The Best Vocal Mics for DIY Musicians & Independent Songwriters
If you’re an independent songwriter or DIY musician recording your own scratch tracks, having the right vocal mic can make a huge difference in capturing your ideas clearly and naturally. You don’t need a big-budget studio to get great results—there are plenty of affordable, high-quality microphones that can help you track solid vocals right from your home setup.
Here are some of the best vocal mics for DIY musicians and songwriters recording their own demos and scratch tracks.
1. Audio-Technica AT2020 ($99-$120)
A go-to budget condenser mic, the AT2020 delivers clear and balanced vocal recordings without breaking the bank. It has a wide frequency response and a cardioid pickup pattern, which helps reduce unwanted background noise.
Why It’s Great for DIY Recording:
• Affordable but sounds good
• Works well for both vocals and acoustic instruments
• Durable and easy to set up
Best For: Songwriters needing an all-purpose, budget-friendly condenser mic for home recording.
2. Shure SM58 ($99)
The Shure SM58 is a dynamic microphone that has been a staple in live sound for decades, but it also works surprisingly well for DIY vocal recording. If you don’t have a treated space, the SM58’s natural rejection of room noise can help keep your scratch tracks clean.
Why It’s Great for DIY Recording:
• Built like a tank—virtually indestructible
• Handles loud vocals and aggressive singing well
• Doesn’t pick up too much room noise, which is great for untreated spaces
Best For: Musicians recording in less-than-ideal room conditions who want a reliable, no-fuss mic that can also be used in a live situation.
3. Rode NT1-A ($229)
The Rode NT1-A is one of the quietest condenser microphones out there, meaning it captures vocals with incredible clarity and detail. It’s perfect for songwriters who want to lay down expressive scratch tracks with a professional sheen.
Why It’s Great for DIY Recording:
• Ultra-low self-noise for clean recordings
• Comes with a shock mount and pop filter
• Great for soft, intimate vocals as well as powerful singing
Best For: Singer-songwriters who want a pro-sounding condenser mic with minimal noise.
4. Lewitt LCT 240 PRO ($149-$169)
The Lewitt LCT 240 PRO is a relatively new contender in the affordable mic market, but it’s quickly gaining popularity. It delivers a crisp, modern sound and works well across different vocal styles.
Why It’s Great for DIY Recording:
• Detailed and bright sound without being harsh
• Good for vocals, acoustic instruments, and even amp recording
• Well-built but still lightweight
Best For: DIY musicians looking for a clean, modern vocal sound at an affordable price.
5. Aston Origin ($249-$299)
If you’re looking for a high-quality mic with a unique character, the Aston Origin is a fantastic choice. It has a warm, slightly vintage tone that can add depth to your vocals.
Why It’s Great for DIY Recording:
• Distinctive, slightly warm character that flatters vocals
• Built-in pop filter for reducing plosives
• Designed and built in the UK with high-quality components
Best For: Songwriters who want a mic with character and warmth with a larger budget.
Final thoughts:
Choosing the right vocal mic depends on your recording space, budget, and the sound you’re after. If you’re just getting started, the Audio-Technica AT2020 or Shure SM58 are excellent, affordable choices. If you’re looking for something more polished, the Rode NT1-A or Aston Origin can give your scratch tracks a more professional sound.
No matter which mic you choose, the key to great recordings is proper mic placement, a quiet environment, and good performance technique. If you need any help or have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or reach out.
Happy recording!
