I've tried countless handheld microphones for live performances, but these top picks blew me away. The Shure SM58, a classic vocal mic, never disappoints with its unmatched sound quality. For those on a budget, the Audio-Technica AT2020 delivers reliability and affordability. The Sennheiser E935 offers superior sound quality, while the AKG D5 impresses with its durability and versatility. Lastly, the Electro-Voice RE20 is perfect for broadcasting. Get ready to be amazed by these top handheld microphones.
Shure SM58 – The Classic Vocal Mic
I've had the pleasure of using the Shure SM58, and it truly lives up to its reputation as the classic vocal mic. The Shure SM58 is a staple in the world of live performances and recording studios. With its iconic design and exceptional sound quality, it has become the go-to microphone for countless musicians and audio professionals.
The Shure SM58 is designed specifically for vocals, and it excels in capturing clear and crisp vocal performances. Its frequency response is tailored to accentuate the midrange frequencies, which helps vocals cut through the mix without sounding harsh or sibilant. The built-in pop filter effectively minimizes plosive sounds, ensuring a clean and professional sound.
One of the standout features of the Shure SM58 is its durability. It is built to withstand the rigors of live performances, with a rugged construction that can handle being dropped, kicked, and even stepped on. This makes it a reliable choice for touring musicians who need a microphone that can withstand the demands of the road.
While there are other options available, such as the Audio-Technica AT2020, the Shure SM58 remains a top choice for its unmatched reliability and sound quality. It has stood the test of time and continues to be the preferred microphone for vocalists across various genres. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Shure SM58 is a microphone you can trust to deliver exceptional results.
Audio-Technica AT2020 – Affordable and Reliable
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is known for its affordability and reliability in the world of handheld microphones for live performances. Here are the main reasons why it is considered a top choice for beginners and offers the best value for money:
- Affordable: The AT2020 is priced competitively, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.
- Reliable: This microphone is built to last, with a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of live performances.
- Great sound quality: The AT2020 delivers clear and accurate sound reproduction, ensuring that your vocals are heard with clarity.
- Versatile: Whether you are a singer, a presenter, or a podcaster, the AT2020 can handle a wide range of applications, making it a versatile tool for any performer.
With its affordable price tag, reliable performance, great sound quality, and versatility, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is the go-to choice for beginners looking for a reliable handheld microphone. It offers the best value for money, allowing aspiring performers to invest in a high-quality microphone without breaking the bank.
Sennheiser E935 – Superior Sound Quality
In my experience, the Sennheiser E935 stands out for its superior sound quality. This handheld microphone is a popular choice among professionals due to its exceptional vocal clarity and excellent feedback rejection.
When it comes to vocal clarity, the Sennheiser E935 delivers outstanding performance. Its tailored frequency response ensures that vocals are clear and crisp, allowing the performer's voice to shine through. Whether it's a powerful belting performance or a delicate ballad, this microphone captures every nuance and detail with precision.
Moreover, the Sennheiser E935 excels at feedback rejection, which is crucial in live performances. Its supercardioid pickup pattern helps to eliminate unwanted sound from the surroundings, preventing feedback from occurring. This allows the performer to focus on their performance without any distractions or interruptions.
The Sennheiser E935 also boasts a robust construction, making it durable and able to withstand the rigors of live performances. Its metal body ensures longevity and reliability, even in demanding stage environments.
AKG D5 – Durable and Versatile
Moving on to the AKG D5, I found it to be a durable and versatile handheld microphone that complements the Sennheiser E935 in live performances. The AKG D5 offers several features and benefits that make it a top choice for professional musicians and performers:
- Supercardioid Polar Pattern: The D5's supercardioid polar pattern provides excellent feedback rejection, ensuring clear and focused sound even in loud and noisy environments.
- Integrated Pop Filter: This microphone includes an integrated pop filter that reduces plosive sounds, such as "p" and "b" sounds, for a cleaner and more professional audio output.
- Rugged Construction: The D5 is built to withstand the rigors of live performances with its robust metal construction. It can handle the demands of touring and frequent use without compromising on sound quality.
- High SPL Capability: With a high maximum sound pressure level (SPL), the D5 can handle powerful vocals and instruments without distortion, allowing performers to give their best performances.
While the AKG D5 is a great option, there are alternatives to consider. The Shure SM58 is a classic choice known for its durability and reliability. The Audio-Technica AT2020 offers studio-quality sound at an affordable price. Lastly, the Sennheiser e945 provides excellent vocal clarity and feedback rejection, making it suitable for live performances. Ultimately, the choice between these alternatives and the AKG D5 will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the performer.
Electro-Voice RE20 – Perfect for Broadcasting
When considering handheld microphones for live performances, one option that stands out is the Electro-Voice RE20, which is perfect for broadcasting. This microphone is specifically designed to meet the demanding needs of broadcast professionals. With its exceptional sound quality and versatile features, the RE20 is an excellent choice for various broadcasting techniques.
One of the key factors that make the Electro-Voice RE20 ideal for broadcasting is its microphone placement capabilities. This microphone employs a Variable-D design that minimizes proximity effect and ensures consistent tonal balance, even when the speaker moves around or changes distance from the microphone. This feature is crucial in broadcasting scenarios where the speaker might be engaging in dynamic movements or adjusting their positioning.
Additionally, the Electro-Voice RE20 has a unique internal pop filter that effectively reduces plosives and breath sounds. This feature is crucial in broadcasting applications, as it helps maintain clear and intelligible speech without distracting pops or hisses.
Furthermore, the RE20's robust construction ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for the demanding environment of broadcasting. Its rugged housing and internal shock mount provide excellent protection against handling noise and vibrations, ensuring a clean and professional sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Frequency Response Range of the Shure SM58 Microphone?
The frequency response range of the Shure SM58 microphone is 50 Hz to 15 kHz. Handheld microphones like the SM58 are beneficial in live performances due to their durability, versatility, and ability to capture clear vocals.
Can the Audio-Technica AT2020 Be Used for Recording Vocals in a Studio Setting?
Yes, the Audio-Technica AT2020 can be used for recording vocals in a studio setting. Condenser microphones, like the AT2020, offer advantages such as a wider frequency response range and higher sensitivity compared to dynamic microphones for capturing vocals.
Does the Sennheiser E935 Microphone Require Phantom Power?
Yes, the Sennheiser e935 microphone does require phantom power. However, it is worth noting that this feature allows for a stronger and clearer signal, making it ideal for live performances.
Can the AKG D5 Microphone Be Used for Both Vocals and Instruments?
Yes, the AKG D5 microphone can be used for both vocals and instruments. It offers clear and crisp sound quality, making it suitable for live performances. It is a dynamic handheld microphone, which is advantageous for its durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels.
Is the Electro-Voice RE20 Microphone Suitable for Outdoor Live Performances?
The Electro-Voice RE20 microphone is not specifically designed for outdoor performances. However, it is known for its durability and can withstand the demands of live settings, making it a suitable option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the top handheld microphones for live performances, the Shure SM58, Audio-Technica AT2020, Sennheiser E935, AKG D5, and Electro-Voice RE20 stand out as reliable options. Each microphone offers unique features such as superior sound quality, affordability, durability, and versatility. These microphones are like the backbone of a live performance, capturing vocals with precision and clarity, ensuring an exceptional audio experience for both performers and audiences alike.
