What is the best microphone for rap vocals?

It’s awful when you hear a tremendous underground rap track, but the vocals are muffled and underwhelming. It is critically important when recording rap vocals in rap/hip hop music that the vocals sound crisp, clear, and accurately reflect the power and emotion of the vocal performance when the vocals are recorded. The vocals can completely ruin an otherwise incredible track if they sound unprofessional.

For a beginner producer, it is not uncommon to start recording vocals on a microphone that is under $100 in price. When it comes down to it, there is nothing wrong with doing this if you’re using it to find your feet when it comes to recording vocals and learning about the process.

However, if you’re serious about producing and recording rap vocals, you need a microphone that produces professional, high-quality sound.

Below you will find a list of the best microphones for rap vocals – including some artist favorites.

Criteria For Buying Best Microphone For Rap Vocals/ Buyer’s Guide:

High-Pass Filters

The first thing to look out for when choosing the best microphone for rap vocals is high-pass filters and pads. You can remove low-end frequencies when not needed in many condenser vocal mics.

You usually find this as a simple switch that, when activated, prevents low-end frequencies from appearing in your recordings. Presence boosting pads are another standard inclusion.

These switches allow you to boost a particular frequency band, usually in the mid-high registers, to improve clarity when recording vocals.

Getting The Microphone You Need

Compared to other musical styles, rap music has specific attributes that others lack. The frequency range is essential. A good reference range is 20Hz to 20kHz, which is a standard range. You can expect an acceptable range of 80 Hz to 15 kHz. The former is a bit wider.

Polar Patterns

Cardioid polar patterns are common in condenser vocal microphones. The cardioid capsule is an excellent choice because it is great for focusing on a sound source directly in front of it.

Variations of cardioid polar patterns include super-cardioid and hyper-cardioid. The more extreme versions focus more intently on the desired sound source and block out all external noise.

Besides cardioid polar patterns, some vocal microphones also have omnidirectional and figure-of-eight capsules. Omnidirectional capsules are capable of recording sound from all directions, including the front, sides, and back.

XLR or USB

Would you prefer an XLR fitting or a USB connection? It depends on what environment you are going to use it in. Both options have been considered. Have fun. There is some real quality out there.

Frequency Response

In terms of pitch, a microphone’s frequency response shows what range of sounds it can capture. The mic you choose must cover the entire frequency range of the human voice when recording rap vocals.

There is a wide range of vocal ranges among rappers. Rappers may prefer to rap in lower registers, while others may prefer higher pitches. In general, the human voice doesn’t go beyond 20Hz – 20kHz.

Other things 

You will need a few additional accessories and equipment to optimize your setup and get an idea of your overall budget: pop filters, mic stands, audio interface, or studio headphones.

Budget

For a relatively robust setup, you’ll have to spend money on a good microphone and accessories such as a mic stand, a pop filter, and a shock mount. 

Also Read: Best microphone systems for church.

Best Microphone For Rap Vocals: Comparison Table

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Best Microphone For Rap Vocals

Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone

Our first entry in the list of the best microphone for rap vocals is Neumann. On our list, this Neumann mic is the most expensive. One of the first elections for sound engineers and singers who want to capture high-quality audio is the TLM 102. Hip hop and rap fans will love this rap microphone. Its transformerless design offers all the details you expect from a high-end large-diaphragm condenser microphone.

Rap vocals are ideal for recording with the TLM 102 due to their frequency response. In my opinion, it effectively brought the performer’s vocal style into focus. For such a high-quality microphone, it is also surprisingly compact.

As a result of the high SPL tolerance, you won’t have to compromise on the aggressiveness of your rap (if this might affect the sound quality).

Avoiding or minimizing Plosives is one of the most important aspects of recording punchy rap vocals. Air pressure can cause this noise, which affects recordings. To combat this problem, Neumann has included a high-end pop filter with the TLM 102.

Specs:

• Color: Nickel
• Style: Microphone
• Brand: Sennheiser Pro Audio
• Connector Type: XLR Connector
• Connectivity Technology: XLR
• Audio Sensitivity: 11 dB
• Compatible Devices: Speaker
• Item Weight: 210 Grams
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Material: Aluminum
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 A/W

Pros: 

• Excellent recordings down to the smallest detail
• High SPL capability, perfect for aggressive rap styles
• Frequency range perfectly suited for recording rap vocals

Cons:

• The overall sound profile is relatively “flat,” which some rappers may not find impressive
• Comparatively expensive

Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone

One of the most recognizable names in the microphone industry is Shure, and it is easy to see why. 

With the SM7B, you can eliminate the noisy electronic hash part of modern home recording studios. Thanks to the mic’s superb electrical shielding, you won’t hear an electromagnetic hum in your tracks.

As a result of the recent update, the bracket design has been improved, making it more stable. In addition to the standard windscreen, you can use an A7WS windscreen for more intimate speech recordings.

As a rap mic, the SM7B delivers a balanced, pleasing sound with well-balanced frequencies throughout most of the spectrum. With all-natural quality preserved, vocal tracks are recorded with clarity and precision. There are controls for rolling off the bass and boosting the mids, and a graphic display shows where the mic is set.

Specs:

• Style: SM7B
• Brand: Shure
• Color: Black
• Connector Type: XLR Connector
• Connectivity Technology: XLR
• Compatible Devices: Television, Radio, Personal Computer, Radio
• Item Weight: 0.92 Kilograms
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Material Stainless: Steel
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 60 dB

Pros:

• A clear and wonderfully present mic
• Trademark Shure quality and reliability
• Low noise

Cons:

• It could use a good preamp to make it shine.

Shure Stage Performance Kit with SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

There is a perfect chance that if you’ve ever heard someone sing or speak into a live microphone, it was likely an SM58. Rock stars. Pop idols. Comedians. Presidents. Popes. For generations, immortal words have passed through its iconic grille. Thanks to its world-class engineering and durability, it will continue to turn up at legendary performances for years to come. For sound reinforcement and studio recording, Shure SM58 is a unidirectional (cardioid) dynamic vocal microphone. Wind and breath “pop” noise is minimized by a highly effective, built-in, spherical filter. Cardioid pickup patterns isolate the primary sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The SM58 provides a world-standard sound through its customized vocal response. In spite of rough handling, the SM58’s rugged construction, shock mount system, and steel mesh grille ensure consistent performance. Whether you’re singing or speaking, the SM58 is the preferred choice of professionals around the world.

Specs:

• Brand: Shure
• Color: Black
• Connector Type: XLR Connector
• Connectivity Technology: XLR
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Item Weight: 8.75 Pounds
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Material: Metal
• Number of Channels: 1

Pros:

• The go-to live vocal mic
• built like a tank
• inexpensive

Cons:

• None so far

Beyerdynamic M201 TG Classic Dynamic Hypercardioid Microphone

The Beyerdynamic M201 is a fantastic microphone and is a mainstay at many professional studios for a good reason.

The M 201 TG is one of the most natural-sounding dynamic microphones in the M series. In terms of clarity and detail, it reproduces signals exceptionally well. Because of these qualities, many people have chosen the M 201 TG as an alternative to condenser microphones and have been able to enjoy the benefits of dynamic pendants. The M 201 TG is a one-of-a-kind microphone market member, resulting from this unique combination and the high-quality artistry that defines Beyerdynamic as an enterprise.

No matter where you are – in the studio or on stage – the M 201 TG generates precise sound reproduction thanks to its linear frequency response. A signal like this makes itself heard in the mix and opens up a world of possibilities for post-production. In addition, the small design of M 201 TG makes it easy for artists to position the microphone and achieve the best sound.

As a result of the microphone’s good transient response, snare drums or acoustic guitars are delicately transferred while the microphone captures and reproduces their entire sound.

Using its hyper-cardioid features and compensation coil, the M 201 TG is equipped to deal with noise suppression and feedback successfully. In addition, crosstalk is minimized to the greatest extent possible.

Specs:

• Brand: Beyerdynamic
• Color: Black
• Connectivity Technology: Wired, Wireless
• Compatible Devices: Television
• Item Weight: 0.67 Pounds
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Number of Channels: 1
• Pros:
• Really nice
• The build quality of this thing is insane, and we think it will last you a really long time.

Cons:

• It is a really quiet microphone with a sensitivity of about -58 dB or -59 dB 

Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Due to its excellent sound quality and low price, the Rode NT1-A condenser is a large-diaphragm condenser that is especially popular with home producers, thanks to its excellent sound quality. In addition to the easy-to-use mic, this product comes with most of the accessories you will need to get started recording, including a pop shield, shock mount, and a 20-foot XLR cable.

In addition to that, the NT1-A is also able to record a variety of sources, from acoustic guitars, violins, and cellos, to electric guitar amplifiers. It is more than capable of doing so.

The only possible downside is that its sonic signature is on the bright side; there might be a problem with sibilance in post-production due to its sonic signature. Additionally, it isn’t the prettiest of microphones if you are concerned about that. 

In spite of this, I find it hard to complain about this microphone. A shock mount and pop filter are included. There is a noticeable difference between the super low self-noise level and the average self-noise level. It is even more noticeable when you add compression and gain. A low self-noise level on your mic will also help you if you want to double your vocal tracks. 

Specs:

• Brand: RODE Microphones
• Color: Silver
• Connector Type: XLR Connector
• Connectivity Technology: Wired
• Power Source: AC
• Audio Sensitivity: 5 dB
• Number of Batteries: 1 Lithium ion battery is required.
• Item Weight: 4.6 Pounds
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Impedance: 100 Ohm

Pros:

• well-focussed, well-balanced sound
• It is equipped with a shock mount and a pop filter
• super low self-noise level

Cons:

• not that cool looking
• the sonic signature could be too bright for some

AKG Pro Audio P220 Vocal Condenser Microphone

Our last product in the list of the best microphone for rap vocals is AKG. Finally, let’s review the ‘Masters of the Universe,’ known as AKG. Another versatile microphone from their line. You need microphones that can work in different situations unless you own a big studio. That’s precisely what the P220 is. It features a giant diaphragm and is one of the best condenser mics on the market.

Using its cardioid polar pattern, it receives sound from its source and excludes external noise. With a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz and a maximum SPL of 155dB, it has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz. There is also a 20dB attenuation pad switchable and a bass roll-off at 300 Hz.

With a metal grille protecting the head, it has a rugged build. It comes with an impressive metal carry case and a spider shock mount with a mic stand attachment. The device requires phantom power of +48 volts. No cables are included.

It is not a top-of-the-line AKG, but it is a good mic nonetheless. With vocals, it produces a precise and clear sound that is clear and rounded. Studio work would be more appropriate for this mic than stage work.

Specs:

• Brand: AKG
• Color: Black
• Connector Type: 3-pin XLR (pin 2 hot)
• Connectivity Technology: Wired
• Power Source: Phantom Power (Same as P120)
• Audio Sensitivity: 33.9 dB
• Compatible Device:  Audio Interface
• Item Weight: 0.53 Kilograms
• Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
• Material: Metal

Pros:

• An affordable AKG builds with typical AKG quality.
• The sound is good and the versatility is great.

Cons:

• Some may want a more dedicated vocal mic.

Also Read: Best Portable PA system With Wireless Mic

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should you record vocals in mono or stereo? 

Ans: When recording the vocals of one singer in a booth, you should record them in mono. In contrast, you should record in stereo if you are recording multiple singers and instruments. It is common in the sound recording industry to use terms such as mono and stereo.

Q: How can I rap faster and clearer?

Ans: Make sure you pronounce each syllable clearly and quickly. You will be able to speak faster by loosening up the muscles in your tongue. In one breath, say the real tongue twister. By performing this exercise, you will be able to use better breathing techniques when rapping.

Conclusion

Hopefully, by the end of our guide on the best microphone for rap vocals, you will be able to identify the mic you want from a limited selection based on your budget and the style of microphone you’d like. We hope that you were able to make the best choice, that, whichever one you choose, either way, you would be satisfied.

Let me know in the comments what you think is the best microphone for rap vocals and why if you’re reading this post out of curiosity. Also, let us know if your microphone made a list and what you think of it.

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