#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!
Table of contents
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1.Rode M5: Robust Microphone
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2.sE Electronics X1 A: Home Studio Microphone
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3.SENNHEISER e 609 : Super Cardioid Pattern Microphone
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4.Royer R-121 Ribbon Microphone: Warm Tone Microphone
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5.Audio-Technica AT2035 : Neutral Character Microphone
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6.Rode NT1: Low Self-Noise Microphone
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7.AKG C414 XLS : Various Pickup Pattern Microphone
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8.Blue yeti: Microphone with Output Monitor
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9.Audio-Technica AT2020: High SPL Microphone
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10.AKG P170 : Solid Build Microphone
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11.Shure SM57 : Dynamic Cardioid Microphone
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.
Name | Rank | Check Prices |
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Rode
M5 | #1 | Amazon Rode.com eBay |
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sE Electronics
X1 A | #2 | Amazon Seelectronics.com eBay |
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SENNHEISER
e 609 | #3 | Amazon En-us.sennheiser.com eBay |
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Royer
R-121 Ribbon Microphone | #4 | Amazon Sweetwater.com eBay |
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Audio-Technica
AT2035 | #5 | Amazon Audio-technica.com eBay |
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Rode
NT1 | #6 | Amazon Rode.com eBay |
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AKG
C414 XLS | #7 | Amazon Akg.com eBay |
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Blue
yeti | #8 | Amazon Bluemic.com eBay |
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Audio-Technica
AT2020 | #9 | Amazon Audio-technica.com eBay |
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AKG
P170 | #10 | Amazon Akg.com eBay |
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Shure
SM57 | #11 | Amazon Shure.com eBay |
11 List of Best Microphone for Guitar Acoustic
- Have a problem
with this product?#1Rode M5
Robust Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 qualityCons (reasons to avoid)
Only one polar pattern
Prone to damage buildWhat 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.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. - Have a problem
with this product?#2sE Electronics X1 A
Home Studio Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 levelsCons (reasons to avoid)
Perform poorly on midrange notes
Entry-level qualityWhat 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.What other experts didn't like
The X1 A isn’t going to replace any of the classic mics in our mic cabinet - Have a problem
with this product?#3SENNHEISER e 609
Super Cardioid Pattern Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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-noiseCons (reasons to avoid)
For optimal effects, you'll need a lot of volumes
Sometimes, a buzz appeared in the toneWhat 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.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 - Have a problem
with this product?#4Royer R-121 Ribbon Microphone
Warm Tone Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 microphoneCons (reasons to avoid)
Comes with a high price tagWhat 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.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. - Have a problem
with this product?#5Audio-Technica AT2035
Neutral Character Microphone
2 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 mountCons (reasons to avoid)
Only comes with the single polar patternWhat 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.This microphone produces a pretty natural sound sometimes described as rich and ‘vintage’ — a synonym for ‘expensive’ in the audio world!What other experts didn't like
It doesn’t impart any special character or “warmth,” as do some of the more expensive microphones. - Have a problem
with this product?#6Rode NT1
Low Self-Noise Microphone
2 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 accessoriesCons (reasons to avoid)
Close miking noisy sources is difficult due to the lack of a padWhat other experts liked
The Rode NT1 large diaphragm cardioid condenser, in terms of quality and bang for buck, won’t let you down.The performance from this affordable large diaphragm condenser is truly exceptional, making it a smart choice for vocals, guitars and more.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. - Have a problem
with this product?#7AKG C414 XLS
Various Pickup Pattern Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 accessoriesCons (reasons to avoid)
Perform poorly with drums and cymbals
For certain applications, its lack of high-ends makes it a less appealing optionWhat 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.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. - Have a problem
with this product?#8Blue yeti
Microphone with Output Monitor
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 MonitorCons (reasons to avoid)
Has expensive accessories
The button feels plastickyWhat 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.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. - Have a problem
with this product?#9Audio-Technica AT2020
High SPL Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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
VersatileCons (reasons to avoid)
Only one polar pattern
The slightly higher noise level
Lack of mic standWhat 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.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. - Have a problem
with this product?#10AKG P170
Solid Build Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 BuildCons (reasons to avoid)
Mic clips easily bent
Need a phantom powerWhat 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.What other experts didn't like
Most users are complaining that the mic clips are too easily bent. - Have a problem
with this product?#11Shure SM57
Dynamic Cardioid Microphone
1 experts agree 1 experts disagreeWHY 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 rangeCons (reasons to avoid)
Did not perform well in a delicate situation
Did not perform well for vocal recordingWhat 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.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.
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!