The metal genre is only a cup of tea for some musicians. It not only requires the knowledge of music but also power, intensity, and aggressiveness are prerequisites of a great metal song. Therefore, in order to deliver a track with such ingredients, you must have the best mic for metal vocals, which can resist the sweet melodious roars.
Remember, metal vocals may range from clear singing all the way to harsh vocals, including shouting, growling, and screaming. Therefore, you need to have a microphone that can help you pass on the exact feel to the audience. Many vocalists are unsure about selecting the best mic brand to record or perform metal songs.
But this article will solve this mystery by recommending 10 brilliant metal vocal microphones. You will also learn the factors that make a perfect metal mic so you can easily choose the one that suits your needs.
How to Choose the Best Mic for Metal Vocals?
Here are 9 tips for selecting a microphone for metal vocals.
a. Microphone Type
Generally, there are four main microphone types.
- Dynamic mics
- Condenser mics
- Electret condenser mics
- Ribbon mics
However, when choosing a mic for metal vocals, your first preference should always be dynamic microphones. They are better-suited than other microphones, as they can easily handle high vocal pressure levels and are great at resisting feedback.
b. Frequency Response
Frequency response means how great the mic can reproduce various sound frequencies. When it comes to metal singing, you should go for a microphone that offers a broad frequency response. This will allow the mic to capture the peak range of your vocal, including high, aggressive screams and low growls.
c. Sensitivity
If you are giving your best at your metal vocals, but the outcome comes with bad signals. It means the microphone is too sensitive to pick up the harshness. Keep in mind that you want a mic with maximum sensitivity for metal vocals to enjoy the true feel. Moreover, even if you’re growling at a low pitch, a microphone with low sensitivity won’t be able to capture your voice with good signals.
d. Microphone Pattern
The pattern of a microphone defines the areas to pick up the sound. For instance, some patterns may require the vocalist to stand right in front of the microphone to record clear vocals. Any directional change from the singer may cause trouble in recording the vocals.
There are several types of mic patterns, including cardioid, hypercardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional. However, for metal vocals, the first choice is always the cardioid microphones, as they pick up sound right from the front side, reducing the feedback.
e. Output Impedance
The output impedance of a metal mic defines the load it transfers to the audio interface. Since you need the microphone for metal vocals, you should select a mic that has a low output impedance. Otherwise, the interface will be overloaded and will cause clipping, distortion, and noise in your vocals.
f. Microphone Brand
There are many brands that offer microphones for metal vocals. And each product has its fits and flaws. Therefore, always do your homework to see which mic brands and models are popular among metal singers. For example, according to a source, the Shure SM7B has been used by bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden for metal vocals.
g. Build Quality
While looking for the features, do not forget to pay attention to the construction material of the microphone. Choose a metal mic that is durable and built to last. Try your best to choose a microphone made out of high-quality materials.
h. Proximity Effect
First, you need to understand what the proximity effect is. It is a phenomenon that takes place when the mic is positioned close to the vocalist. It makes the mic boost the low vocal frequencies needed to add a sense of thickness and warmth to the sound. As a consequence, you are able to hear the crisp and strong vocals.
i. Price
Metal vocal mics can range from a few hundred bucks to thousands of dollars. Therefore, pick a microphone that suits your budget. Do not overspend if an expensive mic is not required at the moment.
Table of Contents
10 Best Mic for Metal Vocals
These are the top 10 microphones for metal vocals, with high-quality sound reproduction and impeccable features.
Comparison Table – Best Mic for Metal Vocals
| Product | Price | Mic Type | Polar Pattern | Frequency Response | Sensitivity |
| Shure SM7B | $399.00 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 50Hz to 20kHz | -59dB |
| Sennheiser MD 42-II | $399.95 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 30Hz to 17kHz | -54dB |
| Electro-Voice RE20 | $449.00 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 45Hz to 18kHz | -58dB |
| SE Electronics V7 | $99.00 | Dynamic | Supercardioid | 40Hz to 19kHz | -54dB |
| Shure SM57 | $99.00 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 40Hz to 15kHz | -57dB |
| Shure SM58 | $99.00 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 50Hz to 15kHz | -54.45dB |
| Audio-Technica AT2035 | $149.00 | Condenser | Cardioid | 20Hz to 20kHz | -33dB |
| Sennheiser e 906 | $259.95 | Dynamic | Supercardioid | 40Hz to 18kHz | -54dB |
| Behringer Ultravoice XM8500 | $25.00 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 50Hz to 15kHz | -70dB |
| AKG D5 | $119.00 | Dynamic | Supercardioid | 70Hz to 20kHz | -52dB |
Note: The price mentioned for each metal vocal microphone is taken from the official websites or Amazon. The owners have all the rights to amend pricing.
1. Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B is a powerful dynamic mic for metal vocals that has proved its mettle in the audio industry for years. It is popular for its background noise rejection and warm and smooth sound. This is an important factor because it preserves your natural metal tone. Thanks to the cardioid pattern that helps reject sounds from the mic’s rear and sides.
The SM7B from Shure also offers a wide frequency response, which means the mic can reproduce high-frequency ranges. This allows you to record low, mid, and high metal vocals. Moreover, it is a well-made microphone made of high-quality plastic and metal. It has a rugged construction that can resist rough environments.
Features and Specifications of Shure SM7B
- A7WS windscreen
- -59 dBV/Pa mic sensitivity
- Classy cardioid microphone
- 150 Ohms output impedance
- Midrange controls and bass roll-off
- 50Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- Yoke mounting along with a stand nut
- Robust prevention from broadband interference and electromagnetic hum
- Shock suspension design to eliminate mechanical sounds during transmission
Pros of Shure SM7B
- The mic is extremely durable
- Great at reducing noise levels
- It provides a clean, detailed sound
Cons of Shure SM7B
- Heavyweight
- It is an expensive microphone
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 8/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Build quality: 8/10
- Unique features: 8/10
Price
- $399.00
2. Sennheiser MD 421-II
Sennheiser MD 42-II qualifies on the list of the best mic for metal vocals in the world. It offers an excellent sound quality that allows you to manage voice recordings under different pressure levels. The MD 42-II is a cardioid microphone with state-of-the-art feedback rejection traits. That is one of the reasons why most metal vocalists prefer using this mic for studio recordings and live performances since it never allows interference or bleeds from other musical instruments.
The MD 42-II has selectable settings for bass roll-off with proximity effect. This allows you to sing as closely as possible to the mic without losing a clean response. Therefore, making it one of the ideal microphones for metal growls.
Talking about housing, the MD 42-II consists of a glass composite with a robust stainless steel covering/basket. These characteristics make this mic fit for durable and rugged performances. Besides, high-quality refined steel is used in the sound inlet basket for extra capsule protection.
Features and Specifications of Sennheiser MD 421-II
- The package comes with a mic clip
- Exceptional internal bass tubes
- Clean sound reproduction
- Great feedback rejection
- 5 switches for bass roll-off
- 30Hz to 17kHz frequency response
- Dynamic and cardioid microphone
- 200 Ohms output impedance
Pros of Sennheiser MD 421-II
- Industry-leading microphone
- Ability to handle high SPL (Sound Pressure Levels)
- It has a durable construction to withstand different recording situations
Cons of Sennheiser MD 421-II
- Not a great microphone to hold in your hand due to its heavyweight
- The mic does not contain a high-pass filter or pad
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 8.5/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Build quality: 8/10
- Unique features: 7/10
Price
- $399.95
3. Electro-Voice RE20
RE20 is a true cardioid microphone made for metal heads. It offers a great sound rejection at 180-degree off-axis. A big round of applause to the makers for instilling a controlled and consistent pattern that makes the frequency response free from angular locations. This creates a robust off-axis system, and as a result, the mic never catches unwanted audio signals.
Electro-Voice RE20’s secret to brilliant performance is its big Acoustalloy diaphragm, along with a low-mass voice coil made of aluminum. Therefore, this microphone has the ability to reproduce elevated sound pressure levels without the fear of distortion or overload. At the same time, RE20 can function under high temperatures and humidity.
Next, the humbucking coil and a big steel housing ensure resistance to noise and hum produced magnetically. So, you can expect zero to least buzzing during your recording or live session.
Features and Specifications of Electro-Voice RE20
- This metal mic is induced with a Variable-D technology for continuous and smooth sound
- The frequency response is voice-tailored that brings out great chest voice
- It has bass roll-off switches to control low frequencies
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Dynamic metal mic
- 150 Ohms output impedance
- 45Hz to 18kHz frequency response
- XLR connectivity
- Pop filter included
Pros of Electro-Voice RE20
- It gives a warm sound quality
- The integrated pop filter can bear most loud sounds even if you are singing very close to the mic
- The frequency response is unexpectedly flat
- It rejects room sound and background without any trouble
Cons of Electro-VoICE RE20
- Expensive microphone
- Some users don’t recommend this microphone for live performances
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 7/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Build quality: 7/10
- Unique features: 7.5/10
Price
- $449.00
4. sE Electronics V7
V7 is a dynamic mic designed for voiceovers and live metal vocals. It offers a clear, bright sound with plenty of gains, making it perfect for aggressive and extra-loud performances. The SE Electronics V7 is a supercardioid pattern microphone, which isolates instruments from vocals.
The V7 comes with a shockmount and is constructed with a strong metal body that prevents damage due to rough use. Moreover, it includes an XLR connector, making it easier to connect the mic to an audio interface or a mixer.
What’s more in this handheld metal vocals microphone? The aluminum coil reproduces your voice in a natural way. Besides, it gives great crispiness to your overall vocals.
Features and Specifications of sE Electronics V7
- -54dB sensitivity
- Supercardioid polar pattern
- 300 Ohms output impedance
- Zinc alloy built to last construction
- 40Hz to 19kHz frequency response
- Aesthetic black and red windscreens
- Gold-plated, reliable, and robust XLR connector
- Beveled edges to prevent the microphone from rolling
Pros of sE Electronics V7
- Very affordable mic
- Attractive appearance
- It feels comfortable in your hands
- Well-controlled and polished low-end
- The anti-roll design makes it easy to keep the mic on any surface
Cons of sE Electronics V7
- Users haven’t found any flaws in this microphone
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 8/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Build quality: 7/10
- Unique features: 6/10
Price
- $99.00
5. Shure SM57
Although Shure SM57 is known for being an instrumental microphone, it has been widely used as a mic for metal vocals by local artists. So if you’re wondering what makes this mic eligible in the list of metal microphones, here’s the hint. It consists of a cardioid polar pattern and has a dynamic type. It is a workhorse mic with a signature presence boost and frequency response. This brings out clarity in metal vocals.
The Shure SM57 has an exceptional rejection feature of unwanted sounds that aren’t facing the cardioid side of the mic. So if you’re singing metal vocals and there’s a drummer playing with the snares right next to you, guess what? This mic won’t catch the snare sounds and will only deliver your metal voice.
The next interesting thing is its solid internal and external manufacturing. Many YouTubers have tested this mic by dropping it from the building or soaking it in salt water, but it didn’t fail to reproduce excellent audio.
Features and Specifications of Shure SM57
- It is a close-milking microphone
- Natural presence peak for outstanding
- 40Hz to 15kHz frequency response
- Dynamic type with cardioid polar pattern
- 150 Ohms output impedance
Pros of Shure SM57
- Highly affordable microphone
- SM57 has a long-lasting construction
- It performs extraordinarily great under high SPLs without causing distortion during screaming vocals
Cons of Shure SM57
- The microphone lacks a pop filter
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 6/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Build quality: 6/10
- Unique features: 5/10
Price
- $99.00
6. Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 is a big brother to SM7. While SM7 was meant for instruments, it eventually made its way to become a great mic for metal vocals. The SM8 is solely designed for high-pitch singing, growls, and screams.
It is known for its close indestructibility no matter how loud you get near the mic. The secret for this feature is the frequency response that allows decreases in the low-end rumbles and includes upper-mid frequencies,
Shure SM58 is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern, but it’s a handheld mic. Regarding its durability, this mic has some legendary rigidity. Several tests have been made on this device, including dropping it from a skyscraper and even burying it under soft peat for a couple of months. But the SM58 survived.
Features and Specifications of Shure SM58
- 150 Ohms
- XLR connector
- -54.45 dBV sensitivity
- 94dB maximum SPL
- Built-in pop and wind filter
- 50Hz to 15kHz frequency response
- 180-degree break-resistant adapter stand
- Built-in pneumatic shockmount for handling metallic noises
Pros of SM58
- It is very inexpensive
- This mic is ideal for heavy use
- Apart from metal vocals, it is versatile enough to record various musical instruments
Cons of SM58
- The frequency response is limited for recording high-frequency instruments
- It lacks a phantom power feature, ceasing you from connecting it with audio interfaces
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 6/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Build quality: 6.5/10
- Unique features: 6/10
Price
- $99.00
7. Audio-Technica AT2035
The Audio-Technica AT2035 is manufactured for professional studios, live performances, and home applications. It is a cardioid metal vocals condenser microphone that provides low noise and great sound details.
However, since this mic is known for its large diaphragm, it may not be a perfect choice for all types of metal styles. Nevertheless, if you’re into progressive metal, power metal, or melodic death metal, AT2035 is an ideal option.
Features and Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2035
- 10dB pad
- 12dB self-noise
- -33dBV sensitivity
- +48 phantom power
- Wide dynamic range
- Cardioid polar pattern
- 148dB maximum SPL
- 120 Ohms output impedance
- 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- 80Hz and 12dB per octave low roll-off frequency
- Fixed polarized condenser with a permanent back plate
- Large diaphragm (24.3mm) keeps your voice smooth and natural
Pros of Audio-Technica AT2035
- It has an outstanding frequency response
- The high dynamic range keeps distortion away from your vocals
- Frequency filter switch reduces low-end noises during the recording
- The 10dB pad lets you attenuate signals received by your audio interface or preamp
- Although AT2035 is a condenser microphone, it can still withstand high metal vocals pressure
Cons of Audio-Technica AT2035
- The mic is not suitable for all types of metal vocals
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 7/10
- Durability: 5/10
- Build quality: 6/10
- Unique features: 7/10
Price
- $149.00
8. Sennheiser e 906
While the Sennheiser e 906 is a tailored microphone for instruments, it is a great pick for metal singing. It offers a presence filter that is easily switchable, permitting you to customize the characteristics of sound to various styles.
Moreover, there is a tamper-resistant slide switch with three different positions for metal, classic rock, and jazz vocals and guitars. The Sennheiser e 906 is also a superb mic for recording scratch metal vocals. Plus, you can also use it for small gigs.
The microphone is easy to handle and delivers wonderful results right away. It is integrated with a compensation coil for reducing low-frequency hum and noise. Besides, this microphone has three different presence boosters. They are designed to suit versatile studio environments.
Features and Specifications of Sennheiser e 906
- Dynamic mic type
- Gold-plated XLR connector
- 350 Ohms output impedance
- 40Hz to 18kHz frequency response
- Highly-durable metal body construction
- Supercardioid microphone for both metal vocals and instruments
Pros of Sennheiser e 906
- Price is fine
- Great for beginners
- It is a multi-purpose microphone
- The microphone doesn’t manipulate your vocal tone
Cons of Sennheiser e 906
- You can’t rely on this microphone for professional use as it is sensitive to movements
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 5/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Build quality: 6/10
- Unique features: 5/10
Price
- $259.95
9. Behringer Ultravoice XM8500
Behringer XM8500 is a good quality mic for metal vocals. It comes in a plastic case that makes it easier to carry it around from one place to another. The microphone also contains a clip along with a pouch.
On the bright side, the Behringer Ultravoice XM8500 is a handheld dynamic vocal microphone. It is a rugged mic with moisture-resistant capability with a high gain. Furthermore, it has a cardioid pattern that only captures your voice if you’re the lead singer of your band. And, of course, it rejects all the sounds that come from the off-axis.
Features and Specifications of Behringer Ultravoice XM8500
- 136dB SPL
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Impact-proof carrying case
- Mid-frequency for presence
- 150 Ohms output impedance
- Integrated shockmount system
- 50Hz to 15kHz frequency response
- High signal output for cut-through voice
- Built-in pop noise and spherical wind filter
- Transparent sound with an ultra-wide frequency response
Pros of Behringer Ultravoice XM8500
- Delivers fair sound quality
- Unimaginably inexpensive mic
- Good frequency response in terms of pricing
- The carrying case ensures the microphone’s durability
- Sturdy build quality and professional-looking microphone
Cons of Behringer Ultravoice XM8500
- It is a heavyweight mic compared to other dynamic metal mics
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 6/10
- Durability: 5/10
- Build quality: 5.5/10
- Unique features: 6/10
Price
- $25.00
10. AKG D5
The AKG D5 is a pro dynamic mic for metal vocals that suits both backing and lead positions. It delivers a solid sound even when the stage is full of noise. It’s a supercardioid polar pattern frequency-independent microphone that ensures high gain levels before feedback.
The D5 is known for reproducing a crispy sound that fits every mix. What’s more amazing is the fact that it includes a dual shockmount that vanishes mechanical noises. So, if you want the audience to listen to the natural tone of your voice, this is a great way to do it.
Features and Specifications of AKG D5
- 18dB self-noise
- -52dBV/dB sensitivity
- 3-pin XLR connector
- Supercardioid polar pattern
- 2000 Ohms output impedance
- 70Hz to 20kHz frequency response
Pros of AKG D5
- Balanced frequency response
- According to a few vocalists, the D5 sound quality is a bit higher than SM58
- It offers strong pickup patterns ensuring flexibility in dealing with feedback issues
Cons of AKG D5
- Blended mid-range frequencies
- Some users suggest that D5 is only good for Karaoke parties
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 5/10
- Durability: 5/10
- Build quality: 5/10
- Unique features: 5/10
Price
- $119.00
Conclusion
The above 10 metal vocal microphones are picked after thorough research and usability. Therefore, they fulfill all the requirements that a metal microphone should possess. But there are many factors to consider when choosing the best mic for metal vocals. Your first preference should be choosing dynamic microphones with cardioid polar patterns. Contrarily, you can opt for moderate-quality condenser mics with cardioid or supercardioid patterns.
However, if you are looking for high-budget mics, you can choose Electro-Voice RE20. On the other hand, Shure SM58 and SE Electronics V7 are good quality microphones at a lower price. Nevertheless, if you’re searching for a middle option, you can choose other metal microphones in this list, such as Shure SM7B.
FAQs
Q1. What equipment is used for metal harsh vocals?
The Shure SM7B is a marvelous mic for metal vocals. It is used by many professional artists and is best for studio recordings.
Q2. Which microphone is best for metal vocals?
Sennheiser MD 42-II, Shure SM57, Shure SM58, and Shure SM7B are some of the best microphones for metal vocals.
Q3. Which mic is best for live metal vocals performance?
The Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20 are the best mics for live metal vocals.
