Microphones

If you want record or amplify vocals or an acoustic instrument, you're going to need a microphone. At Bax Music, we have a microphone for every possible purpose; from USB microphones for online conferencing to advanced wireless microphone for live use and high-end studio microphone for crystal-clear recordings.

Studio Condenser Microphones for Professional Recording

Condenser microphones can be roughly divided into two types: large-diaphragm condenser microphones and small-diaphragm condenser microphones. When compared to small diaphragm models, large-diaphragm microphones not only add more colour but shape a rounder, richer sound which is why they're often used to capture vocals. That being said, if you're going for ultimate realism and zero loss of detail, a small-diaphragm condenser microphone is your best bet.

Wireless Microphones, Bluetooth Microphones and Karaoke Microphones

Cables can be both a risk and a nuisance when you're busy belting it out on stage. Not to mention that microphone cables limit the ability to move freely and interact with the audience. Thankfully, there are various wireless microphones available. For singers, we've got a complete range of wireless handheld microphones, including wireless versions of various popular wired handhelds. For sports and yoga instructors, as well as teachers and presenters, there are special wireless headset microphone systems that leave your hands free and ensure that your instructions are heard. If you're looking for a more inconspicuous wireless mike, a wireless clip-on microphone system is the right choice. Newsreaders are almost always equipped with one of these lavalier microphones so they don't have to hold one themselves. Bluetooth microphones, on the other hand, are rarely used in professional environments due to their limited range and the small delay in signal transmission. Bluetooth modules are often integrated into headsets for mobile devices, karaoke microphones and wireless multimedia headsets.

USB Microphones and Gaming Headsets with Built-In Microphones

Gaming has grown to become an official sport where the difference between winning and losing can come down to your gear. Gaming headsets are essentially headphones equipped with a microphone arm and look a lot like the headsets that pilots wear. Since gaming headsets combine headphones and a microphone in one, they're rarely fitted with a standard jack plug. In some cases, you'll find a TRRS plug that's compatible with the combo input/output of laptops and smartphones, or even two plugs: one for the headphones and one for the microphone. The alternative to a gaming headset would be a separate USB microphone combined with a pair of headphones. The downside of this set-up is that the microphone won't be as close as your mouth and may pick up ambient noise from something like your keyboard. The advantage is that you're free to pick your own microphone and headphones depending on your needs - you could even bypass headphones completely by playing the game-sound through a pair of desktop speakers.

Microphone Stands and Microphone Boom Arms

There are various ways you can mount or secure a microphone when performing or recording. Microphone boom arms support extremely accurate positioning and can be space-saving, but if you don't need one or if you want to use a reflection filter, a straight stand is a better pick. For podcasters, gamers and vloggers, there are several other solutions: table stands usually have a smaller base and take up the least amount of space, leaving more room for your mouse and keyboard, while broadcast microphone stands clamp to the edge of your desk and don't take up any space at all. Some broadcast microphone stands will even come with an integrated cable which can be an XLR or a USB cable, so always make sure you get one that's compatible with your microphone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microphones

Which microphone do I need?

Large-diaphragm condenser microphones and small-diaphragm condenser microphones sound clear and natural, making them ideal for vocals and acoustic instruments such as acoustic guitars and pianos. Since they're less sensitive and pack less detail, dynamic instrument microphones are used to record louder instruments like drum kits and guitar amplifiers. For live vocals, dynamic vocal microphones are the best option due to their lower sensitivity and ability to counter feedback.

What’s the best type of microphone for podcasting?

While broadcasting microphones are the most popular pick when it comes to podcast production, you can easily get away using a dynamic vocal microphone or even a USB microphone if you're a solo-podcaster. USB microphones offer plug-and-play compatibility with computers and sometimes even smartphones.

What can I plug a microphone into?

Most 'standard' microphones feature an XLR port that allows you to hook it up to a mixing console or an audio interface. Don't need a mixer or interface? That means you can grab a USB microphone instead. Just bear in mind that USB microphones can't be connected to a mixer or audio interface.

How much does a decent microphone cost?

The lion's share of dynamic microphones on the market are part of the £75 to £350 price range, while the price of condenser microphones is less easy to define. A solid budget condenser costs less than £100 and a solid all-round large-diaphragm condenser microphone can be picked up for £150 to £200. But we also have first-class studio microphones that can cost upwards of £3,500. Are these the best money can buy? Not necessarily. It all depends on your needs. A valve condenser microphone worth a couple of thousand quid is a terrible choice if your plan is to wander the woods capturing birdsong.

How do I connect a microphone to a laptop?

The easiest way to connect a microphone to a laptop is to just use a USB microphone. These plug-and-play microphones are a great solution for podcasts, gaming and online meetings. For music production, you're better off with an audio interface. Most audio interfaces allow you to hook up multiple microphones to build a flexible set-up.