For any guitarist, you know there’s nothing quite like capturing the true essence of your instrument in a recording. The strum of the strings, the depth of the sound, and the subtle nuances all play a part in creating that perfect performance. But finding the right microphone to do your guitar justice can be a bit of a challenge.
In this article, we’re going to check out the top 5 best microphones for acoustic guitar. We’ll break down what makes each one special and how they can help you achieve that perfect recording. So, let’s dive in and find the ideal mic to capture your guitar’s true voice.
Neumann TLM 103-MT
AKG C451 B
AEA N22
Telefunken ELA M 260
Avantone Pro CK-1
1. Neumann TLM 103-MT Large Diaphragm Cardioid Microphone
Highlights
⚫ Large-diaphragm microphone with cardioid polar pattern
⚫ Low self-noise
⚫ High sound pressure level (SPL) handling, up to 138 dB
The Neumann TLM 103-MT large-diaphragm cardioid microphone is our top pick on this list. It’s a fantastic choice for those who can’t afford the outstanding Neumann U87 but want a similar high-quality performance.
The cardioid polar pattern is ideal for both home recording settings and professional studios. It allows for focus on the sound source while minimizing background noise and room reflections significantly. Even in the most intimate recordings, the mic’s self-noise is almost nonexistent.
When it comes to acoustic guitar, this mic excels at capturing the high-end shimmer. It’s particularly outstanding for picking parts within a song, but it also does an exceptional job of capturing the full-bodied sound of rhythm playing.
Neumann TLM 103-MT
If you want to create top-notch acoustic guitar recordings, then this is the mic for you!
2. AKG C451 B Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Highlights
⚫ Cardioid polar pattern with great transient response
⚫ Frequency range of 20 to 20,000 Hz
⚫ A switchable high-pass filter (75Hz or 150Hz)
Originally a drummer’s favorite, the AKG C451 B microphone has proven successful in capturing the shimmers of acoustic guitars. The small diaphragm condenser design with the cardioid polar pattern allows for detailed recording like no other.
Moreover, the wide frequency range of this amazing mic enables it to reproduce a full spectrum of sound. From the deep resonance of low strings to the brights of high tones, it captures them all.
On top of that, the switchable high-pass filter gives you extra flexibility. That’s because it allows you to adjust the mic’s response to fit different recording environments, playing styles, and guitar tones. It’s easy to see why this landed on our list of the best microphones for acoustic guitar.
AKG C451 B
If you want a mic that can record great hi-hats and drum overheads beyond acoustic guitar, then check out this pick.
3. AEA N22 Active Ribbon Microphone
Highlights
⚫ Active ribbon mic design with figure-8 polar pattern
⚫ Smooth sound reproduction with vintage character
⚫ Wide frequency response (1”–18” from the source)
The AEA N22 active ribbon mic redefines the way we think about recording with a ribbon microphone. That’s especially true since it’s a product of Audio Engineering Associates, a company famous for its expertise in ribbon mic technology.
Wherever you choose to position it, this mic delivers clear and balanced sounds. It also boasts a wide frequency response. This makes it suitable for almost all recording applications, from vocals and strings to percussion and brass instruments.
Overall, the AEA N22 mic is just as high-performing as other AEA mics. The only difference is that it’s the first of its kind to hit a much lower price point. As for the quality, it’s almost the same.
AEA N22
This microphone will produce the warmest sounding acoustic guitar recordings of any mic on our list.
Your acoustic guitar only sounds as good as the strings on it. So, check out our top picks for the best acoustic guitar strings.
4. Telefunken ELA M 260 Cardioid Small-diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone
Highlights
⚫ Excellent small diaphragm tube condenser mic
⚫ Designed and assembled by hand in the U.S.A.
⚫ High SPL handling capabilities
The Telefunken ELA M 260 is one of a limited number of small diaphragm tube mics existing today. This fantastic device combines the warmth of tube electronics with the precision of small diaphragm condenser mics. As such, it offers one-of-a-kind sound quality.
It delivers unmatched tonality and details in audio reproduction that stand out in any mix. That’s why it’s perfect for capturing acoustic instruments, vocals, and overheads. Plus, the cardioid polar pattern enables it to isolate the sound source and minimize background noise.
Not only that, but the ELA M 260 also comes with interchangeable capsules for more flexibility. This means it gives you the option to switch between cardioid, omnidirectional, and hypercardioid patterns for different recording scenarios.
Telefunken ELA M 260
This is the most versatile microphone on our list.
5. Avantone Pro CK-1 Small-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Highlights
⚫ Frequency response of 25 to 20,000 Hz (±3 dB)
⚫ Cardioid, hypercardioid, and omnidirectional polar pattern capsules
⚫ -10dB attenuation and 80Hz high-pass switches
It’s not an overstatement to say that the Avantone Pro CK-1 mic is the best in its price range. This high-performing small-diaphragm condenser mic is excellent for capturing sound, especially for acoustic guitars.
This outstanding mic comes with high-grade polystyrene and metalized polypropylene capacitors. Such an upgrade in a commercially available microphone makes it stand out from the crowd with a performance that competes against expensive mics.
Avantone Pro CK-1
If you don’t have a lot of money to spend and still want great quality, then this is the mic for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Product Recap
When it comes to the best microphones for acoustic guitar, you now have some great options to choose from. For our best overall recommendation, we suggest the Neumann TLM 103-MT. It offers unparalleled quality and performance. As a more-than-perfect runner-up, you have the AKG C451 B. Its durability and versatility are impressive. Lastly, the Avantone Pro CK-1 stands out as a fantastic option for those on a budget. Its price is nothing compared to the sound quality it delivers.
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