Dynamic vs Condenser!

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MusicSpark

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Hey everyone,

Im going to make videos on youtube of me singing. My music style is Pop and RNB. I was just wondering which kind of mic would be better for recording male vocals, Dynamic or Condenser?. Ive been looking at a few of these mics. Like every other amateur artist I do have a budget. For condenser mics its under £200. These mic's are the ones ive been looking at. The Blue Spark, The MXL V87 and The Avantone CK6. I have heard good reviews from these mics except the avantone ck6. Ive also had a look at a dynamic mic, the Shure sm58. What mic would be best for recording male vocals dynamic or condenser and which mic?

Any other recommendations, state please!:thumbs up:
 
Hi Musicspark!
First of all we would like to know what else do you have if you have anything at all? :P This is because obviously you need something that turns analogue signal to digital - audio interface. If you are going to get condenser then you also need to make sure your interface has phantom power, because condensers need power to operate.
Another thing is that while condensers are more sensitive and pick up wider range of frequencies they also pick up more noise around you(AC, computer fan noise, so on...). Dynamics do the opposite.

The wiseass answer to your question would be "whatever suits your voice best". Although this is true it isn't very helpful. Let's wait and see what others have to say about these mics.
 
Seidy said:
Hi Musicspark!
First of all we would like to know what else do you have if you have anything at all? :P This is because obviously you need something that turns analogue signal to digital - audio interface. If you are going to get condenser then you also need to make sure your interface has phantom power, because condensers need power to operate.
Another thing is that while condensers are more sensitive and pick up wider range of frequencies they also pick up more noise around you(AC, computer fan noise, so on...). Dynamics do the opposite.

The wiseass answer to your question would be "whatever suits your voice best". Although this is true it isn't very helpful. Let's wait and see what others have to say about these mics.
Click to expand...

Well, im going to get the m-audio fast track 2 audio interface. I may also possibly get the behringer 1202 fx mixer.If I were to buy the mixer how would I connect the mic, to the mixer, to the interface, then to my computer. What cables would I need?
 
I see no point buying mixer and connecting it that way, especially Behringer mixer that could do more harm than good to signal.
If you need to record just one input(mic/instrument) at the time then fast track mk2 is good enough, but if you are planning to expand in the future look at fast track pro (or something similar) for more inputs.

Don't forget also mic stand, xlr cable and pop shield if you are putting the budget together. ;) And headphones for tracking if you don't have any. :)
 
Seidy said:
I see no point buying mixer and connecting it that way
Click to expand...

+1 for that. A lot of people come through here having bought interface, mic, mixer and accessories, only to find out they really didn't need the mixer at all.
It's far from essential in a modest home recording setup. :)

As far as mics go, you'll probably get a list of peoples preferences based on their experience, but more importantly, based on their source and environment.
The best bet is to try a few out if possible.

Do you have experience with any mics? Have you used any thing you liked?

If you're very attacking or shouty at times, I'd recommend a good dynamic, but short of that, it's preference.
 
Then theres just the matter of synching up the track to the video too. Not my field of expertise.
Just ouf of intrest have you tried the cams onboard mic? especially if you're doing vocals only with no backing.
If not and your singing to a backing track you will have to mix it too in your daw.
I really hope you find the best thing for your needs and you will get plenty of help here we're a friendly bunch who love to share our experience and help others.
Welcome to the forum :thumbs up:
 
The only "versus" there should be when selecting a mike is when comparing them and choosing the right one which is best suited to the source. Always.

Keep in mind that for the price of a more affordable condenser you can get a really good dynamic mike, like the RE20 or an SM7B. The SM7B is a legend. Ever heard of Michael Jackson?

My point is to not be bound by type. Be bound by results. The SM7B will give you a wider range of applications than most cheap condensers. So will the RE20. So will many other, older dynamic mikes, like the Beyer M88 or even an M80. I just saw one that sold on ebay for $99.

My 2c (ZAR).

Cheers :)
 
you might find the sm7b used on ebay for less than £250 if your lucky but price over here are way more than in the usa.
Having said that Mo has a very good point.
all good advice.
 
kip4 said:
you might find the sm7b used on ebay for less than £250 if your lucky but price over here are way more than in the usa.
Having said that Mo has a very good point.
all good advice.
Click to expand...

Thanks for everybody's feedback. What condenser mic should I get though? I havent had any experience with any of these mics yet they sound so good on reviews.
 
From what you listed, I'd go with the CK6. THAT SAID, I'd go with the SM7b. One of the greatest vocal mics ever - at any price.
 
The point we're all trying to make is that no matter what any one suggests, it may not work with your source.

It's my opinion that some of the dynamics are good 'cover alls'. Like, ideally I'd pick X, but sm7b will almost certainly do.

Either get out and try some mics at a store/studio, or go with a known all rounder.

I hear the akgc214/414 is referred to as a good all rounder; Can anyone verify that?
 
Depends on the application. I generally record with Condensers.
 
The Audio Technica AT2020 is excellent value at around £90. It's a condenser mic - better value than many mics twice its price. I'd also consider getting a slightly more accommodating audio digital interface, such as Focusrite's Saffire 6 (around £150) - a few more inputs/outputs to play with in case you need them later on.

MusicSpark said:
Thanks for everybody's feedback. What condenser mic should I get though? I havent had any experience with any of these mics yet they sound so good on reviews.
Click to expand...
 
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