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10 Best Dynamic Microphones for All Use-Cases

ByDaniel Thomas Posted on Updated on

The right microphone can be the difference between an unforgettable performance and a forgettable one. Whether you’re a budding podcaster, a live performer, or a musician seeking that perfect sound, the dynamic microphone is a staple in the audio world.

But with a plethora of options available, how do you find the one that’s tailor-made for your needs? Dive into our curated list of the 10 best dynamic microphones for every situation to discover the gems of the industry, from budget-friendly wonders to high-end masterpieces.

What are the 10 Best Dynamic Microphones for Each Situation?

Here are our top 10 best dynamic microphones for every use case, listed in no particular order of superiority:

1. Aston Stealth – Most Versatile Dynamic Microphone (US$275.00)

Why would you want this dynamic microphone?

You want a microphone that can do it all: record voiceovers, vocals, instruments, and more.

Aston Stealth front
Aston Stealth back
Aston Stealth back
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Overview

Aston Microphones, a British manufacturer established in 2015, may be relatively new to the audio industry, but they’ve quickly gained a reputation for producing uniquely designed microphones packed with innovative features. Their ambition with the Aston Stealth dynamic microphone was to craft the world’s most versatile microphone, and they’ve certainly made a compelling case.

At first glance, the Aston Stealth might be mistaken for a typical podcast dynamic mic, bearing a resemblance to the cylindrical designs of the SM7B and PreSonus PD-70. However, distinct differences set it apart. Instead of a yoke mount, it employs a quick-release stand mount, allowing for effortless insertion and removal. Additionally, it features a non-removable pop filter at its tip, contrasting with the sock-like windscreens of its counterparts.

The Aston Stealth has a substantial feel, weighing in at 1.5 lbs. Much of this weight is attributed to a counterweight used to mass-load the dynamic mic capsule, enhancing its sonic tone. The capsule is freely suspended in midair within the microphone chassis at 3 points by Sorbothane polymer hemispheres, serving as an internal shock mount and eliminating the need for an external one.

In terms of sound quality, the Aston Stealth dynamic mic is essentially four distinct microphones rolled into one, showcasing its versatility. A tamper-proof switch ring at the microphone’s base allows users to toggle between four unique voicings.

The V1 setting delivers a classic studio dynamic sound with a pronounced mid-frequency response, ideal for male vocals. The V2 setting mimics a studio condenser mic, offering a rich low-end and bright high-frequency response, typically preferred for female voices. The G setting, distinct from the others, is optimized for guitar amps, acoustic guitars, and bass guitars. Lastly, the D setting captures the velvety vintage warmth characteristic of ribbon microphones.

If the Aston Stealth dynamic mic hasn’t already piqued your interest, it boasts another remarkable feature. This active dynamic microphone comes equipped with a built-in Class A preamp. It automatically senses the presence of phantom power and provides an impressive 50dB of clean gain. To put this into perspective, even a $150 Cloudlifter offers just +25dB of gain.

In its active mode, a mere quarter-turn of your audio interface’s gain dial is sufficient to produce a clear signal. Furthermore, the Aston Stealth’s base emits a purple LED glow, indicating its active mode when phantom power is engaged.

A minor drawback is the microphone’s somewhat loose fit in its clip, raising concerns about potential mishaps. However, overlooking this minor issue, the Aston Stealth stands out as an exceptionally versatile tool for various audio scenarios.

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid polar pattern
  • Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
  • Power Requirements: Phantom power for active mode
  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity (Passive Mode): average -60 dBV/Pa (1 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Sensitivity (Active Mode): average -16.5 dBV/Pa (150 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Max SPL: 140dB
  • Self Noise: 10 dB (A-weighted)
  • Output Connection: XLR
  • Weight: 692 g (1.52 lbs)
  • Accessories: quick-release mic clip, Aston pin

Features

  • Four selectable unique voicings
  • Tamper-proof switch ring
  • Active and passive modes
  • Class A preamp with 50dB gain in active mode
  • 48V phantom power auto-detection with purple LED indicator
  • Internal Sorbothane shock mount
  • Quick-release mic clip

Pros

  • Four mics for the price of one, incredibly valued for money
  • Unique, high-quality sound signature for each voicing
  • No need for an external pop filter and shock mount as these are built-in
  • Extremely high sensitivity in active mode removes the need for a gain booster
  • The tone does not change in active mode

Cons

  • The mic clip feels wobbly at times
Aston Stealth front

Aston Stealth

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2. Electro-Voice RE20 – Best Dynamic Microphone for Podcasting (US$449.00)

Why would you want this dynamic microphone?

You want the best podcasting microphone with a deep broadcast tone and top-end clarity.

Electro-Voice RE20
Electro-Voice RE20 on mount
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Overview

I know many hardcore fanboys will be saying, “That’s wrong! The best dynamic microphone for podcasting is the Shure SM7B!” Well, hold your horses. These two titans are so closely matched that when it comes to either of them, it boils down to personal preference. That’s why I also have a review for the Shure SM7B dynamic microphone under the ‘Honorable Mentions’ section.

The Electro-Voice RE20 dynamic mic is proudly made in the USA, and for such a sleek and modern-looking microphone, you might be surprised to learn it was first released in 1968. It has a rock-solid steel body, which makes it very durable and also resistant to external radio-frequency interference.

There are slits on the sides of its body with a firm mesh grill underneath that contribute to the microphone’s innovative Variable-D (variable distance) design, which helps to control the proximity effect to achieve a consistent off-axis response. The tone of your voice does not change regardless of which direction you are speaking from, and you do not get that muddy and boomy sound when you speak close to the mic.

Much like the Shure SM7B dynamic microphone, the Electro-Voice RE20 has an incredibly rich and warm broadcast tone with a very deep and authoritative low end. What makes it edgier than the SM7B is its brighter and crisper high-end, which makes the RE20 sound more exciting and gives it more presence, almost like a condenser mic. Also, it does not require as much gain as the Shure SM7B in order to sound audible.

While the Electro-Voice RE20 is renowned as a broadcast mic, it also excels when used as a guitar cab mic or vocal mic, thanks to its crisp high frequencies and ability to handle high SPLs (sound pressure level). Similar to condenser mics, it’s suitable for recording acoustic guitars, guitar amps, bass guitars, vocals, and even kick drums.

The Electro-Voice RE20 has a high-pass filter that, on paper, seems to roll off aggressively starting from 400Hz, but it sounds quite smooth in reality.

One downside to this amazing mic is that it has quite an audible low-frequency resonance when you accidentally bump into the microphone stand, so it’s better to get a shock mount to manage that.

Check out our detailed comparison between the Electro-Voice RE20 and the Shure SM7B!

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid pattern
  • Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
  • Power Requirements: None
  • Frequency Response: 45 Hz to 18,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -56.5 dBV/Pa (1.5 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Output Connection: XLR
  • Weight: 735g (1.62 lbs)
  • Accessories: Stand mount, carry case

Features

  • 400 Hz bass roll-off switch
  • Variable-D technology for controlling proximity effect
  • Humbucking coil guards against line hum

Pros

  • Made in USA
  • Sleek and modern-looking
  • Very robust and solid steel construction
  • Deep, warm, and rich broadcasting tone
  • Crisp high-ends like a condenser mic
  • Reduced muddiness at close proximity and consistent off-axis response
  • Resistant to electromagnetic hum and broadband interference

Cons

  • Has audible body resonance when bumped
  • Internal foam can degrade over time
Electro-Voice RE20

Electro-Voice RE20

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3. Rode PodMic – Best Budget Microphone for Podcasting – (US$99.00)

Why would you want this dynamic microphone?

You want a high-quality but affordable dynamic microphone for podcasting.

Rode PodMic front
Rode PodMic upright
Rode PodMic back
Rode PodMic boom arm
Rode PodMic stand
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Overview

The Rode PodMic was launched with significant anticipation in 2019, following the success of the Rode Procaster dynamic mic. It was envisioned as a budget podcast microphone that would offer near-professional broadcasting sound quality at a fraction of the cost.

Upon receiving the package, the first thing you’ll notice is its surprising weight. You might think you have received the wrong item, but I assure you that it is not.

The Rode PodMic is incredibly heavy, weighing 2.06 lbs (935g). For comparison, the Procaster weighs only 1.53 lbs (695g) despite being twice the length of the PodMic (and twice the price!). Given its weight, it is a good idea to get a sturdy boom arm like the Rode PSA-1.

With its all-metal construction, the Rode PodMic feels incredibly robust and built like a tank. It also comes equipped with a solid adjustable swing-arm mount for attachment to a boom arm, a feature absent in the Procaster.

The Rode PodMic delivers a clear and full-bodied sound straight out of the box. A slight boost in the lower-mid frequencies adds body to the sound. If you examine the frequency curve, you can see that Rode has pre-EQed the microphone, optimizing it for voiceovers or podcasts, minimizing the need for extensive post-processing.

However, it does have its limitations. The PodMic is somewhat lacking in the low frequencies, making it less ideal for recording vocals or instruments. It’s also susceptible to plosives, so a pop filter is recommended.

This dynamic microphone is straightforward, featuring just an XLR output. While it’s designed to pair seamlessly with the RODECaster Pro II audio mixer, it should work well with any quality audio interface with at least 55 dB of clean gain.

If you’re keen to learn more, check out our full review of the Rode PodMic!

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid polar pattern
  • Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
  • Power Requirements: None
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -57 dBV/Pa (1.6 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Output Connection: XLR
  • Weight: 935g (2.06 lbs)
  • Accessories: 3/8″ to 5/8″ thread adapter

Features

  • Adjustable swing-arm mount
  • Internal pop filter

Pros

  • Extremely solid and robust build quality
  • Affordable and good value for money
  • Compact size takes up minimal screen space
  • Clear and full-bodied sound that is ideal for voiceovers

Cons

  • Need a strong boom arm due to the mic’s weight
  • Susceptible to plosives
  • Slightly lacking in the low-end
Rode PodMic front

Rode PodMic

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4. PreSonus Revelator Dynamic USB – Best Dynamic Microphone for Streaming – (US$199.99)

Why would you want this dynamic microphone?

You want the best dynamic streaming microphone that sounds good and has great software features for streaming.

PreSonus Revelator Dynamic front
PreSonus Revelator Dynamic back
PreSonus Revelator Dynamic side
mic stand
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Overview

PreSonus might not be the first name that springs to mind when considering high-quality microphones, but the PreSonus Revelator Dynamic USB Mic proves they can compete with the best. In terms of sound quality and software capabilities, it stands out as one of the best dynamic microphones for streaming.

At first glance, it’s clear which dynamic microphone the Revelator is emulating: the iconic Shure SM7B. From its cylindrical body to its elongated protective capsule cage, the resemblance is uncanny. However, PreSonus added a modern touch to it with a half-yoke mount.

The PreSonus Dynamic USB mic sounds surprisingly good. Straight out of the box, it offers a warm, natural sound, with a pronounced proximity effect that enriches the voice when spoken closely. Even the pricier Shure MV7 sounds somewhat thin in comparison.

This USB dynamic microphone boasts a variety of connections and controls. Notably, it employs a USB-C port, a welcome departure from the older USB-micro or USB-B ports found on USB dynamic mics like the Shure MV7 and Rode Podcaster. A preset button facilitates quick cycling between different voice profiles.

Additionally, it features a headphone output jack and a ‘Monitor’ button for zero-latency monitoring, complete with a volume control dial. While the headphone amps might struggle with high-impedance headphones, they handle models like the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro (64 ohms) adequately. A long press on the ‘Monitor’ button activates gain adjustment for the microphone.

The standout feature of the PreSonus Revelator Dynamic USB is its onboard DSP with the Universal Control app. This app is filled with features for tailoring the microphone’s sound and enhancing live streams.

With eight voice presets ranging from professional broadcasting tones to playful robot voices, there’s something for every streamer. If the presets don’t appeal, users can craft their own signal chain using various audio processors. These custom presets are stored directly on the microphone’s onboard DSP.

While integrated audio processing software is common in USB microphones like the Shure MV7 and Blue Yeti, virtual mixers are rarer. The Universal Control app’s virtual mixer allows users to blend different audio sources, creating distinct mixes for streaming audiences and chat teammates.

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid polar pattern
  • Transducer Type: Dynamic (moving coil)
  • Power Requirements: USB bus-powered
  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -57 dBV/Pa (1.6 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Max SPL: 135dB
  • Output Connection: USB-C
  • Headphone Output: 3.5mm (1/8″)
  • Weight: 0.42 kg (0.92 lbs)
  • Accessories: desktop tripod, windscreen, 2m USB-C to USB-A cable, thread adapters

Features

  • Onboard DSP with Universal Control software for audio processing and voice effects
  • Virtual mixer with two loopback channels
  • Software bundle featuring Studio One Artist DAW and Studio Magic
  • Preset selector button, monitor button, and dial for volume and gain control

Pros

  • Very good value for money
  • Clear, professional audio that sounds warm and natural
  • The Universal Control app is user-friendly and has many features for enhancing audio
  • The integrated virtual mixer is very useful for a gaming live streamer
  • Classy and modern design for a podcast mic

Cons

  • Headphone amps are not powerful enough for high-impedance headphones
reSonus Revelator Dynamic front

PreSonus Revelator Dynamic USB

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