#11 Best Microphone for Guitar Acoustic 2023

Recording an acoustic guitar is not that hard with the best microphone for guitar acoustic! You can get a sharp and crisp recording quality with these mics!

👤 Written by: Mohamad Dimas Fariz
⏳ Updated on:
📋 List: 11 items
👀 Reader: 57 views

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It takes time to learn how to record an acoustic guitar. Almost every musician has their way of recording that they've come up with over time. Choosing the appropriate equipment is frequently the first step. The mic is the next stage in the chain after you have a strong song, a great instrument, and a recording setup. And most musicians and producers would agree that a decent microphone produces the greatest results. Below, we've compiled a list of the best microphone for guitar acoustic that you can choose one. Read on!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Cant find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our Q&A community.

Is a USB microphone good for acoustic guitar?

Many folks in the audio equipment and music technology worlds will tell you to stay away from USB mics. According to true audiophile purists, these microphones don’t consistently deliver the clarity you require and might be challenging to adjust. The truth is that, although USB microphones might be lacking in clarity at times, they are nevertheless quite functional. If you want the most convenience, go with a USB.

What factors should be considered in choosing a microphone for acoustic guitar?

When picking among the finest mics for recording guitars, there are a few factors to remember. The first consideration is the environment in which you’ll be using the microphone since studio and stage use have distinct needs. Then there’s the matter of deciding between the condenser and dynamic mics. Then, to obtain the greatest recording possible, you’ll need to find a mic with suitable pickup patterns.

Which type is more suitable for an acoustic guitar?

In general, dynamic microphones are recommended in real-time circumstances. They are more durable, and the capsule is less susceptible to harm. Because condenser mics are more sensitive, they are somewhat more vulnerable to damage. As a result, they were mostly employed in a studio. Most of the best microphones for an acoustic guitar are condenser microphones. Because of the clarity they may produce, they are recommended for acoustic instruments. However, this does not exclude using a dynamic microphone with an acoustic guitar.

Where should I place the mic for recording an acoustic guitar?

Place the mic 12 to 16 inches away from the 12th fret for a balanced sound with plenty of top ends. This section, which runs from the sound hole to the neck, gives the microphone a balanced tone that isn’t washed out by bass and allows it to pick up more fretted string information. This is the most responsible position for capturing an excellent sound that is true to the instrument’s tone.

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Name Rank Check Prices
M5 Rode
Rode
M5
#1 Amazon Rode.com eBay
 X1 A sE Electronics
sE Electronics
X1 A
#2 Amazon Seelectronics.com eBay
e 609  SENNHEISER
SENNHEISER
e 609
#3 Amazon En-us.sennheiser.com eBay
R-121 Ribbon Microphone Royer
Royer
R-121 Ribbon Microphone
#4 Amazon Sweetwater.com eBay
 AT2035  Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica
AT2035
#5 Amazon Audio-technica.com eBay
NT1 Rode
Rode
NT1
#6 Amazon Rode.com eBay
 C414 XLS  AKG
AKG
C414 XLS
#7 Amazon Akg.com eBay
yeti Blue
Blue
yeti
#8 Amazon Bluemic.com eBay
AT2020 Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica
AT2020
#9 Amazon Audio-technica.com eBay
P170  AKG
AKG
P170
#10 Amazon Akg.com eBay
 SM57  Shure
Shure
SM57
#11 Amazon Shure.com eBay

11 List of Best Microphone for Guitar Acoustic

  • Rode M5
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    #1

    Rode M5

    Robust Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Shure SM57 has a great weight right out of the box. This is because of the mic’s die-cast metal body, which lends its robustness. This microphone is made to be able to handle being dropped, knocked over, stepped on, etc., without needing to be protected by cotton wool. The SM57’s frequency spectrum is relatively wide, which is perfect for guitars; a natural presence boost enables the top end to shimmer without overwhelming the whole mix, and the natural cut-off at 15,000 Hz is ideal.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Excellent audio detail
    Wide frequency range
    Rich sound quality

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Only one polar pattern
    Prone to damage build

    What other experts liked

    The Rode M5 matched pair is an overall great set of microphones that are optimized in terms of their design, features, and performance. They do work amazingly both individually and when in stereo pair.
    Audiofrost

    What other experts didn't like

    The M5 is probably not a good candidate for modifications or third-party upgrades due to the non-detachable electret condenser capsule and the surface mount electronics.
    Harmony Central
  • sE Electronics  X1 A
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    #2

    sE Electronics X1 A

    Home Studio Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The sE Electronics X1 A is an excellent option for any artist looking for a high-quality microphone at an affordable price, whether they’re recording voices, acoustic instruments, electric guitars, or percussion. The X1 A offers first-class sound and specifications at an even better “home studio” cost. With extremely natural frequency response, massive SPL-handling capabilities (150dB! ), switchable attenuation and low-cut filters, and a perfectly balanced sensitivity level – so it’s at home on any source.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Affordable price
    Excellent for beginners
    Balanced sensitivity levels

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Perform poorly on midrange notes
    Entry-level quality

    What other experts liked

    The sE Electronics X1 A microphone is yet another fantastic mic in a two-decade tradition of fantastic mics. With an affordable price, quality build, and top-tier sound, you'd be hard-pressed to find better value with any other microphone in the same price range.
    Shout4music

    What other experts didn't like

    The X1 A isn’t going to replace any of the classic mics in our mic cabinet
    Music Tech
  • SENNHEISER e 609
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    #3

    SENNHEISER e 609

    Super Cardioid Pattern Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Sennheiser e609 Microphone was designed exclusively for recording guitar amps, and it even comes with its mic stand. Instead, you drape the e609 over the amp’s top and place it near the speaker cone, where it will gladly take up sounds at whatever level you choose. Because of the super-cardioid pickup patterns, the microphone will only capture what comes out of the speakers, with no bleed or feedback. This guitar acoustic microphone is ideal for rock and metal players who need something quick and inexpensive.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Handle high sound pressure level
    Excellent for metal and rock music
    Low self-noise

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    For optimal effects, you'll need a lot of volumes
    Sometimes, a buzz appeared in the tone

    What other experts liked

    The Sennheiser e609 is a low-priced guitar cab mic that makes a cool alternative to the 57. It has been designed with vintage models in mind but costs a fraction of the price to produce.
    Music Critic

    What other experts didn't like

    Had to return this cuz it didn't sound as good as the 609.. or a sm57. It's just a little too thin and doesn't have enough upper mid-range like the 57 does, but I guess it's not supposed to. But just for me personally the 57 is more familiar and I like the thickness
    Daniel J Muhammad
  • Royer R-121 Ribbon Microphone
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    #4

    Royer R-121 Ribbon Microphone

    Warm Tone Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Sennheiser e609 Microphone is made for recording guitar amps and even comes with its mic stand. Instead, you drape the e609 over the amp’s top and place it near the speaker cone, where it will gladly take up sounds at whatever level you choose. Because of the super-cardioid pickup patterns, the microphone will only capture what comes out of the speakers, with no bleed or feedback. This guitar acoustic microphone is ideal for rock and metal players who need something quick and inexpensive.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Low residual noise
    Accommodate high sound levels
    Versatile microphone

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Comes with a high price tag

    What other experts liked

    It is an elegantly designed ribbon mic with top-notch components. We like that it is side-addressed, and the sophisticated SPL protection makes it a versatile little mic as well.
    Music Critic

    What other experts didn't like

    It was susceptible to mechanical noise transmitted through the microphone cable or the mic stand, but was not unduly prone to external magnetic fields although it picked up buzzes and hums from most power transformers when placed within about six inches.
    Sound on Sound
  • Audio-Technica  AT2035
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    #5

    Audio-Technica AT2035

    Neutral Character Microphone

    2  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Audio-Technica AT2035 is a budget-friendly large-diaphragm condenser microphone that will authentically record your acoustic instruments and vocals. It has a customized shock mount, protective bag, a switchable 80 Hz highpass filter, and a 10 dB pad. It has a 120-ohm impedance, a cardioid polar pattern, and is made of solid and durable materials.

    It can respond to sounds between 20 Hz and 20 kHz, with a peak around 12 kHz. This makes a microphone with a mostly neutral sound that can be used with many different instruments. The AT2035 is a popular choice for home and project studio owners because it is easy to use, sounds good, and works well.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Easy to operate
    Loud noise-tolerant
    Comes with a shock mount

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Only comes with the single polar pattern

    What other experts liked

    For recording vocals, guitars and even drums on a budget, the Audio-Technica AT2035 is still, to this day, one of the easiest mics to recommend. It delivers versatility, solid construction and great sounds at a price anyone can afford.
    Music Radar
    This microphone produces a pretty natural sound sometimes described as rich and ‘vintage’ — a synonym for ‘expensive’ in the audio world!
    Produce Like a Pro

    What other experts didn't like

    It doesn’t impart any special character or “warmth,” as do some of the more expensive microphones.
    Old Time Music
  • Rode NT1
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    #6

    Rode NT1

    Low Self-Noise Microphone

    2  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Rode NT1 is a microphone that punches far beyond its weight, with sonic clarity that you’d expect from a microphone twice its price. This cardioid mic with very low self-noise allows you to capture all of a guitar’s dynamics, from the slightest fret sounds to powerful strums. The frequency response is clear from deep bass sounds to high frequency soloing, and the sound is constantly detailed.

    This mic is ideal for vocals or guitar, making it a popular option among singer-songwriters and helpful addition to most studios. This guitar acoustic microphone has a shock mount, a pop filter, a cover, and even an XLR cable for the output.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Low mic noise
    Excellent audio clarity
    Comes with various accessories

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Close miking noisy sources is difficult due to the lack of a pad

    What other experts liked

    The Rode NT1 large diaphragm cardioid condenser, in terms of quality and bang for buck, won’t let you down.
    Making Music Pro
    The performance from this affordable large diaphragm condenser is truly exceptional, making it a smart choice for vocals, guitars and more.
    Music Radar

    What other experts didn't like

    Many think that the NT1 has a sound that is just too sterile, as it reproduces sound without any sort of character.
    The Vocalist Studio
  • AKG  C414 XLS
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    #7

    AKG C414 XLS

    Various Pickup Pattern Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The AKG mic comes with a high-quality travel bag, a windscreen, a pop filter, and a shock mount that can be used with any mic stand. This microphone is excellent for recording most instruments. It has incredible dynamic and frequency responses and works well for acoustic and electric guitars, piano, vocals, drum overheads, and more. Because it gives you so much control, the C414 could be your best friend when recording your guitar. You can choose the pickup pattern that makes your instrument sound the best and is suitable for the setting.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Three bass frequencies
    Neat control system
    Various additional accessories

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Perform poorly with drums and cymbals
    For certain applications, its lack of high-ends makes it a less appealing option

    What other experts liked

    This is an exemplary large-diaphragm mic featuring a solid build with a durable grille and top of the line circuitry. It has a superb response and provides a pristine capture.
    Music Critic

    What other experts didn't like

    Its neutral nature might prove to be difficult to deal with if you are working on a more saturated mix. In other words, you will have a hard time pulling the vocals through the rest of the instruments, and giving them a character.
    Music Skanner
  • Blue yeti
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    #8

    Blue yeti

    Microphone with Output Monitor

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Blue Yeti comes with its stand and is compatible with Mac, iOS, and Windows right out of the box. You may pick from four distinct polar patterns, allowing you to explore and find the one that best meets your requirements. You can monitor instantaneously using a headphone output that comes straight from the microphone, which is something that many USB microphones lack. If you want to keep things simple, this is a wonderful alternative.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Plug and Play Microphone
    Easy USB connection
    Output Monitor

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Has expensive accessories
    The button feels plasticky

    What other experts liked

    From Twitch gaming to YouTube tutorials, this mic is perhaps the best known out there, and for good reason. It's easy to use, sounds superb thanks to its three condenser capsules, and doesn't cost the earth.
    MusicRadar

    What other experts didn't like

    One downside is that the mic is fairly heavy. I’ve heard that cheaper boom stands have trouble holding it up.
    Podcast Insights
  • Audio-Technica AT2020
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    #9

    Audio-Technica AT2020

    High SPL Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Considering the relatively modest purchase price, the Audio-Technica AT2020 provides an incredible range of features. The microphone comes with a carrying bag and a microphone clip so you can start immediately. This is an excellent option for all types of voice recordings, but it also performs well in capturing high-quality acoustic instruments.

    Because of its vocal capabilities, this mic is often used by podcasters and vocalists, but it also works well with acoustic instruments. This guitar has a broad dynamic range, making it suited for various applications. It has a clear response from the low end to the high end. You’ll sound great whether you’re playing bassy chords or soloing close to the body.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Low-cost microphone
    Excellent vocal and instrument recording
    Versatile

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Only one polar pattern
    The slightly higher noise level
    Lack of mic stand

    What other experts liked

    The Audio-Technica AT2020 is one of those rare microphones that give you good sound quality but at a very affordable price.
    OldTimeMusic

    What other experts didn't like

    There's also the problem of lacking a mic stand. Out of the box you just have to hold it, so it's not for someone who wants to take it out of the box and start a Twitch channel immediately.
  • AKG P170
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    #10

    AKG P170

    Solid Build Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The AKG Perception 170 is an excellent microphone for recording instruments at home. The P 170 is a steady and dependable performer, whether you’re working on an acoustic guitar track or sitting down to do some hefty percussions. With the typical quality, you get a mic that’s not only budget-friendly but also provides excellent sound quality and endurance.

    This guitar acoustic microphone is an ideal mic to add to your home studio because of its low price, solid structure, and superb quality. It can catch most instruments with exceptional clarity and detail, particularly acoustic instruments, and is an excellent microphone for the money.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Excellent sound clarity
    Budget Friendly
    Durable Build

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Mic clips easily bent
    Need a phantom power

    What other experts liked

    Affordably priced and with a durable build and great sound, the AKG Perception 170 is a great mic to add to your home studio. It can capture most instruments with great clarity and detail, especially acoustic ones, and is overall a fantastic microphone for the price.
    Shout4Music

    What other experts didn't like

    Most users are complaining that the mic clips are too easily bent.
    Gem Tracks
  • Shure  SM57
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    #11

    Shure SM57

    Dynamic Cardioid Microphone

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Since the 1980s, the Shure SM57 has been the go-to mic for professionals, amateurs, and fans. It offers the perfect mix of dependability, durability, and clear, consistent sound in various applications. The SM57 is a dynamic cardioid pattern microphone with an all-metal housing, a flat grille, and a wide frequency range.

    It’s likely one of the most flexible dynamic microphones on the market due to its ability to easily capture very loud sources. Plus, since it’s a dynamic microphone, it can handle insanely high volume levels, much more than the human ear can tolerate.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Versatile microphone
    Durable build
    Wide frequency range

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Did not perform well in a delicate situation
    Did not perform well for vocal recording

    What other experts liked

    This thing is legendary. I’ve heard of musicians owning up to 2-3 of these at a time. It’s basically like the hammer of a tool shed — almost everyone’s got one due to it’s practicality, cheap cost and overall power.
    The Wire Realm

    What other experts didn't like

    The SM57 is not really suitable for delicate, nuanced playing styles or recordings that aim to capture every little detail.
    Music Radar

Conclusion: Best Microphone for Guitar Acoustic

Acoustic guitar recording is a lovely craft that is simple to do with the correct gear. While a simple microphone may still produce an excellent recording, investing in a great condenser or dynamic mic is recommended for a little more character. It is hoped that you can find the best microphone for guitar acoustic from the list above. Happy shopping!

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