Best Condenser Mic Under 100

Let’s get this straight. Establishing a new home recording studio is exciting and can be stressful altogether. Particularly if you are new to the world of studio recording and unaware of recording gears.

Take the condenser microphone, for instance. It is undoubtedly compelling equipment in any home recording studio. Because of its sophisticated design, sensitivity, and excellent audio quality, you've to spend a little more than usual.

Obviously, you could get a top-quality condenser mic, if you’ve budget over $1,000. But, not everyone can afford it; especially, if you are getting started. This not the case these days.

You can get the best condenser mic under 100 coming from reputable brands. They not only produce high-definition sound but also have a wider frequency response and excellent transient response.

We've gathered a few of the best condenser mic for streaming and vocals in this article. They all work either with batteries and phantom power. They not only perform great in-home studios but also in environments where sound can be controlled.

Let’s have a look to know which condenser mic made the cut.

10 Best Condenser Mic under 100 Reviews

Finding the best condenser mic under 100 can be a troublesome task. That's why we are going to review some of the best yet affordable models that come under 100. Take a look.

1. MXL Mics 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

MXL is a brand that is well-known for producing the best condenser mic for vocals, streaming, etc. The MXL Mics 770 is one of their multi-purpose condenser microphones.

It uses a high-quality FET preamp along with transformer-less, balanced output. The microphone provides a warm sound with more clarity at the top-end. It also has got a low-frequency roll-off, which minimizes annoying rumble.

Above all, this patented microphone can be wired with Mogami for incredible sound clarity. It’s a perfect choice for newbies and seasoned pros who look for a crisp and clear sound.

2. ZINGYOU Condenser Microphone

Moreover, the mic features high SNR, which means it ensures less distortion while recording. Unlike others, it has a unique three-layer protection system—all these help to minimize annoying pop noises.

The microphone provides a loud, clear, and plosive-free vocal. Its 8.2 ft. XLR cable allows versatility while recording in the studio or live situations. Indeed, it’s a great deal to have.

3. IKEDON USB Condenser Microphone

IKEDON USB condenser mic is considered as the best condenser mic for streaming. You can turn your computer setup into a streaming studio. The microphone sounds excellent, and fit & finish is excellent.

It includes a unique pop filter with double mesh layering with a foam windscreen. This helps to minimize delicate plosive and wind sounds. The best part is, it comes with an all-steel scissor arm stand.

The stand can hold the entire setup steadily. You can adjust it with tension knobs. The microphone features a shock mount that holds it without slipping and vibrating. Lastly, the microphone not only saves money, but it also saves time with its plug-and-play connection.

4. Blue Snowball USB Microphone

Blue Snowball USB microphone is not only the affordable but the most stylish option around here. The first impression of the Blue Snowball is excellent because of its unique design. It captures legendary Blue broadcast sound with great details.

Moreover, the condenser mic comes with an adjustable metal tripod desktop stand. It means the microphone boosts sound-quality while saving space. Also, the stand includes -10dB pad that works in cardioid mode.

These pads make sure the Snowball sounds without distortion, even on louder instruments and voices. Lastly, you can fine-tune your sound by associating it with the Blue Sherpa app.

5. Audio-Technica AT2020 Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

If you are searching for a mic that can reduce noise like the pro-level mic, Audio-Technica AT2020 could be your option. This great-quality cardioid mic includes every aspect that a top vocal search for.

The condenser mic features an integral three-pin XLRM type output connector. Besides, its high SPL handling and extended dynamic range ensure supreme versatility. Its black finish on the mic makes it look great on hand.

The microphone suits better in recording studios. It also works great in live situations and on the move. The microphone includes pivoting, threaded stand mount for secure placement. 

6. Marantz Pro MPM1000 - Condenser Microphone

Introducing the Marantaz Pro MPM1000, the excellent all-rounder solution for podcasting applications. It offers no-compromise recording solutions with a decade-long history of engineering innovations.

You can keep your production-focused with its precise cardio pattern. Its pristine captures ensure minimal interference from undesirable noises. This microphone also preserves isolation and a great solution for recording closely-spaced subjects.

The microphone comes with a tripod desktop stand for a seamless setup. Also, the purpose-designed shock mount works for mounting to a traditional mic stand. The design is also compact and lightweight that allows portable audio capture.

7. Neewer NW-700 Professional Condenser Microphone

The Neewer NW-700 condenser mic is a professional-grade mic suitable for a range of applications. The microphone set includes everything you need to make a complete studio or home recording broadcasting setup.

It also includes a windscreen pop-filter mask shield that makes sound audible and easy to understand. This mic also makes sure your sound is loud and clear. Its metal shock mount includes an angle adjustment along with a knocking knob.

Above all, it comes with a ball-type anti-wind foam cap that protects the mic from wind interferences. The Neewer NW-700 is a great deal that comes at an extremely low price.

8. XLR Condenser Microphone, UHURU Professional Studio XM-900

UHURU brings a professional studio condenser microphone with a complete setup. No matter what you are recording or tracking at home, it provides natural and smooth sound quality every time.

In addition to this, it has a pop filter that helps in a better and clearer voice. The microphone also comes with an adjustable scissor arm stand. This durable, steel-made arm stand allows fold for easy carry.

Above all, the XM-900 includes the complete microphone kit, including metal shock mount, windscreen, XLR cable, etc. All these make the microphone easy to install.

9. UHURU USB Podcast Condenser Microphone

Coming from the same brand, the UHURU USB condenser microphone work with your desktop and most computer-based workstation. The microphone ensures the best sound quality in every situation.

The microphone has a double-layered pop filter that makes sure a clearer voice. Also, its adjustable scissor arm stand is made of sturdy and durable steel. The farmstand is foldable and allows to mount in the table.

As mentioned earlier, the microphone is compatible with desktop-based devices, such as; PC, computer, laptop, Linux, and windows. All in all, it includes everything in a low budget.

​10. XIIVIO USB Gaming Condenser Microphone

At the end of the list, we have a XIIVIO USB pro-grade condenser microphone. This pro-grade microphone offers superior audio performance with accurate audio capture.

You can also fold the tripod stand for convenient carry. Besides, its double nylon-net windscreen pop filter comes handy against popping for precise vocal recordings.

Moreover, its 360^o flexible gooseneck allows adjusting the mic at any angle. The microphone works great with most USB port, including laptop, desktop, PS4, and MAC. Simply plug into any of these devices, and it is ready to go.

Its anti-jamming performance makes sure the excellent noise reduction. Overall, the microphone can be a great addition to any home recording studio. All these features come at an extremely low price.

Condenser Mic vs. Dynamic Mic

There are different types of microphones available around. Choosing the right one is essential to get your sound right. If your mic cannot capture sound clearly, even the best setup cannot produce the desired sound.

The majority of microphones can be categorized into two groups, condenser, and dynamic. Since you are investing in a condenser mic, it is essential to know how they are different.

Condenser Mic

Condenser microphones are used in studios to capture sounds with accuracy and more details. These are best for capturing high frequencies. The condenser mic has a lightweight membrane called the diaphragm, which is separated by a fixed plate.

When the sound pressurizes the diaphragm, it starts to move and create electrical output. Condenser mics are quite sensitive and are used to capture and amplify delicate sounds.

These uses power from an external source such as preamp, or phantom power. The added power helps to create high output, so you don't need too much gain at the preamp. If you ended up with a cheaper preamp, it might not provide enough gain.

However, condenser mics are best to use for acoustic guitars. It is also best at recording sharp sounds from snare drums and cymbals. They may not work well with loud noises. If you have a powerful voice or you want to mic-up for loud sound, dynamic mics are your option.

Dynamic Mic

Dynamic Mics are designed to capture loud sounds and powerful vocals. Because of that, these are mostly used in live conditions. Unlike condenser mic, it uses a wire coil inside to amplify signals that are captured by the diaphragm.

It provides relatively lower output than the condenser mic. So, the dynamic mic should be used while capturing extreme sounds. Dynamic mics are also famous for their reliability and sturdiness. These have less tendency to breakage even after dropping from hands.

This mic does not need phantom power or batteries. Also, dynamic mics require little maintenance and last for many years. But, you need to spend extra to get a dynamic mic. Condenser mics are the budget-friendly and versatile option than this.

Things to Consider While Choosing the Best Condenser Mic Under 100

Similar to other musical instruments, condenser mic has so many intricate features. It is tough to find out what works and what doesn’t. Above that, you are investing only $100, which somewhat limits the options.

Thankfully, you can get the best condenser mic for streaming from the list above. There are still some features that you should pay attention to. Take a look.

Diaphragm Size of Condenser Mics

A condenser microphone falls into two categories depending on its diaphragm size. The size of the diaphragm in a condenser mic plays a vital role in its entire performance. Notably, the noise performance.

Condenser mic with larger diaphragm usually has improved noise performance. It boosts the character of the sounds. These are considered as the best condenser mic for vocals, brass, and anything with noticeable upper-midrange.

Elsewhere, condenser mic with smaller diaphragm offers an extended high-frequency response and a better transient response. The smaller diaphragm size tends to the less the potential for accuracy. It is better to go with the larger diaphragm as it captures more details.

Polar Pattern

The polar pattern of a condenser mic denotes its sensitivity to the sound coming from different directions. In short, how better the condenser mic picks up and responds to the sounds in different directions.

The most common types of directionality in microphones are omnidirectional, cardioid, and super-cardioid. Omnidirectional mic is used to capture sound from more than one source. It also can be used to pick up the room atmosphere.

On the other hand, a cardioid and super-cardioid pattern suit more for one speaker. Based on your requirements, you may need one polar setting or more.

Sound Pressure Level (SPL)

The sound pressure level is measured in decibels (dB). SPL generally refers to the sensitivity ratings; it means the higher, the better. Signal Pressure Level depends on the distance from the source and acoustic features of the area where it is situated.

Condenser mic with the smaller diaphragm can handle higher SPLs. Contrarily, the larger diaphragm cannot handle very loud sources. Even though it can imitate more details, but it may get damaged in loud sources.

Noise Reduction

One of the most important things about a condenser mic is its noise reduction ability. Generally, condenser mic tends to have higher sensitivity. It responds to sound sources and background noises as well. So, it is wise to check how well the mic can reduce background noises and vibrations.

Connectivity

The condenser mic may connect via XLR or USB. The USB connector gets power from your computer or similar device. It is way more convenient to set up. Most home setup includes a computer DAW, so USB connectivity is better for those. But, it may not deliver the best sound quality because of the power it gets.

On the other hand, most audio interfaces and recording desks uses XLR connection. XLR mics use additional gears like an audio interface or power amp. It produces better sound than USB connectors.

XLR cables are usually longer than 8 ft. whereas USB cables are relatively short. You cannot place the mic away from the noisy desktop fan while using the USB connection.

Moreover, you can connect XLR cables to make longer cables as you need. XLR condenser mics are suitable for both studio and live situations—especially where it is required to reach from the mic to the mixing desk.

If you are a podcaster, a typical USB mic will work for you. But, if you intend to use the condenser mic for recording at home or studio, those mics may not work for you.

Power

Mostly, condenser mics use phantom power to capable of recording. The phantom power is a +48V electrical power signal. It is sent to the mic through the XLR cable from either mixing desk or audio interface.

The +48V signal delivers power to the capacitor insider to help the microphone to work. A condenser mic can also work on an internal battery source, which is quite rare.

You'll be likely to have phantom power in almost all audio interfaces these days. However, you should check before deciding anything.

Transients

The transient of a condenser mic denotes how fast it reacts to the incoming sounds. Generally, condenser mic has a better transient response than dynamic mics.

Because of the lightweight diaphragm, condenser mic tends to react faster to record quicker. These are more sensitive and fragile. So, you need to be careful while using a condenser mic.

Additional Gears

Even though your budget is under 100, it is better to get some extra within this. It may worth your budget if you intend to have extra gears. What you get alongside depends on what type of microphone you buy.

Some USB mics come plug-and-play, which only requires USB connections. A condenser mic generally comes with the microphone stand, audio interface, cables, shock mount, windscreen, etc.

The Frequency Response of a Condenser Mic

It is essential to understand the frequency response of condenser mics. As we said, condenser mics are sensitive to the higher frequencies. It tends to capture lots of the top-end details.

Types of Frequency Response

A condenser mic tends to have two types of frequency response, that are on-axis and off-axis.

The On-axis frequency response refers to how the mic responds to the sound when it enters directly from the front. The off-axis response means the sound comes to the microphone from other directions. 

When it enters the mic from other directions, it leads to uneven sound. This is what you may want to avoid in a recording studio. There is some condenser mic that can capture and record extremely low frequencies.

Generally, a condenser mic should have a built-in hi-pass filter. The hi-pass filter will cut low-frequency bumps, rumbles, and knocks.

Proximity Effect

The proximity effect refers to the modification in the frequency response of a microphone. It tends to emphasize lower frequencies and ruin vocals. Whenever the sound source locates within the near diaphragm, it shows low-end improvements in its frequency response.

While recording changes to within a microphone’s foot, the lower bass frequencies become louder. You can use a hi-pass filter to minimize this effect. It also can be fixed using a pop filter or omnidirectional mics.

How A Condenser Microphone Work?

A condenser mic has two diaphragms inside the microphone's capsule. With the phantom power, these two diaphragms hold a fixed charge. When a sound signal hits the first diaphragm, it moves and changes the distance between two diaphragms.

Consequently, the capacitance between the two diaphragm changes, and it also changes the voltage level. Thus, it produces an electrical output. The resultant output is somewhat weak, so it requires to boost by the preamp.

After boosting with a preamp, the signal becomes too powerful. The devices like an effect unit or a mixing desk can quickly process it.

Are The Best Condenser Mic Under 100 Worth It?

​You are spending around 100 to get the best condenser mic for streaming and vocals. It means you are likely to use it for the home recording studio. Earlier, we mentioned, condenser mics are best for use in studios.

The list of condenser mic above will undoubtedly help you get a decent condenser mic. If you wonder, are they really worth it? Definitely. It depends on the features the mic has and also your exact budget.

Sometimes, it is challenging to get condenser mic under 50 dollars. The designs of the budget condenser may be too basic, but it can be functional than you think. So, indeed a condenser mic under 100 is worth your money.

How to Record Using a Condenser Microphone?

FAQs

Q1- What is the best cheap condenser microphone?

There is quite some cheap condenser mic available in the market. The cheap doesn’t mean the cheap quality rather than the affordable price. Some of the best cheap condenser microphones are Audio-Technica AT2020, Blue Yeti Nano, MXL Mics 770, and ZINGYOU BM-800.

Q2- What's the best cheap microphone for recording?

Getting a high-end microphone for recording is a dream for many musicians. The budget becomes an issue in most cases. Now you can get budget microphones on hand and here are a few suggestions;

Q4- How much does a condenser microphone cost?

You can get a decent condenser microphone at around $100. Generally, a condenser mic with either omnidirectional or directional mic ranges from $70 to $500 and more. The price differs with the number of pickup patterns and other features.

Q5- What is condenser mic good for?

Condenser mics are good for capturing a more extensive frequency range. It has a better transient response, which means it can reproduce the "speed" of voice or instruments. They also provide larger output. That's why condenser mics are mostly found in studios.

Q6- What are the drawbacks of omnidirectional mics?

The omnidirectional microphone captures sound from every direction. So, you'll experience a lot of bleeds or spills coming from other sound sources. It mostly occurs when you are trying to focus on a single element like a voice or a guitar.

Q7- What is the best condenser mic for streaming?

If you are planning to start streaming or podcasting, there are varieties of options that you can choose from. Here are a few options; Samson G-Track Pro, Blue Yeti, HyperX QuadCast USB microphone, Razer SeirenElite, etc.

Conclusion

Overall, getting the best condenser mic under 100 depends on your preferences. Before adding a condenser mic to your home studio, look at the condenser mic listed above. Pay attention to the features, and read the detailed reviews.

In the end, you'll surely find that these are essential for almost all home studio. Go, pick yours!

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