Quality voice acting does not only depend on the voice actors’ remarkable voice and good enunciation. One of the most essential tools that voice acting needs is a quality and durable microphone.
A wide range of microphones that are used for voice acting are offered in the markets today. The Internet alone gives the consumers a wide selection of these tools. Given that there are a lot of choices, a voiceover talent must be wise in choosing the equipment that suits his needs. One has to remember that it’s not always about the looks and its price. It must always be about the quality.
As a voice actor, you do not need to spend a great deal of money just to sound like you have recorded your project in a professional studio. Obviously, professional studios use expensive equipment that possesses superb quality features. But if you do your research, you will discover that there are tools that offer the same quality recordings for a lesser and a much cheaper price.
We have listed the top 5 microphones that are voice-over talents, studios, and tech sites suggested. The list comes with the best rates that we found where you can buy each microphone online.
Sennheiser MKH 416
Let us have the Sennheiser MKH-416 to start up the list. Tagged as the “The Hollywood Mic,” this shotgun microphone is usually used in professional studios and television sets. The price ranges from $1199 to $1299. The microphone is exceptional when it comes to feedback rejection. Users have commended the product for it is durable, lightweight, easy to use, and of course, it has a great sound quality.
Audio Technica AT2020
Compact? Versatile? Easy to use with a good audio? Audio Technica AT2020 is the one that you’re looking for! This cardioid condenser mic is the cheapest in the list. For an incredibly low price range of $100 to $150, AT2020 offers a rich, round and commercial sound that is similar to what you will get from a large diaphragm condenser microphone.
Rode NTK
Rode NTK is a large-diaphragm condenser that provides a warm hearable recording. Tube mics normally costs about $3000 and Rode NTK is the smartest choice for it is the least expensive model of its type, costing around $529. Like the aforementioned microphones, this equipment is praised for its durability, versatility, compactness, and the great audio that it can give.
Rode NT1A
The Rode NT1A is what voiceover talent wannabes will get. Present in all the lists of recommended microphones, this flat mic is priced at $229 and will make a great first voiceover mic. It is best for recording vocals and provides high quality recordings. Definitely a good choice when you want to purchase a neutral sounding microphone.
Neumann TLM103
Neumann U87 which is everyone’s bet has a relative that is less expensive, and that is Neumann TLM103. Though it is less adaptable than U87, it still has a broad range and it is perfect for professional broadcasters. This equipment is up for the challenge of picking up even the most subtle sound of the voice. Neumann TLM103 can be very audio sensitive.
Purchasing quality equipment to use for your voice over acting career may hurt your budget but if you consider these microphones (plus other accessories that you actually need to provide along with them) as investments, it will not be as painful. Investing in these quality products may help you in the long run and will actually help you start producing voiceovers with professional qualities. Microphones echoing your development and success would be such a pleasant sound to your ears in the future.
How about you? What microphones do you use and what do you like about it? Share it with us!
