You’re finally done with your original composition and it’s time to play it perfectly and record it. Do you use an ordinary microphone to record your acoustic guitar play or do you need a special recording device? What do professionals do?
Professional recording artists use a special microphone called an acoustic guitar mic for recording. This type of microphone has specialized features that can capture audio and at the same time reduce interference. There are different kinds of acoustic guitar mics but the most popular ones are cardioid mics that isolate other signals resulting in pure duplication of the sound. This type of mic for acoustic guitar recording and more are available in our top list. Check it out.
What are the best mics for acoustic guitar recording?
1. Sennheiser E609 Super-Cardioid Instrument Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Best Super Cardioid Instrument Microphone from Sennheiser
Sennheiser Pro Audio is a popular brand of audio equipment and the E609 Silver Super cardioid mic is one of their best instrument recording devices. Inside this cardioid microphone is a powerful neodymium ferrous magnet along with boron that will keep this microphone stable no matter what climate.
The super-cardioid system isolates the sound input from all other signals to give you a pure replication of the sound. The mic handle and head are made from metal and are very reliable. This comes with a lateral design that eliminates the need to use a clip. You may also hang this from a mic stand or cabinet. It’s one of the most efficient with a 3000 to 6000 Hz midrange peak that takes instruments genuine characteristics.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – handheld or mounted
- Technology – cardioid microphone with neodymium ferrous magnet and boron
- Material – metal
- Good Features – super-cardioid system, with a lateral design
- Accessories – zippered bag
2. Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Best Cardioid Vocal Mic from Shure
The Shure SMS58 – LC is a cardioid dynamic vocal and instrument microphone. That’s designed for expert use. It’s a microphone for live performances, studio recording, and for efficient sound reinforcement. This microphone provides a 50 to 15000 Hz frequency response ideal for vocals. You will get brighter effects and bass ideal for guitar playing.
Inside this Shure, the mic is a dynamic cartridge with a cardioid polarized design. It is very effective in capturing sound thanks to its spherical filter that reduces wind and breathing noises.
The unidirectional pickup can take the main sound and reduces background noises. This recording mic has a rugged construction with a shock-mount design, steel mesh screen that protects the mic components despite rough, regular use. It can be used indoors or outdoors.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – dynamic
- Technology – cardioid polar pattern, unidirectional dynamic,
- Material – metal
- Good Features – with spherical filter, shock/mount system,
- Accessories – with replacement cartridge, built-in filter
3. LUVAY Acoustic Guitar Pickup, Piezo Contact Mic Transducer
Editor’s Rating: 4.3 out of 5
Best Piezo Pickup Mic from LUVAY
The Luvay Acoustic Pickup and Piezo Contact Mic and Transducer is ideal for musical instruments like an acoustic guitar, mandolin, violin, ukulele, cello, banjo, kalimba, and the harp. This is easy to install as you just need to stick it near the soundhole of the guitar. It has a special adhesive that allows it to be used and reused many times.
The Luvay Acoustic has a compact design that is very easy to use. It does not require any batteries and you don’t need to drill a hole on the guitar. You can use it on your guitar today and remove it after your performance and use it on other instruments you play.
Compared to built-in microphones and pickups, this acoustic pickup can capture clear, crisp sounds. No squealing, feedback, and muddy sound. You’ll get only the best sound all the time.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – mini compact design
- Technology – uses Piezo contact transducer
- Material – plastic and metal
- Good Features – easy to install and reinstall, with self-adhesive, with 10 feet cable for amplifier and stickers
- Accessories – cables and stickers
4. Imelod Guitar Pickup Contact Mic/Transducer for Ukulele and Guitars
Editor’s Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Best Guitar Pickup & Contact Mic from Imelod
The Imelod Guitar Pickup Contact Mic- Transducer is not just for an acoustic guitar. It’s also for other instruments like a violin, banjo, mandolin, kalimba, and cello. It provides a clear and crispy sound that you can turn up or turn down thanks to its built-in volume control. This also helps prevent squealing noise due to feedback.
This microphone is very easy to install as you only need to locate the best spot, remove the sticker cover, and stick it to the area. Use the connector cord and just play your instrument. It does not require any batteries which can affect your instrument.
The Imelod acoustic guitar microphone is also versatile as it can work for both acoustic and classical guitars. The mic pickup of this device works by absorbing the sound directly from its source. This minimizes interference as well as refracted sounds coming from other sources.
You can take this pocket-sized acoustic guitar mic anywhere. You will also get a very long 10 feet amp cable with a standard ¼ plug plus extra stickers or mounting pads.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – contact mic transducer
- Technology – pickup and mic transducer
- Material – plastic and metal
- Good Features – with volume control, easy installation, does not need batteries, pocket-sized device
- Accessories – with 10 feet of amp cable, ¼ inch plug, 4 pcs mounting pads/stickers
5. Shure SM57-LC Cardioid Dynamic Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Best Cardioid Dynamic Mic from Shure
The Shure SM57-LC is a dynamic cardioid mic that’s available without cable, in a mic bundle, or with an XLR to USB adapter. This uses contoured frequency creating clean reproduction of the original music or voice. The results are professional-quality as you can easily hear and differentiate drums, other percussion instruments, and amps.
The cardioid pickup isolates the audio source as it blocks background noise. Because this mic is from Shure, you can guarantee a very durable product even when frequently used. This mic can be used to record instrument sound as well as vocals with extreme accuracy. It’s why many people are sure about Shure.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – handheld mic
- Technology – cardioid dynamic microphone
- Material – metal
- Good Features – frequency response of 40 to 15000 Hz, contoured frequency, uniform cardioid pickup, very durable
- Accessories – available with or without a cable, in a bundle and an XLR to USB adapter
6. CLOUDVOCAL Wireless USB Mic for Instruments
Editor’s Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Best Wireless Mic for Guitar from CLOUDVOCAL
This is a wireless microphone ideal for recording instruments and vocals. It is capable of replicating studio-quality music no matter where you are. It can help you record on your phone or your laptop with the USB receiver.
Replicate any sound and get the most accurate replication. It comes with a noise-canceling quality that will block all unwanted noise. The mic comes with a gooseneck design that comes with a fine-tuning feature.
Just like most USB devices, this is a plug and play device. You don’t need to drill your instrument or use lengthy wires. All you need to do is to clip this near the soundhole and you’re ready to record. With this portable CLOUDVOCAL wireless mic, you can record music with your instrument no matter where you are.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – wireless USB mic
- Technology – plug and play USB recording system
- Material – metal and plastic
- Good Features – gooseneck mic, no need for wires, very small and compact, record directly on your device, phone or laptop, rechargeable lithium battery, no need for driver
- Accessories – with portable recording receiver, transmitter, adhesives for string instruments, and USB cable.
7. HEIMU Clip-on Instrument Microphone Condenser
Editor’s Rating: 4 out of 5
Best Clip-on Condenser Microphone in HEIMU
The HEIMU clip-on acoustic guitar and instrument condenser and microphone is ideal for the live recording of different musical instruments including mandolins, dobros, ukuleles, and all kind of string instruments. It is mounted on the instrument and may be maneuvered with one hand.
The sound is very natural compared to internal mics or pickup systems.
This clip-on microphone is very versatile. You can use this with other systems or upgrade to a better or more complex system just by changing or switching the adapter. The universal clip made for guitars will allow you to use this mic on different guitars and for other string instruments. You will find bundles with different clips like for cellos, clarinets, drums, flutes, saxophones, violins, and voice or vocals.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – clip-on mic for instruments
- Technology – condenser mic
- Material – metal and plastic
- Good Features – because of its adapter, there’s an unlimited placement for this mic
- Accessories – with universal clip, long adapter and installation tool
8. ZINGYOU Condenser Mic Bundle
Editor’s Rating: 3.8 out of 5
Best Professional Condenser Mic and Cardioid Studio Mic Set
The ZINGYOU Condenser Mic Bundle is a kit with all the equipment you need to create your music studio at home. The star of this bundle is the BM-800 microphone with a thin material capsule or diaphragm that vibrates and takes the signal to any output when this is connected or engaged. This studio mic replicates sound accurately and thus you’ll hear what you play or say in the most precise manner.
The ZINGYOU condenser mic is ideal for instruments and vocal recordings. Its wide frequency
The response has made it a good mic to record vocals and will even capture all nuances that are present in different instruments.
Your recordings will benefit from its low-noise recording which will result in reduced distortion. This mic has three-layer protection that stops any unwanted popping. This set comes with adjustable suspension scissor arms, a double-layer pop filter, shock mount, cables, and many more. Installation won’t be too difficult as it comes with a detailed assembly video and has a 30-day service warranty and a 1-year warranty.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – professional recording mic and bundle
- Technology – Sensitive diaphragm that vibrates and sends signals to any output
- Material – metal, plastic, etc.
- Good Features – complete set of studio equipment, with three-layer protection to avoid popping sounds, wide frequency response
- Accessories – adjustable microphone suspension scissors arm, double-layer pop filter, shock mounts, and hardware.
9. MOVO MV-M1 Dynamic XLR Cardioid Vocal Handheld Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Best Handheld Cardioid Microphone for Instruments and Performances from Movo
The Movo MV-M1 is a uni-directional dynamic mic with a wide frequency, high sensitivity, and high response. This is a dynamic XLR cardioid vocal microphone but it is also for instrument recording as well as a live recording.
With the Movo, you will get excellent sound replication. You don’t need to install batteries as it has an off and on the switch. This comes with a warranty and with any questions, it’s best to contact their helpful customer service.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – handheld microphone
- Technology – Dynamic XLR cardioid
- Material – plastic and metal
- Good Features – needs no power, comes with one – year warranty
- Accessories – none
10. IK Multimedia iRig Acoustic Guitar Mic
Editor’s Rating: 3.4 out of 5
Best Acoustic Guitar Mic Interface for Smartphone from IK Multimedia
The IK Multimedia comes with the iRig, an acoustic guitar mic ideal for smartphone users. It is a very compact device, works like a clip-on mic for an acoustic guitar. This connects and records to your smartphone and an iPad.
The iRig has an extended frequency at 15 Hz to 20 kHz and thus, this will fit almost all kinds of musical instruments from acoustic guitars to flutes and cellos. It also fits any acoustic instrument and with its headphone output, you can immediately listen to your saved recordings.
Tech Specs
- Mic Design – clip-on mic
- Technology – easily connect to smartphone devices
- Material – plastic and metal
- Good Features – easy to install, extended frequency, connects to your smartphone quickly, with headphone input.
- Accessories – adjustable microphone suspension scissors arm, double-layer pop filter, shock mounts, and hardware.
Value Section
Buyer’s Guide
How to choose the best mic for acoustic guitar recording?
Remember the following when shopping for the best acoustic guitar recording microphone
- The microphone design
You may have noticed that there are different acoustic guitar mics for recording music. There are basic handheld microphones, clip-on mics, and stick on microphones. Learn all about these different types of microphones that you can use with your acoustic guitar and your output devices. Also, each one has a different quality production of sound.
- Mic technology
If you want to record a clearer and more professional-sounding audio then it’s best to use high quality updated technology. Year after year, new and better audio technologies are developed and this includes enhanced audio types. A high-quality mic with the latest technology will be a good investment especially when you plan to make acoustic guitar recording a full-time hobby or a professional activity.
- Accessories
Almost all microphones on our list have accessories. Most have wires, bags, adaptors, and instructional materials. Some like the microphones for studio comes with complete studio accessories and equipment such as an adjustable microphone suspension scissors arm, double-layer pop filter, shock mounts, and other studio hardware. It’s better to use brand-recommended equipment rather than build your recording studio from mismatched equipment.
- Warranty
Consider the warranty on the product you’re purchasing. A longer warranty or return guarantee gives you more value for your money.
- Budget
How much are you planning to spend on a microphone for your acoustic guitar? As with audio equipment, you’ll get what you pay for. If you have an unlimited budget then you can afford the best quality equipment.
FAQ
• Which microphone is best for recording guitar?
It’s difficult to decide which microphone is the best for recording the acoustic guitar because all the mics included in our list are good quality and will give the best results. But if you were to check out what consumers say online, the best one would be the Sennheiser Pro Audio E609 Silver Super cardioid mic.
Many liked this microphone because of its great sound replication, good design, and quality materials. Thanks to this microphone’s powerful neodymium ferrous magnet with boron, this device will give you uniform results no matter what climate. The super-cardioid system can give you a pure replication of your acoustic guitars sound. This microphone reduces feedback, eliminates unwanted environment noise, and can be used using a stand or maybe hung instead. Best of all, it works with all types of acoustic guitars and even other instruments.
• How do I record my acoustic guitar mic?
To record with a traditional acoustic guitar mic, you need to plug the mic to a receiver using a microphone input cable. From the receiver, a recording device may be set up like a DVD recorder or a tape recorder.
Updated recording microphone connects directly to a device like your computer or your smartphone and the sound captured by the mic is immediately recorded by your computer and the file stored in your hard disk or through cloud storage. If you’re unsure how a type of microphone records your music, check out the instruction manual or contact customer support to guide you.
• How do you mic a guitar amp for recording?
To install a mic to a guitar amp for recording, first, choose the best microphone. We recommend a Shure SM57 or a Sennheiser for the job. Use a mic stand or arm to hold the microphone close to the guitar amp speaker.
Where to place the mic? A good place to place a dynamic microphone is between the center of the speaker cone and the edge. The microphone capsule needs to point directly to the speaker with just a few cms of room between the microphone and the speaker grille cloth.
Take note: when you move the mic closer to the speaker’s amp, the bass frequencies will increase. Move the mic further and you will reduce the bass response of the tone.
When you position the mic sideways and nearer the edge, you will greatly reduce the midrange and the upper-middle frequencies. And placing the mic near the center will emphasize these frequencies.
When you install a mic at 45 degrees, you will calm shrilling high frequencies but still, it depends on the mic that you’re using. Everything may sound confusing at first so simply following these tips.
- Just point the microphone directly at your amp speakers until you have the best distance and the microphone position from the cone.
- If you want more bass, move the mic towards the speaker. If the sound has too much boom then move the mic back.
- If you want more midrange sound, place the mic nearer the speaker’s center. To create a darker sound, move the mic near the edge of the speaker.
- To fine-tune the sounds, angle the mic at 45 degrees.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best mic for acoustic guitar recording this year, we chose the Sennheiser Pro Audio’s E609 Silver Super cardioid mic. We have several reasons why this is our best mic for recording jobs.
First, it comes with a strong neodymium ferrous magnet along with boron that stabilizes the microphone no matter what weather what climate. With the super-cardioid system, all the sound input from all other signals are isolated for a pure replication of the sound. It is also made from the best material for durability with the handle and head made from metal.
This Sennheiser mic comes with a lateral design that reduces the need for a clip. It has a 3000 to 6000 Hz midrange peak that replicates instruments’ genuine characteristics. You’ll get genuine sounds and great recordings with this Sennheiser recording mic. We recommend using the Sennheiser Pro Audio E6096 for recording acoustic guitar play as well as other musical instruments. If you think that the Sennheiser Pro Audio E6096 is the right acoustic guitar recording mic for you, check this product out from this link.
