The Best Microphones for Voice-Over Acting under $500

As a voice-over artist, YouTuber or streamer, the quality of your audio is just as important as the content you create. The right microphone can make a huge difference in how your voice sounds, and it can help you create high-quality content that your audience will love.

However, with so many microphones on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. In this article, we've narrowed down 5 of the best microphones to use for voice-over, YouTube, and streaming (in no particular order).

1. The Audio-Technica AT2020 ($149.00)

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a condenser microphone that delivers exceptional clarity and detail. This microphone is ideal for voice-over work, podcasting, and streaming. It has a large diaphragm that captures a wide frequency range and a cardioid polar pattern that reduces background noise. The AT2020 is also compatible with most recording software and interfaces, making it a versatile option for any setup. Click here to buy the Audio-Technica AT2020 on Amazon

2. The Blue Yeti ($179.99)

The Blue Yeti is a USB microphone that has become popular among YouTubers and streamers. It has four different polar patterns to choose from, allowing you to customize your sound for any situation. The Blue Yeti also has a built-in headphone jack and volume control, making it easy to monitor your audio while you record. With its ease of use and affordable price point, the Blue Yeti is an excellent choice for beginners.

Click here to buy the Blue Yeti on Amazon

3. Rode NT1-A ($269.00)

The Rode NT1-A is a condenser microphone that has gained a reputation as one of the best microphones for voice-over work. It has a large diaphragm that captures a wide frequency range, and its cardioid polar pattern ensures that your voice is the main focus of the recording. The Rode NT1-A also comes with a shock mount and a pop filter, which helps to eliminate unwanted noise and improve the quality of your audio.

Click here to buy the Rode NT1-A on Amazon

4. Shure SM7B ($539.00* goes on sale for under $500 often)

While the Shure SM7B is more expensive than other microphones on this list, its high-quality sound makes it well worth the investment. In our opinion, it is BY FAR the best bang for your buck.

The Shure SM7B is a dynamic microphone that is commonly used in radio and podcasting. It has a smooth, warm sound that is ideal for voice-over work and singing. The SM7B also has a cardioid polar pattern that helps to eliminate background noise, and it comes with a windscreen that helps to prevent plosives and other unwanted sounds.

Click here to buy it on Amazon

5. Shure MV7 USB

The Shure MV7 USB microphone is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone that is both versatile and easy to use. Here are some of the reasons why the Shure MV7 is so good:

1. Dual output options: The Shure MV7 offers both USB and XLR outputs, making it a versatile microphone that can be used with a variety of devices. This allows you to use the microphone for everything from podcasting and streaming to recording music.

2. Built-in DSP: The MV7 has a built-in digital signal processor (DSP) that helps to reduce background noise and enhance the clarity of your voice. This feature is particularly useful for anyone recording in a noisy environment or without a dedicated recording space.

3. User-friendly controls: The MV7 has simple and intuitive controls that make it easy to adjust your microphone settings on the fly. There are three different preset modes to choose from (vocal, flat, and instrument), and you can also adjust the gain and headphone volume.

4. Durable design: Shure is known for its high-quality products, and the MV7 is no exception. It has a sturdy metal construction that can withstand regular use, and it also comes with a detachable windscreen that helps to prevent plosives and other unwanted sounds.

5. Excellent sound quality: The MV7 produces a clear, detailed sound that is ideal for voice-over work, podcasting, and streaming. It has a cardioid polar pattern that reduces background noise and helps to isolate your voice, and its frequency response range is optimized for spoken word.

Overall, the Shure MV7 USB microphone is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and high-quality microphone that is easy to use. Whether you're a podcaster, YouTuber, or musician, the MV7 is sure to impress with its dual output options, built-in DSP, user-friendly controls, durable design, and excellent sound quality.

Click here to buy the Shure MV7 USB on Amazon

In conclusion...

Choosing the right microphone for your needs can be challenging, but with this list of microphones for voice-over, YouTube, and streaming, you should have no problem finding the perfect option for you.

Remember to consider your budget, recording environment, and the type of content you create when selecting a microphone. With the right microphone, you can take your content to the next level and impress your audience with high-quality audio.

Have fun,

Michael