Microphones come in all shapes, sizes, and sizes. The peculiarity of this specific design is that there is always room for improvement. Today we are going to talk about the more sophisticated segment of the condensers market. As expected, the models on which you will learn this guide are among the Best Microphones Under $500. Once we have reviewed our selection of the best microphones under $500, we will discuss what this segment offers in terms of performance and functionality, as well as other elements. Let’s start.
Aston Microphones Spirit
Aston is not a brand you’ll hear much about unless you use more niche designs. Their policy is that good music production requires the right tools and no compromise needs to be made. Aston Microphones Spirit shows exactly what these values can give. This microphone is much more than your old conventional condenser microphone. For starters, it looks pretty exotic with its brushed steel frame, integrated anti-pop filter in steel wire and steampunk aesthetics in general. That said, this microphone was designed from the data of a large number of British professionals, making it one of the best microphones under $500. Plus, all the good features are there too.
Pros:
- An exotic design which is unusual, attractive but also functional.
- Built-in pop filter which actually works and reduces pops.
- One of the best sonic profiles on the market bar none.
- An abundance of great features including pads and different patterns.
Cons:
- The way this mic sounds may be an acquired taste.
Electro-Voice RE-20
Rarely, condenser microphones reach the legendary level such as the Electro-Voice RE-20. Certainly, this microphone is not something you will often see in the most enthusiastic studios. You will meet professional radio booths and voice recording studios. The RE-20 is simply one of the best models on the market to translate the human voice into a digital format. The microphone itself has very large side address areas next to the upper address section. It comes with an integrated pop filter, an impressive set of hardware and a chassis that can withstand a thermonuclear war. It is for this reason that RE-20 has managed to win by choosing as many producers. Overall, it’s one of the best microphones under 500 dollars.
Pros:
- One of the most reliable and durable microphones on the market.
- Bulletproof chassis design with large side address surfaces.
- Rugged hardware designed offer high clarity and definition.
- Great set of features and plenty of accessories to boot.
Cons:
- This microphone is optimized for vocals over instruments.
Rode Broadcaster
Rode’s high-end microphones are among the best on the market. there is no doubt. The Rode Broadcaster is an excellent example of Rode’s offering in this segment. As you can probably see, the name was mainly for radio rooms and applications such as podcasting. That said, the achievements are numerous. Outside, it looks very professional. There is nothing brilliant about it or they are not particularly concerned about aesthetics. This is one of those silver pillboxes that you still hear about. Rode Broadcaster has a lot to offer in terms of features and performance. An integrated pop filter and low-cut filter optimized for speech are just a few examples. Overall, it’s one of the best microphones under 500 dollars.
Pros:
- Straightforward design that leaves nothing to chance.
- Durable chassis capable of withstanding frequent use and wear.
- Impressive performance when it comes to recording voice.
- Plenty of good features which make it an impressive deal.
Cons:
- It’s another voice optimized mic that isn’t great with instruments.
CAD E-100S
It looks like a vintage tool that you would find in a 1980s studio, but it’s actually one of the most interesting condenser microphones of the moment. The name of this model is CAD E-100S and it has a lot to offer to those looking for something other than your silver pill box. The CAD E-100S has a true thin but bulky side frame. If you look inside the grille, you’ll see the huge 1-inch diaphragm capsule hanging in and ready for use. This microphone comes with your standard -10dB pad and a high-pass filter. In terms of performance, this is one of the best microphones under $500.
Pros:
- A balanced but functional performance profile that offers a lot.
- Slim chassis does a good job at protecting the internals.
- Overall great build quality which inspires confidence
- Features a built-in rugged mounting system.
Cons:
- It’s a jack of all trades which isn’t necessarily good.
AKG C214
Regardless of the number of condenser designs we encounter in this market segment, AKG C214 remains one of the most popular models. AKG’s large diaphragm condensers have an enviable reputation. A good part of this representative is due to this microphone. Why is it so popular? It’s simple, robust and reliable. The C214 chassis is in the style of these vintage models. This is only a layout for an address intended to expose the majority of the capsule to the user. The packaging we are studying today contains many accessories, which makes it very attractive. If you want to start working immediately, it’s one of the best microphones under $500.
Pros:
- One of the most popular mics in this market segment.
- A simple but reliable chassis and overall design that works.
- Great hardware including a rock-solid diaphragm design.
- Plenty of accessories to get you started right away.
Cons:
- Lacks the finesse when you reach higher frequencies.
Shure KSM141/SL
When it comes to true premium solutions for professional recording studios, it’s likely that you will not find a more reliable brand than Shure. They are known for their SM58, but they are models like the Shure KSM141/SL that really show what this brand is capable of. It is a rather unusual condenser that is full of functions. As you can probably see from the design, it’s a pencil condenser. In other words, he feels comfortable around acoustic instruments, drum kits, and similar environments. It’s a unique addressable microphone with powerful mute options, as well as numerous adjustable polar filters and patterns. In general, it’s one of the best microphones under 500 dollars.
Pros:
- A robust chassis makes it a great for studio use.
- Great capsule design with a pretty delicate diaphragm.
- A very impressive package of features.
- Great performance under high SPL conditions.
Cons:
- Not much durable
Rode NT2A
It’s no secret that Rode NT2A is currently one of the most reliable microphones on the market. There are many reasons for this, but it all depends on what Rode meant for that specific model. They wanted to have a good overall performance and that’s what this model represents. It works. With its somewhat vintage design, the Rode NT2A is certainly one of those microphones that are suitable for all studios. However, it is arguable that the exceptional features and the golden capsule have more to do with it. You look at three types of high-pass filters and different damping options. Overall, it’s one of the best microphones under 500 dollars.
Pros:
- A simple yet reliable solution for more refined recording
- Great design that is both timeless and functional.
- Good overall performance thanks to proven hardware.
- Great set of accessories give it even more value.
Cons:
- It’s treble heavy, which isn’t too big of a deal.
Audio-Technica AT4033/CL
The top range of Audio Technica microphones is really something. If you’re used to their entry-level models, these condensers will definitely put things in perspective. Audio Technica AT4033/CL is such a model and it brings excellent solutions to the table. That said, you probably will not get that conclusion. The AT4033/CL defines the design of the capsule. In fact, this should do more with the way the capsule is hung in the chassis. They used a floating system that reduces noise to a large extent, as well as vibration. In addition to this, there is a very precise and delicate diaphragm which is inside and which provides a high degree of precision. Overall, it’s one of the best microphones under $500.
Pros:
- Typical Audio Technica design that is functional but simple.
- Truly impressive hardware solutions and features.
- One of the best sounding mics on the market right now.
- Comes shipped with a good set of accessories.
Cons:
- Requires a bit of work to dial in.
Shure KSM32/SL
Good microphones are available in a variety of formats. The Shure KSM32/SL is a microphone type optimized for use with all types of instruments. It’s a simple model, but a model that hides a lot of potentials. For starters, he is able to handle fairly high levels of SPL as standard, but even more with attenuation. The microphone is equipped with a very low Mylar membrane. Combined with a strong internal spring system, this certainly contributes to the overall performance profile. If you need something that works well with vocals, but really captures the nuance of this vintage amp, then this Shure is a good choice and is one of the best microphones under $500.
Pros:
- A pretty straightforward design that is made to work.
- Great set of hardware which gives it good potential.
- Impressive performance range that is leaning towards the recording of instruments.
- Very efficient internal suspension system.
Cons:
- It has trouble dealing with certain vocal profiles.
Heil Sound PR 40
When it comes to finding one of the best microphones under 500 dollars, you come across different models. Heil Sound PR 40 is one of the best. Its value comes from the fact that it does not try to attract users with a flashy design or gadget functions. Instead, it offers solid performance and consistency. It’s pretty rare. In general, this can happen as a simple money pill. He absolutely has this aesthetic. However, it only takes a few hours to discover that the PR 40 is nothing but your average condenser. The performance profile is mainly designed for vocals, but there is still plenty of room to record acoustic instruments. Overall, it’s one of the best microphones under $500.
Pros:
- Simple and effective design that ensures reliability.
- Performance profile which is covers vocals and acoustic instruments.
- Decent aesthetics which will fit into any studio.
- Built and assembled in the USA.
Cons:
- It is missing some fairly important features.
Final Words
Investing in one of the Best Microphones Under $500 is something that all producers and technicians expect from its seriousness. Once you have reached a certain level of experience, you will realize that there are much more expensive models and that spending this type of money is like paying an entry fee for a show. Yet, these are some of the best condensers we have access to today. If we had to choose one, it would be the Aston Spirit microphone. This microphone has a unique nature and does not touch the delusional aesthetic.
