How to Pick the Best Microphones for a Home Recording Studio

Any musician with a home studio knows how hard it can be to choose just the right equipment for their needs. With music mega-stores stocking so many items and musical friends too happy to give their opinions, a project studio owner doesn't know who to listen to when choosing microphones. Here's a rundown on what to look for and listen to when picking home recording studio mics.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose the best all-around home recording studio mic. The Shure SM-57 or SM-58 works fine with vocals and most instruments at low cost. For acoustic guitar, try another Shure model, the SM81.

2. Record drums with a mic that can withstand a high sound pressure level. Choose a dynamic mic for kik drums like an Audio-Technica ATM250 or the workhorse Shure SM57 for less distortion. The SM57 mic also works well with snare drums. Use a condenser mic for overhead recording and to capture cymbal sounds.

3. Enhance bass sounds in the studio with a large diaphragm dynamic mic. AKG produces a series of good dynamic mics for this purpose. Try the D112 if you're on a budget. These mics also reduce distortion on trumpets and guitar amps.

4. Use an omnidirectional mic if you sample or record on-location. These mics can pick up sounds from a large group of singers or instrumentalists. They can be hung overhead or placed between a singer and musician. A popular omnidirectional mic like the Electrovoice RE50/B can be used to record groups performing on stage.

5. Place a large diaphragm condenser microphone next to acoustic instruments in the studio. Select mics that bring out the warmth of the solo instrument, like the Neumann U87.