Best Microphones for Voice Over Work

Any recommendations about which which mics are best are going to be subjective and strewn with pitfalls. That said, I am going to list the equipment I think you should consider to help you make an informed decision.

I am assuming that you are a beginner, so seasoned voice-over professionals may prefer to look elsewhere.

First, a word about the types of mic we use in voiceover. Condensers are considered standard and these come in two versions: USB and XLR.


USB mics are plug and play and tend to be cheap and cheerful. The cons are that they can be quite noisy and don't have the detail or finesse that XLR's possess.


XLR microphones require an interface to work, so tend to be more expensive. They have the big advantage of being quieter in the sense that they have a lower noise floor. They also reveal more vocal detail and improved all round audio quality.

USB mics to consider:

Rode NT USB  (Mini) - New kid on the block, but getting some decent reviews.

Rode NT USB - This is the big brother of the mini version above. Well regarded with a warm sound. 

MXL Tempo  - Crisp, clean sound and often overlooked. Good budget alternative.

Blue Yeti - Perhaps the best known of all USB microphones... it is tried, tested and hugely popular. With switchable polar pick up patterns it makes for a sensible choice.

XLR mics

Rode NT1a  - You can't go wrong with this; entry level, but low noise and high quality

Focusrite Studio - a good value bundle that includes all Focusrite  gear with (almost) everything you need. Nice for the price.

Aston Spirit - Beautifully designed and built in the UK. Great sound too.

Neumann are the Rolls Royce of microphones and if you want to treat yourself, consider the TLM 102 or TLM 103. Expensive, but you won't be disappointed. 

Rode M2 - Although known for its on stage capabilities, this supercardioid mic cuts out a lot of room reverb and is ideal for home studios where acoustics are an issue. You will still require an interface with 48v of phantom power (see below).

Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett Solo - British built and well regarded

Steinberg UR12 - Rugged build and smooth sound.

Audient ID4 - Quality components in a small easy to use package.


Sound Booths

Aston Halo sound shield - beautiful shape and effective.

SE Electronics Reflexion  Shield  - the original sound deadening option. Sturdy and affordable.

Headphones

I use these Beyerdynamics which are used by all the major broadcasters. Reliable and well sealed to stop any howl-round leakage. Should serve you well.

Monitor speakers

My preference is for the petite, but powerful Mackie CR4-X They come as a pair - as you might imagine - where one is passive and the other (active) one is mains powered. Expect a solid, full spectrum sound from this deceptively diminutive duo.   

Zeke, one of our sound engineers, recommends the warm sounding Presonus Eris. Rich audio and great value. 

I hope those suggestions help you set up your home recording studio.

Gary Terzza VOmasterclass.com