Only question you're not answering is what the main question seems to be when I read your title. This video has nothing to do with best microphones in 2024.
The video provides comprehensive insights to empower you in selecting the ideal microphone tailored to YOU & YOUR unique needs. It's important to understand that the concept of a 'best' microphone is inherently subjective, as each serves distinct purposes. Rather than seeking a universally superior option, embrace the diversity of microphones, each crafted to excel in specific contexts and applications. Therefore, the title “Best Microphone For Voice Over 2024” is 100% applicable, because as already stated, by the end of the video you will be able to identify the best microphone for YOU.
I’m a newbie hobbyist with a low budget. I chose a Rode Podmic & a Zoom H4n Pro (both used from eBay). Initially I had just the Zoom, but I thought a condenser mic would sound better in my untreated home space. I’m pleased with the result so far. I got the mic with 6m cable for $75 and the Zoom for $120.
James, great informative video. I'm surprised shotgun mics can deliver depth like that, I guess I've been putting too much emphasis on the form factor. Chunky condensers being the only option for "full sound" etc. I'm actually considering the AT-875R as a replacement for my extremely sensitive and MUCH more expensive tube condenser as I doubt I'll ever be able to provide the room it deserves and demands. I don't care if the AT-875R is intended as a boom mic in video production, if it sounds good on voice and isolates voice it's a winner to me🏆
Such great information!! TY so much. I am returning to voice-over work after being off for a few years and considering upgrading my mic soon. I began recording with a Blue Yeti condenser mic in 2019 with a pop screen and propped-up pillows surrounding my desk work area to muffle out white noise. Would like to eventually build a desk-height whisper area. My Yeti served me quite well with continual work for nearly 3 years!! This time I plan to work P/T and just considering my options. TY for any advice on upgrading. Patti :)
Hold on, WAIT UP! You are going to tell me that all these years I have been playing loud music for my neighbours was wrong thing to do?! I can't accept that. So much time and effort spent for them to hear AC/DC and you are going to tell me they don't like it? Nah bro. Just kidding ofc :D Love the video man. Very much informative and spot on. I also love the way you seamlessly implemented the sounds from each microphone while speaking about them. I wanted to find a good mic since I want to start my YT channel. These are a bit too expensive for me so I will have to find cheaper ones but I am not at least armed with knowledge to choose properly. Kudos to you.
I really appreciate that! :) You should check out the sE Electronics X1 A! It's only $100 and sounds amazing! I did a full review of it you can find here: th-cam.com/video/SLPc7lrlbOk/w-d-xo.htmlsi=yBRJNcjk5MSMnIX-
Ofc, I wouldn't be against any suggestions you might have for around 100$. Interested in doing a channel where I would talk over some stuff (without showing my face). And I do have a bit of background noise. PC fans, cars on the road although not loud etc.
@@TheBranchez Then you could use the sE X1 A and just denoise the audio in post, you can learn all about how to do that here: th-cam.com/video/BW5nSMhPDto/w-d-xo.htmlsi=_5bYnN0ym4GocJmA OR you could go with a dynamic microphone because it would pick up less background noise.
I like you're stuff because not many channels cover the AT875r, which sounds sooooo good esp for the price. Also adding the NT1 is good because it is popular along with the common (though in my opinion plain, borderline muddy) sm7b.
I second that. I'm surprised shotgun mics can deliver depth like that, I guess I've been putting too much emphasis on the form factor. It's also by far the clearest of the three, making it great for VO work in my book.
absolutely love all your content, mate! I consider myself hobbyist and fell this rabbit hole of microphones during covid to sound better on wfh meetings :) I have sm7b with dbx286s and love this radio compressed sound of it. I wanted some shotgun mic which would have very similar sound to sm7b but without mic in my face - and after investigation bought mkh50, and its like 90% the same - this low-end rich thick dark sound. Just amazing. However, if the space is partly treated (like mine) echo on mkh50 is way more pronounced. So at this point my 400$ mic sounds waay better than 1400$ one haha
Thank you so much! And yes! That Dynamic mic will definitely do a way better job in less treated spaces for sure! I'll have to give the mkh50 a try some day!
Thank you for the valuable information you share with us. Total newbie here, and wanting to get some much needed advise from you, and experienced voice artists. Being on the pre- Pre-K level of voiceover, I am afraid I will mess up gain when setting it up on the mic, so I was considering getting the Rode N1 5th generation and use it as USB, with the 32-bit float option, to have more room for error on that part, and getting an audio interface to use it as XLR later on. Now, for about the same price, I can get the AT-2020 XLR (or other XLR you can recommend), with an audio interface, but I believe there is no going back if I mess up the gain, right? I'm torn, all advice is appreciated. (As a side note, I considered starting off with the AT2020USB-X, originally). Thank you so much in advance!
Hey there! Don't worry too much about the gain. It will take you no time at all to understand how to set gain properly. I'd also shy away from the AT2020. I really need to purchase one and test it myself but I've had to many students have issues with them. I'd really choose between the Rode NT1 signature edition (if you don't need the USB connectivity because the "Rode NT1 signature edition" is more affordable) and the AT875R. Either would be great. Shameless plug, check out my courses here: audiodoctor.tech/courses once you decide what recording software you're going to use I'd suggest buying one of my courses because it will lead you step by step through ALL the audio side of things when it comes to voice over. I hope this helps!
I appreciate the content and glad I stumbled on your chance today. As someone that’s just getting started, this is really valuable. I just received my NT1 yesterday and am finally graduating from my Blue Yeti USB. Really excited to get started with a proper mic.
I have a RODE NT1 5th generation - about 6 months old. It was working fine until last week stopped working. I checked the XLR interface and cable and they are working fine. If I slightly wiggle the XLR connector to the microphone the signal jumps all over the place. I will never buy another RODE microphone again!
I've /taught/coached thousands of people at this point, and about 50% of them had the Rode NT1 4th & 5th gen mics and not even 1 of them had an issue. Reach out to RODE. You might be surprised.
I love your transparency - not blindly asking for subscribers - before the video even starts - not knowing if it's something you want to -add to your list - Good - you should be compensated - for your affiliation - your viewers respect your honesty 👊
Thank you:)) Appreciate your vibe and info. Glad I found this more current video. I’ve a super small treated space like the one you showed us in the closet. Do I understand well that you ONLY recommend the shotgun mic? Or, also the NT1 could be oK in there? What do you think of the Lewitt Ray coming out for small space.. when I look at people’s gear on leaderboard, not one seems to use Lewitt? Am I missing something?:) too much noise picked up? Maybe Ray fixes this? Thanks for your thoughts:).
Hey there! Either the NT1 or shotgun would be fine (unless you have a very particular problem) Lewitt is a great company and incredibly innovative but not as "tested" as say a company like Rode. I know voice actors who use Lewitt mics, it's just not as many. For no reason other than Rode has a bigger name and reach. The Ray is a really neat idea but I wouldn't suggest it for VO. The Rode NT1 or AT875R is more than enough. I hope this was helpful!
Hey there! Can you rephrase that question? XLR cables won't help or hurt mouth noise. XLR cables will make things like hiss, hum or buzzing better or worse depending on the quality of cable.
Thanks for the video. I am trying to make a professional how-to video that needs me to do voice-over overlayed on the instructional video. He owns a fairly large company and I dont want to let him down.
A tad over 6" but shotgun mics were made to capture audio at greater distances than other mics. If your space is properly acoustically treated having your mic 6" away won't be an issue at all.
Sounds like someone needs to watch the suggested video. How can something make sense without it being explained? The foam video literally explains why foam doesn't work the way you expect it to, and then goes on to tell you how to make the most of it. It's confusing to me as to why you'd make that comment without watching the video first... 🤔
@@JamesYounger Why should I have to watch another video for something that doesnt make sense in the current video? I get youre trying to increase the views of your other videos but most people have limited time. Sorry.
@@sugarbait If I had to re-explain multiple topics in EVERY single video I made, I'd possibly be able to put out 1 video a month. If I've already made a video where I deep dive into a particular subject I'm not going to take the time to do the same thing in every single one of my videos. People have limited time. Sorry.
@@sugarbaitTheoretically, because you came here to, I dunno, learn? That's probably why you should. If you *had* watched the previous video, you'd understand, but, you don't really want to know.
ALL RECOMENDED EQUIPMENT
kit.co/JamesYounger (When available, I use affiliate links and may earn a commission at no extra cost to you )
Only question you're not answering is what the main question seems to be when I read your title. This video has nothing to do with best microphones in 2024.
The video provides comprehensive insights to empower you in selecting the ideal microphone tailored to YOU & YOUR unique needs. It's important to understand that the concept of a 'best' microphone is inherently subjective, as each serves distinct purposes. Rather than seeking a universally superior option, embrace the diversity of microphones, each crafted to excel in specific contexts and applications. Therefore, the title “Best Microphone For Voice Over 2024” is 100% applicable, because as already stated, by the end of the video you will be able to identify the best microphone for YOU.
My daughter and I use a Sennheiser MKH 416 for VO and my client love my recordings
I’m a newbie hobbyist with a low budget. I chose a Rode Podmic & a Zoom H4n Pro (both used from eBay). Initially I had just the Zoom, but I thought a condenser mic would sound better in my untreated home space. I’m pleased with the result so far. I got the mic with 6m cable for $75 and the Zoom for $120.
I’m a little surprised you didn’t include super/hyper cardioid small diaphragm condenser. Pretty common for soundstage productions.
Ahhh yes. Common for soundstage and music. Not VO.
James, great informative video. I'm surprised shotgun mics can deliver depth like that, I guess I've been putting too much emphasis on the form factor. Chunky condensers being the only option for "full sound" etc. I'm actually considering the AT-875R as a replacement for my extremely sensitive and MUCH more expensive tube condenser as I doubt I'll ever be able to provide the room it deserves and demands. I don't care if the AT-875R is intended as a boom mic in video production, if it sounds good on voice and isolates voice it's a winner to me🏆
LOVE my Rode NT-1 5th gen- that YOU recommended!
Thank YOU! :)
Such great information!! TY so much. I am returning to voice-over work after being off for a few years and considering upgrading my mic soon. I began recording with a Blue Yeti condenser mic in 2019 with a pop screen and propped-up pillows surrounding my desk work area to muffle out white noise. Would like to eventually build a desk-height whisper area. My Yeti served me quite well with continual work for nearly 3 years!! This time I plan to work P/T and just considering my options. TY for any advice on upgrading. Patti :)
Hold on, WAIT UP! You are going to tell me that all these years I have been playing loud music for my neighbours was wrong thing to do?! I can't accept that. So much time and effort spent for them to hear AC/DC and you are going to tell me they don't like it? Nah bro.
Just kidding ofc :D Love the video man. Very much informative and spot on. I also love the way you seamlessly implemented the sounds from each microphone while speaking about them. I wanted to find a good mic since I want to start my YT channel. These are a bit too expensive for me so I will have to find cheaper ones but I am not at least armed with knowledge to choose properly. Kudos to you.
I really appreciate that! :) You should check out the sE Electronics X1 A! It's only $100 and sounds amazing! I did a full review of it you can find here: th-cam.com/video/SLPc7lrlbOk/w-d-xo.htmlsi=yBRJNcjk5MSMnIX-
Ofc, I wouldn't be against any suggestions you might have for around 100$. Interested in doing a channel where I would talk over some stuff (without showing my face). And I do have a bit of background noise. PC fans, cars on the road although not loud etc.
@@JamesYounger ahh you were ahead of me, thank you, I will check it out :D
@@TheBranchez Then you could use the sE X1 A and just denoise the audio in post, you can learn all about how to do that here: th-cam.com/video/BW5nSMhPDto/w-d-xo.htmlsi=_5bYnN0ym4GocJmA OR you could go with a dynamic microphone because it would pick up less background noise.
I bought the Rode NT1 5th gen because of you :)
Thank you so much! I hope you're loving it like I do! :)
James: I heard every word you said. Excellent review and very helpful with starting out!
I use my vintage Rode NT-1 Creamy grey and Audio-Technica AT875R for many years. Both are great for me with my DBX 286S.
I like you're stuff because not many channels cover the AT875r, which sounds sooooo good esp for the price. Also adding the NT1 is good because it is popular along with the common (though in my opinion plain, borderline muddy) sm7b.
I use AT 875r for my voice over. Great mic, had a NT1a not good for my voice great video
Thank you!
The Audio Technica sounds so good!
I second that. I'm surprised shotgun mics can deliver depth like that, I guess I've been putting too much emphasis on the form factor. It's also by far the clearest of the three, making it great for VO work in my book.
absolutely love all your content, mate! I consider myself hobbyist and fell this rabbit hole of microphones during covid to sound better on wfh meetings :) I have sm7b with dbx286s and love this radio compressed sound of it. I wanted some shotgun mic which would have very similar sound to sm7b but without mic in my face - and after investigation bought mkh50, and its like 90% the same - this low-end rich thick dark sound. Just amazing. However, if the space is partly treated (like mine) echo on mkh50 is way more pronounced. So at this point my 400$ mic sounds waay better than 1400$ one haha
Thank you so much! And yes! That Dynamic mic will definitely do a way better job in less treated spaces for sure! I'll have to give the mkh50 a try some day!
Thank you for the valuable information you share with us. Total newbie here, and wanting to get some much needed advise from you, and experienced voice artists. Being on the pre- Pre-K level of voiceover, I am afraid I will mess up gain when setting it up on the mic, so I was considering getting the Rode N1 5th generation and use it as USB, with the 32-bit float option, to have more room for error on that part, and getting an audio interface to use it as XLR later on.
Now, for about the same price, I can get the AT-2020 XLR (or other XLR you can recommend), with an audio interface, but I believe there is no going back if I mess up the gain, right? I'm torn, all advice is appreciated.
(As a side note, I considered starting off with the AT2020USB-X, originally).
Thank you so much in advance!
Hey there! Don't worry too much about the gain. It will take you no time at all to understand how to set gain properly. I'd also shy away from the AT2020. I really need to purchase one and test it myself but I've had to many students have issues with them. I'd really choose between the Rode NT1 signature edition (if you don't need the USB connectivity because the "Rode NT1 signature edition" is more affordable) and the AT875R. Either would be great. Shameless plug, check out my courses here: audiodoctor.tech/courses once you decide what recording software you're going to use I'd suggest buying one of my courses because it will lead you step by step through ALL the audio side of things when it comes to voice over. I hope this helps!
I ended up going with the Sennheiser Profile.
I appreciate the content and glad I stumbled on your chance today. As someone that’s just getting started, this is really valuable. I just received my NT1 yesterday and am finally graduating from my Blue Yeti USB. Really excited to get started with a proper mic.
Thank you so much for the feedback! It means a lot to me! :)
I have a RODE NT1 5th generation - about 6 months old. It was working fine until last week stopped working. I checked the XLR interface and cable and they are working fine. If I slightly wiggle the XLR connector to the microphone the signal jumps all over the place. I will never buy another RODE microphone again!
I've /taught/coached thousands of people at this point, and about 50% of them had the Rode NT1 4th & 5th gen mics and not even 1 of them had an issue. Reach out to RODE. You might be surprised.
As usual James! Great video! Yes, because of YOU, I'm now rockin' an NT1 5th Gen. and LOVE IT!!! I'm still a fan of my vintage AT2020 USB though.
Thank you as always kind sir! Man, I gotta review the AT2020 USB and others in that line!
@@JamesYounger I'd LOVE to hear your perspective of it!
Rode NT1, Blue Babe Bottle, Blue Babe Bottle SL, and Stella X2.
I love your transparency - not blindly asking for subscribers - before the video even starts - not knowing if it's something you want to -add to your list -
Good - you should be compensated - for your affiliation - your viewers respect your honesty 👊
Thank you so so much!!! 👊
Thank you:)) Appreciate your vibe and info. Glad I found this more current video. I’ve a super small treated space like the one you showed us in the closet. Do I understand well that you ONLY recommend the shotgun mic? Or, also the NT1 could be oK in there? What do you think of the Lewitt Ray coming out for small space.. when I look at people’s gear on leaderboard, not one seems to use Lewitt? Am I missing something?:) too much noise picked up? Maybe Ray fixes this? Thanks for your thoughts:).
Hey there! Either the NT1 or shotgun would be fine (unless you have a very particular problem) Lewitt is a great company and incredibly innovative but not as "tested" as say a company like Rode. I know voice actors who use Lewitt mics, it's just not as many. For no reason other than Rode has a bigger name and reach. The Ray is a really neat idea but I wouldn't suggest it for VO. The Rode NT1 or AT875R is more than enough. I hope this was helpful!
Sennheiser MKH416, because I'm a pro voice talent and it's a "buzz mic" or an "industry standard"...right!?!?
MAN, that SM7B is DARRRRRRK! ;)
(BTW - I'm live commenting...) that AT875R sounds...alright! hmm.... :)
I use the 416 because it captures a nice hyper-real sound and it worked great in my OLD studio...and equally great in my newer space.
YES! 😂
@@JeyBott It wouldn't have been QUITE as dark if I didn't have have issues when recording with it 😬 but it only slightly changed it's tone
Do you recommend out of the xlr cables which pick up the least mouth noises?
Hey there! Can you rephrase that question? XLR cables won't help or hurt mouth noise. XLR cables will make things like hiss, hum or buzzing better or worse depending on the quality of cable.
@@JamesYounger yes I meant out of the XLR cable mics
Thanks for the video. I am trying to make a professional how-to video that needs me to do voice-over overlayed on the instructional video. He owns a fairly large company and I dont want to let him down.
I got a podmic usb right now the original podmic broke and i replaced it, i also got a sm48 i trust shure and rode mics the most
I have a Samson C01 Mic- It's a Condenser Mic. Think it's decent?
Unfortunately I have no experience with that mic. What kind of work are you using it for?
Sennheiser 416 for my voice. My Rode NT1 and LS-208 are just collecting dust at this point.
Totally! To each his own! My 416 has been collecting dust for about 2 years now 😬
@@JamesYounger And yet we never sell any of them 🤓
@@jackedkerouac4414 Wait huh??
Such a helpful video! 👍
Thank you sir! :)
how far was the 875r from your mouth?
A tad over 6" but shotgun mics were made to capture audio at greater distances than other mics. If your space is properly acoustically treated having your mic 6" away won't be an issue at all.
I never know what they say. 😂😭😂😭😂😭😂
Come on.... You know what they say. You know... 😂🤣
Confusing, "don't get foam it doesn't work, but I use foam and Ill show you how to make it work"?
Sounds like someone needs to watch the suggested video. How can something make sense without it being explained? The foam video literally explains why foam doesn't work the way you expect it to, and then goes on to tell you how to make the most of it. It's confusing to me as to why you'd make that comment without watching the video first... 🤔
@@JamesYounger Why should I have to watch another video for something that doesnt make sense in the current video? I get youre trying to increase the views of your other videos but most people have limited time. Sorry.
@@sugarbait If I had to re-explain multiple topics in EVERY single video I made, I'd possibly be able to put out 1 video a month. If I've already made a video where I deep dive into a particular subject I'm not going to take the time to do the same thing in every single one of my videos. People have limited time. Sorry.
@@JamesYounger You make good videos but your personality is like a wet paper bag.
@@sugarbaitTheoretically, because you came here to, I dunno, learn? That's probably why you should.
If you *had* watched the previous video, you'd understand, but, you don't really want to know.