Top 5 Budget Microphones for Vocals 2025

For studio recordings, many people still reach for legendary microphones that made music history. While these are undoubtedly worthwhile investments, they’re usually very expensive. But there is another way: we present 5 budget-friendly microphones that offer great sound for little money!

Rode NT1-A

As one of the most popular low-cost studio microphones, the Rode NT1A has become a classic in its own right. The large-diaphragm condenser microphone uses the same technology as some of the most iconic vocal mics. Its 1-inch capsule picks up every detail. With a cardioid polar pattern, the NT1A is focused on the voice in front of the microphone. Very practical: The Rode NT1A Complete Vocal Recording Set comes with a shock mount that reduces vibrations from the stand, as well as a pop filter against excessive P sounds. A cable and a dust bag are also included!

Audio-Technica AT2020

Audio-Technica’s founder, Hideo Matsushita, has always been determined to offer products at low prices, without compromising on quality. Hardly anything in Audio-Technica’s product portfolio demonstrates this idea as convincingly as the AT2020. The condenser microphone has been a bestseller for 20 years – and rightly so. With its brilliant and highly accurate sound and its outstanding technical specs, it’s also perfect as an all-rounder in the studio, for example for recording acoustic guitars, drum overheads, and much more!

Lewitt LCT 240 PRO

The Lewitt LCT 240 Pro scores points not only with its futuristic looks, but above all with its “record-ready” sound. Even at very high levels, this microphone retains its characterful sound – shouting and short-distance recordings are no problem for the 240 Pro. Up close, the Lewitt sounds pleasantly warm; a little further away, the sound becomes crystal clear. A windscreen, a shock mount, and a transport bag are included. The 240 lets you pursue your recording dreams and sound like the pros for very little money!

the t.bone SC 425

Don’t have an audio interface? Don’t worry – you can still make great-sounding recordings! The t.bone SC 425 USB connects directly via USB, which is also great for sessions on the go. And you don’t have to do without the sound quality of a large diaphragm condenser mic! The gain knob allows you to set the optimum preamp gain, just like with an external preamp. The SC 425 USB also offers a monitoring section with a headphone output so that you can create the perfect monitor mix of your own signal and playback during recording. Despite the unbeatable price, the t.bone SC 425 USB Desktop Set includes a desk stand, shock mount, windscreen, pop filter, USB cable, and even a transport case, so you can get started right away!

Superlux R102

Do you like vocals with a vintage vibe? Then a ribbon microphone like the Superlux R102 could be the solution for you. Featuring the classic figure-of-eight polar pattern, it sounds natural and balanced at a distance and unmistakably warm, well-rounded, and intimate at close range. And the Superlux is by no means limited to vocals: guitars, drums, amps, and wind instruments also sound wonderful with this type of microphone. You’ll often find that its signal sits just right in the mix without much processing. The R102 not only looks stunning, but is also very easy to position thanks to the included U bracket. It also comes with a cable with a standard XLR right-angle plug and a small case. As it is an active ribbon powered via 48-volt phantom power, you don’t need to have a particularly fancy microphone preamp; it’ll work with your audio interface without any problems.