So the budget is low but you want to get an expensive sound? Look no further as we tell you what we found to be the best cheap microphone for singing is. To cut straight to the chase, we have the best cheap microphones (with quality) for singing in two categories: stage microphones and studio microphones.
For stage microphones we have the Shure SM48S-LC
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Shure SM48S-LC
For studio microphones, we have the MXL 990 Condenser Microphone (with Shockmount)
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MXL 990 Condenser Microphone (with Shockmount)
Lets go into detail and see what both of these microphones are about.
RELATED: Best Microphones for Singing (the “not cheap” version ;))
Shure SM48S-LC
The Shure SM48S is a unidirectional microphone that has a great sound and is excellent for performances. Its cardioid pattern is maintained through its frequency range. To get a little bit technical as well, the frequency range of this microphone is from 55Hz to 14kHz. There is a roll off in the high frequencies which is actually a good thing so that the highs are cleaned out and the overall sound of the vocal is “warmer”.
Some other key features about this microphone are:
- Features an On/Off switch thats lockable
- Great build quality
- Comes with a stand adapter and carrying bag
- Features a built in filter that takes care of plosives and other breath sounds
- Tailored for vocals due to its signature frequency range specifications.
The SM48S is built like a tank and its made from a high quality alloy which also features a built-in shock mount cage.
The one key thing to note about this microphone is that it’s quiet. You will need a preamp with a lot of gain. If you don’t have that then the microphones quietness will really start to show.
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Shure SM48S-LC
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone (with Shockmount)
The MXL 990 Condenser microphone is one that the industry respects for its price. The microphone features a FET preamp and a large diaphragm for an impressive sound. The quality on this microphone excellent within this price range compared to its other competitors.
Here is a break down of the features:
- FET preamp that really shines with a silky balanced sound.
- Excellent build quality that has a nice vintage look to it
- Comes with a shockmount
- Very nice sounding high end while the lows and mids are tight and accurate as far as sound reproduction goes.
- Comes with a nice padded carrying case
The microphone feels very sturdy and solid. The microphone also has a frequency response os 30Hz to 20kHz. When testing it with vocals, we found that the microphone sounds very crisp on the high ends – which is a great thing. When testing with the acoustic guitar, it sounds nice and clean… just the way we like our acoustic guitars to sound. For some reason though, when testing it on an electric amp, we noticed that it did lack some high end punch to it as well.
The microphone does a great job in reducing background noise. This is because it has a very narrow polar pattern which helps keep the sound source focused. For the price, this microphone is excellent for singers.
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MXL 990 Condenser Microphone (with Shockmount)
Conclusion on the Best Cheap Microphone for Singing
With these microphones, you can not go wrong. If you want something for the stage, then you can easily go for the Shure SM48S-LC. If you want a microphone that will fair well in the studio, then you wont be disappointed with the MXL 990 Condenser Microphone (with Shockmount).
Let us know which microphone you went with and why!
