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The best mics for rapping
“Congratulations! Your song just hit 100,000 streams!”
Isn’t that something all rap and hip-hop artists want to hear? But to get people listening to your songs, you’re going to need the right microphone.
Sizzling beats and witty rhymes drive rap and hip-hop music. And to record a rap song that people will listen to, your voice needs to be recorded properly so that listeners can hear your lyrics and understand your music.
One of the most important pieces of equipment in any home studio is the microphone. Without a good mic, your verses won’t be as clear and concise on the recording. Good microphones also allow rappers to experiment with their voice and try out cool new adlibs and techniques!
But with the sheer amount of different brands and manufacturers out there, finding a good mic for rapping can be tough. There are many things to consider such as the sound quality, connectivity, and many more extra features. But if you put in the time and the effort to find the right mic for you, recording your verses is going to be much easier!
Best overall
TZ Stellar X2 Microphone
TZ Stellar X2 Microphone
Anyone looking to record high-quality vocals would enjoy this mic. Whether you’re recording a sick rap verse or vocal adlibs, the Stellar X2 is the mic for you.
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We kick off our list with the Stellar X2, which is the best overall pick for rappers. The X2 is a condenser microphone, making it an ideal pick for rappers looking to record their songs in a studio. The mic is fine-tuned to produce a clear and neutral sound that is easy to incorporate in any mix!
The body and frame of the microphone are made out of high-grade iron. This gives the mic a sturdy and durable build, allowing the mic to last you a long time in the studio. Every aspect of the mic is made with precision, which is what allows it to record very subtle sounds, which can make a huge difference when recording hip-hop music.
The mic has a low noise floor of less than 13dBA, which improves the recording clarity. It uses XLR connectors and requires 48V of phantom power. So, rappers need to have an audio interface with phantom power to be able to use the mic, which isn’t ideal for those who don’t have the right equipment.
But if you have the equipment to plug it into your computer, this is one of the best mics on the market for recording rap verses.
Best premium
Shure SM7B Microphone
Shure SM7B Microphone
If you need a high-quality mic to record crisp and clear vocals, the Shure SM7B is the right pick for you. Made by one of the top brands on the market, the SM7B is one of the best investments any producer and rapper can make for their studio setup.
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If you’ve spent any time researching the best microphones for rapping, you probably know that Shure is one of the best brands out there. To record clear and high-quality vocals, rappers need to have the right mic, and the SM7B is one of the best tools for the job.
The SM7B is known as one of the most versatile microphones on the market. It can be used to record rap verses, vocal melodies, and even podcast, making it a prime pick for recording studios. The mic is designed to deliver a flat and neutral sound, allowing producers to tweak the recordings to their heart’s desire. However, this mic is a dynamic microphone, so it will not be as sensitive as other condenser microphones on the market.
One of the biggest advantages of this mic is that it doesn’t require phantom power. So, you can plug this into any mixer or interface and start recording without worrying about the power. However, since it uses an XLR connection, you need to have an audio interface to be able to record with the SM7B.
It may be one of the most expensive options on the list, but it’s worth every single penny. The Shure SM7B is one of the top vocal mics out there used by professional producers, sound engineers, and rappers all over the industry.
Best under $100
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Looking to beef up your home studio setup? This mic is the perfect tool for the job as it records clear audio, perfect for rap music, and on top of that, you can get it at a very affordable price.
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Most of the time, musicians have to invest a lot of money to get their hands on quality equipment. But if you’re on a budget and you need a good recording microphone for rapping, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great pick.
It’s a unidirectional condenser microphone, which gives musicians a lot of flexibility in the studio. This mic can be used for a wide variety of applications but is best used for recording rap vocals because of its clear and crisp tone.
It has a maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 20dBl, so you’ll be able to get a clear and undistorted sound even with loud recordings. This is a great mic for home studios, but if you plan on recording in a large commercial recording studio, this mic might not be able to handle the task.
It uses an XLR connection, but rappers who want to plug this mic in via USB can get the USB version, but it is a bit more expensive. With all that said, the Audio Technica AT2020 is still one of the best mics rappers can get for their home studio!
Best for vocals & other instruments
MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Producers and rappers who want to take their tracks to the next level by incorporating real instruments would benefit from this mic. Aside from being able to record clear vocals, it also works great for recording other instruments like piano, guitar, and percussion.
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Since hip-hop beats are usually made with samples, many rappers only get mics that are good for vocals. In most cases, this is fine, but if you plan to incorporate other real instruments in your music you need a more flexible microphone.
The MXL Mics 770 is a great choice for rappers and producers because it can record both vocals and other instruments. So, if you plan on recording a nice piano progression or add unique percussion elements to your songs, you can use this mic to record.
It’s battery-powered, so it doesn’t need phantom power. However, many producers and rappers prefer mics that need phantom power over battery-powered options because they are more reliable. The mic has a preamp, which eliminates noise right away, which could be a huge help to a lot of rappers who are new to recording their vocals.
Best under $200
Audio-Technica AT2035PK Microphone
Audio-Technica AT2035PK Microphone
If you’re looking to start recording your own rap verses and release original music, this package contains everything you need. From a shock mount, boom arm, all the way to headphones, the Audio Technica AT2035PK has got you covered.
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Ask any producer out there, and they will probably recommend an Audio Technica mic for recording rap music. This particular model comes as a package, making it ideal for many different rappers and producers out there.
Along with the high-quality mic that you can use to record quality vocals, the AT2035PK comes with a shock mount, carrying case, and headphones. This set comes with everything you’ll need to start recording sick verses from your room.
Keep in mind, this mic uses an XLR connection, so you will need to have an audio interface to record music. The package also includes a boom arm, so you can easily mount the mic to your table for easy recording.
The accessories that come in this package allow rappers to get the best isolation possible. Isolation allows for clearer and crisper vocals, which give producers a much easier time when they have to mix the track.
Best for home studio
Rode NT1-A Microphone
Rode NT1-A Microphone
Anyone looking to build their home studio will enjoy this package. It contains everything you need to get started with recording rap and hip-hop music, making it one of the best mics on the market!
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Because of incredible advancements in technology, musicians no longer need large and expensive studios to record their music. There are tons of musicians out there who regularly release hits while recording, producing, and composing in their own home studio.
And if you’re looking to build your own home studio, this package is the one for you. It contains everything producers and rappers need to get started with music. Along with a microphone, you’ll be getting a shock mount, pop filter, XLR cable, and microphone dust cover. When recording vocals, you won’t need anything else except for an audio interface and headphones.
The mic itself is a Rode mic, which is one of the most trusted brands in the industry. The maximum SPL is 175dBl, which is way more than what other mics in this price range can offer. The SPL allows rappers to record loud vocals and ad-libs without distorting the sound or damaging the mic.
Best for rapping & singing
AKG Pro Audio P420 Condenser Microphone
AKG Pro Audio P420 Condenser Microphone
If you’re a rapper and singer looking to record music, this is a great pick for you. The AKG P420 can record witty rhymes with great clarity, while also being able to record beautiful melodies that will have listeners singing along endlessly!
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For most modern hip-hop songs, rapping and singing are key elements of the track. More and more rappers nowadays also sing their hooks, while getting another singer to feature on a hip-hop track is commonplace.
The AKG P420 is one of the best mics for rappers out there. Aside from being able to record clear rap verses, it’s also great for more melodic vocals, too! It has low noise electronics, so you don’t have to worry about sizzles that completely ruin a vocal track.
Rappers can also switch between normal and high SPL, which gives them the option to deliver their verses softer or shout them out loud without ruining the audio quality.
Best for rap vocals
AKG Pro Audio C214 Microphone
AKG Pro Audio C214 Microphone
Rappers who are recording verses from home will enjoy using this mic. It’s affordable, records clear sound, and comes with everything you’ll need to start recording.
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Rap music is composed of two main components: a beat and a verse. The verse is basically the lyrics of a rapper and how they deliver it. To get your message across to listeners, you need to deliver lyrics clearly and concisely. This can only be done with a quality mic.
The AKG C214 is the best microphone out there for rap vocals. It’s a condenser microphone, making it ideal for recording vocals. This mic has a very low noise floor, so rappers can record clear vocals even when singing or rapping close to the mic.
It comes with a shock mount and pop filter, allowing rappers to really isolate their vocals and get a clear recording. It uses an XLR cable, so you will need an audio interface with phantom power to use. But if you have the equipment ready, this mic will be the perfect addition to complete your studio.
Best usb mic & best affordable
FIFINE Studio Microphone-T669
FIFINE Studio Microphone-T669
Beginner rappers will enjoy using this microphone because it connects to a computer easily, records decent audio, and comes with all the accessories you need to get started.
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Most of the entries on this list utilizer an XLR connection. This is the ideal connection for recording music as it provides a high-quality signal. However, not everyone has the equipment to record vocals with an XLR cable.
So, if you’re one of these rappers, you’ll enjoy this FIFINE mic. It’s a USB mic, so all you have to do is open your DAW, plug the mic into your computer, and start recording. While the quality won’t be as high as some of the other mics on the list, it offers a more convenient recording method.
The mic is also available at a very affordable price. So, if you need a quality mic to record audio easily on a budget, this might be the right pick for you.
Best snowball mic
Blue Microphones Snowball iCE
Blue Microphones Snowball iCE
This mic is best for rappers looking for a simple and effective set up. With this mic, you can record decent quality vocals that easily incorporate into the mix.
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This next option is a Snowball mic created by Blue. Snowball mics are slowly gaining popularity with streamers, producers, and musicians because of their flexibility and ability to record vocals clearly.
One great characteristic of this mic is that it’s affordable. When rappers are starting out, they usually don’t have the budget to buy expensive studio equipment. But you don’t need good equipment to start recording and releasing music.
With this mic, rappers will be able to record their vocals clearly. While it doesn’t have the same quality as others on the list, that can easily be fixed by a good mix. On top of all that, the mic connects via USB, so rappers don’t need expensive audio interfaces to start recording.
What to look for in a good mic for rapping
Transducer
In simple terms, a transducer is an electronic device that converts energy from one form to another. In the case of microphones, transducers convert the vibrations in the air made by your voice into an electrical signal. This signal is then either recorded into a Digital Audio Workstation, onto a tape or amplified through speakers.
When looking at microphones, there are two general transducer types; condenser and dynamic. Each of these types has its own benefits and downsides, and it’s up to you to choose the right option for you.
Dynamic mics have a wider frequency response and sensitivity. These mics are ideal for recording larger and stronger sounds such as drums or loud vocals. If you perform a lot, you might prefer the flexibility of dynamic mics. They are great for live settings and can also record multiple instruments at the same time.
If you’re a recording artist looking to lay down your verses onto a track, then a condenser mic would be ideal. It has a smaller range and isn’t as sensitive, making it ideal for recording delicate sounds like studio vocals. Condenser mics are generally the better option for rappers who plan on recording their music. Condenser mics capture more detail and are more accurate than dynamic mics, which is why many recording artists and producers prefer using them in the studio.
Sound quality
Sound quality is obviously one of the most important factors to consider when buying a microphone. However, for beginners, it can be hard to understand the terms musicians and sound engineers use to describe the sound quality of an instrument or microphone.
When shopping for microphones, you’re going to encounter terms such as “warm”, “full”, “deep”, “bright”, and many others that are used to describe the sound quality. Describing these sounds in words can be tough, especially for beginners. So, we highly recommend that when shopping for a microphone, try and test it out first.
To test a mic, plug it into a speaker and just try speaking into it. If you want, you can even try performing one of your verses with the mic, that way you get to hear how it really. Every musician has different preferences when it comes to sound quality, and this goes for any musician, whether you’re a pianist, guitarist, or rapper. Some prefer bright tones, others prefer warm and deep ones. What is most important is that you find a sound that you enjoy and complements your rap style.
SPL
SPL is a term commonly used in the world of microphones. SPL stands for Sound Pressure Level, and it basically refers to the amount of noise a mic can take before the sound gets distorted. Ideally, musicians would want to get mics with a high maximum SPL, as this gives them more flexibility when it comes to volume.
Higher SPL levels also allow rappers to shout into the microphone without worrying about distortion or their levels peaking. If your songs involve loud vocals, we highly recommend getting a mic with a high maximum SPL. In fact, even if you don’t shout or rap loudly when performing, it would still be beneficial to get a mic with a high maximum SPL to give you more flexibility.
Connections & accessories
Another important thing to consider is the connectivity of the mic. Typically, microphones use an XLR cable. XLR cables are the ideal option as they transmit high-quality sound, but if you don’t have an audio interface, you won’t be able to connect your mic to your computer.
If you don’t have an audio interface, we recommend getting a USB microphone so you can easily plug it into your computer and record your verses.
Getting a microphone for rapping isn’t enough to record your songs. To record clear and concise vocals, you need a couple of accessories such as a pop filter, mic stand, and cables to connect the mic to a sound system or computer. There are lots of mics that come with all these essential accessories, which could come in handy for beginners.
Price
Lastly, you will need to decide how much you’re willing to spend on a mic. Microphones can cost as low as $50 and go as high as $3000. So, by choosing a price range to shop from, you’ll easily be able to narrow down your options.
You don’t need a top-tier studio microphone like Jay-Z to record songs. In fact, Kanye West records some of his vocals using his iPhone’s microphone. When looking for a good mic for rapping, we recommend shopping between the $100-$300 range as you’ll be able to find tons of great options.
FAQ
What mic should I use for rapping?
The right mic for rapping largely depends on how you use it. If you need a mic for live performances, we recommend getting a dynamic mic. However, for recording songs in the studio, the best option is condenser mics as they capture more detail and nuance.
What mic does Snoop Dogg use?
For live performances, Snoop Dogg uses a customized TELEFUNKEN wireless mic. It features his name covered in jewels and a distinctive engraving. For studio recordings, Snoop Dogg uses multiple different high-quality studio microphones.
What mic does Kanye use?
Kanye West is known to use a lot of different microphones. The artist is usually seen using Audio-Technica AT4050, AT4060 & Sony C800G microphones, but he is not scared to experiment. Kanye West has stated that he records some of his vocals using an iPhone, which gives off a distinctive tone.
Final verdict
The microphone is one of the most important tools for any rapper. A good mic will allow them to deliver their message and verses clearly and give audio engineers an easier time when mixing their vocals.
With all the options on the internet, finding the right mic for you can be very tough. There are many things to consider, which can sometimes be overwhelming for beginners.
But if you put in the time and effort into researching and studying the right mic for you, you’ll find that it’s all going to be worth it in the end. With a good mic, rappers can unlock their true potential and start releasing music for their listeners to enjoy.
