If you are a beginner to voice overs and voice acting, then it can be mind boggling trying to figure out which microphones, preamps, mixers, etc. etc. etc. are the best specifically for a beginner. And as a beginner, you want equipment that is inexpensive and yet can still be used for future professional jobs.
With this goal in mind (inexpensive yet professional), I’ve decided to list some of the best equipment that fits into a beginner’s limited budget.
No matter which microphone you finally decide to get, you’re gonna need a way to get the audio signal into your computer. Also, since high-quality microphones need something called “Phantom Power” you’ll need a device that can supply it. Either one of these two devices will both power your mic and get the sound into your computer:
CEntrance MicPort Pro
The CEntrance MicPort Pro is the easiest way to capture professional-quality vocals. Much more than a simple XLR to USB adapter, the MicPort Pro is the only portable mic preamp with a built-in, 24bit/96kHz, broadcast-quality A/D converter. It captures the cleanest signal, making it an ideal choice for professional recordings. ($149.95)
Get it online: CEntrance MicPort Pro
Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Standard
The Mbox 2 Mini is a professional USB audio interface that allows you to plug your microphone into your computer. It comes with Pro Tools 8 LE — the standard software for audio recording (both Mac and Windows compatible), hundreds of royalty-free sounds, and an instructional DVD. ($190.00)
Get it online: Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Standard
Great affordable microphones:
MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount
The MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount has a silky, sweet high end while retaining tight, solid low and midrange reproduction. The 3/4″ gold-sputtered diaphragm creates a professional sound suited for digital and analog recording. Attractive vintage body style with champagne finish. 30Hz-20kHz frequency response. 130dB maximum SPL. Includes custom shockmount, mic stand adapter, and case. Requires phantom power. ($49.99)
Get it online: MXL 990 Condenser Microphone with Shockmount
Audio-Technica AT2020 Condenser Microphone
The Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is the ideal mic for project and home studio applications. With a remarkably low price, cardioid pattern, and specs that put it in the big leagues, it features a custom-engineered, 16mm low-mass diaphragm and smooth 20Hz-20kHz frequency response. The AT2020’s low self-noise is suited to digital recording, plus it has a high 144dB SPL handling. Requires phantom power. ($66.00)
Get it online: Audio-Technica AT2020 Condenser Microphone
Shure PG42 Condenser Microphone
Specifically engineered for vocal reproduction, the PG42 side-address condenser microphone features a large cardioid diaphragm tailored with high sensitivity to clearly reproduce refined performances. A -15dB switchable attenuator and a high pass filtering switch guarantees quality for every vocal application. Includes a shock mount and carrying case. Requires phantom power. ($199.00)
Get it online: Shure PG42 Condenser Microphone
Audio-Technica AT4040 Studio Condenser Microphone
A marriage of technical precision and artistic inspiration, this studio mic features an advanced large diaphragm element tensioned specifically to provide smooh, natural sonic characteristics. It’s low-noise circuitry results in an exceptional transient response and natural output. Chosen as the “Wired Mic of the Year” by Music & Sound Retailer. AT4040 also won the “Best New Cabled Mic” at the Winter NAMM Music & Sound Awards. Requires phantom power. ($280.00)
Get it online: Audio-Technica AT4040 Studio Condenser Microphone
VO: 1-A Harlan Hogan Signature Series Microphone
The VO: 1-A package includes everything you need to begin recording studio quality voice overs immediately. Harlan has partnered with Marshall Electronics to create the MXL VO: 1-A Signature Series microphone – THE Voice Over Microphone designed for voice over performers by a voice over performer. The MXL VO: 1-A faithfully captures deep tones without sounding too heavy and has a silky smooth top end that is never harsh – a perfect sound palette for most male and female voice over performers. Requires phantom power. ($249.00)
Get it online: VO: 1-A Harlan Hogan Signature Series Microphone
Rode NT1A Condenser Microphone Package
What could be better than getting a high-quality, ultra-quiet condenser microphone that is perfect for doing voice overs? How about one that comes complete with a premium shockmount, pop filter, cable, dust cover AND an instructional DVD! You can’t beat what you get for this price! It really has everything a person needs to get their voice-over career underway. Requires phantom power. ($229.00)
Get it online: Rode NT1A Condenser Microphone Package
AKG C 3000 B Studio Condenser Microphone
The AKG C3000B is a high-quality condenser microphone designed with a special 1-inch large-diaphragm transducer that closely approximates the vibration performance of top-class studio microphones, but can be made at much lower cost. Due to its surface area and special capsule tuning, the C3000B large-diaphragm transducer produces an exceptionally pleasing, smooth sound. Requires phantom power. ($429.00)
Get it online: AKG C 3000 B Studio Condenser Microphone
More to come! 