@@DarkCornerStudios I found that there is no chapter for Rode NT2A but you linked the timestamp in the description so thank you. The Rode NT2A is put in together with the 2040 chapter.
I strongly agree with your ranking, especially putting the SM58 at the top of the God list. I've got dozens of mics, including some of the more expensive ones (MKH 416, TLM103, etc.) and the bottom line is they're overkill for what most people need. I talked to somebody recently who said he wanted to start a podcast but can't afford a high end mic. I told him to just get an SM58 and focus on putting together an interesting show.
I think the mic you couldn't figure out from the picture was the SM57. The image looks to be from where you can unscrew the capsule from the lower body.
The last mic on your list, I think, is the Shure sm57. As for the Lauten LS208, while it may be a great microphone, I find it interesting that everyone I see using & raving about it, had it sent to them. Others, whom I know purchased with their own money, while still claim it is a good mic, count the cost as a major downside. So much so, it doesn't get a buy recommendation. All that said. I still LOVE you did your list. Everything you said was valid. It is your perspective. Which is exactly why these types of videos are so valuable. While not everyone's opinions are the same. It is invaluable to have open discussions, allowing individuals to see how products line up with their needs & use cases.
Dude...thank you so much for the Super! Yeah...the cost is no joke...but from a musicians perspective, it is a fantastic mic that handles like an sm7b with the same Lauten Audio sculpting as their other mics that makes it particularly versatile. In all honesty...I would buy another...however I do see the egregious price as a downfall... Perhaps I should have dropped it a bit...hmmmmmm
I curious @libertyDude1775: what do your own ears tell you about the Lauten LS208? Does it sound better than a Electrovoice RE20? If it does... how much more would you pay for the better sound quality and sound rejection? If I were to buy a forever mic today, I would battle it out between a Sennheiser MKH50; a Lewitt 640 TS; an AA OC818; or a Lauten Audio LS208.
@@DarkCornerStudioswhere you placed the LS208, because it is your list, is exactly where it should be. Anyone that disagrees, can make their own list. One's personal experiences, use cases and tonal desires, develop their own informed preferences. Your list was your perspective. Not a list based on what you thought your viewer's would think. While that might be a hilarious video to watch. I doubt it would be as accurate as just giving your own opinions. LoL. Keep doing what you're doing.
@@stiradofirst know I claim zero expertise. To date, all I use microphone's for is for spoken word applications only. The preponderance of my use cases need numerous microphones at one time. I rarely do solo talent productions. When I start adding up microphone cost, times four user's, additional cost consideration is exponential. One of my hobbies is collecting microphones. I don't have a, "one," forever mic perspective. But I don't have a LS208 in my collection yet. I personally don't comment on the sound quality of a microphone I haven't personally experienced. When I sit down to record on a mic, I feel most at home in front of my RE20. Yet it isn't always the right choice for every application I do. Nor on every voice I try to record. Trust me, I won't be upset if a 208 enters my collection. And I definitely would put it right to work.
I would add, for those that are not starting a collection, don't waste your money on microphone's you don't think will serve your long term needs. Buy what you NEED for the moment, then save for THE microphone that will meet your audio wedding dress dream.
Not a critic, just a suggestion: a timestamp would be lovely. I wish I could skip directly to the beheringer xm8500 (even though I know you do not like it for the price it comes).
Excellent. Nothing's wrong or in the wrong order. Personal choice. Most of us have no, or very limited choice in mics. SM58-Tops. Can't argue with that. I have several (all sound a little bit different from one another). but good all rounders. For, what these days, is very little outlay. Gotta be a good investment for anyone, especially newcomers.
my only issue with this list was the AKG D5, i'm not a studio guy i'm a live audio guy and to me the D5 is the best mic i own i have 3 of them, i dont use it much because people ask for sm58/sm57s more and i have a lot of those, and i like them of course but the D5 gives me the best fidelity, so much detail, my go to percussion, wind and backing vocals mic.
@@DarkCornerStudios I think that they don't want to spend anymore marketing budget on it. They send it out to a few creators and streamers when it released and after that, they just let the market do its thing. Shame because these mics are really cool and unique.
please add chapters no need to rush to put out a 59./10 hr video that no one cares except for 1 particular Mic which either they intend to purchase or already own. ..good job next time tjink do my viewers give ah fcuk ??? let me add skippable labeled chapters just in case for TLDR /TLDW subscribers bless
Is there a place we can download your chart or see the list with the rankings? Loved the video and want to go back and watch some of the reviews for the top tier microphones.
Pretty sure you're raving about the LS 208 (and that's what's in the flush test vid) but you introduce it as the 308 and that's what the graphic says. The 308's a side-address mic though.
Thanks for the time and effort put in here. I admit, I have a pair of C02 for field recording on the F3 and haven’t had a bad experience but mileage varies. I do see others on Reddit had similar opinions to yours but I got a great deal a set that was never used and took a chance. For what I spent, I am content for field recording nature sounds. Seeing the NT1 (which I have in front of me right now) at the top of the list made up for it ;) Was hoping to see where any cad equitek Mics would have landed on this list. Those mics seem to be a hit or miss with many. I like mine but I also like being the odd ball too
Not too many quibbles with your list from me, though I could never get the RE320 to sound good on my voice. Was a real bummer, I wanted to love it but I ended up selling it. Love the Worker Bee, price to performance (and value with that shock mount) puts it in god tier for me.
I totally concur, except the RE320 works for my voice. And coincidentally, I usually record my podcast with myself on the RE320, but always have my guests on the Worker Bee II. They rarely know anything about speaking in front of a mic, and yet they always sound great with it.
Good list but I think the LCT 440 Pure should be in god tier. The 440 might be the best budget condenser around. Totally underrated, slept on mic. The SM7B should be lower. I think the bulk of the SM7B's reputation comes from Joe Rogan using it and people mixing it up with the older, vintage SM7. (Which is a much better sounding mic.) The SM7B is very dark, somewhat muddy sounding mic that needs a lot of processing and a really good preamp to sound it's best. There's tons of great sounding budget mics these days that don't need either of those things.
I bought the NT-2A used from a guy who had it for 4 years. I had it for about 8, you usually get 10 year warranty. Something happened with the housing, like moisture got in and the mic stopped working. Rode repaired the whole thing without any questions or costs. Legendary company with a legendary mic.
I think you will be impressed by the fifine AM8 for XLR price to performance but the USB sounds to me a bit like it is low resolution and sounds like an old low quality MP3. I tested a lot of fifine and maono. Oh missed how old this video is 4 months ago... Also the arm that holds the mic is trash but mod it in my review cause it's easy and would be in my opinion dumb not to for the price of 2 washers being like 20 cents
I had to comment on this! WHAT AN INCREDIBLE AMOUNT OF WORK that went into this!!! WOW! Whether the list agrees with our personal taste or experiences,..who gives a flip!?!?!?! This is a fantastic list and really I think it couldn't be more fair and honest than it already is! I'm a big RE27 user as well as my backups to it, my RE20 and CM4 and it was cool to see the RE27 on the list. The fact that all of the links are provided to where these mics can be found and purchased is OUTSTANDING! Thanks for doing this!
I loved this video! I didn’t agree with some of it, but that’s half the fun 😊 As I’ve said before: It’s refreshing to hear that some stuff actually is rubbish. (Not the Samson Q9U, I love that one! 😄) Looking forward to future tier videos! ❤
I love how the Heil PR40 could either be a meh or best based on if it works on your voice or not. It really works for me but man is it just plain bad for others.
This is the TH-cam equivalent of a coffee table book. 😂Actually it would make a lovely coffee table book, i can see it, beautiful photography of microphones and your remarks in facsimile type writer font on the facing page. Legacy publishing. ❤
I'm obviously late to this video but I find myself in agreement with you on most of your analysis of these microphones. There could be another tier called total garbage and this is where I would place the Samson mics. The q9u could have been a much better mic but it was total crap! The sE should probably just recall all of the remaining v2 because of the absolutely unacceptable handling noise... Unfortunate as make great mics otherwise. Thank you for this video!
This alone made me a subscriber. Amazing work! We use the EV RE20's at the station i work at and i'm considering one for home, i'm also a music vocalist and like to record music at home along with voice over work. What's the best hybrid mic to go with in God Tier level? Thanks in advance for responding.
Great effort putting this all together 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼. I noticed no Sennheiser mic on this list. Am really interested in the Sennheiser E835 (seems to have excellent off-axis rejection) and the Sennheiser Mk4 for different reasons.
I think you did this spot on if including price to performance. You should do it again with no price to performance. Wishes you had the tried the Atlantis to put it up there. Love the 104 and the 208… the 104 now available in black 😍 The orders for me might be different but it’s not a price to performance reasoning. It was nice to see my thoughts are pretty much the same for this line up and nice to feel like I’ve made some good decisions when comparing them to your opinions… although, it’s never set in stone… you ideas and passion do the grunt of all work
Thank you! Very informative! Just a little note: This would have been so much easier to follow if the images had the make and model on them (at least an abbreviated version). I completely understand why it's not there though. :)
Got excited as I only use a usb mike and then I got disappointed right away. But hey thanks for letting us know early so we didn’t have to watch the video 👍
Correct me if I'm wrong but a about 3 years ago you reviewed the Behringer Xm1800s vs the Shure Sm58. You stated that sure, the Sm58 is better, but with a little Eq. the Xm1800s performed surprisingly well, (your words). In fact, many of the commenters preferred the sound of the Xm1800s! It's still the same mic. 3 years later, what gives?
@stevekupris4133 meh...not trying to be as nice as possible. Again...you may view things differently...and it really doesn't matter what the man on the internet says. Don't lose any sleep over it
I thought you had the sennheiser e835 and the shure sm57. I was expecting to see those in the tier list. Also, will you ever review the sennheiser mk4?
Bah...missed the e835. I knew that was gonna happen. As for the sm57...it was the mystery mic at the end I believe... As for the mk4...yeah...it's on my list
Since you revealed the mystery mic at the end was the SM57, I'm curious where you would have placed it? Also on the God tier with the SM58? I'm curious because I'm looking into adding an affordable instrument mic for acoustic guitar!
Thank you for all the detail! This really helps me to make a new decision after finally landing on the Rode Nt1 signature series.. that sadly was shockingly bad quality build( xlr pins and bottom of mic pulled and wobbled after 1st recording:(.. Back to drawing board. So, thanks to you I feel real choices: Was looking at NT1a and now very tempted, after your video, to head toward NT2a.. especially after you mentioned the Lewitt 440 being brighter and the NT2a possibly less post work as I’m reorienting Voice work:)).. sign me up:)). THANK you:)
I LMAO when you put the SM58 above all in god tier as I was unsure as to where in god tier you was going to put it. I have a bunch of these, these are workaholic mics sound amazing in the studio amazing in live performance brilliant for certain aspects of foley work along with the sm57 and like you said great for Podcasting I'm Shure that Shure, see what I did there? will be pleased with your review. great mic review keep them coming.
Don't think i disagreed with that much here. The 818 was a little high but i get it, esp if you haven't used a townsend/UA sphere. The company rep says that Maono is pronounced MONO. Funny how podcasters went for the RE320 yet it was intended as a cheaper instrument mic (hence the kick drum voicing switch). The mystery mic looked like an sm57... lets see if it is by the time i get to the end of the video. SM7B would have been decent in my book... for a mic for screaming vocals, def god tier, but as a caster mic... you need really good pre's or if you want to cheat with a little extra noise, you go with a cloudlifter... not a huge fan. RE20 definitely beats it. TLM 103... would have gone meh or avoid. Way too bright to be useful outside of a pristine environment. You think the Heil mic was sibilant... this is like THE sibilant king. lol The 87ai would have been in decent for me. The price is way too high. Comparatively, you could get 3 other mics that are just as good imo. The original circuit (u87i) was way better. Lol you didn't try the Pyle PDMIK1 if you think that behringer is the worst... you gotta have a go at that pyle of crap! NT1 was my first condenser when it first came out. Ceramic body, no writing on it. The label was hand written. Great mic!
This was fun to watch from beginning to end. I was surprised and happy to see your positive response to the LS-208. It's the one mic I own! So far, I've been very pleased with the purchase.
Hello Dylan sir I am very new into the world of mics and have not tried many yet but even I know that the SM58 does NOT belong in the God Tier with all of those other mics. It deserves its own tier above them. Despicable.
I'm a firm believer the the beta 58 for not much more money than a standard 58 is far superior. As an audio engineer I do understand the legend of the 58. But never do I get asked for it over the beta. I recently did sound for the guys from Sister Hazel. Ken actually wanted to buy my beta at the end of the night. He said he needed one for some reason. He has some already and probably sponsored too. I have a case with four each of the beta and regular 58. Also two 57s, a 57 beta and another 58 with a switch. 12 mics in the case and 12 slots. I told Ken I couldn't have an empty spot. Lol. But you need to seriously try my God tier mic. The earthworks sr20. For the price, variety of use, and sound nothing comes close. And I even told Ken that. Lol. It even beats my Neumann kms105 for live vocals.
Honestly, I would rate King Bee II a little higher, cause I had it some time ago and compared it amongst other ones with the RE20, and the sound was surprisingly pretty close :O
Thank you for the detailed overview. Its just like the summary of all those mic tests, you have done in the past. Sometimes, i dont agree with you, but i can understand your point because you explain why. From all the mics in you tier list, i have 1 God Tier, 2 Best and 1 Meh. The Samson GoMic is really good. You should try it, if you get hold of one. I use it on a Rode PSA-1 sometimes. It looks awkward, but it sounds so good, and if it is an audio call, no one cares ;).
I know it's an unpopular opinion, but I just can't see the SM7B as god tier. I own one and get some use out of it, but after I bought it, I couldn't believe it was a $400 mic. I think it's wildly overpriced for what it is.
I was looking for Maono PD400X, not up there. In India PD400x is priced at Rs. 10,000/- and PD200x at Rs. 4,000/-, do you think PD400X worth the price difference? (I don't need RGB). Thanks. Where would you put PD400x in the above list?
Hello friend, thank you very much for your videos, I am looking for a microphone to rap/trap in my room, and I am between the akgp120 and the rode nt1a, the truth is that in my house there is usually noise and I would like to buy the one that picks up less noise , but at the same time my voice is hoarse and deep, what should I do? The akgp120 would cost me 105 euros + a universal spider with a plastic anti-pop 129 euros while the rode nt1a would cost me 179 euros but it comes with its own spider and its own anti-pop, please I need help, I also thought about buying the akgp220 but they told me in Thotman that the rode nt1a is better for a home studio What do you think? At the moment I don't have acoustic walls, I have a Focusrite SOLO 3rd generation sound card. New sub on your channel and forgive my English, I'm Spanish. It would be a great favor for me if you responded as soon as possible because I am going to buy it now, greetings
Great list. Well done 👍🏻. The mics I’m familiar with match up pretty well. I especially think the NT2A is fantastic and severely underrated. I’m not familiar with the NT1. The NT1A is too harsh in the highs for my liking.
I have a zealsound microphone, a shure sm48, a behringer xm8500, Rode podmic(still need to send it back) tonor td510, and the podmic usb. Cant forget about my biggest mistake the blue yeti I live in New york it picks up everything in the city but it hives my voice a jazzy undertone which i didnt like
@@JamTime007 Yep but it was actually an NT1 with the white paint. My bad. AKG was better. I have edited the comment to correct that mistake. Thanks for your help.
I bought the nt1 (the original all black one) a couple years ago and to this day I still see videos that justify my purchase. It was my first microphone and I don't think I could've made a better choice.
btw the mic you left out was a shure sm57 not another beta58a because the beta doesnt have that line on the body, and you really missed that one on your list.
No Rode XDM 100 ranked? That's what I'm using now. I actually like the sound of the Sona for what it is and the fact that it can EQ nicely but my dream mic will always be the RE20.
when you started the list I was like Oh God !!! this is gonna be terrible ... your list is actually amazing, and I can't agree more with your decisions ... the only one I am so curious to try now is the LS 208. Great Video by the way, with all the links and time stamps ... perfect
Hey Aiden. I have a Video suggestion (Idea). Can you please make a Video about the Sound Design technics of Robert Dudzik? He mics with three mics on His table creating Sounds for movies, Games and so on. You can even make a series of this. Like "Sound Design Like Robert Dudzik but cheaper". I think you got the idea. May be we see some videos. Because sound Design is my main interest. Best wishes .
I'm very ignorant at this topic... I'm looking for a dynamic mic for vocals because my place is not acoustically treated and it can be noisy... The Rode Procaster got my attention, but I want it especially for livestreaming singing+guitar as a soloist, and most people seem to pick the Shure SM7b for that (or the SM58). Should I do the same or is there a better choice out there? Thank you for your content! Great video!
Glad you also love the u89. I have had one for a few years, and I just bought a mid-80s vintage one a few days ago! I don’t have a u87, but I love the u89 so much! Blessed to see it’s also appreciated by others! ♥️🙌🏽
I really enjoyed this video, I got to know microphones that I didn't know about before, and I agree with you, I'm an enthusiast and my first and only microphone so far is the NT1 4Gen)in teh video is the 5Gen) and really after a lot of research I decided on this one because of what you say, PRICE and the absurdly good quality that you have for that price, I didn't buy the NT2A because I didn't have the money and since I'm an enthusiast I wanted to have a decent microphone, seeing that you placed the microphone that I have so high, I'm really glad that a person like you helped me reaffirm that the microphone that I have right in front of me is one of the best decisions I've ever made. Good for you men, and thank you for you honest opinion.
Im so tempted to buy a blue sona cause of its look and its features but i need to stop buying muddy mics Im not that good with eq and 2 I need a clear mic if im buying anything at that price point
@@DarkCornerStudios I do want to get better but I have no clue what Im doing I mess with it too much that i either end up hating it or what I thought was good I listen back on it and was like why did i think it was good
thanks for the great video! I'm a big sm57 fan. where would you have placed that one if it were on your list? and btw your name is Dylan ok but who's that Dylan you often talk about? I'm gonna leave a sub now. great work
It was actually a joke...I am Aiden...and Dylan is my friend who works with me on this channel. As for the sm57...it is basically right beside the sm58! Cheers!
I'M SO OFFENDED YOU PUT MY FAVORITE MICROPHONE IN THE WRONG SPOT HOW DARE YOU AM NOW UNSUBSCRIBED!!!1 (j/k... I'm barely even 2 minutes into the video so far, but I am going to make some popcorn)
[Ranked List w/ Timestamps]
God Tier
58:10 Shure SM58
23:03 Lauten Audio LS208
27:35 Sennheiser MKH416
50:27 Neumann U89
37:03 Electrovoice RE20
29:48 Rode NT2a
56:40 Rode NT1/NT1 5th gen
10:50 Neumann BCM104
33:14 Austrian Audio OC818
45:20 Shure SM7B
50:03 Neumann U87ai
Best
55:48 Shure SM7dB
31:54 Austrian Audio OC16
14:52 AKG C414XLS
48:28 Neumann TLM102
12:35 Shure Beta58a
38:20 ElectroVoice RE320
26:50 RODE NTG3
34:50 Rode Podmic USB
37:47 ElectroVoice RE27
20:57 Lauten Audio LA220
49:02 Neumann TLM103
02:24 sE Dynacaster
03:05 AKG P120
Decent
04:35 AKG P220
22:00 Lewitt LCT440
32:35 Austrian Audio OC18
40:40 sE V7
54:54 Blue Spark SL
04:05 AKG P420
25:32 Maono PD200x
41:23 sE2200
01:23 AKG P820
05:14 AKG P170
08:06 Aston Origin
09:38 AudioTechnica AT4040
19:54 Neat Mics King Bee 2
39:40 sE Dynacaster DCM3/DCM6
43:40 Shure MV7
45:57 Tech Zone Audio Products Stellar X2
52:35 Neat Mics Worker Bee
Meh
52:58 Behringer XM8500
05:58 AKG D5
49:35 Heil PR40
08:52 Aston Stealth
11:37 Neumann BCM705
13:53 Blue Sona
42:38 sEx1S
53:55 Yellowtec iXM Podcaster
17:23 IsoMic
18:50 Fifine K688
24:05 Maono Au04
30:45 Synco Mic D2
34:11 Rode Podmic
51:40 Elgato Wave DX
39:04 Samson Q2u
44:54 Shure SM48
47:31 Apex 435B
Avoid At All Costs
06:30 T-Bone SC400
07:23 A.R.T AR5
16:15 Samson CO2
16:57 Scarlett DM14V
28:15 MXL770
28:46 AudioTechnica AT2040
46:50 Tascam TM70
35:38 Pyle PDMIC58
35:58 Samson Q9u/Q9x
42:06 sE V2
55:30 Behringer 1800s
Admirable...but damn...how long did this take you?
@@DarkCornerStudios About 1.5 hours. Also the NT2a chapter mark is missing around 29:48.
absolute legend
Nine thumbs up is a crime, but can't give more. Thank you!
Pin this comment
My mans put all the links to the microphone, the proper time stamps, and even segmented the video with descriptions too. GOAT.
I'm here for you
@@DarkCornerStudios I found that there is no chapter for Rode NT2A but you linked the timestamp in the description so thank you. The Rode NT2A is put in together with the 2040 chapter.
I strongly agree with your ranking, especially putting the SM58 at the top of the God list. I've got dozens of mics, including some of the more expensive ones (MKH 416, TLM103, etc.) and the bottom line is they're overkill for what most people need. I talked to somebody recently who said he wanted to start a podcast but can't afford a high end mic. I told him to just get an SM58 and focus on putting together an interesting show.
Nah. The SM58 is an absolutely goated mic. The only thing it sucks for is super loud sources.
I think the mic you couldn't figure out from the picture was the SM57. The image looks to be from where you can unscrew the capsule from the lower body.
Dammit I think you are right.
FWIW it is god tiered along side the 57.....
The last mic on your list, I think, is the Shure sm57. As for the Lauten LS208, while it may be a great microphone, I find it interesting that everyone I see using & raving about it, had it sent to them. Others, whom I know purchased with their own money, while still claim it is a good mic, count the cost as a major downside. So much so, it doesn't get a buy recommendation. All that said. I still LOVE you did your list. Everything you said was valid. It is your perspective. Which is exactly why these types of videos are so valuable. While not everyone's opinions are the same. It is invaluable to have open discussions, allowing individuals to see how products line up with their needs & use cases.
Dude...thank you so much for the Super!
Yeah...the cost is no joke...but from a musicians perspective, it is a fantastic mic that handles like an sm7b with the same Lauten Audio sculpting as their other mics that makes it particularly versatile.
In all honesty...I would buy another...however I do see the egregious price as a downfall...
Perhaps I should have dropped it a bit...hmmmmmm
I curious @libertyDude1775: what do your own ears tell you about the Lauten LS208? Does it sound better than a Electrovoice RE20? If it does... how much more would you pay for the better sound quality and sound rejection?
If I were to buy a forever mic today, I would battle it out between a Sennheiser MKH50; a Lewitt 640 TS; an AA OC818; or a Lauten Audio LS208.
@@DarkCornerStudioswhere you placed the LS208, because it is your list, is exactly where it should be. Anyone that disagrees, can make their own list. One's personal experiences, use cases and tonal desires, develop their own informed preferences. Your list was your perspective. Not a list based on what you thought your viewer's would think. While that might be a hilarious video to watch. I doubt it would be as accurate as just giving your own opinions. LoL. Keep doing what you're doing.
@@stiradofirst know I claim zero expertise. To date, all I use microphone's for is for spoken word applications only. The preponderance of my use cases need numerous microphones at one time. I rarely do solo talent productions. When I start adding up microphone cost, times four user's, additional cost consideration is exponential. One of my hobbies is collecting microphones. I don't have a, "one," forever mic perspective. But I don't have a LS208 in my collection yet. I personally don't comment on the sound quality of a microphone I haven't personally experienced. When I sit down to record on a mic, I feel most at home in front of my RE20. Yet it isn't always the right choice for every application I do. Nor on every voice I try to record. Trust me, I won't be upset if a 208 enters my collection. And I definitely would put it right to work.
I would add, for those that are not starting a collection, don't waste your money on microphone's you don't think will serve your long term needs. Buy what you NEED for the moment, then save for THE microphone that will meet your audio wedding dress dream.
The RE20 is definitely God-tier. I use mine daily...well worth the expense.
I am with you 100% on the LS208 - it is THEE mic for me
I just got the Lewitt 640 ts today :)
Not a critic, just a suggestion: a timestamp would be lovely. I wish I could skip directly to the beheringer xm8500 (even though I know you do not like it for the price it comes).
Yeah...I may put some in when I get a bit of time to micromanage it
Agreed thanks for breaking this down I got the Podtrack P4 based on your expertise
Excellent.
Nothing's wrong or in the wrong order. Personal choice. Most of us have no, or very limited choice in mics.
SM58-Tops. Can't argue with that. I have several (all sound a little bit different from one another). but good all rounders. For, what these days, is very little outlay.
Gotta be a good investment for anyone, especially newcomers.
my only issue with this list was the AKG D5, i'm not a studio guy i'm a live audio guy and to me the D5 is the best mic i own i have 3 of them, i dont use it much because people ask for sm58/sm57s more and i have a lot of those, and i like them of course but the D5 gives me the best fidelity, so much detail, my go to percussion, wind and backing vocals mic.
@earthworks needs to send you some gear. Would love to see where the Icon Pro and/or Ethos stack up on your list
I agree...got a hard no from them though....
Perhaps its my style?
Dunno
I call those mics the condenser sm7b and re20
@@DarkCornerStudios I think that they don't want to spend anymore marketing budget on it. They send it out to a few creators and streamers when it released and after that, they just let the market do its thing.
Shame because these mics are really cool and unique.
please add chapters no need to rush to put out a 59./10 hr video that no one cares except for 1 particular Mic which either they intend to purchase or already own. ..good job next time tjink do my viewers give ah fcuk ??? let me add skippable labeled chapters just in case for TLDR /TLDW subscribers bless
Is there a place we can download your chart or see the list with the rankings? Loved the video and want to go back and watch some of the reviews for the top tier microphones.
Why do you have to make me want to do this. AN HOUR? Seriously Aiden.....
That's why there are timestamps!!
I spent over 2 hours doing them just for you!
@@DarkCornerStudios Nope....watching the whole thing.
@@ObscureMics I admire your persistence
Pretty sure you're raving about the LS 208 (and that's what's in the flush test vid) but you introduce it as the 308 and that's what the graphic says. The 308's a side-address mic though.
Thanks for the time and effort put in here. I admit, I have a pair of C02 for field recording on the F3 and haven’t had a bad experience but mileage varies. I do see others on Reddit had similar opinions to yours but I got a great deal a set that was never used and took a chance. For what I spent, I am content for field recording nature sounds. Seeing the NT1 (which I have in front of me right now) at the top of the list made up for it ;)
Was hoping to see where any cad equitek Mics would have landed on this list. Those mics seem to be a hit or miss with many. I like mine but I also like being the odd ball too
Forgot to say my most used mics are my Hello Kitty microphone, Rode NT1 and Sennheiser MD405S.
I picked up two Maona PD200X mics for the kids. I think for kids that want a gaming mic, it's a great deal.
Great video. Watched the whole thing! Loved this!
Not too many quibbles with your list from me, though I could never get the RE320 to sound good on my voice. Was a real bummer, I wanted to love it but I ended up selling it. Love the Worker Bee, price to performance (and value with that shock mount) puts it in god tier for me.
I totally concur, except the RE320 works for my voice. And coincidentally, I usually record my podcast with myself on the RE320, but always have my guests on the Worker Bee II. They rarely know anything about speaking in front of a mic, and yet they always sound great with it.
I'm addicted researching a new mic for me, and mannn, I discovered your channel at the right moment!
Feeeeeeed the addiction!!
Lol
Good list but I think the LCT 440 Pure should be in god tier. The 440 might be the best budget condenser around. Totally underrated, slept on mic.
The SM7B should be lower. I think the bulk of the SM7B's reputation comes from Joe Rogan using it and people mixing it up with the older, vintage SM7. (Which is a much better sounding mic.) The SM7B is very dark, somewhat muddy sounding mic that needs a lot of processing and a really good preamp to sound it's best. There's tons of great sounding budget mics these days that don't need either of those things.
Pretty sure Billie's early mic (Ocean Eyes) was the AT 2020, not the AT 4040
I do not disagree with your SM7B placement
Since the Behringer group bought Aston....I believe it will become what you fear
Pity...they were on the verge of possible greatness
I bought the NT-2A used from a guy who had it for 4 years. I had it for about 8, you usually get 10 year warranty. Something happened with the housing, like moisture got in and the mic stopped working. Rode repaired the whole thing without any questions or costs. Legendary company with a legendary mic.
I think you will be impressed by the fifine AM8 for XLR price to performance but the USB sounds to me a bit like it is low resolution and sounds like an old low quality MP3. I tested a lot of fifine and maono. Oh missed how old this video is 4 months ago... Also the arm that holds the mic is trash but mod it in my review cause it's easy and would be in my opinion dumb not to for the price of 2 washers being like 20 cents
I had to comment on this! WHAT AN INCREDIBLE AMOUNT OF WORK that went into this!!! WOW! Whether the list agrees with our personal taste or experiences,..who gives a flip!?!?!?! This is a fantastic list and really I think it couldn't be more fair and honest than it already is! I'm a big RE27 user as well as my backups to it, my RE20 and CM4 and it was cool to see the RE27 on the list. The fact that all of the links are provided to where these mics can be found and purchased is OUTSTANDING! Thanks for doing this!
I loved this video! I didn’t agree with some of it, but that’s half the fun 😊 As I’ve said before: It’s refreshing to hear that some stuff actually is rubbish. (Not the Samson Q9U, I love that one! 😄)
Looking forward to future tier videos! ❤
I love how the Heil PR40 could either be a meh or best based on if it works on your voice or not.
It really works for me but man is it just plain bad for others.
This is the TH-cam equivalent of a coffee table book. 😂Actually it would make a lovely coffee table book, i can see it, beautiful photography of microphones and your remarks in facsimile type writer font on the facing page. Legacy publishing. ❤
Ohhhh...I just need a publisher!!
Did you give wrong number for the LS208? It’s great. Great review. Thanks
Yeah...I was pretty cloudy with the flu.
Got a few wrong.
Lol
@@DarkCornerStudios
LS 308 also is interesting. Super cariod ish. Thanks for your channel
I'm obviously late to this video but I find myself in agreement with you on most of your analysis of these microphones. There could be another tier called total garbage and this is where I would place the Samson mics. The q9u could have been a much better mic but it was total crap! The sE should probably just recall all of the remaining v2 because of the absolutely unacceptable handling noise... Unfortunate as make great mics otherwise. Thank you for this video!
This alone made me a subscriber. Amazing work! We use the EV RE20's at the station i work at and i'm considering one for home, i'm also a music vocalist and like to record music at home along with voice over work. What's the best hybrid mic to go with in God Tier level? Thanks in advance for responding.
Great effort putting this all together 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼. I noticed no Sennheiser mic on this list. Am really interested in the Sennheiser E835 (seems to have excellent off-axis rejection) and the Sennheiser Mk4 for different reasons.
I wish the Tula mic was on this list. It’s so good. Would have loved to hear your thoughts.
I think you did this spot on if including price to performance.
You should do it again with no price to performance.
Wishes you had the tried the Atlantis to put it up there.
Love the 104 and the 208… the 104 now available in black 😍
The orders for me might be different but it’s not a price to performance reasoning.
It was nice to see my thoughts are pretty much the same for this line up and nice to feel like I’ve made some good decisions when comparing them to your opinions… although, it’s never set in stone… you ideas and passion do the grunt of all work
Thank you! Very informative! Just a little note: This would have been so much easier to follow if the images had the make and model on them (at least an abbreviated version). I completely understand why it's not there though. :)
I finally hit buy it now on the SM58.... Time to retire the Samson Q2U
Got excited as I only use a usb mike and then I got disappointed right away. But hey thanks for letting us know early so we didn’t have to watch the video 👍
Love my NT-1, have it behind a Studio V3 mic amp which yields even better warmth.
Correct me if I'm wrong but a about 3 years ago you reviewed the Behringer Xm1800s vs the Shure Sm58. You stated that sure, the Sm58 is better, but with a little Eq. the Xm1800s performed surprisingly well, (your words). In fact, many of the commenters preferred the sound of the Xm1800s! It's still the same mic. 3 years later, what gives?
@stevekupris4133 meh...not trying to be as nice as possible.
Again...you may view things differently...and it really doesn't matter what the man on the internet says.
Don't lose any sleep over it
I thought you had the sennheiser e835 and the shure sm57. I was expecting to see those in the tier list. Also, will you ever review the sennheiser mk4?
Bah...missed the e835.
I knew that was gonna happen.
As for the sm57...it was the mystery mic at the end I believe...
As for the mk4...yeah...it's on my list
Since you revealed the mystery mic at the end was the SM57, I'm curious where you would have placed it? Also on the God tier with the SM58? I'm curious because I'm looking into adding an affordable instrument mic for acoustic guitar!
Oh the 57 is right up there with the 58.
And yes...it is a fantastic mic for any instrument...including acoustic
God tier? Messiah mic.
Which one top 3 cheapest on the GOD TIER list, thank you sir
It seems that you forgot NT1 5th generation ...Which cell will he be in?
I decided to just run with one NT1.
It would be one space ahead of the Signature Series to be honest...
Thank you for all the detail! This really helps me to make a new decision after finally landing on the Rode Nt1 signature series.. that sadly was shockingly bad quality build( xlr pins and bottom of mic pulled and wobbled after 1st recording:(.. Back to drawing board. So, thanks to you I feel real choices: Was looking at NT1a and now very tempted, after your video, to head toward NT2a.. especially after you mentioned the Lewitt 440 being brighter and the NT2a possibly less post work as I’m reorienting Voice work:)).. sign me up:)). THANK you:)
I LMAO when you put the SM58 above all in god tier as I was unsure as to where in god tier you was going to put it. I have a bunch of these, these are workaholic mics sound amazing in the studio amazing in live performance brilliant for certain aspects of foley work along with the sm57 and like you said great for Podcasting I'm Shure that Shure, see what I did there? will be pleased with your review. great mic review keep them coming.
Don't think i disagreed with that much here. The 818 was a little high but i get it, esp if you haven't used a townsend/UA sphere.
The company rep says that Maono is pronounced MONO.
Funny how podcasters went for the RE320 yet it was intended as a cheaper instrument mic (hence the kick drum voicing switch).
The mystery mic looked like an sm57... lets see if it is by the time i get to the end of the video.
SM7B would have been decent in my book... for a mic for screaming vocals, def god tier, but as a caster mic... you need really good pre's or if you want to cheat with a little extra noise, you go with a cloudlifter... not a huge fan. RE20 definitely beats it.
TLM 103... would have gone meh or avoid. Way too bright to be useful outside of a pristine environment. You think the Heil mic was sibilant... this is like THE sibilant king. lol
The 87ai would have been in decent for me. The price is way too high. Comparatively, you could get 3 other mics that are just as good imo. The original circuit (u87i) was way better.
Lol you didn't try the Pyle PDMIK1 if you think that behringer is the worst... you gotta have a go at that pyle of crap!
NT1 was my first condenser when it first came out. Ceramic body, no writing on it. The label was hand written. Great mic!
This was fun to watch from beginning to end. I was surprised and happy to see your positive response to the LS-208. It's the one mic I own! So far, I've been very pleased with the purchase.
Hello Dylan sir I am very new into the world of mics and have not tried many yet but even I know that the SM58 does NOT belong in the God Tier with all of those other mics. It deserves its own tier above them. Despicable.
I'm a firm believer the the beta 58 for not much more money than a standard 58 is far superior. As an audio engineer I do understand the legend of the 58. But never do I get asked for it over the beta. I recently did sound for the guys from Sister Hazel. Ken actually wanted to buy my beta at the end of the night. He said he needed one for some reason. He has some already and probably sponsored too.
I have a case with four each of the beta and regular 58. Also two 57s, a 57 beta and another 58 with a switch. 12 mics in the case and 12 slots. I told Ken I couldn't have an empty spot. Lol.
But you need to seriously try my God tier mic. The earthworks sr20. For the price, variety of use, and sound nothing comes close. And I even told Ken that. Lol.
It even beats my Neumann kms105 for live vocals.
Good reviews. How come you shy away from the Chrome Elvis retro mics for reviews? Cheers from Montreal!!
@@blakecamp5848 huh...weird...did I forget the Shure 55SH here?
@@DarkCornerStudios "Yuppers " he said blowing the foam of a Moose Head ale
Lol I came just to see where you put my mic, the sm58, and I am pleased. I use it for everything.
@@LoafingMushroom you have chosen......wisely
Honestly, I would rate King Bee II a little higher, cause I had it some time ago and compared it amongst other ones with the RE20, and the sound was surprisingly pretty close :O
Thank you for the detailed overview. Its just like the summary of all those mic tests, you have done in the past. Sometimes, i dont agree with you, but i can understand your point because you explain why. From all the mics in you tier list, i have 1 God Tier, 2 Best and 1 Meh. The Samson GoMic is really good. You should try it, if you get hold of one. I use it on a Rode PSA-1 sometimes. It looks awkward, but it sounds so good, and if it is an audio call, no one cares ;).
Amazing review, thank you
I know it's an unpopular opinion, but I just can't see the SM7B as god tier. I own one and get some use out of it, but after I bought it, I couldn't believe it was a $400 mic. I think it's wildly overpriced for what it is.
Blasphemy. You're a heretic.
rode procaster not include?
I was looking for Maono PD400X, not up there. In India PD400x is priced at Rs. 10,000/- and PD200x at Rs. 4,000/-, do you think PD400X worth the price difference? (I don't need RGB). Thanks. Where would you put PD400x in the above list?
Hello friend, thank you very much for your videos, I am looking for a microphone to rap/trap in my room, and I am between the akgp120 and the rode nt1a, the truth is that in my house there is usually noise and I would like to buy the one that picks up less noise , but at the same time my voice is hoarse and deep, what should I do? The akgp120 would cost me 105 euros + a universal spider with a plastic anti-pop 129 euros while the rode nt1a would cost me 179 euros but it comes with its own spider and its own anti-pop, please I need help, I also thought about buying the akgp220 but they told me in Thotman that the rode nt1a is better for a home studio
What do you think?
At the moment I don't have acoustic walls, I have a Focusrite SOLO 3rd generation sound card.
New sub on your channel and forgive my English, I'm Spanish.
It would be a great favor for me if you responded as soon as possible because I am going to buy it now, greetings
Great list. Well done 👍🏻. The mics I’m familiar with match up pretty well. I especially think the NT2A is fantastic and severely underrated. I’m not familiar with the NT1. The NT1A is too harsh in the highs for my liking.
I have a zealsound microphone, a shure sm48, a behringer xm8500, Rode podmic(still need to send it back) tonor td510, and the podmic usb. Cant forget about my biggest mistake the blue yeti I live in New york it picks up everything in the city but it hives my voice a jazzy undertone which i didnt like
Had C414 and Rode NT1 at the same time. AKG was a little dark but still mopped up the Rode.
Yep, but NT1a is not the same as NT1.
@@JamTime007 Yep but it was actually an NT1 with the white paint. My bad. AKG was better. I have edited the comment to correct that mistake. Thanks for your help.
I love SM58's, I also love SM57's. But what I really like are Weymic clones. I've snuck these into plenty of sessions and nobody noticed.
where would u put at2035 in this list
I bought the nt1 (the original all black one) a couple years ago and to this day I still see videos that justify my purchase. It was my first microphone and I don't think I could've made a better choice.
Best is earthworks icon and ethos period
the fifine k688 has XLR option tho
legend
sE mics are really under rated and under represented. You should check out the sE RNR1 & Gemini II, sE 8’s stereo pairs are also great
No chapters? I don't have the time.
Lol...getting to them tonight...sick as hell last week
@@DarkCornerStudios Valid point. Feel better! Just bought an MKH 50. Excited.
I'm also looked for end notes and a bibliography.
I think the sE V2 is meant to be an instrument microphone, snare,percussion, brass, guitar amps, therefore no handling problems in fixed position
So much useful info in this.
OC818 for the money is insane value. I would put it up against mics that cost 8-10 times what it costs.
YEAH! TIER LIST!
They're oddly therapeutic for me.
btw the mic you left out was a shure sm57 not another beta58a because the beta doesnt have that line on the body, and you really missed that one on your list.
Raaaaaar! I thought you had reviewed the Procaster - there you go.
Lol...nope.
Oddly too...pretty sure Rode would send me one if I asked.
There are just SO MANY mics to review...so little time...(and money)
You should I mean it's hard to be considerd a serious microphone review channel without a Shure SM7B vs Procaster vs SM58 review .😂
@@Andrewc87563 well if you put it that way....
@@DarkCornerStudios Bww
wahhahhaa
The OC 818 OC 18 and OC 16 will dominate mics going forward I feel
No Rode XDM 100 ranked? That's what I'm using now.
I actually like the sound of the Sona for what it is and the fact that it can EQ nicely but my dream mic will always be the RE20.
These are only xlr mics
when you started the list I was like Oh God !!! this is gonna be terrible ... your list is actually amazing, and I can't agree more with your decisions ... the only one I am so curious to try now is the LS 208.
Great Video by the way, with all the links and time stamps ... perfect
Cheers!
Glad you liked it.
I was nervous doing g this...lol
Hey Aiden.
I have a Video suggestion (Idea).
Can you please make a Video about the Sound Design technics of Robert Dudzik?
He mics with three mics on His table creating Sounds for movies, Games and so on.
You can even make a series of this. Like "Sound Design Like Robert Dudzik but cheaper".
I think you got the idea. May be we see some videos. Because sound Design is my main interest.
Best wishes .
Yeah...it has been an idea for some time.
Sound design is a bit niche...and not as easy as you might think...but i will be taking a chance on it soon
Thanks. It was fun. No complaints here.
I'm very ignorant at this topic... I'm looking for a dynamic mic for vocals because my place is not acoustically treated and it can be noisy... The Rode Procaster got my attention, but I want it especially for livestreaming singing+guitar as a soloist, and most people seem to pick the Shure SM7b for that (or the SM58). Should I do the same or is there a better choice out there?
Thank you for your content! Great video!
I'd recommend the RE20 personally.
Hey, Dylan! Thanks for this. So many mics. So little money(-: Have you ever used a Rode NT2000? I got one used and can't find much about it on u tube.
No I have not!
It's been on my list for some time.
One of these days I will get it
Glad you also love the u89. I have had one for a few years, and I just bought a mid-80s vintage one a few days ago! I don’t have a u87, but I love the u89 so much! Blessed to see it’s also appreciated by others! ♥️🙌🏽
I really enjoyed this video, I got to know microphones that I didn't know about before, and I agree with you, I'm an enthusiast and my first and only microphone so far is the NT1 4Gen)in teh video is the 5Gen) and really after a lot of research I decided on this one because of what you say, PRICE and the absurdly good quality that you have for that price, I didn't buy the NT2A because I didn't have the money and since I'm an enthusiast I wanted to have a decent microphone, seeing that you placed the microphone that I have so high, I'm really glad that a person like you helped me reaffirm that the microphone that I have right in front of me is one of the best decisions I've ever made. Good for you men, and thank you for you honest opinion.
@@claudioherrera1001 cheers!
Im so tempted to buy a blue sona cause of its look and its features but i need to stop buying muddy mics Im not that good with eq and 2 I need a clear mic if im buying anything at that price point
Counterpoint.
Only gonna get better at EQing if you are forced to do it
@@DarkCornerStudios I do want to get better but I have no clue what Im doing I mess with it too much that i either end up hating it or what I thought was good I listen back on it and was like why did i think it was good
I want a microphone to record the ambient sounds of audience inside and outside for events, what would you suggest?
Depends on how loud it gets...but a couple lauten la120 with the omni capsules would sound great.
A cheaper option might be the h4n pro
podmic usb or dcm8?
Man, I love the Aston Stealth. I have three of them
So it is a clip show? Or is it a reunion show?
This would be a fun live video. The debates in the comments would be epic
Make the usb video a live one...bahahahaha....all in the bottom
The dynacaster is defin. a God Tier
thanks for the great video! I'm a big sm57 fan. where would you have placed that one if it were on your list? and btw your name is Dylan ok but who's that Dylan you often talk about? I'm gonna leave a sub now. great work
It was actually a joke...I am Aiden...and Dylan is my friend who works with me on this channel.
As for the sm57...it is basically right beside the sm58!
Cheers!
@@DarkCornerStudios ah wow I see 😂 I think I'll get it once I'm familiar with your channel 😜 thanks for your response! ❤️
@@azzydog lol...all good.
There were a few people thrown off by that
Great job, and so much work. Good luck with the comments.
Bahahahahaha...not so bad so far...
Most people are just whining about chapters...sigh
YELL....!!!!
✌😎🤘
I'M SO OFFENDED YOU PUT MY FAVORITE MICROPHONE IN THE WRONG SPOT HOW DARE YOU AM NOW UNSUBSCRIBED!!!1
(j/k... I'm barely even 2 minutes into the video so far, but I am going to make some popcorn)
Lol...if I haven't offended someone...have I even released a video?
Extra butter please
Great video. Great list.