TOP 7 best wireless microphones for karaoke: which one to buy, pros and cons, reviews

Expert: Bogdan Shevchuk

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Long gone are the days when you needed expensive equipment and software to sing karaoke. Now, for such entertainment, a regular computer, laptop or even a smartphone is enough. Yes, you can even do without a screen with running song lyrics if you buy a special all-in-one karaoke microphone. The Expertology editors offer you an overview of the current audio equipment market at the beginning of 2022 with recommendations from our industry experts on choosing the optimal microphone model specifically for karaoke singing.

How to choose a microphone for karaoke

To begin with, we will traditionally look at the criteria for choosing a suitable microphone and how not to get lost in the variety that the market offers. Moreover, diversity is only an appearance, and there are actually not so many truly suitable models for such a special topic.

Who will sing and how?

This is the first question that you should ask yourself before buying a karaoke microphone, but for some reason it is often ignored. Let's clarify what we mean.

If simple entertainment is expected and singing takes turns at the peak of the feast with the obligatory prompter, one microphone will do, and it will be inexpensive and even wired. The requirements here are not high by definition, studio quality is certainly not needed, and only those who know the words of the song well will be able to move far from the screen with a prompter.

A more complicated version of the previous one is a set for a married couple who prefers to sing a duet. Wired and wireless options are available here in almost all price categories. For children, there may be a separate version of the microphone with a “fun” design and colorful colors.

Sound transmission mechanism

According to this parameter, microphones are divided into several groups, the most popular of which are dynamic or condenser. The latter are more appropriate for studio recording, as they show high, and often even prohibitive, sensitivity. Such sensitivity is needed to convey all the nuances of the sound of an instrument or vocal, but for karaoke it is useless, if not harmful. Ultra-precise voice reproduction will highlight both its strengths and weaknesses, and we all know what karaoke singing is like in most cases. In addition, condenser mechanisms are demanding in terms of room acoustics and additional equipment.

Dynamic microphones, on the contrary, are able to some extent smooth out the imperfect vocal “parts” of an entertaining company. And the lion's share of ready-made karaoke systems are equipped with just such models. The limited frequency range no longer plays a fundamental role here.

Focus

Here everything is more or less clear - omnidirectional microphones are not suitable for vocals, since they will pick up and transmit to the speakers not only the voice of the singer, but also all surrounding sounds. That is, only unidirectional models are suitable for karaoke. This is one of the fundamental characteristics that manufacturers always directly indicate in the descriptions.

Wired, wireless or standalone

If you are buying a new microphone for an existing karaoke system (let’s say the old one is out of order), then the choice here is not difficult. You just need to choose an option with the same type of connection and take into account the nuances described above. If you are going to use a karaoke application on a computer or smartphone, there may already be different options.

With wired microphones, everything is clear - there are plenty of them in all price categories, from “hundred-ruble” to professional ones for tens or more of thousands of rubles. In this review, we will cut off the extremes and consider high-quality models at an affordable or at least not exorbitant price. We are still talking about karaoke, and not about a recording studio.

There are not many wireless microphones of normal quality and at an affordable price on the market, but there are still plenty to choose from. Some models communicate with the receiving device via Bluetooth, and some use a radio module. We will consider high-quality and affordable samples of both

Finally, the most interesting thing is autonomous microphones, “tailored” strictly for karaoke. These are combined devices where a microphone, speakers, player, control panel, optional mixer and even light-color-music are collected in one housing. Such devices are equipped with a battery and a card reader, allowing you to have fun in any conditions, even outdoors. Actually, it is precisely these models that most closely fit the modern interpretation of the term “microphones for karaoke.” This is a relatively new product on the market and consumers are just beginning to discover the benefits of this solution.

By what criteria to choose

Microphones need to be selected based on several parameters that can affect the quality of vocal recording and ease of use. They are worth paying attention to more than the price.

Microphone type

Wireless microphones can have 2 connection types:

1. Single channel, i.e. to only one device, for example, a phone.
2. Multichannel, i.e. to several gadgets (TV, computer, etc.).

frequency range

Amateur devices have coverage within the range of 100-10000 Hz. Higher quality professional models have a higher frequency range.

The frequency range of a microphone depends on its purpose.

Microphone sensitivity

The more sensitive the device, the less sound distortion. If a home concert is being organized, a sound pressure of 90 dB is sufficient.

Guarantee period

It is worth buying products that have a warranty of at least 6 months, because... Defects are most often detected after 8-12 weeks of active use.

Focus

Sound recording devices are divided into:

1. Omnidirectional. Sound collects from all sides.
2. Unidirectional. Vocals are recorded from one side only, i.e. Extraneous noise will not affect the audibility of singing.

Rating of the best microphones for karaoke

Hollyland Lark 150

Smaller and cheaper than Rode

9.3

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Shape: clip Polar pattern: omnidirectional Frequency range: 20 Hz-20 kHz Power source: built-in battery, rechargeable via USB port Noise protection: pile windscreen

pros

• Physical adjustment dials
• Smaller and lighter than Rode Wireless Go
• AirPod style charging/storage case

Minuses

• Inferior to Rode in sound quality

While the Rode Wireless Go was a revolution, the Hollyland Lark 150 was a revelation. There's a lot to love about this ultra-small microphone system with smart pairing, but for us the biggest selling point is the physical controls. No more pressing buttons, navigating menus, or using preamps—just turn a knob, making level control intuitive.

Lark 150 DUO has three sound output modes: mono, stereo and safety track. The last mode is for post-processing. The left channel mixes from both transmitters, and the right one operates at -6dB. And the icing on the cake is the AirPods-style charging case, which not only lets you charge all your devices at once, but also has a rechargeable battery so you can keep them running even without AC power.

Since the transmitters are even smaller than the Wireless Go and the entire system is even more affordable, it's a fantastic alternative that's actually a better price.

4

The best wired microphones for karaoke

And the first selection of the rating of the best microphones for karaoke according to Expertology magazine is devoted to microphones with a wired connection. Regardless of the models presented, we will give general advice. Stationary karaoke systems often “prefer” microphones with very exotic types of connectors instead of standard 3.5mm mini-jacks or larger 6.3mm plugs, and this should be taken into account if you are planning to choose a microphone for an existing device. With universal audio systems the situation is simpler.

Thomson M135D

Rating: 4.9

Let's start with the most inexpensive microphone in the selection of the Thomson brand, and to be precise, this is a whole pair of microphones at an affordable price, if we are talking about the modification with the D index. Here and further in the selection of wired models, we present microphones for vocals that are absolutely not necessarily tied specifically to the theme of karaoke. They perform well for events, and even for amateur recording in a home studio.

The Thomson M135D is a handheld dynamic microphone. It is positioned differently on different trading platforms: for vocals, computer and, in fact, for karaoke. These divisions in this case are arbitrary, since the microphone is universal. This is especially pronounced in the type of connection: the plug at the end of the wire is a standard 3.5mm minijack, and the kit also includes compact adapters to the 6.3mm format, one for each microphone.

Externally, this model does not stand out in any way; its shape is the most classic. The case material is black plastic with a glossy polish. The length of the wire is 3 meters, connected to the body without the possibility of disconnection. This is regarded by users as both a plus and a minus. Minus - not very convenient for transportation, plus - a guarantee that the wire will not jump out of the socket at the most inopportune moment. There is a convenient on/off switch on the body. The microphone weighs 225g, including packaging – 527g.

The model is characterized by a range of perceived frequencies from 70 to 13 thousand Hz, a sensitivity of -76 dB, and a cardioid polar pattern. The impedance of this model is quite high - 600 Ohms, so it will be able to reveal its full potential on not the weakest acoustics.

In general, this model can be recommended as a permanent one for not too ambitious tasks - it will last a long time and without unpleasant surprises. Or this microphone can be considered as a basic option for those who plan to develop further. It is far from professional models, but it is also strikingly different from cheap “hundred-ruble” ones.

Advantages

• good sound transmission;
• stability and reliability;
• universal connection type;
• optimal for a home duet;
• the most affordable price in the selection for a pair of microphones.

Flaws

• the wire is not detachable;
• easily soiled glossy surface.

Pioneer DM-DV10

Rating: 4.8

The review continues with a microphone from the famous Pioneer brand, and the DM-DV10 model will cost significantly more than the previous position, and it will be one microphone, not a pair. The price is quite reasonable, since it is still a Pioneer with all the obvious advantages. And we will now describe the non-obvious ones.

Although at first glance the microphone is very similar in appearance to the previous one, if you look closely and even take it in your hand, you can feel the difference being significant. The design of this model is exactly the same classic, but the materials are clearly of higher quality. The body is black, but the surface of the pen is matte, which means it won't show annoying fingerprints, plus more tactile comfort. The case, by the way, is metal, not plastic.

The wire here is exactly the same non-removable 3 meters long. The same 3.5mm minijack plug, but with gold plated. The kit includes a 6.3mm adapter, also gold-plated. There is an on/off switch on the case.

Pioneer DM-DV10 is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. Its range of perceived frequencies is slightly wider than the previous one - from 70 to 14 thousand Hz. And a little less resistance - 500 Ohms. It's even noticeably lighter than the Thomson M135 - almost exactly 200g without packaging.

The official warranty from the manufacturer for this model is 12 months.

Advantages

• brand;
• high-quality materials and assembly;
• metal case;
• decent sound;
• gold plated contacts;
• universal connection type;
• reliability and durability.

Flaws

• no obvious flaws were identified.

Blue Yeti

Best studio microphone

9.5

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Studio / Tabletop Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional, Stereo Frequency Response: 15 Hz-22 kHz Power Source: USB

pros

• Amazing sound quality
• Four polar patterns
• Incredibly simple

Minuses

• Limited stand adjustment

The most famous USB microphone? It very well may be, and while you might not have heard of it if you're new to the world of audio, there's a reason the Blue Yeti microphone has become almost ubiquitous in podcast studios and streaming desks. This is a plug-and-play microphone, it is very easy to install and set up and the sound quality is also excellent.

Blue Yeti uses a three-capsule system for four recording patterns, allowing you to customize your audio capture to suit your studio or setup. Whether you just need to record yourself or want to capture an entire group conversation, Blue Yeti is the perfect choice. Its controls are well designed and easy to reach, making it easy to adjust the volume or quickly toggle the mute button. Plus the design is damn chic.

Read more - full review of the Blue Yeti microphone

2

The Best Wireless Microphones for Karaoke

The second selection in the ranking of the best microphones for karaoke presents three interesting and decent quality wireless models. The presence of a wireless connection in this class of devices does not exclude the possibility of being equipped with a wired interface, or even the wire itself included in the kit. Wireless connection, by definition, excludes any serious studio recording, but disproportionately increases mobility during concert performances or events, thereby going far beyond just karaoke singing.

Which radio system is better?

Modern radio systems are actively used in various fields. They help musicians when recording music or performing live, lecturers during classes, showmen, guides, trainers, and journalists. Due to different purposes, the requirements for microphones will vary. We have compiled a list of the best systems and divided them by purpose. Based on the results of the work carried out, we can recommend:

• Radio system with head microphone Noir-audio U-3200-HS6, characterized by excellent sound, low price, low level of interference;
• Manual Rode Rødelink Performer Kit for professional vocals with automatic selection of the desired channel, minimal settings, good noise reduction;
• Saramonic Blink 500 B2 is a small size lavalier with a secure fit and excellent speech capture.

The positions presented in the rating have received good reviews from specialists and users, and have excellent characteristics.

Best Standalone Microphones for Karaoke

And now we move on to the most interesting part of the review of the best microphones for karaoke according to Expertology, where we will consider an expanded selection of all-in-one models. These microphones are actually compact audio systems, combining in various combinations the microphone itself (wireless), a compact speaker system, an audio player, and even optional light-color accompaniment. All this is contained in one unit, which is easy to transport and use at any time in any conditions.

MAGIC KARAOKE YS-63

Rating: 4.9

Let's start with the most inexpensive, but fairly high-quality and bright solution. The MAGIC KARAOKE YS-63 series is represented by karaoke microphones in four design options - rose gold, gold, silver and black. Externally, the devices look very stylish; light modifications are also festive. The microphone with battery weighs 330g. The materials are dominated by aluminum and plastic.

Let's first look at the functionality of the microphone, since in the context of this type of device it is as important as the sound. So, here we see a basic set of components - microphone, player, speakers. The control panel for the player and microphone is located directly on the handle. You can switch tracks, control speaker volume and echo. At the end of the handle there are USB Type-A, MicroUSB interface sockets and a card reader. There is a voice recording function.

The pure technical characteristics of this model are as follows. The range of perceived frequencies is from 10 to 10000 Hz. Sensitivity – 40dB. The standard speakers are a speaker and a subwoofer with a power of 3W each. The microphone is connected to the receiving device via a Bluetooth wireless channel or via a cable with a suitable connector. The range is standard for Bluetooth 4.0 10 meters.

The device is powered by a 2200 mAh battery, the declared autonomy should be enough for 6 hours of operation (in reality, it is often less). Standby time – up to 360 hours. Full charging time is 2 hours.

In this model range there are modifications with exactly the same series name, but one and a half times more expensive. The difference between them is that more expensive modifications have one additional function - voice change. So, when activated, you can change the timbre of the voice output to the speakers from childish to rude masculine, and thereby greatly amuse the audience.

Advantages

• high-quality materials and assembly;
• several colorful design options;
• autonomy;
• power supply including via USB;
• speaker and subwoofer;
• voice change in more expensive modifications.

Flaws

• autonomy is lower than stated.

WSTER WS-858

Rating: 4.8

From the slightly “no-name”, but inexpensive previous model, let’s move on to more expensive, but clearly branded options. The WS-858 series, although the simplest in the WSTER range, is significantly better in terms of characteristics than the previous one, and more than twice as expensive. In large cities where Tuxun or WSTER have representatives, you can even thoughtfully test karaoke microphones before purchasing.

Conceptually, this model almost exactly repeats the previous example. This is the same candy bar with a built-in player and speakers, echo control and voice changing functions, wireless and wired communications, and good battery life. The differences can be seen in the details when you look more closely at the specifications.

This series comes in three color options - black, gold and rose gold. The control panel for the player and microphone is no longer located on the handle-holder, but on the speaker unit. Some people don't like this arrangement because it can't be operated with one hand. But on the other hand, this prevents accidental clicks, which can be much more annoying. The device body is metal. The speakers themselves are much more powerful than the previous model - 5W each, and the shape of the unit is round.

This model is connected in exactly the same way as the previous one - a Bluetooth channel (version 4.1 with a 10 m range) or a USB cable. There is a slot for memory cards, the maximum capacity is 8GB. The control, in addition to the basic functions, also allows mixing with buttons and levers. A separate button removes echo. A simple knob changes the volume level. There is also a standard 3.5mm mini-jack for headphones.

The voice change function deserves special mention. It can change the voice of the singer at the output of the speakers from four built-in “cartoon” timbre options. And the presence of such a function is a highly likely indication that you are not dealing with a fake. Also, Voice Converter should be written on the packaging itself.

This model is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1800mAh. The device is well optimized, so the charge can easily last for 5-6 hours. The manufacturer indicates a range of 5-8 hours, but the maximum of 8 hours is purely theoretical, because no one will sing karaoke if the speakers sound quieter than his own voice. Full charging time is from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the power of the source.

Advantages

• quality of materials and workmanship;
• metal case;
• powerful speakers;
• voice change;
• spectacular appearance;
• autonomy.

Flaws

• there is a manufacturing defect.

Micgeek Q9s+

Rating: 4.7

Third, let's look at an even more interesting model, which is a super-combo - a wireless karaoke microphone with a player, speakers and even a mixing console. And all this in one building.

In appearance and basic functionality, this model is not much different from the previous one. This is the same high-quality case with several color options and exactly the same interfaces - wireless Bluetooth 4.1 with a radius of 10 meters, USB Type-A, card reader and 3.5mm minijack. In general, the external difference would be minimal if we were talking about the MicGeek Q9. But in Q9s+ the device has received some improvements - more mixers, a silicone pad included to protect the case in case of falls.

Since we're talking about the mixer, let's move on to the functionality. Indeed, the Q9s+ contains an entire equalizer on the speaker unit, made in exactly this form factor - in the form of mechanical sliders and some additional buttons and levers. Of course, its capabilities are limited, but no one here claims studio quality, and adjusting the sound is both useful and simply interesting, especially for children.

And for children, the most interesting thing will be the built-in voice changing function. It’s easy to adjust – press the function enable button and move the Treble and Bass tone sliders. The voice will change in a cartoon style from a mouse squeak to a rough bass voice. Other buttons can suppress noise, remove or add echo, and so on.

The device is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery with a capacity sufficient for 6-7 hours of continuous operation. The maximum declared by the manufacturer is 9 hours, some reviewers talk about 12 hours, but taking into account the actual battery capacity of 2600 mAh, this is hard to believe, and Expertology tests confirm a more realistic 7 hours maximum. Charging time – up to 5 hours.

The package includes the microphone itself, a headphone cable, a USB cable for charging and connecting, and a very stylish case for storage and carrying. The warranty for this model is 12 months.

Advantages

• decent quality;
• bright design;
• clear sound;
• built-in mixing console;
• smooth change in voice timbre;
• noise suppression;
• protective silicone nozzle
• stylish case included.

Flaws

• I have doubts about the durability of the paint.

OWL SDRD SD-306

Rating: 4.6

Since in the previous two selections of our review there were special sets of two microphones for a duet, Expertology specialists could not ignore stand-alone karaoke microphones in this matter. One of the brightest and most popular kits is OWL SDRD SD-306.

These three letters - OWL - are by no means an abbreviation, but a word translated from English as “owl”. The designers tried to depict the stereo system in the shape of an owl's eyes, and did it masterfully - literally with one bend that turned the faceless speakers into a living owl's gaze.

But, “not by design alone” - this model also has very specific and quite good technical characteristics. The system connects to a computer or smartphone via Bluetooth version 4.2 with support for EDR, AVRCP, A2DP, HSP/HFP. On the body of the speaker unit there is a special socket-stand for a smartphone. The total power of the speakers is 20W, and they broadcast in the frequency range from 100Hz to 18000Hz. Each socket into which a microphone is installed in the speaker unit housing is also a charging base. The battery capacity of the microphone is 1500mAh, the speaker battery is 1800mAh. Resistance - 4 Ohms. There is an AUX output with a standard minijack connector.

It’s worth saying a few words separately about autonomy. Microphones on their batteries can work for quite a long time - they are not burdened by power to the speakers, so the indicated capacity is enough for 5-6 hours of operation. But even a slightly increased battery capacity for speakers is enough for at most 3 hours, and most often less. And as soon as the speakers run out of charge, the microphones become useless, even with a full charge.

This set comes in three color options - black, gold and pink. The main materials of the case are durable ABS plastic and aluminum. Dimensions of the assembled structure - 290x135x145mm, weight - 1900g.

Advantages

• high-quality materials and assembly;
• clear sound;
• equalizer with presets;
• backlight;
• colorful design.

Flaws

• low autonomy of the column.

Tuxun Q08

Rating: 4.5

The review of the best microphones for karaoke according to Expertology is completed by the Tuxun Q08 model. There would be nothing special about it if not for one feature that sharply sets it apart from other karaoke microphones and gives the manufacturer the moral right to set the appropriate price.

Let’s reveal the secret right away - Tuxun Q08 can suppress vocals in the composition being played. You no longer need to struggle with finding the backing track of your favorite song to sing it for karaoke. Of course, you can make a backing track from any song on a computer, but this is still a process and requires some time and the availability of the necessary software. Here everything happens on the fly. Tuxun Q08 is the cheapest model in the series, and is only capable of suppressing the most distinctly sounding voice. More expensive models can do this better.

Now about the rest of the characteristics. The cubic block houses two speakers with a power of 5W each. The control is push-button, the control panel is located on a cubic speaker unit. There is an AUX output for headphones. Communication with gadgets is carried out via Bluetooth channel (version 4.1).

The Tuxun Q08 model range includes four design and color modifications - Black, Gold, Silver and Rose Gold.

The device runs on a 2600mAh battery. The maximum time of continuous operation on a full charge is 9 hours according to the manufacturer, but in reality it is less, depending on the sound volume, the number of turns on and off, and even the ambient temperature - the battery drains faster in cold weather.

The official warranty for this model is 12 months.

Advantages

• clear sound;
• noise suppression;
• quality of materials and workmanship;
• vocal suppression;
• autonomy.

Flaws

• effectively removes only the most distinct vocals.

Rode Wireless Go

Best portable, wireless microphone

9.4

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Transducer Type: Pre-Polarized Transducer Shape: Clip Pattern: Omnidirectional Frequency Response: 50Hz-20kHz Power Source: Built-in Li-Polymer Battery, USB Rechargeable Noise Protection: Pile Windscreen

pros

• Mini size
• Excellent value for money for a wireless system
• Available in black or white

Minuses

• More expensive than wired analogues

This is the best lavalier microphone you can buy right now, for the vast majority of users and purposes. It's billed as the world's smallest and lightest, and considering the receiver and transmitter weigh just 31g, we can easily believe it. They measure 44 x 46 x 18.5 mm and have built-in batteries.

The Rode Wireless Go is ideal for capturing clear conversation audio in a crowded environment and is a great tool to have in your vlogging kit. The receiver connects to the camera using a short 3.5mm cable (included) and mounts to the camera's hot shoe. The transmitter can then be worn by the person you're talking to and has its own microphone, although you can also use the tie-clip lavalier microphone jack if you prefer.

If you need to record audio from more than one person, also consider the new Rode Wireless GO II, which offers two transmitters and greater range.

3

RODE Lavalier GO

Use this tie clip microphone alone or with the Wireless Go

8.8

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Transducer type: condenser Shape: lavalier Polar pattern: omnidirectional Frequency range: 20 Hz - 20 kHz Power source: via microphone jack Noise protection: pop screen

pros

• Excellent sound quality
• Easy to use
• Available in black or white

Minuses

• Expensive for a wired model

Although it is designed to work in conjunction with the Rode Wireless GO microphone, the RØDE Lavalier GO is actually compatible with most cameras and recording devices with a 3.5mm TRS microphone input.

This is a professional grade lavalier microphone with an omnidirectional condenser capsule and Kevlar reinforced cable. Comes with a foam windscreen, metal clip and soft storage bag.

RØDE Lavalier GO delivers excellent sound when used with Wireless GO or when connected directly to the camera. However, a pop filter does not provide much wind protection, and it is recommended to purchase additional protection (such as the RØDE Minifur-Lav) if you plan to shoot outdoors regularly. It also allows you to hide the microphone under clothing if you want to keep it discreet.

9

Rode VideoMic Go

Good choice for bloggers on a budget

8.6

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Shotgun Polar Pattern: Supercardioid Frequency Response: 100Hz-16kHz Power Source: None (Cable Powered) Noise Protection: Foam Windscreen

pros

• Plug and play
• Well made microphone without unnecessary fluff

Minuses

• Noticeable hissing at high frequencies

Rode manufactures a wide range of audio video equipment, from entry-level to high-end broadcast equipment. The RØDE VideoMic GO is at the lower end of the spectrum and is hot-shoe mounted, with an effective shockmount to reduce processing noise.

It's powered by the camera's microphone jack, so it doesn't require a battery, and there are no switches on board to attenuate the output signal or change the polar pattern. This means you simply plug it in, set the recording level and start shooting. It comes with a foam windscreen to reduce wind noise.

Overall this is a well made microphone that sounds good and is very easy to use.

11

Rode VideoMic Pro

A good choice for those who are ready to invest in sound

8.5

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Shotgun Polar Pattern: Supercardioid Frequency Response: 40Hz-20kHz Power Source: 1 x 9V Battery Noise Protection: Foam Windscreen

pros

• Great sound
• A set of features for better recordings

Minuses

• Additional wind protection required

Slightly bulkier and heavier than the Rode VideoMic Go. The Rode VideoMic Pro horseshoe shotgun microphone is a similar size and design, but has additional features for those who want more flexibility and higher quality recordings.

Although it's suspended on a similar shock absorber as the Go, the VideoMic Pro includes a compartment for a 9V battery (not included) that provides approximately 70 hours of power.

There are two response switches on the rear panel that change the output gain (-10, 0 or +20 dB) or offer a choice between a flat response or a roll-off switch.

Sound quality is excellent, with rich tonality throughout the 40Hz - 20kHz range and smooth response throughout speech frequencies. Impressively, the noise level is very low, comparable to the Boya BY-M1 Lav microphone, so only very picky users will be bothered by the trace of hiss generated by the microphone.

The supplied noise shield does a good job, but outdoors requires a fluffy windbreak to keep wind noise at bay, and the dedicated Rode model will cost extra.

Other than that, the VideoMic Pro is an excellent microphone that more than justifies its price with its features and performance.

12

Audio-Technica AT8024

At a high price, but with appropriate characteristics

7.3

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Shotgun Polar Pattern: Cardioid Mono + Stereo Frequency Response: 40Hz-15KHz Power Source: 1 x AA Battery Noise Protection: Foam and Fur Windscreen

pros

• Good quality for mono/stereo
• Natural sound

Minuses

• Perceptible slight high-frequency hiss

The AT8024 is a shoe-mounted shotgun microphone that offers a wide range of features. It features a rubber mount to isolate the microphone from camera and noise, and offers two polar patterns for wideband stereo or cardioid mono.

Although this is the most expensive option here, it comes with foam noise protection and a furry wind deflector that is very effective at reducing strong wind noise.

It runs for 80 hours on a single AA battery (included) and offers a frequency response of 40Hz to 15kHz. Overall, this is a great set-it-and-forget-it mic that is well built and comes with accessories.

The microphone's noise floor isn't ideal, so it does suffer from a bit of high-frequency hiss, but recordings are full and natural. It's a bonus, having the ability to capture stereo with the flick of a switch, and a roll-off filter to reduce low-frequency noise plus a three-step gain option for adjusting the microphone's output to your camera's input check all the right boxes.

19

Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd generation)

Popular upgraded microphone

8.2

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Shotgun Polar Pattern: Supercardioid Frequency Response: 50Hz-20kHz Power Source: 2 AAA Batteries Noise Protection: Foam Windscreen (Pile Windscreen Also Included)

pros

• Wide Compatibility
• Compact and portable

Minuses

• Fairly basic functions

The original Sennheiser MKE400 microphone was popular among aspiring vloggers and filmmakers, so it makes sense that the company saw fit to give it a slight update for 2022. In fact, there are a lot of differences in this new version - it's a redesign from the ground up.

There's a clear focus on making it appealing to a new generation of smartphone-capable vloggers, as the new MKE400 is very easy to set up and use with a smartphone. It comes with TRS and TRRS 3.5mm fixing cables and can also be purchased as part of a mobile kit with a GorillaPod tripod and smartphone clip. Representing a very significant step up in audio quality over any smartphone microphone, this is definitely a smart purchase for any blogger.

It works with cameras, of course, too, and vloggers of any level will find that it gets the job done admirably in most conditions. The windbreak is now internal, although an optional fur filter is supplied for super-windy days. The headphone jack on the side is useful if you're using a camera that doesn't have one, and the controls, while not the most advanced, make it easy to cut out unwanted low-frequency noise.

14

Comica Traxshot

The Most Versatile Convertible Microphone Ever Made

8

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Mono / Stereo / Bidirectional Shotgun Polar Pattern: Cardioid Frequency Response: 20Hz ~ 20kHz Power Source: Battery (USB-C) Noise Reduction: Deadcat

pros

• Three configurations
• Rear OLED screen
• Premium build quality

Minuses

• Relatively expensive

Undoubtedly the most versatile microphone, the Comica Traxshot is a convertible shotgun microphone that allows you to record in four different configurations thanks to its dual capsule system. By rotating the arms, it can capture mono (both hands facing forward), bi-directional stereo (with hands positioned at 30° or 90°) and bi-directional (one hand forward, one back, for recording subjects in front of and behind the camera ) sound patterns.

The Traxshot is built impeccably, with a solid metal construction that feels durable and solid. The backlit OLED panel provides helpful feedback and makes it easy to set up your desired recording configuration, while the built-in Air-float Shock Mount provides impressive stabilization. Best of all, it comes with a rechargeable USB-C battery—and you can charge the device while it's in use.

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Sennheiser MKE 200

Excellent quality at an affordable price

8.4

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Unidirectional Polar Pattern: Supercardioid Frequency Range: 40Hz ~ 20kHz Power Source: Camera/Phone Noise Reduction: Deadcat

pros

• Clean, crisp sound
• Built-in internal shock protection
• Connectors for camera and phone included

Minuses

• Expensive, compared to Røde VideoMicro

With a Sennheiser product, you know you'll get superior sound quality - and despite its affordable price, the Sennheiser MKE 200 absolutely delivers on its specs. Whether you're using a camera or a smartphone (cables included for both), this mic captures rich, high-quality audio even in challenging environments (thanks to Deadcat noise protection if you need it).

The construction and design are excellent in both form and function. The built-in shock protection works very well, and the lack of external bouncing shock makes it look more professional than competing models like the Rode VideoMicro. However, the MKE 200 costs more than the Røde - with sound performance around the same level, the VideoMicro may be more attractive if you're not concerned with looks.

At the same time, the MKE 200 seems more compact (and more suitable for carrying in a bag). This, combined with its overall ergonomics, makes it one of the best in our rankings.

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RODE Link Filmmaker Kit

A wireless microphone system you can take with you anywhere

9.2

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Transducer type: condenser Shape: lavalier Directional pattern: omnidirectional Frequency range: 35 Hz - 22 kHz Power source: 2 AA batteries or MicroUSB Noise protection: pop screen

pros

• Wireless microphone system
• 100 meter range
• High recording quality

Minuses

• Expensive

This is a high-quality wireless microphone system, and it's priced to match. It consists of three main components: a receiver, which connects to the camera using the included cable; a transmitter that can be clipped to your belt or put in your pocket; and a high quality lavalier microphone.

The Filmmaker Kit can handle eight channels, each with 1000 transmit frequencies, meaning two kits can share the same channel without interfering with each other. It uses 2.4 GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption, which can be used anywhere in the world without a license.

5

Sevenoak MicRig Stereo

Stabilizer and microphone for any camera

7.5

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Transducer Type: Condenser Shape: Stereo only Pattern: Wideband Stereo Frequency Response: 35Hz-20kHz Power Source: 1 x AA Battery Noise Reduction: Furry Windjammer

pros

• Decent quality
• Wide stereo field

Minuses

• Very bulky like a microphone
• Not suitable for tripod

MicRig is a unique product that offers a stereo microphone integrated into the camera stabilizer. It can hold anything from a smartphone to a DSLR camera (phone and GoPro camera mounts are included), and the microphone connects to the camera via the included cable.

The furry windjammer is included for outdoor use in windy conditions, and the frequency response extends from 35 Hz to 20 kHz. A low-pass filter can be turned on to reduce unwanted noise, and there's a -10dB attenuator switch if you need to reduce the output to suit the camera.

It runs on a single AA battery, and although the unit has a comfortable handle, the plastic construction flexes under the weight of the DSLR. The stereo mic's sound quality has a little high-frequency hiss but produces good, natural response with a wide stereo field.

Its size may be too bulky for some, and although there is a 1/4-inch thread at the base of the plastic thumbscrew that mounts the camera, it doesn't make for a particularly sturdy tripod mount, making the unit more suitable for portable use only.

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