Top 9 Best Acoustic Guitar Mics For Recording (2024)
When looking for the best acoustic guitar mics, it’s essential to find the one that complements your guitar’s unique tone and captures its true essence. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the 9 best acoustic guitar mics in this article. Below are my top 5 choices.
Neumann KM 184
The Neumann KM 184 has a natural, transparent sound that will capture your acoustic guitar with detail and without chaning its tone.
Shure SM81
The Shure SM81 is a versatile mic with warm, clear sound. It has the perfect, precise response that make it great for capturing your guitar’s tone.
AKG C451 B
The AKG C451 B is compact and lightweight, but don’t judge it by its size. This mic can capture the sound of your acoustic guitar true to its sound.
Rode NT5
The Rode NT5 is another incredibly high quality offering from the company. This mic is great for recording acoustic guitars.
Beyerdynamic M201 TG
The Beyerdynamic M201 TG has a durable build that’s great for the studio environment. It’s a dynamic mic with a tight and detailed sound.
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Whether you want to record your fingerstyle guitar playing or create exceptional live performances, a high-quality microphone can take your sound to the next level.
I record acoustic guitars regularly in my professional studio sessions. There are many tricks to getting the guitar sound just right, and I’m excited to share some of that knowledge in this article.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Best Acoustic Guitar Mics: A Wide Range Of Options
With so many options, selecting the best acoustic guitar mic for your specific needs can seem overwhelming. That’s why I’ve covered various microphones catering to different budgets and recording scenarios that are all great for the job.
They can bring out your acoustic guitar’s (and classical guitar’s) shimmering highs and warm, deep lows, helping you produce top-notch recordings.
This list includes the greatest options for your setup from old classics to modern microphones using the latest technology.
As you explore your options for the best acoustic guitar mics, you should consider factors like the polar pattern, frequency response, and durability to find the perfect match for your instrument. Soon you’ll be well on your way to capturing your guitar’s rich and dynamic sound.
When looking for the best acoustic guitar mics, it’s essential to find the one that complements your guitar’s unique tone and captures its true essence.
Here are my top picks for the best acoustic guitar mics.
1. Neumann KM 184
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
The Neumann KM 184 is another excellent choice for recording acoustic guitar, featuring a natural and transparent sound.
With its small diaphragm and uncolored off-axis response, this microphone ensures precise and detailed capture of your guitar’s character.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality
- Durable build
- Versatile for various recording situations
Cons:
- High price point
- Requires phantom power
2. Shure SM81
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
When recording your acoustic guitar, the Shure SM81 is a popular choice. This high-performance condenser microphone is known for its warm, clear sound and versatility.
Its precise response and smooth frequency curve make it ideal for capturing the multiple facets of your instrument.
Pros:
- Reliable and rugged
- Good for a variety of instruments
- Flat response
Cons:
- Not as detailed as some other mics
- Requires phantom power
3. AKG C451 B
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
Aiming for an authentic representation of your acoustic guitar, the AKG C 451 B is compact, lightweight, and extremely versatile. This microphone can capture rich, detailed sound with its airy highs and accurate transients.
Pros:
- Bright and clear sound
- Compact and lightweight
- Good for overheads and acoustic instruments
Cons:
- Can be too bright for some sources
- Requires phantom power
4. Rode NT5
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
The Rode NT 5 is a small diaphragm condenser mic that offers flexibility and impressive performance for recording acoustic guitars.
Its tight cardioid polar pattern and smooth frequency response provide natural and balanced sound reproduction.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good for overheads and acoustic instruments
- Comes as a matched pair
Cons:
- Not as robust as some other mics
- Requires phantom power
5. Beyerdynamic M201 TG
Quick Specs:
- Hypercardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 40Hz to 18kHz
Trusted for its excellent sound quality and durable build, the Beyerdynamic M201 TG is a dynamic microphone with a tight and detailed sound.
Its natural and flat response makes it perfect for capturing the nuances of your acoustic guitar playing.
Pros:
- Durable and reliable
- Good for snare drum and guitar amps
- Handles high SPL
Cons:
- Not as versatile as some other mics
- Some may find it lacks warmth
6. Shure KSM137
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
The Shure KSM 137 is another great choice for recording acoustic guitars. Its ultra-thin diaphragm delivers excellent transient response and a warm tone, making it ideal for capturing the true essence of your instrument.
Pros:
- Detailed sound
- Good for a variety of sources
- Durable build
Cons:
- High price point
- Requires phantom power
7. Audio-Technica AT4041
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
For a reliable and affordable option, the Audio-Technica AT 4041 is worth considering.
With its smooth frequency response, low profile, and outstanding sonic performance, this microphone provides a detailed and accurate representation of your acoustic guitar’s sound.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good for overheads and acoustic instruments
- Smooth response
Cons:
- Not as detailed as some other mics
- Requires phantom power
8. Aston Microphones Origin
Quick Specs:
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
The Aston Microphones Origin is a large diaphragm condenser microphone with a unique design and impressive sound quality.
Its smooth frequency response and harmonic distortion resistance make it perfect for capturing the warmth and character of your acoustic guitar.
Pros:
- Unique design
- Good for vocals and acoustic instruments
- Built-in pop filter
Cons:
- High price point
- Requires phantom power
9. SE Electronics Voodoo VR2
Quick Specs:
- Figure-8 polar pattern
- Frequency range: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Phantom power required
Lastly, the SE Electronics Voodoo VR2 is a ribbon microphone that excels in capturing the natural resonance of your acoustic guitar.
With its extended frequency response and detailed sound reproduction, this microphone is an excellent choice for capturing that authentic acoustic guitar tone.
Pros:
- Ribbon microphone with detailed sound
- Good for vocals and acoustic instruments
- Handles high SPL for a ribbon mic
Cons:
- High price point
- Requires careful handling due to ribbon element
- Requires phantom power
Types of Microphones for Acoustic Guitars
Choosing the right microphone is crucial when recording or amplifying your acoustic guitar.
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are often favored for their durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. They use a moving coil to convert the sound energy into an electrical signal, making them less sensitive than their condenser microphone counterparts.
This means that dynamic microphones can be a good choice if you are playing your acoustic guitar in a live setting, where you need the mic to be robust and resistant to feedback.
One popular option for recording guitar amps is the Shure SM57. The famous Shure SM58 (and its little brother, the SM48) can also work for this purpose. However, the SM57 really delivers on tone and detail.
Don’t forget that you need an audio interface with a microphone preamp to connect your dynamic microphone to your recording device.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones are more sensitive and accurate than dynamic microphones, making them a popular choice for capturing the nuances of your acoustic guitar in a studio or recording setting.
They use a charged diaphragm to convert the sound into an electrical signal, producing more detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
These microphones require phantom power, so you will need an audio interface that provides this feature. Some popular condenser microphones for recording acoustic guitars are the Shure SM81 and the Neumann KM 184.
Ribbon Microphones
Ribbon microphones are another option for recording acoustic guitars. They have a very smooth and warm sound, capturing the natural tonality of your guitar.
Ribbon microphones use a thin, corrugated metal strip to convert sound into an electrical signal. This design makes them very delicate, so they may not be the best choice for live performances or situations where they could be easily damaged.
As with condenser and dynamic microphones, you will need an audio interface with a suitable preamp to connect your ribbon microphone to your recording device. One popular ribbon microphone for recording acoustic guitars is the Beyerdynamic M 160.
Many vocal microphones also work very well for recording guitars; for example, the famous Neumann U 87 sometimes does wonders on an acoustic guitar.
Each type of microphone has its own unique characteristics that can complement your acoustic guitar’s sound. By understanding the differences between dynamic, condenser, and ribbon microphones, you can decide which will best suit your needs for capturing your guitar’s tone with clarity and accuracy.
Microphone Specifications
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the shape of its sensitivity to sound in relation to the direction the sound comes from.
Common patterns include cardioid pattern, omnidirectional, and figure-8. Knowing the polar pattern of your chosen acoustic guitar microphone can help you determine the best placement to achieve the desired sound.
Frequency Range
The frequency range of a microphone indicates the range of frequencies it can capture. A wider frequency range microphone will likely capture more of your acoustic guitar’s natural sound.
When choosing a microphone for recording an acoustic guitar, consider its frequency response and how it translates the instrument’s tonality.
High Sound Pressure Levels
High sound pressure levels (SPL) denote the ability of a microphone to handle loud audio signals without distorting the sound quality.
If you play your acoustic guitar with heavy attack or percussive techniques, selecting a microphone that can handle high SPL is crucial in capturing your guitar’s essence.
High Sensitivity
A microphone’s sensitivity refers to its ability to convert an acoustic pressure signal into an electrical output. Microphones with high sensitivity can pick up even the most delicate nuances of your acoustic guitar.
Depending on your playing style, consider opting for a microphone with high sensitivity to ensure every detail is reproduced accurately.
Pad and High-Pass Filter Options
Having a pad (dB reduction) and high-pass filter options on your microphone can give you more control over the recorded sound.
A pad feature allows you to reduce the input level, preventing distortion when recording louder sources. High-pass filters help remove low-frequency noise and rumble, ensuring a clean and focused recording of your acoustic guitar.
By considering these factors and selecting a suitable microphone, you can faithfully capture your acoustic guitar’s unique character and sound.
Key Factors to Consider
When selecting the best acoustic guitar mic for your needs, there are several factors to consider. This section will discuss your ideal microphone’s purpose, price range, compatibility, and ease of use.
Purpose
First, consider the primary purpose of the microphone. Will it be used in a live performance or recording situation?
High-quality studio microphones are designed to accurately capture the sound of your guitar, while microphones intended for live performances deliver maximum clarity and resistance to feedback. Understanding your specific needs will help you narrow down the selection.
Price Range
Next, establish a realistic price range for your microphone. The best mics vary widely in pricing, so knowing your budget beforehand is helpful. Remember that investing in a quality microphone is crucial for producing professional-sounding audio.
Higher-priced microphones often provide more recording detail and sensitivity. However, some affordable options still deliver impressive results for a home studio.
Compatibility
Ensuring your microphone is compatible with your existing audio interface or recording setup is essential.
Confirm whether your audio interface has the necessary preamp inputs for phantom power (needed for condenser microphones) or opt for a dynamic microphone that doesn’t require phantom power.
Ease of Use
Finally, consider the ease of use of your selected microphone. Select a simple mic to set up and position in a way that captures the best sound from your acoustic guitar.
A versatile microphone that works well with various guitar types and environments will make your recording or live performance experience more seamless.
You’ll find the best acoustic guitar mic that suits your needs by considering the purpose, price range, compatibility, and ease of use. Strike the right balance between these factors to achieve the ideal sound for your recordings and performances.
Microphone Placement
Sound Hole
Avoid positioning the mic directly in front of the sound hole when placing a microphone for recording your acoustic guitar.
The sound hole acts like a fire hose for sound waves, and mics placed directly in front will have all detail washed out by the gushing bass frequencies that come blasting out through it.
Instead, try positioning the mic around 12-14 inches from the guitar, pointing it towards where the neck joins the body or at the bridge.
Proximity Effect
Remember the proximity effect, which increases bass or low-frequency response as the mic approaches the guitar.
Some mics are more susceptible to the proximity effect than others, so it’s essential to experiment with the distance and angle to find the sound that suits your taste.
You might find that positioning the microphone farther from the guitar or angling it slightly off-axis relative to the instrument helps reduce the bass buildup while capturing the warmth and character you’re looking for.
Stereo Pair
Consider using a stereo pair of microphones for a more immersive acoustic guitar recording. This technique captures the guitar’s sound from multiple angles, preserving its natural tone and creating a sense of depth and space.
There are several popular stereo recording techniques you can try:
X-Y
Place two cardioid mics with their capsules as close together as possible, angled at 90-120 degrees from each other.
A-B
Position two omnidirectional mics about 12-16 inches apart, pointing towards the instrument.
ORTF
Arrange two cardioid mics with their capsules 17 cm apart and angled at 110 degrees from each other.
Experiment with different stereo recording techniques and microphone placements to find the one that best captures your acoustic guitar’s sound and fits your artistic vision. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer – it all depends on your preferences and the qualities of your instrument.
Popular Applications
Acoustic guitar mics are essential for various applications, and choosing the right one can greatly impact your sound quality.
Recording Acoustic Guitar
Auditing the instrument’s natural and authentic sound is essential when recording acoustic guitars. A quality microphone can help you achieve this. Some of the top mics for recording acoustic guitar include:
- Shure SM81: A classic, versatile condenser microphone that delivers accurate sound reproduction.
- Neumann KM 184: A small-diaphragm condenser microphone known for its clarity and precision in capturing acoustic guitar tones.
- AKG C451 B: A cardioid condenser microphone with a transparent sound and the ability to handle high sound pressure levels, ideal for recording guitar.
Live Performances
For live performances, the goal is to amplify the acoustic guitar’s sound while minimizing feedback and other noise issues. Some of the best mics for live performances are:
- Shure SM57: A legendary, dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, making it excellent for capturing guitar sound with minimal background noise.
- Sennheiser e906: A dynamic microphone specifically designed for guitar amplifiers with a captivating midrange focus and feedback-resistant build.
- Rode M5: A small-diaphragm condenser microphone with a tight cardioid polar pattern that captures clear, detailed sound while minimizing background noise.
Creating YouTube Videos
If you’re creating YouTube videos featuring acoustic guitar performances, you’ll want a microphone that delivers high-quality audio and is compatible with your video setup. Some recommended mics for this purpose are:
- Rode VideoMic Pro+: A highly portable shotgun microphone designed for cameras and smartphones, delivering directional, high-quality audio with low noise.
- Zoom H4n Pro: A versatile field recorder with an onboard stereo microphone, perfect for capturing acoustic performances with a natural sound.
- Audio-Technica AT2020USB+: A USB condenser microphone that connects directly to your computer or mobile device, making it incredibly convenient for recording audio for YouTube videos.
Final Thoughts
Getting the Best Sound
Selecting the right microphone is just the beginning of achieving the best sound. Experimenting with mic placement, recording environment, and your guitar’s settings is also essential.
Don’t forget the importance of choosing the correct size strings; they affect the tone and feel of the guitar, so choose strings that match the sound you want to capture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best microphones for recording acoustic guitars?
The best microphones for recording acoustic guitars include the Shure SM81, Neumann KM 184, and AKG C451 B. They can capture the true tone of your guitar without adding color.
What is the best mic for live acoustic guitars?
Some of the same microphones would work for live settings as for recording; The Shure SM81, Neumann KM 184, and AKG C451 B are great choices.
What is the best way to mic an acoustic guitar?
Miking an acoustic guitar can vary based on the specific sound you’re trying to achieve, the type of microphone you’re using, and your environment.
However, here are some general tips that might help:
- Microphone Choice: Condenser microphones are often preferred for their ability to capture the subtleties and nuances of an acoustic guitar. They have a wider frequency response and better sensitivity compared to dynamic microphones.
- Microphone Placement: Where you place the microphone can significantly affect the sound. A common technique is to position the microphone at the 12th fret of the guitar, about 6-12 inches away. This placement tends to capture a good balance of the guitar’s tonal characteristics without too much emphasis on the bass frequencies that you’d get from miking closer to the soundhole.
- Stereo Recording: If you have two microphones, you can use a stereo recording technique. One common method is X-Y configuration, where two cardioid mics are placed at a 90-degree angle to each other. Another is the spaced pair technique, where two mics are placed a few feet apart facing the guitar. These techniques can provide a more spacious and realistic sound.
- Room Considerations: The acoustics of the room you’re in can greatly affect the sound. A room with good natural reverb can enhance the recording, while a room with too much echo or background noise can detract from it. Experiment with different rooms and microphone placements to find what works best.
- Experimentation: Every guitar and player is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different mics, placements, and techniques until you find what sounds best for your specific situation.
What are the top condenser mics for recording acoustic guitars?
Some top condenser microphones for recording acoustic guitars include the Shure SM81, Neumann KM 184, and AKG C451 B. Each of these mics offers a clear and natural sound, capturing the nuances of your instrument and making them an excellent choice for recording.
Which microphones excel at capturing acoustic guitar and vocals?
Microphones like the Neumann TLM 107 and Aston Starlight are great for capturing acoustic guitars and vocals. These versatile mics have a wide frequency response and can handle the dynamics of both instruments and vocal performances, providing a balanced and detailed sound.
What mics are recommended for fingerstyle guitar playing?
Consider microphones like the Beyerdynamic M 160 and sE Electronics Voodoo VR2 for fingerstyle guitar playing. These mics have a warm and detailed sound, making them ideal for capturing the intricate nuances of fingerstyle playing.
How do electric guitar microphones differ from acoustic ones?
Electric guitar microphones typically have a different frequency response than acoustic guitar mics, as they are designed to handle the higher SPL (sound pressure level) of electric guitar amps. Acoustic guitar mics generally have a wider frequency response and better sensitivity, which allows them to capture the delicate details of an acoustic guitar’s sound.
Is the Shure SM81 suitable for recording acoustic guitars?
Yes, the Shure SM81 is an excellent choice for recording acoustic guitars. With a flat frequency response and low self-noise, this condenser mic delivers a clear, natural sound, making it ideal for capturing the nuances of your acoustic guitar.
What are effective techniques for live micing of acoustic guitars?
Consider using pickup and microphone systems, like the Fishman Matrix Infinity Mic Blend Pickup & Preamp System, to effectively mic an acoustic guitar on stage. Another technique is to position a microphone at the 12th fret or near the soundhole, aiming it toward the guitar’s body. Experiment with different angles and distances to find the best balance between capturing the guitar’s natural tone and minimizing feedback.
Conclusion
We covered a lot of ground—a wide range of some of the best acoustic guitar mics. There’s a mic in there for every possible situation and the tone you want.
Depending on your budget, you can determine which microphone provides the most significant benefits for its cost.
A high-quality microphone does not always mean the most expensive, and an affordable option like the Shure SM57 can still provide excellent sound. Remember that the best mic for capturing your acoustic guitar’s unique tone may require trial, error, and experience.
Ultimately, selecting the best acoustic guitar mics involves evaluating your options, understanding your needs, and gaining firsthand experience. With confidence, knowledge, and a clear approach, you can find the perfect microphone to bring out the best sound from your instrument.
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