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7 Best Microphones for Recording Rap Vocals

best microphone for rapping

🏆 Quick Look at the Best Microphone for Rapping 🏆

Product name
Our Top Pick
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Runner-up
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone
High-quality
Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming
Best Value Pick
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone
Most Affordable
MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Photo
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio...
Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer...
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone, Multipattern
MXL 770 Multipurpose Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Others
Well made with a tough build and tripod table stand
Comes with a bunch of useful accessories
Sturdy and made from high-quality materials
A quality mic from a quality manufacturer
Outstanding audio for the money
Others 2
It has a well-balanced sound on vocals as well as acoustic sounds
Nuanced and transparent mids, smooth highs
It has excellent audio capture
Smooth highs with full-bodied sound
The most affordable option on our list
Rating
Our Top Pick
Product name
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Photo
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio...
Others
Well made with a tough build and tripod table stand
Others 2
It has a well-balanced sound on vocals as well as acoustic sounds
Rating
Check Price
Runner-up
Product name
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Photo
Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Others
Comes with a bunch of useful accessories
Others 2
Nuanced and transparent mids, smooth highs
Rating
Check Price
High-quality
Product name
Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming
Photo
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer...
Others
Sturdy and made from high-quality materials
Others 2
It has excellent audio capture
Rating
Check Price
Best Value Pick
Product name
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone
Photo
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone, Multipattern
Others
A quality mic from a quality manufacturer
Others 2
Smooth highs with full-bodied sound
Rating
Check Price
Most Affordable
Product name
MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Photo
MXL 770 Multipurpose Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Others
Outstanding audio for the money
Others 2
The most affordable option on our list
Rating
Check Price

The 7 Best Rapping Microphones: Our Picks

Its review time! If you are a rapper, you will find several options at your disposal. To make it easier for you to select a rap microphone, we’ve put together a list of the best rap microphones on the market.

Therefore, we must choose one that fits perfectly. We visited many guitar stores, talked to various professionals and manufacturers, and finally got our top seven. After hours of research, we’ve reviewed the best microphones for rap vocals to help you make the right decision!

Here, we will provide a review of the best microphone for rapping in detail so you can shop knowing everything. Let’s get started.

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

A well-known name in the microphone industry, Audio-Technica is a Japanese company that has been in the game for over 50 years.

The audio quality is very clear and yet the microphone is quite surprising for its price.

This is a microphone that has received much acclaim for its ability to provide clear, professional-sounding audio without costing a large amount of money.

It is relatively affordable and meets the requirements in terms of being a cardioid condenser microphone, ideal for rapping.

The frequency response is good for the human vocal range, making it a good choice for rappers. This has high SPL handling and a close, cardioid recording pattern.

This makes it ideal for picking up audio from a single source in a home studio or even for bedroom recordings.

Another great benefit to rappers is the swivel and swivel foot jack. This means that you can move the microphone to the most comfortable position for rapping and will ultimately mean better vocal performance.

However, it does come with a smaller tripod that still works well on your desktop.

Being a condenser with a cardioid polar pattern, the microphone has good sound isolation qualities and produces crisp, clear sound.

A headphone jack takes away that annoying sound latency problem, while the volume control gives you more freedom when recording your vocals.

Pros
  • Well made with a tough build and tripod table stand
  • It provides excellent value for money
  • Excels in capturing deep or not that loud sound sources
  • It’s a sensitive USB microphone
  • It has a well-balanced sound on vocals as well as acoustic sounds
  • Can handle a wide range of applications
Cons
  • It does not have a holder
  • Some will want higher quality
Rode NT1-A Anniversary Vocal Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The design is not to get excited about, though minimalism enthusiasts may find it quite appealing. It comes with a host of useful accessories, including the absolute highlight of this pack: a studio-quality pop shield. This accessory will eliminate plosives very efficiently.

Audio sounds very natural and nuanced, similar to some more expensive models. The microphone also prevents noise very well, so even the quietest lyrics from your raps will be easily picked up.

The midrange is transparent and the upper end smooth. Since it has a low noise floor, you can keep your distance and still be sure that everything will be collected perfectly.

Pros
  • Comes with a bunch of useful accessories
  • Good strong build at an affordable price
  • Nuanced and transparent mids, smooth highs
  • Low noise floor
  • Detailed and neutral audio
Cons
  • Some people experienced too much noise when recording
  • It is extremely sensitive, so ambient noise could be a problem
Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming

This is a microphone that has devastated the world. Blue is the world’s best manufacturer of USB microphones.

Although some purists will argue that USB won’t give you the same results, this could be the microphone to change your mind.

The Blue Yeti comes with a 3 capsule condenser array that can record just about anything. It requires 5V 150 mA of power consumption and has a selection of multiple patterns, meaning the user can select between cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo patterns.

Dimensions can be extended on stand up to 4.72 x 4.92 x 11.61 inches. A user can get the control, mute button, and have a zero-latency headphone output.

It works well for vocals, musical instruments, podcasts, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, and even conference calls.

It is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS X and requires a minimum of 64 MB of RAM. Users are advised to consult the instructional video that can be found in Image Selection as well as a user manual that can be found in the technical specifications before using the microphone.

This is a very good microphone for vocals if you don’t ask too much of it. Performance is good, but obviously it won’t compare to much more expensive microphones. It has a frequency range of 20Hz – 20kHz and a decent SPL.

It’s great for all vocal work, including voiceovers and narration, and it actually works quite well for vocal vocals. At this price, if you’re looking for a direct-to-computer microphone, it’s worth considering.

Pros
  • Well made with some good features
  • Sturdy and made from high-quality materials
  • The design allows the placement of the microphone to be modified whether in use or at rest
  • Very good for vocals at an affordable price
  • It has excellent audio capture
  • It has multiple capture settings for any given situation
Cons
  • Some may just require higher quality
  • The microphone sometimes has difficulty connecting to the iMac
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone

The famous AKG C414 has many of its important features but without any of the extras.

A true choice for a professional microphone.

Pros
  • Scratch and shock-resistant design
  • A quality mic from a quality manufacturer
  • 3 hi-pass filter cutoffs and 3 attenuation pad choices
  • Audio reproduction is excellent
  • Locking features lock the pickup patterns
  • Smooth highs with full-bodied sound
Cons
  • Mic is fragile
MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Another very affordable option, the MXL 770 is the cheapest entry on this list.

However, that doesn’t mean it offers unworthy performance. It seems to me that this microphone beats most competitors in its price range and is a steal at this price.

Its shiny top and solid bottoms make it especially effective for rap artists.

You can’t go wrong with the MXL 770 Rap Cardioid Condenser Microphone. MXL is one of the best in the business and you can expect the same high quality.

Pros
  • Clear and bright sound
  • Outstanding audio for the money
  • The most affordable option on the list
  • Good for vocals and comes with a very nice case
  • Low end sounds great for both male and female vocals
Cons
  • Can pick up some background noise
Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone

If you want a premium microphone but are not willing to spend a fortune, you may want to consider the Neumann TLM 102. Although by no means a cheap microphone, the 102 hits well above its price range.

This Neumann microphone is one of the most expensive on our list. It is the microphone that many other manufacturers try to copy. But the TLM 102 is real.

This is not intended to be anything other than an excellent vocal microphone. For rap vocals, in particular, it offers clear, crisp sound so important that words can be heard.

The Neumann TLM 102 Rap Microphone is one of the most expensive microphones on this list of rap microphones. While AT4040 makes a good impression of Neumann’s microphones, the TLM 102 is the real deal.

This is a vocal microphone from start to finish. Audio replication is detailed and clean. For rap vocals, there is the correct presence of frequency along with the transparency of the vocals which makes them more readable.

His specialized talent finds a place in our best microphones to record the rap vocals list.

It is a large-diaphragm cardioid design with a 144dB SPL, making it ideal for loud vocals. It also offers you options if you want to record drums or live guitars.

The condenser capsule measures one inch and is suspended to reduce any vibration. It has a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz. Voice output is boosted above 6kHz.

This is a microphone made by a company with an impressive track record. This microphone is representative of its quality. It can be easily adapted to fit into a standard microphone stand if necessary.

However, it doesn’t have an anti-shock mount, which is quite surprising. As a microphone, it meets all the requirements, and as a microphone, for rap vocals, it is designed to perform. Expensive compared to some other models, but the quality stands out.

Pros
  • Great design and features from an established manufacturer
  • Very compact and easy to carry around
  • Smoothens the grittiness of audio
  • Open vocals with intelligible
  • Perfect for vocals with a high SPL
Cons
  • No shock mount provided
  • The price might put some people off
Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Microphone

The Shure SM58 is also included in our list of the best. This is a microphone that most people have seen used at some point in their lives.

In fact, it is probably the most popular microphone in the world. In truth, it is most commonly used as a live microphone. Shure microphones are sturdy, and this dynamic microphone has an excellent combination of good-quality sound but also durability.

If you want the best studio quality, then this may not be the microphone for you. However, there is a reason this is probably the best-selling vocal microphone ever. It reaches the sweet spot of value, quality, and reliability, which means it had to be included in our list.

The Shure SM58 microphone may be the best choice for live rap vocals. It’s affordable and sturdy, so it’s unlikely to break even when exposed to all the rigors of live performance. For both performances or for recording, you will need to connect it to a mixer or audio interface.

Pros
  • Well-respected microphone from one of the world’s best manufacturers
  • Universal mic for vocals and instruments
  • Great sounds at a great price
  • Rich, smooth audio
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Prominent wind noise without pop screen

Top things you should know about Microphones used for Rap Vocals

There are a few considerations for your microphone. You shouldn’t choose the first microphone and assume it will work for you.

Rap voices vary slightly from other genres and styles. There are certain things like the price that we should all take into account before buying.

Condenser vs. Dynamic Mics

These are the two types of microphones that differ by the transducer. Condenser microphones are most commonly used to record audio in studios. They offer a great variety and transient response.

Its high and clear output is capable of reproducing the original voices quite well. They are also more sensitive than dynamic microphones. They are generally not as robust as dynamic microphones, but some brands have managed to manufacture durable condenser microphones. They also ship in padded cases.

Condenser microphones are Large Diaphragm (LDM) and Small Diaphragm (SDM) type. LDMs have a rich, deep audio response and are especially good for bass. SDMs have a wide frequency response and are great for vocals and instruments.

All the microphones on this list are condenser microphones, and for good reason, they are perfect for studio recording as they are more responsive and produce voices more clearly. On the other hand, dynamic microphones tend to be more durable, but the audio they produce is less accurate.

What are some tips for recording rap vocals?

Recording rap vocals requires you to bring energy and excitement to the song as you enunciate. Here are some tips to get the best track for mixing:

  • Getting the right gear is the first step in recording great vocals. This includes the correct microphone that flatters your voice. You must be especially capable of bringing out nuances. A great preamp should be paired with the microphone.
  • Use a pop-up screen to avoid explosions and explosive noises on the track.
  • Once you find the correct microphone and preamp, set up the recording location. This area should be covered with acoustic foam or blankets on most parts. This dampens the noise reflected by the walls and prevents voices from sounding square. However, it does not cover the walls completely. We need a little thought to make the music sound vigorous.
  • Having the best rap microphone is not enough. You must know how to use them to your advantage. Vary the distance between you and the microphone and determine the optimal distance for your voice. Typically, loud and shrill rappers should stay 10-15 inches from the mic.

Which are the best mics for recording rap vocals right now?

The best mics for recording rap vocals really depends on what type of microphones you are looking for, what level of performance you are on, and how you want to use it. Our best choice for the best acoustic piano is the Audio-Technica AT2020.

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio...
16,800 Reviews
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio...
  • The price/performance standard in side address studio condenser microphone technology
  • Ideal for project/home studio applications; The noise level is 20 dB SPL
  • High SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
  • Custom engineered low mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
  • Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source. Output connector: integral 3 pin XLRM type
Sale
Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
2,499 Reviews
Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
  • Large-diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Mic with Shockmount
  • Pop Shield
  • Dust Cover
  • XLR Cable
Sale
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer...
12,102 Reviews
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer...
  • Custom Three-Capsule Array: Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube, game streaming, podcasting, Zoom calls and music.
  • Blue VOICE Software: Craft the perfect broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples. Advanced Blue VOICE is compatible with Yeti, Yeti Nano and Yeti X. To access Blue VOICE, please download Logitech’s free G HUB software.
  • Four Pickup Patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics.
  • Onboard Audio Controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the recording and streaming process.
  • Plug 'n Play on Mac and PC: Instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC.
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone, Multipattern
1,108 Reviews
AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Vocal Condenser Microphone, Multipattern
  • Sonic character of the famous AKG C12 delivers astounding sound quality for lead vocals and solo instruments
  • Nine selectable polar patterns for the perfect setting for every application
  • Three attenuation levels (-6/-12/-18dB) for close-up recording or high-output sources of up to 158dB SPL
  • Three switchable different bass-cut filters to reduce wind noise, stage vibration or proximity effect
  • Overload warning with audio peak hold LED to detect shortest audio peaks
MXL 770 Multipurpose Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
2,341 Reviews
MXL 770 Multipurpose Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
  • Top Selling multi-purpose condenser microphone
  • Excellent for vocals, pianos, stringed instruments, and percussion
  • Balanced bass response with high end clarity
  • Low frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted rumble
  • Low noise FET preamp with balanced, transformerless output
Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone, Nickel
195 Reviews
Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone, Nickel
  • Large-diaphragm microphone with cardioid directional characteristic (pressure gradient transducer)
  • Compact Neumann design
  • Very high maximum sound pressure level (144 dB)
  • Slight presence boost above 6 kHz helps vocals to shine in the mix
Sale
Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone with Pneumatic Shock Mount, A25D Mic Clip, Storage...
4,378 Reviews
Shure SM57 Cardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone with Pneumatic Shock Mount, A25D Mic Clip, Storage...
  • EXEPTIONAL VOCAL PERFORMANCE - The SM57-LC delivers high-quality vocal reproduction, thanks to its tailored frequency response and brightened midrange for clear and present vocals.
  • INDUSTRY STANDARD - The first choice for performers around the globe, the SM57 Dynamic Vocal Microphone is ready to bring any performance to life. From the club to the stadium, Shure has your back.
  • CLARITY & CARE - The uniform cardioid polar pattern reproduces every note as it was intended, delivering warm, crisp sound time after time.
  • LEAVE BACKGROUND NOISE BEHIND - The SM57 has a spherical mesh grille and built-in pop filter to keep any unwanted noise out of the mix.
  • DROP THE MIC - The durable construction and break-resistant stand adapter makes the SM57 the perfect companion on the road, going strong through the toughest performances.

Final Words

I hope this guide helps you decide which rapping mic is the best option for you. Remember that just because a microphone works for some people doesn’t mean it works for you.

We all have different voices, so it’s best if you try all the microphones that fit your budget and look interesting.

The microphone is not the most important thing in music. A good microphone can’t make you a good rapper, but a bad microphone can certainly ruin a great record. From the list above, there is plenty to choose from, whether you want USB flexibility or studio-quality sound.