Electro-Voice RE20

• Price: ~$449
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 45 Hz to 18 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect.
  • Broadcast-quality sound for vocals.
• Ideal For: Broadcasting and professional studios.

13: Beyerdynamic M88 TG

• Price: ~$400
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Hypercardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Extremely accurate sound reproduction.
  • Excellent low-frequency response.
• Ideal For: Instrument and vocal miking.

14: Telefunken M80

• Price: ~$249
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 18 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Unique Features:
  • High-gain output with crisp details.
  • Durable build for stage use.
• Ideal For: Vocalists and performers needing a bright sound.

15: Heil Sound PR40

• Price: ~$329
• Specs:
  • Frequency Response: 28 Hz to 18 kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Unique Features:
  • Full, warm low-end response.
  • Exceptional clarity for both speech and music.
• Ideal For: Podcasters and studio engineers.