Best Microphone For Violin Recording | 9 Choices in 2023

Violin is a unique musical instrument made up of wood. It is one of the most commonly used tools in the world. Nowadays, playing the violin is very popular and is being used in both rock and pop music. If you’re searching for a microphone for recording the violin while you play it, then you are in the right place.

To get the best recording results, you need good violin recording equipment including a wireless microphone for violin or other types of microphones.

We will recommend some of the most reasonable and quality best microphones for violin recording, based on our research, to make it easy for you to choose the best one that fulfills your requirements.

List of Top Recommended Microphones for Violin Recording: 

Violin Recording Microphone	Details for The Best Mics for Violin
	Audio-Technica AT 2020 (Our Best Picked) XLR Connector Unidirectional Polar Pattern 20dB SPL Value for money 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 Sound quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 For gaming 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 Easy to use 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 Sheerness 4.9 out of 5.0 stars4.9 For beginners 4.5 out of 5.0 stars4.5 Quality of material 4.5 out of 5.0 stars4.5 Camera quality 4.2 out of 5.0 stars4.2 Durability 4.2 out of 5.0 stars4.2 CHECK ON AMAZON
	Shure SM58-LC (Best Selling) 50 to 15,000 Hz Frequency 180 Degree Handle Adapter Cardioid Polar Pattern Value for money 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 Sound quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 For gaming 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 Easy to use 4.9 out of 5.0 stars4.9 Sheerness 4.4 out of 5.0 stars4.4 For beginners 4.4 out of 5.0 stars4.4 Quality of material 4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1 Camera quality 4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1 Durability 4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1 CHECK ON AMAZON
	Shure SM48S-LC (Budget Choice) On/Off Switch Controlled Frequency Option Unidirectional Polar Pattern Value for money 5.0 out of 5.0 stars5.0 Sound quality 4.9 out of 5.0 stars4.9 For gaming 4.7 out of 5.0 stars4.7 Easy to use 4.5 out of 5.0 stars4.5 Sheerness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars4.5 For beginners 4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1 Quality of material 4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1 Camera quality 4.1 out of 5.0 stars4.1 Durability 3.9 out of 5.0 stars3.9 CHECK ON AMAZON

Top 9 Best Budget Microphone for Violin

1.  Audio-Technica AT2020 | Best Performing Microphone for Violin 

Audio-Technica AT2020 is smaller in size as compared to the other Audio Technica microphones. The microphone capsule is 16mm in diameter, smaller than the usual one-diameter capsule of average microphones.

Audio-Technica comes with strict standards for the superiority and reliability of the mic.  Its little-mass stomach is a handmade broadened repeat reaction and uncommon repeat response. With extreme improvement for suffering execution, the mouthpiece offers a wide interesting reach and successfully handles high strong weight levels.

Audio-Technica AT2020 is this company’s first entry into the world of microphones. As a result, it can be classified as essential than the more advanced models in this series. Subsequent model features have been included after receiving feedback from that initial product.

It does not mean that the performance is terrible in any way. Audio-Technica AT2020 offers excellent value for money and is ideal for anyone who wants to add a microphone to their home studio without spending hundreds of dollars.

Before getting into this microphone’s performance, it is essential to know that you need an audio interface to use this product. If you have a home studio, you most likely have this interface.

Features of Audio-Technica AT2020

• Perfect for both home/studio and stage performances. 
• Its high SPL conduct and broad dynamic range present unrivaled versatility.
• It blocks any unwarranted sounds and ensures quality sound.
• The custom-engineered small mass diaphragms give an extensive frequency reaction and also ensure a superior brief reaction. 
• Comes with a stand that firmly holds the mic in place.
• Works on a +48V phantom power.

2. Shure SM58-LC- BestDynamic Vocal Microphone for Violin

 

Just like Shure SM57, the overall design of Shure SM58 is quite durable. The cartilage is protected from external damage or moisture because of its rugged construction and the grille. Its design makes it sturdy and robust.

For minimizing any noises, it has a built-in spherical filter. The SM58’s personalized voice response is an incredible sound that has gotten a world norm.

Smooth increment in mid-recurrence presence for world-renowned SM58 receiver sound.

Tough development for outrageous dependability in requesting applications, Efficient underlying circular breeze, and pop channel, 50 to 15,000 Hz recurrence reaction provided with a break-safe section connector that pivots 180 degrees and Legendary quality.

Strength and dependability of Shure mouthpiece stand connector and zippered stockpiling sack, vicinity impact.

At the point when the sound source is inside 1/4 inch of the receiver, the mouthpiece enhances the low frequencies (6 to 10 dB at 100 dB). Hz), making a hotter and more extravagant bass sound than when it is further away.

This impact, known as the nearness impact, just happens on unique unidirectional receivers, for example, the Shure SM58 vocal amplifier. The SM58’s low-recurrence lessening gives better control, permitting the client to exploit the nearness impact.

Features of Shure SM58 Microphone

• The quality of this microphone is outstanding, and it will use for a long time.
• With the help of the cardioid pickup pattern, the microphone can quickly minimize any background noises.
• The internal pneumatic shock mount system of the microphone helps in cutting down the handling noises. 
• The microphone comes with a handle adapter that is break-resistant and rotates at 180 degrees.

3.  Shure SM48S-LC-Best Unidirectional Microphone for Violin 

The Shure SM48 is a part of the Shure SM series. Just like other microphones in this series SM48 is also quite durable and comes at a reasonable price. It is used for vocals, but it is also as good as recording instruments such as the violin.

The SM48S dynamic unidirectional microphone is a high-performance microphone. It manages a good cardioid pattern throughout its frequency limit and ensures high gain before off-axis sound return and refusal.

Custom frequency response is ideal for primary vocal, choir, and spoken word applications. An increase in presence brightens mid-range performance, and lower-frequency roll-off controls the proximity effect.

The SM48S includes a cushioned cartridge, a steel mesh screen, and an integrated pop filter.

Features of Shure SM48 Microphone

• The cardioid picking patterns of the microphone help in cutting the unwanted background sounds.
• The microphone’s in-built pop shield deals with plosives or any unwanted sound that may disrupt the performance.
• Accompanied by an off and on switch.
• Needs an XLR cable to connect.
• Works without needing any phantom power. 
• Comes along with a microphone stand and an adapter or connector.

4.  Audio-Technica PRO 35T-Best Clip Microphone for Violin

Sound Technica star 35T is a little measured, lightweight. It is an inch long, and its width is a half-inch. Its cardioid polar pickup design disregards the clamors originating from sides and just spotlights on the front sounds.

Intended for saxophone, kettle drum, metal, and drumming, this worthy mic dominates in elevated SPL applications and is perfect for a fiery theater exhibition. The included Uni Mount cut permits exact situating and gives sway opposition while securing the thing.

Its recurrence goes from 50HZ to 15kHz. Its all-encompassing recurrence reaction catches the unobtrusive subtleties of your record. The included UniMount cut permits exact situating and gives sway opposition while securing the thing.

The mouthpiece’s cardioid polar example decreases sound pickup from the sides and back, improving segregation from the ideal sound source. Hence, it is the top best option to use for Violin recordings.

Features of Audio Technica Pro 35T

• It is an ideal mic for studios for living performances. 
• The weight of this mic is approximately 0.3 ounces.
• The microphone has a phantom power off, in between 11-52 V.
• It has an XLR connector.

5.  Shure SM57-LC-Best Handheld Microphone for Violin

The shape of the Shure SM57 microphone is quite different from a conventional microphone. It is one of the highly-using microphones for instrument recording as it is ideal for studio use and the stage. Its versatility makes it a more desirable microphone and quite reliable at such a price.

The Shure SM57 is a top-notch device in the melody industry. You can see it anywhere in miniature clubs and stadiums with 100,000 seats. Legendary artists and the latest newcomers use this renowned microphone.

The SM57 differs from microphones designed solely for picking up vocals in several ways. Vocal mics like the SM58 have their regularity set within a specific choice, which is familiar to most singing groups, improving the raise up of the human voice of this microphone.

The SM57 does not contain this particular change to hold frequencies on a better scale, with a reaction of 40Hz to 15KHz. Without this change, the microphone picks up resonance precisely as it is reproduced, thus creating an ideal soundtrack each time.

This unique mic is ideal for some singers who just desire their vocals’ rare effort with no chord.

Features of Shure SM57 microphone

• Despite its low price, the manufacturers of this microphone haven’t comprised on the quality.
• It doesn’t allow any outside noise to disrupt your performance by focusing only on the sounds coming straight from the violin.
• Works quite well at both the high and low frequencies.
• Comes with highly effective pop filters

6.  Rode NT5- Best Condenser Microphone for Voinlin Recording

Rode NT5 is a good quality microphone at a reasonable price. It has a pencil shape and is a small-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone. The Rode NT5 is a real and top condenser microphone designed particularly for optimal recording of instruments.

It works to fit on all devices, such as guitars, flutes, violins, drums, etc. It comes in a compact size and design which allows it for efficient and delicate positioning, which is vital when you turn off the mic.

The combo pair of RODE NT5 microphones are susceptible and will give you exact sound reproduction. NT5s are full in tightly harmonized pairs.

The gadget comes in pairs. And includes a great case, 2 RM5 mounts, and 2 WS5 windshields. This mic is a worthy mic that tends to work for a longer time. Also, it will never disappoint you on your way.

Features of Rode NT5 Microphone

• There is an externally biased condenser in the microphone.
• Its capsule of the microphone is golden in color.
• Its body of the microphone is platted with heavy-duty satin nickel.
• The power operation of the microphone has a dual system.
• Surface mount circuitry. 
• Can very well record even low noise.
• High-frequency response. 

7.  Rode M5-MP Best Small Diaphram Microphone for Violin 

Rode M5-MP is a mic with a small diaphragm cardioid condenser. It is a robust and good-looking mic used for various functions. It has a matte black ceramic coating on the outside and is slightly less massive than Rode NT5.

Designed and developed in Australia it comes in a pair and is half an inch in size. It is ideal for studio use.

Ideal for recording in the studio moreover, live before a group of people, the Rode M5-MP pair combo cardioid condenser is found at home on various acoustic instruments, backing vocals, or wherever a stomach condenser mouthpiece is used.

Little independent or in a sound framework association. Arranged and created in Australia, the M5 is a limited 1/2 “cardioid condenser mouthpiece with low disturbance and full repeat response. Through various significant lots of inclusion manufacturing the honor-winning NT5 collector, RODE has made a High-Quality Microphone.

The quality pencil-style interminable stimulated condenser will stun even the most mentioned pros and draftsmen. This changing pair has purposely chosen to ensure the biggest compassion assortment of 1dB between collectors.

A plastic-shrouded confirmation is supplied Premium to check the validity of the gathering. The M5 is completing RODE’s specific pottery covering offering an in-vogue matte dim fruition and supplying the WS5 windshield and RM5 maintenance brackets.

Features of Rode M5-MP

• The frequency of the microphone ranges between 20hz-20kHz. 
• The body of the microphone is made up of metal.
• It has a small diaphragm.
• The microphone also has clips.
• The membrane of the capsule is plated with gold.
• The quality is quite impressive.
• Comes with two WS5 windshields.
• Includes two stand mounts. 

8.  Audio-Technica AT2021 Best Vocal Microphone for Violin

Audio- Technica is a Japanese company, and AT2021 is one of the company’s most microphones launched under the AT series. It is a small microphone with excellent quality. It was realized only a year ago, and The breath, not a built-in spherical cap, reduces breath noises and plosives.

It has gained a 4.5 rating in such a short time due to its good quality. It is famous because of its low price and advanced quality and is chosen by both beginners and advanced musicians.

It is designed to record instruments and vocals both on stage and indoors. Ideal for home studios and live applications, the situation of wellbeing AT2021 offers extended repeat response, high most noteworthy SPL, and wide remarkable reach.

The mouthpiece is extraordinary for acoustic guitar, headphones, piano, and social occasion vocals. Its low collecting segment offers a remarkable transient response. Its “low mass” stomach is affirmed to construct an “uncommon transient response.”

Its high SPL rating of 145 dB (1% THD) makes it appropriate for boisterous sources, for instance, drums. It’s for the most part high self-upheaval level of 19 dB that seems to make it unsuitable for reluctant sources, for instance, a nylon string guitar.

The mic’s repeat response drops by – 2dB at 80Hz, yet is commonly level at 30Hz to 3kHz. More than 3 kHz, there is an apex of ~ 4 dB centered at 10 kHz. The – 3dB HF point is basically 20kHz.

Features of Audio- Technica AT 2021

• This microphone is relatively easy to set up and use.
• The cardio polar patterns of the microphone helps in blocking unnecessary noises.
• The features and design of this microphone itself speak for its quality.
• Give a superb transient response; the microphone has a low mass element.
• The product has a built pop filter that provides smooth and natural sound.

9.  AKG Pro Audio C1000S Best XLR Microphone for Violin

Despite that AKG is a small company, it has earned its reputation because of its quality microphones. Recently, it’s known as one of the best innovative companies in the market.

The AKG Pro Audio C1000S is a small yet powerful microphone. Its small size makes it handy yet versatile. AKG Pro Audio is an excellent option for people who can’t afford an expensive microphone.

Pro Audio is quite a sensitive microphone. It can be easily carried for outdoor use and is suitable for indoor or studio use as well. It is a good option for beginners and advanced musicians who can use it as a backup microphone.

Features of AKG Pro Audio

• The mic has a capsule shape covered in gold color.
• The XLR pins protect the microphone from humidity.
• It uses both AA batteries and phantom power.
• The base cut and -10dB switchable provide versatility for every situation. 
• Three frequency settings.
• Unique polar button; it can be switched from cardioid to hyper-cardioid.

How to Choose the Best Microphone for Recording Violin?

Keep in mind that choosing a microphone is not an easy task. To make sure you get your hands on the best one, the following things are essential to keep in mind.

• The mic should have a frequency range between 150HZ-18000HZ because a narrow frequency range will not capture the sound correctly.
• The mic should be able to reject unwanted sounds, so for that, it’s always better to use a mic with a cardioid, super-cardioid, or hyper-super-cardioid pattern.
• The microphone should make of durable and suitable quality material.
• Always look for the already existing reviews of the product if you are confused about buying it or not.

What Factors Make an Ideal Violin Microphone?

Comprehensive Frequency Response

Choose a microphone that effectively reproduces the violin’s broad frequency range.

Reduced Treble Frequency

Due to the violin’s intense high frequencies, it is often better to have a flat or even decreased high-frequency response. Many microphones with boosted high frequencies will make the violin sound too harsh.

Directionality

A directional microphone will help isolate the violin if it is in a room with other instruments. It is less critical when the violin is recorded in isolation.

Sensitivity

Choose a microphone sensitive enough to capture the nuances of the violin sound. It enables the complete sound image to be caught. There is more to the sound of a violin than vibrating strings!

FAQs on Violin Recording Microphone 

Do tuners really “restrict the sound” of a violin?

You will likely hear the only real difference would be if you added fine tuners to an ebony tailpiece.

The relationship between the length of the string behind the bridge (“back length”) and the size of the bridge hanging from the nut will affect the amount and type of secondary vibrations reflected in the length of the main sound.

Suspended Adding fine tuners to a standard tailpiece shortens that tail length and, in some cases, will even cause “wolf sounds” that weren’t there before the fine tuner has installed.

Why does my violin sound like a viola?

If your instrument does not sound correct, you should take it to a qualified luthier to make sure it is tuned precisely.

Moving the easel or soundpost, among others, can result in a hollow, non-projection sound. You can also have very dark strings or a super soft violin, but you won’t know that unless you’ve checked.

At what level should I record vocals?

When recording vocals, reliably record at the 24-bit objective, and I suggest the biggest record level of – 10 dBFS. At 24 pieces, it isn’t necessary to fabricate the story above.

These settings ought to make the best sign to disturbance extent with by a wide margin the majority of mic preamps.

What is phantom power on a microphone?

In professional audio gear, spirit power is a DC power nimbly conveyed through a speaker that connects to work collectors containing dynamic electronic equipment. It is well known as a suitable power contributor for condenser microphones, even though many lively direct boxes use it.

How to mic a live violin?

I have found that placing a mic in the middle of the fingerboard is the best compromise in tone for “listening” to a violin life.

Although most of the time, I use a clip-on microphone near the chin bar aiming over the bow/string area to avoid having it in my line of sight if I’m looking at my left hand.

Does playing the violin damage your hearing?

Violins and violas can generate music levels high enough to cause permanent hearing loss. It is usually worse in the left ear (the ear closest to the instrument).

Unlike most other categories of devices, the ability to hear higher-frequency harmonics is crucial for these musicians.

Do you need Rosin for an electric violin?

The sap is basic for any artist who plays a worried string instrument, for example, violin and cello. It is likewise mandatory for any electric violin or viola. Without Rosin, the bow’s hair will slide along the strings and not give enough erosion to create a sound.

Why is my violin itching so much?

Check the amount of rosin powder left on the handle. If it looks too white, your arc is too close. The lack of balance between arc speed and arc pressure significantly contributes to scratching.

Aggressive pressure on the bow with your arm on the string will undoubtedly make the sound squeak.

How to record violin at home?

It’s not so much difficult. You can use recording software along with a microphone and a mic stand. The microphone could be USB, wireless, or XLR microphone. But the important thing is to place the microphone in the right place.

One meter distance is ideal, place it opposite to your body and violin. However different distances will give different sound results.

How to record yourself playing the violin?

There are two options. One is an audio violin recording and another is a video violin recording.

For audio violin recording, plug the electric mic into your computer or laptop mic slot and press the record button. For video violin recording, add a webcam and press the record button.

Final Thoughts on The Best Violin Microphone 

The microphones that are included in the list have their unique features and function. Each microphone comes with a different price and unique qualities, and we can’t say which one is the preferable one because it’s tough to consider only one just the best. The microphones that are recommended above are based on our research and study.

I will recommend three Microphones for violin recording. We took these mics on the basis of customer reviews.

1. Audio-Technica AT2020
2. Shure SM58-LC
3. Shure SM48S-LC

Now it solely depends on the reader or buyer to decide. You can choose the one for use after analyzing various factors like your budget, instrument, use, and preferences. We have just provided you with the characteristics, pros, and cons of each product to help you decide what products suit you the best.

If you don’t know about microphones and are looking for some suggestions, you’re in the right place. We hope this article increases your knowledge about microphones and helps you decide which best microphone is for you.