The Top 5 Best Live Vocal Cardioid Microphones in 2024 (Ratings/Reviews)

Hey there! If you’re in the market for a professional microphone for live performances, you’ve come to the right place. In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at four popular options: the Shure SM86, Samson CS Series, Audio-Technica AE6100, and AKG C7. Each of these microphones brings something unique to the table, catering to the specific needs of vocalists and musicians alike.

When it comes to live performances, having a high-quality microphone is crucial. These types of products have come a long way over the years, evolving from basic dynamic microphones to sophisticated condenser microphones with innovative features. Owning one of these professional microphones can greatly enhance your live performance experience. They offer better sound clarity, wider frequency response, and improved sensitivity, capturing every nuance of your voice with precision.

Now, let’s dive deeper into each of the four microphones we’ll be exploring in this article. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which one aligns with your needs and preferences. So, let’s get started and find the perfect mic to elevate your live performances!

Shure SM86 Professional Vocal Microphone

The Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone is designed for professional use in live performances. It is specifically tailored for vocal reproduction, making it the perfect choice for singers and vocalists who want studio-quality sound on stage.

We love the Shure SM86 because it provides outstanding sound quality and durability. Whether you’re performing in a small intimate venue or a large concert hall, this microphone ensures your vocals will cut through the mix with clarity and precision. Its cardioid polar pattern effectively minimizes unwanted background noise, allowing your voice to take center stage.

The purpose of the Shure SM86 is to provide vocalists with a high-quality microphone that can withstand the demands of live performances. Its key features include:

Condenser Cartridge for Studio Quality Sound: The SM86 is equipped with a condenser cartridge that delivers a clear and detailed reproduction of vocals. This ensures that every word and nuance of your performance is captured accurately.
Rugged Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of touring, the SM86 features a rugged construction that can endure the knocks and bumps of life on the road. You can rely on this microphone to perform consistently night after night.
Built-In 3-Point Shock Mount: Handling noise can be a problem when performing live. The SM86 solves this issue with its built-in 3-point shock mount, which effectively minimizes any handling noise that may occur during your performance.
2-Stage Pop Filter: Wind and breath noise can be a nuisance when singing on stage. The SM86 features a 2-stage pop filter that reduces these unwanted sounds, allowing your vocals to sound clear and professional.

The overall quality of the Shure SM86 is exceptional. Shure is known for their dedication to producing top-notch audio equipment, and the SM86 is no exception. With its sturdy construction, studio-quality sound, and thoughtful features, this microphone is a reliable and high-performing tool for any vocalist.

Here are some pros and cons to consider when evaluating the Shure SM86:

Studio-quality sound reproduction
Rugged construction for durability
Effective handling noise reduction
Wind and breath noise reduction
Clear and precise vocal performance
Requires phantom power
No cable included

The Shure SM86 is an excellent choice for vocalists who demand professional sound quality and reliability on stage. Its studio-grade components, rugged construction, and thoughtful features make it a top-notch microphone for live performances. Consider the Shure SM86 if you’re looking for a microphone that will enhance your vocals and withstand the demands of touring.

Samson CS Series Microphone

The Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone is a versatile microphone that caters to both vocal and instrument performances. With the CS1 Vocal Microphone capsule specifically tuned for vocal performance and the CS2 Instrument Microphone capsule tuned for drums, guitar cabinets, brass, and other preferred instruments, this microphone is a great choice for musicians, performers, and recording artists.

One of the reasons we like the Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone is its ability to switch between the CS1 and CS2 capsules, allowing you to adapt the microphone to fit your specific needs. This flexibility ensures that you can achieve optimal sound quality and performance for both vocals and instruments, expanding the range of applications for this microphone.

The primary purpose of the Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone is to provide high-quality audio capture for both vocals and instruments. The CS1 Vocal Microphone capsule features a neodymium capsule specifically tuned for vocal performances, providing clear and detailed sound reproduction. On the other hand, the CS2 Instrument Microphone capsule is designed to capture the nuances and dynamics of instruments such as drums and guitar cabinets, with a tighter polar pattern for greater isolation.

One of the key features of this microphone is its threaded twist-off handle design, allowing for easy and secure attachment of the CS1 or CS2 capsules. This design ensures a stable connection and prevents any unwanted movement during performances or recordings. Additionally, the microphone is equipped with a gold-plated XLR connector, ensuring a reliable and high-quality connection to your sound system or recording equipment.

The Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone also comes with a mic clip and carry case, providing convenience and protection for storage and transportation.

In terms of overall quality, the Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone delivers impressive performance. The neodymium capsules produce clear and accurate audio reproduction, capturing the subtleties and nuances of vocals and instruments. The supercardioid pickup pattern of the CS1 capsule allows for excellent feedback rejection, ensuring a clean and crisp sound even in live settings. The tighter polar pattern of the CS2 capsule provides greater isolation for instrument recordings, resulting in enhanced clarity and definition.

The threaded twist-off handle design, along with the gold-plated XLR connector, demonstrates the microphone’s durability and reliability. These features contribute to a seamless integration with your sound system or recording setup, eliminating any potential issues or disruptions during performances or recording sessions.

Versatile microphone with interchangeable capsules for vocals and various instruments
High-quality audio reproduction with neodymium capsules
Supercardioid pickup pattern for excellent feedback rejection (CS1 capsule)
Tighter polar pattern for greater instrument isolation (CS2 capsule)
Threaded twist-off handle design for secure connection
Gold-plated XLR connector for reliable audio transmission
Includes mic clip and carry case for convenience and protection
The microphone may be a bit heavier compared to some other models on the market
The interchangeable capsules may require some effort and time to switch between them

The Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone is a versatile and reliable choice for musicians and performers. Its ability to switch between vocal and instrument capsules allows for a wide range of applications, ensuring optimal sound quality and performance. With its durable construction and high-quality audio reproduction, this microphone is a valuable addition to any sound system or recording setup.

Black Audio-Technica Microphone (AE6100)

The Audio-Technica Microphone, Black (AE6100) is designed specifically for vocal use. Whether you’re a professional singer, podcaster, or public speaker, this microphone provides excellent sound quality and eliminates howling and popping noises.

We love the Audio-Technica AE6100 for its exceptional performance in capturing vocals. Its hyper-dioid characteristics make it resistant to howling, ensuring that your voice comes through clearly without any unwanted noise. The dual acoustic chamber also helps reduce handling noise, giving you a professional sound even in a live setting.

The purpose of the Audio-Technica AE6100 microphone is to provide singers and performers with a reliable and high-quality tool for delivering exceptional vocal performances. The key features of this microphone include:

Vocal-Specific Dynamic Microphone: The AE6100 is specifically tuned for vocals, ensuring that it captures the nuances and details of your voice accurately.
Strong Howling Resistance: With hyper-dioid characteristics, this microphone is designed to resist howling, making it ideal for use on stage or in any live setting.
3-Layer Headcase: The AE6100 includes a 3-layer headcase that reduces popping noise, resulting in clean and clear vocals.
Dual Acoustic Chamber: This microphone has a dual acoustic chamber that effectively minimizes handling noise, allowing you to focus on your performance without worrying about unwanted sounds.

The Audio-Technica AE6100 is built to withstand the demands of professional use. Its hardened steel outer grille, fine steel mesh, and open cell foam three-layer headcase ensure durability and longevity. The microphone feels solid in your hand and has a professional look and feel. The sound quality it produces is exceptional, providing a smooth and accurate representation of your voice.

Vocal-specific tuning for excellent sound quality
Hyper-dioid characteristics resist howling
3-layer headcase reduces popping noise
Dual acoustic chamber minimizes handling noise
Durable construction with a hardened steel outer grille and fine steel mesh
May require an XLR cable and audio interface for connection, which can add to the overall cost
Slightly heavier compared to other handheld microphones

The Audio-Technica AE6100 is a top-quality microphone designed specifically for vocals. Its vocal-specific tuning, howling resistance, and dual acoustic chamber make it a standout choice for singers and performers. While it may require additional equipment for connection, its overall build quality and sound performance make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Audio-Technica AE6100 will deliver excellent results and help you shine in your performances.

AKG C7 Vocal Microphone

The AKG Pro Audio C7 Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone is designed specifically for live vocal performances. It is ideal for professional singers, musicians, and sound engineers who require a high-quality microphone that can handle demanding sound levels and deliver exceptional clarity.

We are particularly impressed with the AKG C7’s custom-tuned supercardioid condenser capsule, which ensures precise and focused vocal reproduction. This microphone has been specifically engineered to minimize background noise and handle high sound pressure levels, making it perfect for energetic stage performances.

The AKG C7 is a reference condenser vocal microphone that provides studio-quality sound on stage. Its custom-tuned supercardioid condenser capsule captures every detail of your voice with stunning accuracy, allowing you to deliver a powerful and clear performance.

One of the key features of the C7 is its multi-layer pop noise filtering system, which effectively reduces unwanted plosive sounds. This ensures that your vocals remain crisp and intelligible, even during those energetic and passionate moments on stage.

The mechano-pneumatic shock absorber suspension system eliminates handling noise, allowing you to move freely without worrying about any unwanted rumbling sounds. This feature is particularly useful for performers who like to engage with their audience and need a microphone that can keep up with their movements.

The open-space capsule technology reduces feedback and spill, ensuring that you can enjoy maximum gain before any unwanted sound issues arise. This makes the C7 a reliable and user-friendly microphone for live performances.

The AKG C7 is built to withstand the rigors of touring and regular live performances. Its rugged zinc alloy housing and spring steel grill provide exceptional durability, ensuring that it can handle the demands of the road.

Furthermore, the 24-karat gold-plated capsule not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the microphone’s overall performance. This gold-plated capsule ensures optimal conductivity and delivers a warm and accurate sound reproduction.

Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding if the AKG Pro Audio C7 Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone is the right choice for you:

Custom-tuned supercardioid condenser capsule captures vocals with precision and clarity
Multi-layer pop noise filtering system eliminates unwanted plosive sounds
Mechano-pneumatic shock absorber suspension system minimizes handling noise
Open-space capsule technology reduces feedback and spill
Rugged zinc alloy housing and spring steel grill provide exceptional durability
24-karat gold-plated capsule enhances sound quality
The matte-grayish-blue color may not suit everyone’s aesthetic preferences
The microphone may be a bit heavier compared to other models on the market

The AKG Pro Audio C7 Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone is a powerful and reliable microphone that is built to deliver outstanding sound quality in live performance settings. Its key features, such as the custom-tuned supercardioid condenser capsule and multi-layer pop noise filtering system, make it a top choice for professional singers and musicians who demand the best. With its rugged construction and high-quality materials, the AKG C7 is designed to withstand the demands of the road, ensuring that you can rely on it for optimal performance night after night.

Sennheiser Large Diaphragm Handheld Microphone

The Sennheiser e965 Large Diaphragm Condenser Handheld Microphone is a versatile microphone that is perfect for professional singers, vocalists, and musicians. Whether you are performing live on stage, recording in the studio, or broadcasting your voice, this microphone delivers exceptional sound quality and performance.

We love the Sennheiser e965 for several reasons. First and foremost, its switchable pick-up pattern is a standout feature. It allows you to choose between cardioid and super-cardioid patterns, giving you versatility and control over your sound. This means you can adapt the microphone to your specific needs and the environment you are using it in.

Another reason we like this microphone is the low-cut switch. With just a simple flick, you can reduce ambient noise, rumble, and wind noise, ensuring that your vocals remain clear and free from any unwanted interference. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor performances or in areas with a lot of background noise.

The switchable pre-attenuation is also a great addition to the microphone’s functionality. It allows singers with powerful voices to perform without worrying about distortion or overload. By reducing the input level by 10 dB, this microphone can accommodate even the loudest singers, ensuring that their voice comes through clear and distortion-free.

Additionally, the Sennheiser e965 features a shock-mounted capsule that efficiently rejects handling noise. This means that you can hold the microphone and move it around without worrying about any unwanted sound artifacts. The result is a dynamic and clear sound that captures every detail of your performance.

The Sennheiser e965 is designed to offer professional-grade sound quality and performance in a handheld microphone. Its large diaphragm condenser design ensures accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it perfect for capturing the nuances of vocals and instruments.

Key features of this microphone include the switchable pick-up pattern, low-cut switch, switchable pre-attenuation, and shock-mounted capsule. These features give you control over your sound and allow for optimal performance in any situation.

When it comes to quality, the Sennheiser e965 truly excels. Its build quality is top-notch, with a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The microphone is also backed by a 10-year warranty, providing you with peace of mind and assurance that you are investing in a reliable and durable product.

In terms of sound quality, the e965 delivers exceptional clarity and accuracy. Its large diaphragm condenser captures every detail of your vocals, ensuring that your performance comes through with depth and richness. With its switchable pick-up patterns and low-cut switch, you have the ability to tailor the microphone to your specific needs, resulting in a sound that is true to your individual style.

Pros:

Switchable pick-up pattern for versatility and control
Low-cut switch to reduce ambient noise
Switchable pre-attenuation to accommodate powerful voices
Shock-mounted capsule to reject handling noise
Superior build quality
10-year warranty

Cons:

Higher price point compared to other options

The Sennheiser e965 Large Diaphragm Condenser Handheld Microphone is a top-notch choice for professional vocalists and musicians. Its versatile features, superior sound quality, and impeccable build quality make it a standout option in its class. While it may come at a higher price point, the investment is well worth it for those who prioritize premium sound and performance.

Comparison of Vocal Microphones

Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone for Professional Use (SM86-LC)

Phantom power required: 11 to 52 Vdc
Load impedance: at least 600 Ohms recommended
Condenser cartridge for studio quality sound
Tailored frequency response for clear vocal reproduction
Rugged construction for touring sound
Cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise
Built-in three-point shock mount minimizes handling noise
Two-stage pop filter reduces wind and breath noise

Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone

CS1 Vocal Microphone capsule tuned for vocals
Super cardioid pickup pattern for excellent feedback rejection
CS2 Instrument Microphone capsule tuned for instruments
Threaded twist-off handle design
Gold-plated XLR connector
Includes mic clip and carry case

Audio-Technica Microphone, Black (AE6100)

Vocal-specific dynamic microphone with good sound loss
Tuned specifically for vocals
Hyper cardioid characteristics resist howling
3-layer headcase to reduce popping noise
Hardened steel outer grille and fine steel mesh
Dual Acoustic Chamber reduces handling noise

AKG Pro Audio C7 Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone, Matte-Grayish-Blue

Custom-tuned supercardioid condenser capsule
High SPL handling
Multi-layer pop noise filtering system
Mechano-pneumatic shock absorber suspension eliminates handling noise
Open-space capsule technology reduces feedback and spill
Rugged zinc alloy housing and spring steel grill
Gold-plated capsule

Sennheiser e 965 Large Diaphragm Condenser Handheld Microphone

Switchable pick-up pattern (cardioid / super-cardioid)
Low-cut switch reduces ambient noise, rumble, and wind noise
Switchable pre-attenuation (-10 dB) for powerful voices
Shock-mounted capsule efficiently rejects handling noise
10 year warranty

	Shure SM86	Samson CS Series	Audio-Technica	AKG Pro Audio	Sennheiser e 965
Phantom Power	Required	–	–	–	–
Load Impedance	600 Ohms recommended	–	–	–	–
Cartridge Type	Condenser	–	Dynamic	Supercardioid Condenser	–
Frequency Response	Tailored for vocals	–	Tuned for vocals	Custom-tuned	–
Construction	Rugged	–	–	Rugged	–
Polar Pattern	Cardioid	Super cardioid	Hyper cardioid	Supercardioid	Cardioid/Super cardioid
Shock Mount	Built-in 3-point	–	–	Mechano-pneumatic	Shock-mounted capsule
Pop Filter	2-stage	–	–	–	–
Additional Features	–	Threaded twist-off handle design	3-layer headcase to reduce popping noise	Open-space capsule technology	Low-cut switch, Switchable pre-attenuation, 10 year warranty

The Shure SM86, Samson CS Series, Audio-Technica, AKG Pro Audio, and Sennheiser e 965 are all professional-grade vocal microphones with their own unique specifications and features. Each microphone offers different benefits such as resistance to howling, reduced handling noise, and tailored frequency responses. When choosing a microphone, consider your specific needs and requirements for live performance or studio recording.

Conclusion:

After reviewing the five products, it is clear that each microphone offers unique features and benefits for professional use in live vocal performances. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before making a final decision.

Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone (SM86-LC):

The Shure SM86 microphone is an excellent choice for live performances, with its built-in 3-point shock mount and 2-stage pop filter to reduce wind and breath noise. The only drawback is that it does not include a cable, which may require an additional purchase.

Samson CS Series Capsule Select Microphone:

The Samson CS Series microphone stands out with its capsule select feature, allowing users to easily switch between cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional polar patterns. It offers versatility but does not have a built-in pop filter, which may affect its performance in windy environments.

Audio-Technica Microphone (AE6100):

The Audio-Technica microphone, with its black design, delivers great sound quality. It comes with a high-pass filter and a 10 dB pad, providing enhanced control over the audio. However, it lacks a built-in shock mount, which might result in more handling noise.

AKG Pro Audio C7 Reference Condenser Vocal Microphone:

The AKG C7 vocal microphone impresses with its matte-grayish-blue finish and delivers outstanding audio performance. It features a built-in gold-plated XLR connector, but the lack of a shock mount may result in some handling noise.

Sennheiser e 965 Large Diaphragm Condenser Handheld Microphone:

The Sennheiser e 965 microphone is a reliable choice, offering exceptional sound quality and versatility with its five polar patterns. However, it is the most expensive option among the five reviewed microphones.

Recommendation:

If you are looking for a professional vocal microphone for live performances and value both sound quality and affordability, the Shure SM86 Cardioid Condenser Vocal Microphone (SM86-LC) is recommended. It provides excellent features, such as a built-in shock mount and pop filter, although you will need to purchase a separate cable.

Whatever your choice, always consider the specific requirements of your performance environment to ensure you make the best decision. Happy singing!