Speaker isolation pads can cut out vibrations so you can make sure you’re hearing your monitors clearly, allowing you to better mix your recordings. More simply put, isolation pads let you get a clearer, more accurate sound from your monitor speakers so your final mix is better than ever. This is especially beneficial in home studios or untreated spaces, where the room’s acoustics may not be optimal.

The best studio monitor isolation pads are designed to provide the utmost in sound isolation and decoupling, so you can be sure your mixes will come out as well as possible. I’ve reviewed and ranked the best speaker isolation pads based on numerous factors, including their overall quality of construction, shape and design, effectiveness, customer reviews, price, and more (click here to learn about our entire Editorial Process & Methodology for product reviews).

What Are The Best Monitor Isolation Pads?

Here are my picks for the best studio monitor isolation pads you can buy in 2024…

1. Sound Addicted High Density Studio Monitor Isolation Pads →
2. Auralex MoPAD →
3. Adam Hall SPADECO2 →
4. LyxPro MNS-4 →
5. Pyle PSi03 →
6. Auralex ProPAD →

1. Sound Addicted High Density Studio Monitor Isolation Pads →

This Sound Addicted pair of foam pads is designed for 5” monitors. It’s a solid solution to avoid distortion in the low-end frequencies, this model will be a great fit for your recording environment.

What are the tech parameters of these studio monitor isolation pads?

• High-density acoustic foam pads
• Dimensions: 7.5” x 11” x 1.6” inches (W x D x H)
• Five various angle configurations to make sure the tweeters are positioned at ear level
• Plain design with no logos.

All in all, these Sound Addicted speaker isolation pads support all celebrated monitors like Yamaha HS8, JBL LSR308, M-Audio BX8, KRK Rokit, and others. Got speakers that meet the profile? Go for it!

Official Sound Addicted website.

Best for: standard 5” monitors.

2. Auralex MoPAD →

MoPAD are well-known iso pads that have helped many a pro and amateur avoid monitor vibrations.

What’s special about these speaker isolation pads?

• Sold in pairs, flexible sizing and positioning, including horizontally-placed monitors
• Four base pieces as well as four angling wedge pieces
• Bases are 12″ long x 4″ wide x 1″ thick
• They eliminate sympathetic vibrations
• They help yield a more accurate bass response and clearer high frequencies.

The ‘industry’ standard Auralex uses dense foam that easily handles heavy weights and vibration. You can configure the monitor angle and set the right height.

Best for: multiple sizes of bookshelf loudspeakers or monitors up to 100 lbs. each.

3. Adam Hall SPADECO2 →

A cost-effective model that will meet most budgets and expectations, the Adam is a great example of high-density acoustic foam pads. Some users view these iso pads as a decent Auralex MoPAD alternative. Whatever the rationale, these speaker pads simply do a good job!

What are the tech specs of these studio monitor isolation pads?

• Two-component design
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 10.43” x 12.99” x 1.57”
• Anthracite color

The Adam always works as intended. The ‘two components’, in fact, make up three possible combinations: horizontal placement and two different angles. The Adam helps avoid disturbing resonation and makes audiophiles happy at a reasonable cost.

Best for: mid-sized and big heavy monitors.

4. LyxPro MNS-4 →

Another two-component pair of acoustic isolation pads, LyxPro is a good way to decouple monitors from a surface.

What does these speaker isolation pads come with?

• Great sonic isolation, optimization of performance for a wide range of reference monitors.
• A wedge piece that allows you to tilt the monitors to and fro up to 8 degrees
• High-density acoustic foam, two component design
• 1-year warranty.

Long story short, these studio monitor isolation pads are a good value for the money. Since they can angle up to ear level and support heavier monitors, you simply can’t go wrong.

Best for: 5″ and 8″ studio monitors.

5. Pyle PSi03 →

Pyle is another great option if you’re looking for sound isolation pads. The model offers two dampening recoil stabilizer risers, 9” x 12” each. A great pair of studio monitor pads at a reasonable cost!

What’s in the package?

• High-density durable foam
• Dimensions: 9.44” x 12.1” x 2.0”
• Universal stabilizers for optimized audio performance
• Reduced vibration and resonance, efficient absorption of bass recoil
• Supports studio monitors, shelf speakers, subwoofers, etc.

The features speak for themselves. In addition, the platform bases can be reversed for the sake of upward and downward-firing effects.

Best for: mid-sized speakers up to 33 lbs.

6. Auralex ProPAD →

A premium version of MoPADs, the ProPAD is a bit more sophisticated and comes at a somewhat higher price – and it’s the best you can find!

What do the ProPADs do?

• Ensure optimal durability with their open-celled PlatFoam
• Provide protection against unwanted vibrations
• Support most surround-sound and stereo monitors
• Keep away sympathetic vibrations and improve sound clarity.

These studio monitor isolation pads have the dimensions of 13″ length x 8″ width and a slip-resistant ISO-plate top. You can think of these speaker pads as a cheeseburger, where the cheese is the plate. This design is slip-resistant and provides effective isolation at all times.

Best for: mid-sized studio monitors, a good fit for home theaters, listening rooms, media rooms, etc.

FAQ

What are monitor isolation pads?

Studio monitor isolation pads are designed to go underneath speakers to decouple them from the flat surface they’re sitting on, helping to reduce vibrations and other noise issues during playback.

Are monitor isolation pads necessary?

If you want the clearest, most accurate sound from your studio monitors during playback, isolation pads are a must.

Do speaker isolation pads work?

Yes, good studio monitor isolation pads will drastically cut down on vibrations when you’re using your speakers, allowing you to hear your mix more clearly and accurately during mixing.

What are monitor isolation pads made from?

The best speaker pads are made from high-quality foam that can absorb vibrations and prevent them from being heard during playback.

Final Thoughts

I’ve learned that decoupling studio monitors is absolutely crucial for your audio ambiance. It’s good to know there is an abundant choice of solutions for reverb reduction.

The good news is with the right isolation pad setup, you can improve sound quality and reduce interference from the supporting surface to get clear, crisp sound.

Some of the speaker isolation pads in this guide are original designs, and some are mere variations.

The rule of thumb here is to check out the dimensions, read the reviews and see if the monitor isolation pads are in line with your budget expectations. Good luck, and feel free to share your experiences!

Have any questions about choosing studio monitor isolation pads? Comment below and let us help you out.

The post The 6 Best Studio Monitor Isolation Pads for a Home Recording Studio (2024 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

The right accommodation for your home studio monitors will help you decouple them from unwanted surfaces, and ultimately produce pure sound and enjoyable audio experiences. Studio monitor stands are specifically designed to position the monitors at the ideal height and angle, ensuring that the sound is directed precisely toward the listener’s ears. This placement is crucial for achieving accurate and balanced sound reproduction, which is essential for critical listening, mixing, and producing high-quality audio.

In this article, I’m sharing what I believe are the 7 best studio monitor stands from various budget categories and announcing my top picks (click here to learn about our entire Editorial Process & Methodology for product reviews). This guide has been fully updated for 2024 to bring you the best options currently on the market today.

What are the Best Affordable Monitor Stands?

Here are our picks for the top studio speaker stands worth a look…

1. Ultimate Support MS-90 →

Combining the advantages of both wooden and metal stands, the MS-90 is a game-changing model from Ultimate Support that fits most common application scenarios in a sound recording studio.

What’s great about this set of studio monitor stands?

• 36″ column made of extra-durable 6000 series aluminum
• Nifty internal design featuring three standalone channels: two small ones for audio cables and power cables, and a large one for weighting
• Three rubber feet to provide isolation from the floor
• Four rubber pads to separate monitors from the stand
• Two joints to decouple the bottom and the top

All these characteristics translate into maximum decoupling and reliability with this affordable studio monitor stand set.

Plus, you get the perk of a lifetime warranty: whatever happens, you’re covered.

One downside to these studio monitor stands: the height is non-adjustable here whereas many other stands are. Aside from this drawback, MS-90 is the best choice!

Best for: pro and semi-pro studios, mid-size and larger monitors.

2. SANUS Adjustable Height Speaker Stand →

As the name suggests, the SANUS studio speaker stand offers full adjustability and a few other perks. Need more details on this studio monitor stand? Here you go:

• Supports satellite speakers up to 3.5 lbs.
• Adjustable height – 28” to 38”
• Heavy-gauge offset steel column with a built-in wire channel
• Top plate, keyhole adapter and L-shaped brackets included
• 5-year warranty from the manufacturer.

It’s cheap and functional! At this budget, you should seriously consider this stand for lightweight speakers.

Best for: home studios, satellite and small bookshelf speakers (JBL, KEF, Sony, and many others)/smaller monitor speakers

3. VideoSecu 2 →

The VideoSecu stand mount supports a great selection of speakers. It’s easily adjustable, heavy duty and nice to look at.

What are the key features of these studio stands?

• Stylish steel column to support up to 30 lbs weight capacity for quality stereo sound
• Flexible side clamping on the top plate – width from 5.5 to 11 inches
• Adjustable height – from 26.5” to 47”
• Screw-in rubber feet facilitate great isolation on carpet or solid floor
• The top plate can rotate 180 degrees and tilt up to 10 degrees
• Stealthy wire management, ensured stability

Best for: PA systems, club environments, a broad selection of studio monitors including JBL, KEF, Klipsch, Sony, Yamaha, Pioneer, and beyond.

4. Mounting Dream MD5401 →

Mounting Dream MD5401 height-adjustable speaker stands raise the bar for durability. The model has an extendable tube (35.5” to 48”) with 11 lbs capacity per stand.

More details below:

• Various attachment options catering to specific speakers: adapter bar for horizontal holes, vertical hole/keyhole, as well as a round holder for wooden speakers
• Heavy-duty cast iron, black finished steel (supports heavier monitors weighing up to 11lbs/5kg per column)
• Floor-standing design features with a triangle shape base
• Neat cable management solution with cabling hidden out of sight.

All in all, this is a very sturdy and very flexible model that provides full compatibility with a wide spectrum of speakers. In any case, make sure you check the location of the speaker holes before you buy.

Best for: mid-weight acoustic systems, semi-pro, and home applications.

5. VIVO (STAND-SP03B) →

Universal floor speaker stands, this VIVO pair works great with bookshelf and surround sound speakers.

Let’s look further into the model’s parameters:

• Dimensions: 25” height, 6.25” x 6.25” top shelf, 9.5” x 9.5” base measure
• Smooth compatibility: this stand accommodates most satellite and bookshelf speakers
• Design: high-gauge steel speaker stands (2 columns) in sleek matte black finish
• Spikes: easy carpet placement with smoothly attachable and detachable spikes
• Padded feet: a nifty option for solid floor placement.

In other words, VIVO offers a stylish neutral look, and it’s heavy-duty and easy to assemble. For a pretty low budget, VIVO is as sturdy as it gets. If you prefer to conceal the cords, this may not be the right option though, since there is no cord management.

Best for: home and semi-pro studios, monitors weighing up to 22lbs.

6. Pangea Audio DS400 →

Heavy-duty 32” speaker stands, Pangea is a high-quality steel model that holds the speaker firmly for best performance.

Here are the features:

• Durable, all-steel
• You can fill all four support piers with sand or steel shot
• Adjustable bottom spikes for better carpet standing
• Four rubberized top pads for speaker isolation
• Supports a bunch of compact speakers as well as larger monitors.

The DS400 utilizes sturdy support piers and provides a rigid base for compact monitors and bookshelf speakers. Stylish, impressive, worth every penny.

Best for: amateur and pro recording studios, large monitors.

Now that you’re familiar with some nice speaker stand options, you might want to supplement your acoustic infrastructure with isolation pads for better decoupling and sound performance. Check out my brief roundup of iso pads, and pick what feels right!

7. DR Pro SMS1BK (36″) →

A wooden model, the DR Pro is a popular studio monitor stand despite the traditional drawbacks associated with wood.

How does DR stand out?

• The model has a hollowed-out cavity that you can fill with the right material for greater density
• Thus, you can boost acoustic isolation between the monitor and the floor
• Shipped in various versions, e.g. DR Pro Maple Wood.

All this should be taken with a pinch of salt though. Wooden models  are far less durable. Plus, they have a larger footprint and you can’t adjust their height.

Best for: smaller studio monitors and speakers

A Final Word on Studio Monitor Stands

Spending hours recording in the studio only to find out that your tracks don’t sound quite right is frustrating.

One of the most common problems is that the speakers aren’t properly positioned.

This can happen for a number of reasons, but one of the most common is that the speaker stands aren’t positioned right.

If your speakers are too low or at the wrong angle, they won’t be aimed at your ear level properly and you won’t be able to hear all the detail in your tracks.

This can lead to subpar recordings that don’t represent your hard work accurately.

That’s why choosing the right speaker monitor stands for your studio is so important. The right stands will place your speakers at the perfect height, so you can hear all the details in your tracks and create a better mix.

With the guide above, you can find great monitor stands that will set you up for success.

Have a question about choosing the right studio monitor stand? Comment below and we’ll help.

The post 7 Best Studio Monitor Stands for People on a Budget (2024 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

If you’re a beginner to recording, it might seem like a good idea just to place your equipment on shelves and go from there. But here’s the thing I’ve learned over the years, doing this compromises the very sound quality you are trying to produce. Every piece of equipment has a vibration signature. Placing them on a shelf magnifies that signature.

Studio equipment also produces considerable heat. Placing them on a solid object of any type creates a barrier that reduces the exhaust of heat. Take it from the professionals: the only way to combat these two critical concerns is to use a recording studio rack mount or studio rack cabinet.

I’ve reviewed and ranked the best rack mounts for studio equipment based on numerous key factors, including quality, size, style, and price (click here to learn about our entire Editorial Process & Methodology for product reviews). This guide has been fully updated for 2023, so you can be sure you’re getting the latest information on the best current products to help you make an informed buying decision.

And if you don’t feel like reading the whole guide, you can see my top pick for a rack mount here:

On-Stage RS7030 Rack Stand

$44.53

This 12-space studio rack can securely hold several pieces of gear of up to 115 pounds. The black powder-coat finish also makes it very durable and prevents it from chipping over time.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/17/2024 04:22 am GMT

What are the Best Studio Rack Mounts?

Here are our picks for the best audio racks for a home studio environment:

1. On-Stage RS7030 Rack Stand
2. Odyssey Carpeted Studio Rack
3. Samson SRK-12 Rack Stand
4. StarTech.com Wall Mount Bracket
5. KENUCO Vertical Wall Mountable Rack
6. Procraft Equipment Rack
7. StarTech.com 12U Open Frame Rack

1. On-Stage RS7030 Rack Stand →

On-Stage RS7030 Rack Stand

$44.53

This 12-space studio rack can securely hold several pieces of gear of up to 115 pounds. The black powder-coat finish also makes it very durable and prevents it from chipping over time.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/17/2024 04:22 am GMT

What’s Inside: Support bars and braces with screw fasteners and additional rack screws to fasten up to 12 equipment modules.

Top Features: I am choosing the On-Stage RS7030 Rack Stand first because it is an excellent example of the bare-bones or basic approach to the issue of mounting home studio equipment.

The stand offers space for up to 12 units, so all your basic home studio equipment should comfortably fit with a good amount of room to spare.

The steel tubing supports a maximum of 75 pounds of equipment without bending, and its angled style provides easy access for the user to every module.

The rack is usable anywhere in a studio or on stage. It can be placed beside a desk, on a platform, or elevated near musicians on stage for easy access during performance.

One of the things I like is this frame is easy to assemble and can be broken down and reassembled in minutes with each gig stop.

Best Use: This rack mount is best used in a home studio but sees a lot of use on performance stages.

2. Odyssey Carpeted Studio Rack →

Odyssey CRS08 8 Space Carpeted Studio Rack

$169.79

This carpeted studio rack is built from 3/4" Plywood and offers an angled face so you can easily see and access your gear. 

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/17/2024 02:57 am GMT

What’s Inside: The rack-mount system is already assembled and ready to receive equipment. Unfortunately, the kit does not include rack screws, so you need to purchase those separately.

Top Features: Rated as a portable system, Odyssey URS08 8 Space Carpeted Studio Rack comes in only one size.

Though the design features a slanted front to allow easy access to equipment controls, the back is vertical, creating an ever-diminishing space for equipment. The bottom of the cubicle allows equipment up to 15.9 inches in depth while the top of the cabinet only allows 12-inches.

You should consider these dimensions while choosing your devices to ensure you have room.

The cabinet is completely enclosed with one-inch thick plywood making a sturdy structure in which to house your equipment.

The structure is 19 inches in height with apertures that accept up to eight devices.

The outside carpeting serves as an insulator and presents an attractive appearance.

The item is portable and wears well when shipped from one place to another. It is priced in the mid-range of the rack mount market.

Best Use: The Odyssey URS08 8 Space Carpeted Studio Rack is best used in a home studio environment and is small enough to be placed on the side of your desk for easy access to the control units. Some traveling musicians use the rack on stage as it has wheels and is portable. With its laptop computer-sized flat top, I have seen this rack used as a multifunctional podium in classrooms and churches.

3. Samson SRK-12 Rack Stand →

Samson SRK-12 Universal Equipment Rack Stand

$179.99

The Samson SRK12 is a universal studio equipment rack designed to easily accommodate all of your rack-mounted gear. It's made from heavy-duty steel built to last and has fully enclosed side panels and front and rear rack rails. It's compatible with both US and metric screw thread sizes and both sets of screws are included.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 07:37 am GMT

What’s Inside: The kit comes in a flat pack that includes two steel side panels, a steel plate bottom and top panel, two steel rack posts, and a package of screws in both US and European sizes to accommodate equipment purchased from either source. The rack comes with four 3-inch casters and a single-space blank panel.

Top Features: The Samson SRK-12 Universal Equipment Rack Stand comes in four sizes including eight-unit, 12-unit, 16-unit, and 21-unit versions and is the costliest of the racks I considered for this list.

The rack accommodates the standard 19-inch equipment packages and has a consistent depth of 18 inches with an allowance of overlap beyond that if needed through the open back.

The casters are large enough to roll across carpet even when the rack is fully loaded.

I found this rack a pleasant surprise when using it in my home studio as the smaller eight-unit size fits beneath a desk, and the largest 21-rack size works well as a high-end rack that sits against a wall.

The rack-mount is easy to assemble with clear instructions and plenty of screws and cage nuts to support any equipment you wish to include.

When the casters are attached, this sturdy unit can handle up to 350 pounds of equipment. Removing the casters lets you upgrade to nearly 500 pounds.

Best Use: The best use for this rack mount system is in a home studio. Many musicians gravitate to this rack as the large casters allow easy movement across a stage, or from transport to the stage, and the casters are lockable once the rack is in place. The largest version is seeing use in customer service sites.

4. StarTech.com Wall Mount Bracket →

StarTech.com 6U Wall Mount Network Equipment Rack

$63.99

This sturdy studio rack allows you to safely wall mount your equipment to save space and make it more accessible. It's 14" deep and can handle up to 44 pounds of equipment.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 11:47 pm GMT

What’s Inside: The kit includes a fully assembled wall-mountable rack system and the screws needed to mount the rack on the wall. Each kit also includes enough screws and cage nuts to install the highest number of rackable devices dependent on the size of the rack ordered.

Top Features: The StarTech.com Wall Mount Patch Panel Bracket comes in three sizes—6-unit, which can handle up to 44 pounds, 8-unit that takes as much as 80 pounds, and 12-unit, which handles 120 pounds of equipment.

These racks are constructed to be mounted on a wall. If you place them on a desk or other flat surface without mounting them, then the weight capability drastically drops.

Bear in mind when purchasing these racks that they are only 12 inches in depth. If your equipment is deeper than that, then it will not fit.

Remember, you also must allow for cable attachments in the rear of the devices, so the 12-inch limitation is further reduced, especially if you are using a high-grade stiff cable to shield from interference.

My recommendation when purchasing these racks is to find some four-inch mount extensions or build your own but cutting sections from a 4×4 block of wood. Using the extension allows you to use deeper equipment and makes it easy to attach or detach your cables.

Yes, there are convenient cutouts in the back of the rack where you can run your cables.

The advantages of these racks are that they are cheap, permanently installed, and look great when filled.

Best Use: These racks are not portable. That factor alone restricts their use to home studios or small businesses.

5. KENUCO Vertical Wall Mountable Rack →

KENUCO 19 Inch Steel Vertical Rack and Wall Mountable Server Rack Mount (Black-2U)

$39.99

This low profile, highly durable wall rack can handle up to 75 pounds of gear, including studio equipment, server gear, telecommunications devices, and more. It offers open airflow to ensure gear is properly ventilated.

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 08:17 am GMT

What’s Inside: The kit includes the rack, eight screws, eight connectors, four wall-mounting bolts, and an Allen wrench of the appropriate size.

Top Features: The KENUCO 19-Inch Steel Vertical Wall Mountable Rack is an original and unique product in the rack mount market. It is a step above the StarTech.com version that holds equipment in a vertical format, which allows you open access to the connections and controls.

The solid steel construction lets you hang up to 175 pounds of equipment in a small space within your home studio, freeing up more space in cramped studio environments.

The product costs nearly double that of the StarTech.com wall mount rack but more than makes up for it in convenience.

Best Use: The vertical rack mount is a perfect fit in a home studio or a small business where space is at a premium.

6. Procraft Equipment Rack →

Procraft 4U 12" Deep Equipment Rack 4 Space - Made in the USA - With Rack Screws

$93.00

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 11:52 pm GMT

What’s Inside: The kit includes the rack and a set of screws and washers to attach up to four pieces of equipment.

Top Features: The Procraft 12-Inch Equipment Rack is one of the most portable racks on the market. Housing up to four units, this rack, when filled with equipment, is light enough to be carried by the leather strap conveniently attached to the top.

When using this rack, you will find yourself limited to mounting equipment that is only nine inches in depth.

The original intent that drove Procraft to create this rack was to perfect a commercial rack that would sit easily on a desk.

Of course, musicians and other performers found other advantages for its use as its visible presence on stages across the globe attest.

Some users find themselves removing the back rails to install deeper equipment.

The rack consists of an attractive birch plywood and sports a carpeted bottom to reduce vibrations wherever it is placed.

Best Use: The Procraft 12-Inch Equipment Rack is best used as a desktop rack in a home studio.

7. StarTech.com Open Frame Rack →

12U 19in Open Frame Server Rack 22-40in - Server-Racks | StarTech.com

Check Price

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

What’s Inside: The kit includes two support flanges, two post bars, and a structural support brace. It comes with 20 M5 screws and cage nuts, allowing you to install up to five devices immediately after assembly.

Top Features: The StarTech.com 12U Open Frame Rack comes in a variety of sizes—eight-unit, 12-unit, and 16-unit. I chose this rack because it is constructed with strong steel posts to support even the heaviest of equipment in a compact and limited space.

The modern design takes advantage of physical laws to provide the type of support that an entrepreneur appreciates.

The eight-unit rack stands a mere 24 inches in height, the rack takes up little room while providing easy access to the equipment for performers and producers alike.

The 12 and 18-unit racks stand 36 and 48 inches in height respectively and require placement other than under a desk.

Sturdier than the On-Stage rack stand, the rack supports up to 140 pounds of equipment without a grunt.

Coming in a hinged design, the rack is easily moved from one place to another.

Best Use: This rack is built for use in tight spaces, making it ideal for the small home studio. I recommend you consider purchasing it for your second generation of equipment, which is normally heavier than your beginning set of devices.

Additional Equipment for Your Studio Rack

I have included this section as information for any new home studio builders. The section includes essential rack gear for your home studio.

NavePoint Ventilated Shelf →

The NavePoint Cantilever Ventilated 10-Inch Shelf is a useful piece of equipment that takes up only one unit of space in your rack. Its ventilated design allows airflow, and it fills any of those ugly spaces you may have left between equipment while constructing your rack. If you need more depth, it also comes in a 14-inch version.

PDU Power Strip Surge Protector →

Another piece of equipment that covers an unused space is the PDU Power Strip Surge Protector. Instead of using a vulnerable external protector that may unplug or disconnect without notice, this protector fits directly into your rack.

Power Conditioner and Surge Protector →

The Furman M-8X2 Merit Series 8 Outlet Power Conditioner and Surge Protector serves the same purpose but is a bit more expensive.

NavePoint Blank Rack Mount Panel →

The NavePoint 1U Blank Rack Mount Panel serves as a less costly cover for blank spaces and comes with a ventilated surface to encourage airflow for your studio equipment.

NavePoint Lockable Drawer →

To add security along with the convenience of accessibility to your blank space, the NavePoint Server Cabinet Case Lockable Drawer works well to hold those small necessities that every home studio discovers. Pencils, pens, pads, and cards are among those things that litter desks in home studios. Mounting storage drawers in the blank space in your rack cleans your desk while organizing your extra studio equipment.

The DIY Alternative

There are two DIY YouTube videos by Richard diZerega, that I find interesting. They inform you how to build your studio equipment. If you are an avid DIY addict like I am, then you will enjoy these videos. The first is an instruction video on how to build a Studio Equipment Rack. The video includes the sizes of the parts, how to put them together, and how to mount your equipment easily.

The second video involves instruction on how to build a Studio Desk. In this video, Richard includes how to find the correct measurements for the design you favor, how to protect the surface, and how to adjust measurements to accommodate either square or angled rack mounts. After watching these videos, you will appreciate the time and effort that goes into constructing these essential pieces of home studio equipment. The challenge may influence you to purchase a ready-made product, or may, if you are anything like me, set you on the road toward building your own.

What is the Rack Mount Size?

What I find interesting about the standard sizes in-studio rack mounts is the consistency that they employ.

The consistent element has created a market where rack-mounted equipment is restricted to the width of the traditional rack mount, 19-inches, with the height occupied by the module inside of the rack regulated in units. Each unit is 1.75 inches in height.

Many modules are built higher, with some reaching more than ten-units in size.

For the home recording studio, the largest device that you will use is likely four-units.

The Proper Order of Installation on Your Rack Mount

For most of us, our home studio does not include the advanced airflow systems found in production studios.

The unwritten rule is to keep the ambient temperature around your studio equipment below 85-degrees Fahrenheit.

Your home studio rack mount provides the area necessary to allow for heat dissipation.

The rack design configures 0.5 inches of open space between each unit and 0.24-inches of space on each side, allowing for air to flow naturally and cool the equipment.

The trick is to place a module that generates the most heat at the top of the rack creating a chimney type of effect that draws cool air from the bottom and sides of the rack. The order of installation, then, is determined by the module’s heat signature.

Here is the correct order of module installation in a home studio rack mount from top to bottom:

• The power conditioner regulates all power that runs through your equipment. Since all power runs through this module, the heat signature is significant and continuous
• The multi-channel mic preamp is filled with micro-circuitry that produces a tremendous amount of heat. Placing it near the top helps in establishing a chimney airflow effect that whisks away heat
• The headphone amp is a key component of the home studio system. It allows the operator to increase or decrease pure sounds coming through the device to get the perfect aural quality. The device generates little heat
• The monitor management system is a light-weight module that basically distributes the volume to create the stereo effect. Its heat signature is virtually non-existent
• The audio interface works to condition sound and removes noise through a series of in/out cables and switches. The process generates so little heat that the module is the perfect choice to occupy the bottom position of your rack

How to Install Equipment on Your Studio Rack Mount

Rack-mountable equipment has ears installed at the factory. These ears are placed appropriately to fit the standard frame.

Looking at the ears, you can see the tapped holes that match the holes drilled into your rack.

With an assist from another person, these modules are easy to install as you have someone to hold the equipment in place while making the attachment.

If you are alone, the process is more daunting. It is difficult, at best, to hold the equipment in place while screwing in the fasteners. Heavier modules may be simple for a modern Hercules to install but are nearly impossible for most of us.

Many first-time designers of their home studio lay their racks with the back to the floor and place the equipment into the rack, screwing them into place before setting the rack upright.

This technique works well during your initial efforts to construct your studio. If you are adding equipment later, using such a method would require you to disconnect all your existing equipment before laying the back of the rack on the floor.

Types of Studio Rack Mounts

The main types of rack mounts and studio rack cabinets for homes studios come in three categories, including:

• Basic studio racks are the cheapest available and works well in the home studio where the function is more valuable than fancy design
• The portable rack is designed for use by musicians and groups while on the road. Portable racks are more expensive as portability requires a stronger framework and reliable, lockable wheels
• The high-end studio rack is the most expensive on the market. I do not recommend these for a home studio due to the cost. These racks are insulated with a soundproofing material that does not conduct heat and therefore requires a silent fan to create airflow to protect your expensive equipment from heat damage

A Final Word

There are innumerable reasons for setting up a home studio.

Whether you’re looking to record music, do voiceover work, make a podcast, or do something else, having the right equipment is essential.

Whatever drives you to build a home studio, don’t get discouraged by the complexity you find there.

When you are stuck, go to My Voiceover Equipment to find an answer.

If you are looking for equipment beyond audio racks, then check out some of my other guides below for my analysis of those important pieces that add so much to your home studio:

• The Best Voice Over Microphones
• The Best Wireless Microphones
• The Best Acoustic Foam Panels for Home Studios
• The Best Cheap Studio Desks
• The Best Studio Headphones 
• The Best Microphone Reflection Filters

The post 7 Best Studio Rack Mounts & Cabinets for Home Recording (2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Whether you’re recording voiceovers, podcasts, or instructional videos, a clean microphone ensures that your audio is crisp and clear, free from any interference that dust or dirt might cause. Not only that, regularly disinfecting microphones is an important for helping keep everyone healthy and avoiding cross contamination.

In this article, I’ll cover the importance of practicing good hygiene with audio gear, how to clean both condenser and dynamic microphones, the tools and products to use for microphone cleaning, the things to avoid, and the steps to follow during the process. Knowing this valuable information will greatly benefit you, your devices, and anyone else who uses them.

The Importance of Hygiene When It Comes to Audio Equipment

Since we speak into microphones and our mouths spread germs quickly, these devices can become extremely dirty. 

It is also common for handheld microphones to frequently be passed around, used, and held by different people.

Even if you may be unable to see it, this causes saliva, sweat, makeup, and skin particles to land on the devices.

If you do not clean your microphone often, it will cause a build-up on it. You can determine if your audio equipment has a build-up by opening the top part and taking a look inside. By choosing to continuously ignore this build-up, the particles will continue to accumulate, and your device may begin to sound muffled.

The reason for this is because build-ups in a mic can significantly reduce its frequency response, which will cause the device not to perform to its best ability. Therefore, if your device is sounding unusual and has not been cleaned in a long time, you should check to see if it has a build-up.

To keep everyone safe, healthy, and happy, you should practice good hygiene with devices just like you would with any other item in your home or office space.

Cleaning a microphone consists of fully removing germs and dirt with soap and water, and disinfecting a mic consists of eliminating germs with chemical products to kill bacteria. Most people choose to first clean the device then disinfect it for extra protection against germs, bacteria, and dirt.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is no single wrong or right way to clean your device as long as you thoroughly clean it as often as possible. However, there are some recommended cleaning dos and don’ts for taking care of your mics as best as possible.

Below, I will provide a guide on how to clean two popular types of devices, the dynamic and condenser microphones, in which you can follow for inspiration.

How to Clean a Dynamic Mic

In my experience, dynamic microphones are the easiest to clean. Most of the dynamic mics have a grille that is very easy to unscrew and separate from the body of the device, making microphone cleaning pretty simple.

Tools and Products for Cleaning a Dynamic Mic:

• Washing liquid which is typically used to wash dishes
• A toothbrush
• Cleaning surface disinfectant wipes
• A paper towel roll

Things to Avoid while Cleaning a Dynamic Microphone:

• Avoid using any cleaning product that contains bleach
• Avoid using hydrogen peroxide
• Avoid using hand sanitizers
• Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials that may be too rough on the device, such as a scouring pad or scrub brush
• Avoid excessively hot water. Warm water works best.
• Avoid placing the device back together before it is completely dry to avoid rust

5 Steps of Cleaning a Dynamic Mic:

1. Remove the Grille

The first step is to gently remove the grille from the body of the device. It should easily come off with a firm twist and unscrewing. Do not use too much strength or you could permanently damage the device.

After you have successfully detached the grille, remove the foam windshield as well. You may begin to notice that the foam windshield has saliva build-up, and the grille has lipstick, dirt, and saliva build-up.

2. Wash the Grille

Next, you will need to use the toothbrush to apply warm water and washing liquid. Begin scrubbing the grille of the device to get rid of any build-up. Be gentle and ensure that you get into all corners and edges.

3. Dry the Grille

Completely dry the grille with paper towels before reattaching it to the device. If you do not make sure that it is entirely dry, you may cause the device to rust. Air drying is another method you can use if you have the extra time.

4. Wash the Windscreen

Now, you will need to wash the foam windshield with water and washing liquid until you are sure that all build-up has been completely eliminated. Again, you will need to make sure that the foam windshield is entirely dry before putting it back on the device. I would recommend letting it air dry overnight or using a blow dryer if you need it to dry quickly.

5. Clean the Mic Body

Use the surface cleaner disinfectant wipes to wipe down and clean the body of the device.

If you need to clean your dynamic audio gear quickly between multiple people using it, use a mouthwash that has been diluted with water. Make sure the device stays upside down while scrubbing the grille to ensure that all particles fall out. This will not be an extensive cleaning, but it will at least assure the next user that the equipment is clean for them to use.

For a visual look at how to clean a dynamic microphone, watch Worship Leader Hangout’s YouTube video. The individual in the video gives an in-depth guide on how he sets up a routine to clean and sanitize his dynamic devices to prevent the spreading of germs.

How to Clean a Condenser Mic

Cleaning a condenser device is usually a little more difficult than a dynamic one. This is because condenser devices are more fragile which means you must be very careful.

Tools and Products for Cleaning a Condenser Microphone:

• A toothbrush
• Cleaning surface disinfectant wipes
• Paper towel roll
• Washing liquid which is typically used to wash dishes

Things to Avoid while Cleaning a Condenser Mic:

• Avoid using any liquid products directly on the condenser microphone element itself. Only clean the grille and windscreen.
• Avoid using any cleaning product that contains bleach
• Avoid using hydrogen peroxide
• Avoid using hand sanitizers
• Avoid using cleaning materials that may be too rough on the device, such as a scouring pad or scrub brush
• Avoid excessively hot water. Warm water works best.
• Avoid placing the device back together before it is completely dry. Even a tiny bit of moisture will permanently damage the condenser device.

5 Steps of Cleaning a Condenser Mic

Depending on if the grille of your condenser device is able to be removed or not will determine how you should clean it.

1. Remove the Grille

Carefully remove the grille from the body of the device if possible. This may be tedious and require removing screws. Ensure that the device itself never comes into contact with any water or liquid products. A tiny amount of moisture can cause permanent damage to the device.

2. Wash the Grille

If the grille is able to be removed from the device, take the windscreen off as well. Begin washing the grille with a toothbrush and washing liquid just like you would for the dynamic device. Use warm water and focus on eliminating the build-up that may be on the grille. Also, check the corners and edges for hidden particles.

If the grille is unable to be detached from the device, gently use a dry toothbrush to scrub the grille. Hold the device upside down to let any dirt and particles fall out onto the ground. Try not to push any grime or toothbrush bristles through the grille, or it will be stuck in the chamber forever.

3. Dry the Grille

If you have a detachable grille that you were able to wash, dry it completely before reattaching it to the device. This is an extremely crucial step because a wet microphone grill will significantly damage a condenser device. You can use a paper towel, but I would also recommend using a hair dryer or letting it air dry to ensure that it is 100 percent dry.

4. Wash the Windscreen

Next, you should begin washing the windscreen with water and washing liquid until you are sure that all build-up has been removed. As stated before, you will need to be sure that the windscreen is completely dry before placing it back on the device. This is very important. Air drying overnight or using a hair dryer is the best way to dry the windscreen.

5. Clean the Mic Body

Use the surface cleaner disinfectant wipes to wipe down and clean the body of the device.

If there are multiple people using the same condenser device and you are unable to clean it after each use, I would recommend using removable external foam windscreens that can be cleaned quickly and easily with soap and water. By using these, you will be able to switch out windscreens and clean them, which ensures that the audio gear will be protected from germs and grime.

However, it is important to remember to make sure that the removable external foam windscreen is completely dry each time by using a blow dryer because water cannot touch a condenser microphone at all.

To find out more information and see somebody clean a condenser mic, take a look at Eklo’s YouTube video. In the video, he takes the time to show how he cleans his large condenser device using simple products like a paintbrush and distilled water.

Additional Parts of Microphone Cleaning

These parts also collect a lot of bacteria and germs! When cleaning microphones, make sure you also sanitize these components…

Cables

Most people probably do not think about it, but cables do need to be cleaned every once in a while. They are typically on the floor, ground, or on a surface that can easily collect dirt, dust, and particles that have fallen. To clean them, gently rub them with coconut or olive oil. This is a simple, quick way to get rid of anything that may have fallen on the cables.

You can also use warm water and soap if you do not have any oil, but you should make sure that no water or soap enters the connectors or goes near the mics. After cleaning, let the cables air dry for a few days to ensure that all germs have been killed.

Another method to try is UV-C light which is known to eliminate any germs. By exposing your cables to UV-C light as much as possible, they will remain clean and germ-free. This type of light will not affect the functionality of the cables, but you should be sure to protect yourself when close to the light.

Do not sanitize cables, as it will cause the cable jacket to wear and tear.

Windscreens

As mentioned above, be sure to always remove foam windscreens from the devices and wash them carefully with warm water and soap. Air dry them for a couple days or blow dry them for quicker results.

It is not recommended to apply isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or chemicals to the windscreen because it will damage it. Therefore, you should thoroughly wash the windscreen to ensure that all germs and dirt are completely removed.

Final Thoughts

As I’ve said, knowing how to clean a microphone is a great idea. You might feel like it’s an unnecessary step or that it adds to your daily tasks, but it’s worth taking the time to do.

Once you make the process of cleaning mics a part of your studio maintenance routine, it should become a normal part of your day. It is important for hygiene and cleanliness, which is important for you, your audio equipment, and others who may use it.

Have any questions about how to clean a microphone? Comment below and we’ll help you out.

The post How to Clean a Microphone in 5 Steps [+Useful Videos and Links] appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

As an experienced eLearning creator, I’ve learned that the quality of your audio can make or break the effectiveness of your digital content.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the simple yet crucial steps to adjust your microphone sensitivity in Windows to ensure your recordings are clear and free from unwanted background noise or distortions. Whether you’re recording voiceovers for tutorials, lectures, interactive modules, or any other purpose, mastering this aspect of audio setup will significantly enhance the overall quality of your educational offerings.

A Primer on Mic Sensitivity

Mic sensitivity is the degree to which a capsule picks up sound.

A microphone capsule is usually comprised of internal components like a diaphragm and solid plate that measure changes in air pressure through sound waves. A sensitive device will have a diaphragm that vibrates easily, meaning it will measure smaller changes in air pressure resulting in more sensitivity.

By and large, condenser mics (b) tend to be more sensitive because they employ this type of internal design. As a result, condenser models are usually used in studio recording environments to capture natural sounds and sounds that require detail.

Dynamic mics (a), on the other hand, employ components that are less conducive to movement and electricity. As such, they tend to be less sensitive and are suitable for live recording and the audio recording of louder sounds.

One important thing to note about microphone sensitivity is that there is no way to increase or decrease sensitivity after a sound has been recorded.

While there are software solutions available that can clean up or restore damaged sound files, the audio has been recorded at a certain level. You can’t fix mic sensitivity after the fact, so what you’ve recorded is what you’ve recorded.

This is why it’s a good idea to understand the difference between mic volume and mic sensitivity in order to get a recording right the first time.

Microphone Volume vs Sensitivity

In the world of recording, there are plenty of times where certain jargon gets used in the wrong context. For the most part, this doesn’t cause too many issues for seasoned veterans, but if you’re just starting out in recording, confusing terms with one another can lead to problems in a hurry.

An example of this can be found when talking about mic sensitivity and microphone volume or gain. These terms may get used interchangeably as they relate to how loud a sound is during the recording and playback processes, but they have very different meanings.

If you’re confused about these terms, you may not know how to adjust microphone sensitivity settings or select the right mic for your needs based on sensitivity. In doing this, you may be adding more gain and causing distortion and clipping in your sound capture.

Volume can be understood as how loud a sound is perceived based on the magnitude of the sound waves of an audio source.

In simpler terms, volume is how loud a sound is to the listener.

If you’re standing in front of a jet engine when a plane takes off, you’re going to perceive the sound as much louder than someone who hears the same sound a mile away. This is because volume is about perception, and perception of sound is usually based on proximity to a sound source and how easily the sound waves can be captured by the listener.

Sensitivity, on the other hand, is based on the point at which sound waves begin to be perceived.

You can compare sensitivity in recording gear to how your ear drums work.

When you hear a sound, you only perceive the sound and its volume because sound waves cause your ear drum to vibrate. These vibrations are translated by your brain into sound. The stronger the vibrations and the closer you are to a sound source, the more volume is perceived.

So, mic sensitivity is based on how easily it perceives volume.

It perceives volume by using internal components like diaphragms that measure sound waves. The diaphragm can be thought of as your ear drum.

A very sensitive device will have a thin diaphragm that reacts to sound waves easily, but a less sensitive model will require sound waves to have a greater magnitude in order to register.

This is also why you can be farther away from a sensitive microphone and still capture audio, but you need to be loud and close to a dynamic one to get the same result.

Adding more volume or gain to a mic input signal only amplifies the perceived sound. It doesn’t actually make the device itself more sensitive to picking up sound.

Can You Change Mic Sensitivity?

For the most part, sensitivity is based on how the microphone was manufactured.

Typically, the mic sensitivity can only be altered by changing its polar pattern.

The polar pattern determines which part of the capsule is active and at what angle. Ultimately, this can change which areas of a capsule are energized to determine where sound sensitivity will be greatest and from which direction.

While you may not have many options to fix mic sensitivity, software can be used to control the volume input of most microphones in Windows to achieve greater control over gain levels. This emulates a change to sensitivity by reducing the potential for a mic to clip and distort recordings, allowing you to record a whisper and turn up the volume to make the sound equal to a yell.

Some sound cards and audio driver enhancements may also give you options to employ noise cancellation effects in the recording path.

How to Adjust Microphone Sensitivity Settings in Windows 10

Windows 10 offers a number of sound control features for audio professionals and beginners alike.

Unfortunately, failing to properly configure and fix mic sensitivity (actually, gain) in Windows 10 can lead to recordings that suffer from background noise, unwanted breath noises, sound pop-in, and other audio issues.

Thankfully, you can adjust mic sensitivity (gain) in Windows 10 by following these simple steps:

1. Left-click on the “Start” button on your desktop home screen. This button looks like the Windows logo and is usually located in the bottom left of the home screen by default.
2. Select “Settings” by left-clicking on the gear icon in the list that appears.
3. You then want to left-click on “System” to bring up a list of adjustable system settings.
4. Select “Sound” from the list on the left.
5. Under the “Input” section, make sure your preferred mic is selected as the current input device.
6. Left-click on “Device Properties”.
7. Left-click on “Additional Device Properties” which can be found on the right side of the screen.
8. This will open a new microphone properties window with options located in various tabs. Left-click on the option for “Levels”.
9. Here, you will have the ability to change the microphone level and possibly a microphone boost setting that can determine the volume of your mic signal coming into your computer.

Please note that your specific device may or may not have the ability to change all of the settings listed above. Some audio drivers and audio processing units will have their own proprietary settings. If you are unable to find settings to make changes to your microphone input or sensitivity, please contact your mic manufacturer for more details.

How to Reduce Background Noise and Buzzing in Windows 10

You may also be able to reduce background noise and buzzing in your microphone by ensuring that all cords are connected properly. A poorly connected or damaged cable can cause a connection not to be grounded properly, and this can lead to a buzzing in your sound output from the mic.

Some noise cancellation enhancements may also be available depending on your audio driver and sound card. These are usually proprietary add-ons that are accessed through a separate control panel that gets installed when you install your micropone drivers.

How to Check the Driver

If you want to know more details about the driver that is controlling your mic, you can check it by:

1. Follow steps 1-7 as listed above.
2. Instead of selecting “Levels”, make sure you’re on the “General” tab.
3. Left-click on “Properties” in the “Controller Information” section. This will open a new window.
4. Left-click on “Driver” in the tabs provided. This will display information about the audio driver controlling your selected mic.
5. You can also select “Driver Details” to get more in-depth information about the driver and its associated files.

If you have gone through all of the steps provided above to adjust sound settings, utilize enhancements and check the audio driver, but you’re still experiencing problems with microphone gain and sensitivity, you can run the Troubleshooter to have Windows automatically check for hardware and software problems.

How to Run the Troubleshooter

1. Follow steps 1-4 as described above for accessing the “Sound” settings.
2. Find the input device you want to troubleshoot and make sure it is selected in the drop-down menu.
3. Left-click the button that reads “Troubleshoot” under the “Input” section.
4. Follow the prompts. Windows will provide feedback and will attempt to automatically repair any problems it finds.

How to Change Mic Sensitivity in Windows 7

Although Windows 7 is a bit of an older version of the operating system, it is still used by many people across the world due to its efficient features, including its sound settings.

If you’re using Windows 7 to record and edit audio, you’ll be happy to know that you can also adjust mic sensitivity (gain) with ease.

Below are some easy steps you can take to fix mic sensitivity settings (gain) in Windows 7:

1. Left-click on the “Start” button from your desktop home screen. This is the icon that looks like the Windows logo and is located in the bottom left corner of your home screen by default.
2. Type “Sound” into the search bar.
3. Choose “Sound” from the list “Control Panel”.
4. In the window that opens, look for the tab labeled “Recording”. Left-click this option to see a list of audio input devices connected to your computer. The item with a green checkmark is the enabled input device.
5. Left-click on the device you want to change.
6. Once the item is highlighted, left-click on “Properties” in the bottom right of the “Sound” settings window.
7. A new window will open with additional tabs. Select the tab labeled “Levels”.
8. The “Levels” tab will provide you with options for “Microphone” and “Microphone Boost”. Use the slider controls to raise or lower the gain.
9. You can also select the tab labeled “Enhancements” if available. This tab will provide you with additional mic controls that may include noise cancellation features for additional control over mic gain and sensitivity.

As with Windows 10, you may not see all of these settings in Windows 7 due to differences in audio driver properties and microphone manufacturer specifications. If you are unable to find all of these settings when trying to adjust sensitivity or input gain, contact your mic’s manufacturer.

Useful Resources

• Understanding Microphone Sensitivity
• How to read microphone specifications
• How to Connect a Microphone to Your Computer
• Microphone Test
• The Best Voice Over Microphones
• What is a dynamic mic?
• How to clean a microphone
• How do wireless microphones work?

Final Thoughts

Although software can help when making adjustments to mic sensitivity, you should also consider your recording environment.

A device that is sensitive by design, such as a condenser mic, will produce better results when used in a recording studio that has been acoustically treated as opposed to being used in a noisy recording environment.

This is also good to know if using your mic for Zoom meetings and other online chat purposes.

By combining the right model and the right recording environment with the knowledge of how to adjust microphone sensitivity, you can have better control over your recording experience and the quality of your audio.

Have any questions about how to change mic sensitivity on your computer? Comment below and we’ll help you out.

The post How to Change Mic Sensitivity in Windows for Quality Recording appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

During my years as an instructional designer, while crafting eLearning courses, I’ve faced a number of audio challenges. One particularly vexing issue? That high-pitched noise that sometimes emanates from microphones, turning a perfect recording into a jarring experience for the listener.

Having grappled with this issue more times than I’d like to admit, I’ve honed a set of strategies to tackle it head-on. There are certain things that you should look at when this noise emerges, such as your cables, drivers, volume setting, power supply, hardware, and more.

In this article, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to diagnose and fix that pesky high-pitched noise, ensuring your recordings are crystal clear and free from distractions.

Why is a High Pitched Sound Coming from Your Microphone?

To learn how to fix high pitch noise from a microphone, you first have to determine what might be causing this problem.

First and foremost, you should ensure that your audio device is not defective, old and worn out, or simply needs to be replaced. If your gear is broken and cannot be fixed, it is likely to make a high pitched sound.

However, it is sometimes another issue that you can easily find and fix.

A few of the things to check are the grounding, cables, drivers, volume setting, isolation, power supply, the hardware, electromagnetic interference, and more.

By looking at these things that could be affecting the sound of your microphone, you may be able to assess the problem and fix it quickly.

The Source of the High Pitch Noise Problem and Its Possible Solutions

If your microphone is not broken or faulty, there is a source that is causing the high pitch noise. The goal is to find this source and fix the issue. Below, I will give a description of each source that may be causing the high pitch noise problem.

1. Grounding

I would first recommend to check the grounding in your computer as well as your audio interface. Checking the grounding is the action of ensuring that electric static discharge is not occurring.

2. Cables

If you are not using a USB mic that directly connects to a computer, you most likely are using a mic with several cables. It is important that you look at and analyze the condition of your cables that connect the mic to the audio source. Cables may have holes, rips, and leaking air throughout them which may be causing the high pitched noises. It is also essential to make sure that your mic cables do not run across your computer’s power supply on the ground.

3. Drivers

The next source I would recommend checking are the drivers on your operating system as they’re a common cause of high pitched noises.

Your audio drivers that you downloaded may need to be uninstalled, redownloaded, and reinstalled again to solve the high pitch noise.

If your drivers are not up-to-date, this may very likely be your issue.

4. High Microphone Volume Setting

Check out the volume settings on your microphone. If it is too high, it could be causing the high pitch noise. When an audio device’s volume is too loud, it will bounce back and cause high pitched squeals.

5. Bad Isolation of Either the DAC or the ADC

DAC stands for Digital-to-Analog Converters, and ADC stands for Analog-to-Digital Converters. The DAC is known to convert digital input code into analog output signal, and ADC is known to provide analog signals over input voltage and convert them to digital representations. The ADC and DAC provide opposite functions for the mic. Therefore, they should never share the same power supply. By using the same power supply, you will cause distortion.

6. Power-Supply-Related Problem

Take a look at your power supply, which is what your mic, computer, and audio interface are connected through. The power supply is giving power to your devices. Therefore, if something is wrong with the power supply itself, there may be high pitch noise occurring.

7. Inside Hardware

The hardware inside the microphone may be defective or working too hard which can lead to annoying high pitched noises.

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do if it is a hardware issue. Your only option may be to purchase a new microphone that’s in good working condition.

8. Electromagnetic Interference

I would suggest looking for electromagnetic interference. This can happen when your device is overloaded with residual electricity from other components. To prevent this, you should try to unplug some things and use separate power sources.

When it comes to microphones, there are a variety of solutions to the high pitch noise problem. You should first notice and acknowledge the problem, find the cause or source of the problem, then solve the problem. If you have evaluated each source mentioned above and still cannot find the problem, your only solution may be to replace your audio equipment.

For more information on how to remove noise from your microphone, watch YourSixStudios’ YouTube video. He will give you an in-depth look at how to eliminate any noise in your microphone by using Windows 10 options. His goal is to help you improve your audio sound quality when recording, streaming, or playing video games.

Final Thoughts

I hope that this article on how to fix high pitch noise from a microphone was helpful to you and your mic issue. It’s very common for anyone who has owned an audio device to experience some type of noise problems, including high pitch sounds. My overall advice is to not panic and try to follow the recommendations mentioned in this article before purchasing a new mic.

If you are unable to find where the noise problem is coming from or determine what is causing it, I would suggest that you start looking for a new microphone. An XLR mic is an excellent choice to begin your search. You can check out my list of the best XLR mics to find the perfect one that will meet your needs.

Have any more questions about how to fix high pitched noise from microphone devices? Let us know by leaving a comment below so we can help you out.

The post How to Fix High Pitched Noise from Microphone: Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Simply put, not all voiceover microphones are created equal. It’s not just about the price tag; it’s about capturing the nuances of your voice, conveying emotions, and ensuring that your content resonates with your audience. Different microphones are better for different kinds of voices, scripts, and applications. For example, if you have a deep voice, you’ll want a microphone that can handle low frequencies. If you’re doing a lot of narration with dynamic range, you’ll want a microphone that can handle a wide range of sounds and volume levels.

I’ve reviewed and ranked the best microphones for voice over work based on a variety of factors, including audio quality, budget, durability, and more (click here to learn about our entire Editorial Process & Methodology for product reviews). I even looked at the setups of famous podcasters and voice over artists to figure out which mics the top starts in the field are using.

The Complete List of My Favorite Voice Over Microphones in 2023

After reviewing dozens upon dozens of mics, I’ve come up with this master list of the best voice over microphones, including options at every price point. Later in this article, I’ll go into much more detail about each mic on this list:

Best microphones for voice acting

	1. Blue Yeti A feature-packed USB mic for amateurs offering a clear sound. Category: condenser microphones [USB], low cost My choice among low-cost USB mics	Check price →
	2. Blue Snowball iCE Solid USB condenser mic for home or office use. Great ease of use and value for quality. Category: condenser microphones [USB], low cost	Check price →
	3. Rode NT-USB Studio-Quality USB Cardioid Condenser model for amateurs and pros alike. Comes with a tripod stand, pop shield, and ring mount. Category: condenser microphones [USB], low cost	Check price →
	4. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ An inexpensive USB mic for voice acting, requires no pre-amp, comes with self-monitoring. Category: condenser microphones [USB], low cost	Check price →
	5. Harlan Hogan VO Good for voiceovers, includes a hard case, shockmount, XLR cable. Category: condenser microphones, low cost	Check price →
	6. SE Electronics sE2200a SE large-diaphragm mic provides a warm sound, covers versatile voices. Category: condenser microphones, low cost	Check price →
	7. Shure SM7B Cardioid mic with a pop filter. Flat wide-range frequency response! Category: dynamic microphones, mid-range price My choice among dynamic mics!	Check price →
	8. Rode Procaster Dynamic vocal microphone with impressive noise reduction, multipurpose and affordable Category: dynamic microphones, low cost	Check price →
	9. Heil PR-40 Dynamic Studio Microphone for VO pros, wide frequency, and a solid competitor to condenser mics Category: dynamic microphones, mid-range price	Check price →
	10. Electro Voice RE-20 Celebrated dynamic professional mic with great sound quality. With a pop filter and shockmount! Category: dynamic microphones, mid-range price	Check price →
	11. Neumann TLM 102 MT Superb condenser cardioid mic for home and studio recording, comes with a standmount Category: condenser microphones, mid-range price My choice among mid-range condenser mics!	Check price →
	12. Rode NTK This tube mic delivers a broad range for a decent price. Category: condenser microphones, mid-range price	Check price →
	13. Neumann TLM103 Celebrated cardioid mic for voice over amateurs and pros, comes with a large diaphragm and exceptional noise reduction Category: condenser microphones, high-end price My Choice in the High-End!	Check price →
	14. Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 The gold standard! Supercardioid shotgun tube condenser for recording pros. Category: condenser microphones, high-end price	Check price →
	15. Neumann U87 Switchable studio microphone, three directional patterns. Extremely sensitive and efficient! Category: condenser microphones, high-end price	Check price →

Contents:

• 5 steps to pick your microphone →
• Best USB microphones (condenser) →
• Best budget microphones (condenser) →
• Best dynamic microphones →
• Best mid-range mics (condenser) →
• Best professional microphones (condenser) →
• Other must-haves →
• Reader’s choice →
• Comments (18) →

If you’re looking to purchase a microphone for voice overs or other recording tasks and can’t decide which one to get, this is a one-stop reference point for you. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner taking online voice over classes, this info will help you out.

“The costlier the better” doesn’t really apply when finding the best microphone for voice over work; it’s not about the price. The majority of decent VO microphones are available in the $100-400 range, and they may work better for your task than a high-end $1,000 mic.

A microphone’s ability to capture the nuances of your voice, to faithfully convey the emotions behind your words, and to seamlessly integrate with the narrative atmosphere is where its true value lies. Rather than fixating on the price alone, consider the harmony between your voice’s timbre and the microphone’s sonic characteristics. A mid-range microphone meticulously tailored to your vocal nuances can outshine a high-end counterpart that wasn’t crafted with your voice in mind.

Justin David Proctor, an audio recording expert and Grammy Award winner, echoed this sentiment, saying “I like to keep it simple [when choosing a microphone]. I’m not a bells and whistles kind of guy. Is it from a company that’s been doing this for a while so they’ve really got their designs down?”

A fairly simple device, the microphone has a bunch of important attributes that you need to understand before considering specific options. You’ll need to choose between USB or XLR, condenser or dynamic, large or small diaphragm, cardioid or non-cardioid, etc.

In this article, I’ll go through the basics to make sure further recommendations make sense for beginners. Are you a VO pro? No worries — you’ll also learn a thing or two and get a few tips for an extra studio mic for voice acting or an upgrade

5 steps to pick your microphone for voice over work

To choose a voice acting mic wisely, let’s answer some important questions about the qualities and use cases you may require.

Step 1. Choose a connection type: USB or XLR

First, you need to decide on connectivity. You can record great voice overs with both digital USB mics and traditional analog XLR.

USB mics are a more compact option, good for entry-level VO actors. XLR is more versatile and professional, yet more complex in terms of use.

USB

A USB voice over mic is a ready-to-use recording solution implying a minimum learning curve and a moderate price.

There are some great benefits as well as drawbacks to using USB mics…

Pros:

• Plug’n’play setup
• Compact all-in-one solution (includes portable audio unit)
• Affordable (no need to buy audio unit, etc.)

Cons:

• Limited sound quality by design, mid-range tops
• Aimed at the entry-level segment
• Unable to upgrade each part individually
• Difficult troubleshooting: The issue may be in any part (the mic itself, cables, audio interface, etc.) and may be hard to identify
• Works with a single computer only: one computer, one microphone.

USB mics are best for:

• Non-commercial, lectures, podcasts, etc.
• Lightweight travelling with a laptop
• Recording at home, office, hotel

XLR

An XLR mic is a versatile, upgradable solution. It’ll require additional gear, such as an audio interface and XLR cable.

Pros:

• The entire quality spectrum: from cheap and simple to premium
• More upgrade options (cables, audio interfaces, etc.)
• Record two or more mics simultaneously
• Interoperability with other devices that support XLR (camcorders, portable recorders, etc.)

Cons:

• Requires extras (audio interface unit, cable, stand, etc.)
• More expensive and time-consuming due to extras
• More cables on your studio desk!

XLR mics are best for:

• Home and professional studios
• Recording outdoors with a camera or portable recorder
• On-stage use, presentations at expos, hosting events

Q: What does XLR mean?
XLR is a professional analog audio interface used for microphones. An XLR cable has 3-pin connectors on both ends. One connector (female) goes to the microphone, the nother (male) goes to an audio interface, mixing panel, camera or portable recorder.

Q: What’s the main difference between XLR and USB?
USB microphones have a built-in portable audio interface. Other than that, there is no principal difference. Some microphones come in both modifications, but the vast majority of mics are XLR-only, because they’re more in demand in the professional audio industry.

Q: Can I use a USB mic with an iPad?
It depends on the particular microphone’s driver. Some USB mics can work with iPads and Android tablets, but most likely they’ll require additional adapters. It also drains the device’s battery quicker.

Q: When are USB mics a viable choice?
For very specific, mainly non-commercial needs, where output quality isn’t a critical factor, USB mics may work just fine. If you prefer to keep things simple and don’t want to carry a pack of cables and audio devices along with your laptop, a USB mic is a soft option. Just make sure you won’t need to upgrade or scale your setup. Should you need more flexibility, consider a universal XLR mic for voice over work.

Step 2. Choose a microphone type: Condenser or Dynamic

Two common microphone types are dynamic and condenser. They both do the same job of transducing sound into electrical impulses, but they have different operating principles.

Dynamic

Most mics are dynamic. They can be as small as in your smartphone or as big as studio mics. This type is universal and can be used in many applications.

Pros:

• Smoothens voice imperfections
• Sturdy and durable
• Doesn’t require phantom power (+48V on your audio)
• Works in noisy rooms and isolates your voice

Cons:

• Less sensitive
• Narrower dynamic range (difference from quiet to loud sounds)
• Proximity effect (low-frequency boost when speaking closely to the mic, well-known from radio broadcasts)

Best for: Long narrations and audiobooks (doesn’t require as much mouth click cleanup), home studios without acoustic treatment, outdoor recording, streams, broadcasts, interviews, live events.

Condenser

Condenser mics are specifically designed for studio use and better suited for VO recording. Bigger diaphragm and more sensitivity help to achieve a rich-sounding natural voice.

Pros:

• Natural frequency response
• Wider dynamic range
• More sensitivity

Cons:

• More meticulous acoustic treatment of your room
• You’ll have to take extra care of background noises (fans, air conditioning, devices, neighbors, kids and dogs:)
• Harder to use without practice
• Indoor use only
• Fragile, can be damaged by moisture and dust.

Best for: Professional soundproof studios or closets; voice overs, audiobooks, podcasts, etc.

Q: What is phantom power?
It’s a switch on your audio interface that provides 48V direct current through an XLR cable to power the capacitor of a condenser microphone. It’s not needed for dynamic microphones.

Q: How can I tell a dynamic from condenser mic visually?
There is a false opinion that condenser mics are always bigger, which is not true. Still, condenser mics can’t be very small (like in a cell phone).

Q: What’s the real difference between condenser and dynamic mics?
Consult the consumer selection guide above for the practical differences. From a technical standpoint, there is a different operational principle. Dynamic mics work with an induction coil, while the other type uses a capacitor to capture and transduce sound.

The best recommendation would be to have both condenser and dynamic microphones in your studio. Traditionally, condenser is a better choice for recording voice overs, but it’s sensitive to room and voice imperfections, which makes it an optimal choice for studio use only. If your scenario involves recording audiobook narrations in a home studio with non-ideal acoustic conditions, or you’re planning to carry it around with you a lot, then a dynamic mic is better.

Step 3. Choose a diaphragm size: small or large

Like a human ear, each mic has a diaphragm that captures sound waves. Traditionally, VO actors prefer mics with larger diaphragms because they produce a richer tone.

Small diaphragm

Captures low-mid to high frequencies and capable of withstanding higher sound pressure; this makes it a good choice for some circumstances. Picks up less room noise. Also used on narrowly directional shotgun mics.

Pros:

• Portability
• Captures louder sounds (up to 120db)
• Speak closer to the mic without distortion

Cons:

• Less sensitivity
• Less low frequencies

Best for: VO in untreated rooms, presentations, live events, interviews, etc.

Large diaphragm

Captures all audible sound frequencies almost equally. Produces a warm and deep voice even without post processing.

Pros:

• Captures all audible frequencies including low
• Wider dynamic range (difference from soft to loud sounds)
• Better sensitivity

Cons:

• Larger microphone size
• More fragile
• Distorts louder sounds and if you speak closely

Best for: Studio use, voice overs, audiobooks, podcasts, etc.

Step 4. Select a microphone pattern

How do you read a pattern diagram? A mic pattern is a sensitivity map shown on a circular diagram. It’s a top-to-bottom view of a recording space with the center at the microphone facing 12 o’clock.

Cardioid

A regular one-directional microphone. The most suitable pattern for voice-overs.

Properties:

• Records direct sounds
• Records side sounds
• Doesn’t record back sounds

Other patterns are used for specific cases.

Subcardioid

Picks up more environmental sounds and gives more room presence, including early echoes.

Properties:

• Records direct sounds
• Records wider side sounds
• Records reduced back sounds

Omnidirectional

Omnidirectional microphones record sounds evenly from all directions. Wherever the sound comes from, it’ll record equally.

Properties:

• Records everything around equally

Hardly a good fit for voice overs.

Bi-directional

Great choice for chats and dialogues with people sitting on either side of the microphone (face to face)

Properties:

• Records direct sounds
• Records back sounds equally
• Doesn’t record side sounds

Shotgun

Mostly used in filmmaking to record dialogues from a distance. However, there are few shotgun mics that are loved by VO actors for their clarity and noise cancellation, especially when recorded in an untreated room with echo and external noises. The price is usually high.

Properties:

• Records faraway direct sounds as well as close-up direct sounds
• Records back sounds
• Can’t record more than one person

Q: I have a cardioid condenser microphone but I’m not sure exactly where the front side is.
The front side is always where you see the logo. Also, it may have a small cardioid diagram on it.

Q: Are there multi-pattern mics?
Yes, there are a few microphones that have multiple recording capsules and filters, enabling you to switch between cardioid, bi-directional, and omnidirectional patterns.

Q: I have an untreated room, just a homemade VO box; what pattern is the best?
A shotgun pattern mic suits all untreated rooms.

Step 5. Understanding frequency response

A graph, usually put next to the polar pattern, shows the sensitivity across the frequency range that a human ear is capable of hearing (from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz). In other words, a frequency is a pitch, and here is a short reference:

• 20-100 Hz Bass, voice pop sounds, electric buzz, other noises
• 100-5000 Hz Voice range
• 5000-20,000 Hz S-sounds, whistling, high-pitched noises.

This quality determines and diversifies microphone models, so they’re all different from each other and have a unique ‘color’.

The flat horizontal line means that this microphone picks up every frequency genuinely as it is. It is a quality of special studio microphones.

Most microphones have a stronger low response, reduced middle and boosted end. It’s perfect for getting a rich sound that’ll make your voice stand out in the mix without post-processing and equalization.

This graph doesn’t tell you much until you test out the microphone specifically with your voice. However, if you already have a microphone with a specific frequency response, you can look for a microphone with different characteristics.

Common scenarios of using a voice over microphone

Now that you know the characteristics of different types of microphone, you can decide which set of features and price range meets your requirements.

• I am a newcomer and I’m going to try VO. Select a USB microphone for voice acting work; they’re easier to work with, and their price is about $50 to $200. No additional equipment like extra preamp or phantom power is required. USB mics are often pre-mounted on a tabletop stand, but you can also attach them to floor stands. It’s just a single payment and a great bang for the buck.

• I’m going to record voice overs in my home studio, but my budget is limited. Need decent quality but not ready to shell out a few grand? Get a good condenser XLR microphone for voice over recording, audio interface, microphone stand, and pop filter, and you’re ready to go. Expect to pay around $300-400 for the mic itself plus the extras.

• I record VO professionally and have worked with a few microphones. If you know your way around the industry and already have equipment, you can check out the mid-range. Make sure the recording gear is of equal quality. The price for a mic is around $400-700.

• I do VO mainly for a living in a professional studio; money isn’t a problem. A high-end studio voice over microphone will set you back $1000+. Also keep in mind that pro mics are very specific and super sensitive, so they will pick up all vocal nuances.

Now, how should you read this article without getting lost?

The models are split into multiple segments based on budget and use scenarios.

First are my personal favorites in each category. I do not claim a monopoly on the truth, so go through the entire list to draw your own conclusions. Do you think I forgot some outstanding model? Give me a shout!

Happy reading

USB microphones under $200

Don’t worry, the market has an abundance of offers fitting all budgets. You may get away with a real gem for under $200, or you could fall into a trap and end up with a pricey, yet clumsy gadget that will make it hard for your audience to understand what you’re saying and even harder to create captions or a transcript with transcription software.

Affordable voice over mics come in handy for home and office use, voice overs, presentations, lectures and classes that don’t require perfect sound or noise reduction.

If you just need to step up your built-in laptop microphone and add a professional slant, that’s your best option. As always, be reasonable and do some research on your own before you buy.

Now, let’s get down to the guide to the best voice recording microphones in 2023!

1. Blue Yeti – My choice among USB microphones →

Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac

What’s inside?

• 4 different pattern modes
• USB plug-and-play compatibility
• Works with all major recording software
• Zero-latency monitoring
• Excellent audio quality
• Affordable on nearly any budget

See Deal!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

USB, condenser, multiple pattern selection

My personal pick in the category, the Blue Yeti USB condenser mic delivers great sound quality and multiple pattern selection (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo).

This one is a real gem. For just slightly over a hundred bucks, you can get yourself a high-quality USB mic that’s a nice fit for a standard home setting. The Blue Microphones Yeti offers four recording modes and a surprisingly clear sound for this price range. Well-built, feature-packed, a nice choice for amateur audio lecturers who aren’t ready or willing to set up a professional studio.

The Blue Yeti is used by many famous content creators, including actor, podcaster,  and TV personality Naomi Kyle.

“Whether recording something big or small, Blue mics are the one sure bet in any application,” Kyle said.

Why I Picked It:

• The Blue Yeti is affordable on virtually any budget, but it’s also made with quality components and backed by the Blue name.
• This mic is versatile enough for podcasting as well as general audio recording and gives you the chance to switch between four polar patterns to dial in the right setting for your voice.
• I found that the size of the Blue Yeti is perfect for travel. I can use this mic to record interviews outside of the studio with my mobile workstation or connect it to a tablet using an adapter for voice recording in almost any environment.

Who It’s For: the Blue Yeti is an excellent choice for podcasters and YouTubers as its plug-and-play capabilities make it a breeze to use for general recording. In fact, it was one of our top picks for the best microphones for YouTube. It’s the perfect voiceover make for creating how to videos and other YouTube content. This mic is also a good choice for voiceover artists who need to put together quick demos in-studio or in the field. The mic complements any desktop, so it is also a good choice for studio set designers, and you can easily adjust Blue Yeti sensitivity to your specifications.

Check out a video review of the Blue Yeti by Andy Slye. He covers the key features of the mic and does some audio tests. Learn why Andy thinks the Yeti is the best USB mic overall.

2. Blue Snowball iCE →

Blue Snowball iCE

What’s inside?

• Custom condenser capsule
• Frequency range of 40 – 18 kHz
• USB 2.0 device that is easy to plug and play directly from your PC or Mac

Killer features: Provides crystal clear audio for Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

USB, condenser, cardioid

The Blue Snowball is a solid condenser mic that delivers clear sound in a variety of everyday life applications.

Whether you need clearer audio quality for your video calls or want to boost the sound quality of your podcasts and YouTube recordings, the Snowball sets a high standard that’s hard to beat.

It’s an easy-to-use USB mic you can set up in seconds.

Just plug the device directly into your Mac or Windows PC and start working. No software required.

This model also includes an adjustable stand for your convenience.

Why I Picked It:

• The Snowball iCE provides three different polar patterns, giving it the ability to be used effectively for directional and omni-directional recording.
• I find that this mic is one of the easiest to get set up. All I did was plug it into my computer and let it install its drivers. From there, I was all set to record into my studio software.
• This mic provides efficiency when switching polar patterns on-the-fly using a thumb switch. I found this really useful when testing and monitoring in different recording environments.
• I I also love the retro-future look of this mic. It really gives off a space-age feel that is both eye-catching and beautiful.

Who It’s For: the Blue Snowball iCE offers a little bit of everything for the budget-minded voiceover artist, making it a good choice for people getting started in the voiceover industry. Because of its unique style, this mic is also a good choice for on-camera display when recording YouTube videos. Although the Blue Snowball iCE is a bit limited in its capabilities, I would recommend it for home recording enthusiasts who need to record quick voice over demos.

3. Rode NT-USB →

Rode NT-USB Versatile Studio-Quality USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone,Black

$169.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 03:57 pm GMT

USB, condenser, cardioid

A studio-quality USB microphone, the NT-USB is a highly versatile device for recording all sorts of vocals. This model features a zero-latency 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring and a quality pop filter to eliminate plosives.

The Rode NT-USB is great for voice overs and instrumentals. It comes equipped with a tripod, ring mount, and storage pouch. Smart choice for beginners and budget-savvy audio professionals.

Why I Picked It:

• I found the Rode NT-USB to pair perfectly with my Apple iPad, but it can be used in other mobile devices as well. This makes it a must-have for recording interviews and vocal work while out and about.
• Monitoring is important when recording voiceover performances, and this mic provides a headphone jack in the unit itself for zero-latency monitoring. This gives me the ability to not only hear myself while recording, but also to ensure gain consistency.
• The Rode NT-USB offers an impressive full-spectrum frequency response, so it captures the lowest lows and the highest highs with ease. It’s a great microphone for voice work of all styles. For voiceover work, this means that it can capture the perfect performance regardless of voice type.

Who It’s For: podcasters and YouTubers will benefit from this mic because of its ability to capture crisp, natural vocal tones, but sound designers and vocalists will also love using this mic in the studio. Because it’s USB, the Rode NT-USB is best suited for direct audio recording without an external pre-amp, so I would recommend this mic for quick home studio work and demo recording.

4. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ →

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone, With Built-In Headphone Jack & Volume Control, Perfect for Content Creators

$109.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 09:47 am GMT

USB, condenser, cardioid

Next on my list comes the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+. There’s no need for a pre-amp, so you can just plug it into a USB port and start recording right from your computer.

The PLUS version of the mic comes with a highly appreciated self-monitoring feature.

You can plug your headphones right into the mic, and hear yourself while recording.

Why I Picked It:

• During testing, I was able to monitor my voiceover performances with zero latency using this mic’s included headphone jack. I found this helped me to work faster and more efficiently without requiring multiple takes.
• The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ includes a built-in amplifier, so I was able to use it directly within my recording software without requiring too much post-production gain adjustment. This also allowed me to record a variety of dynamic vocal performances without losing quality or introducing signal noise.
• I also like that this mic can be mounted for desktop use easily, making it a good choice for streaming on YouTube, Twitch or any other video platform. This also made it easy to field video calls using Skype and Discord.

Who It’s For: I like this mic for podcasting, but I would also recommend it for budding singers who want to practice along with instrumentals or other external audio sources. It’s a solid microphone for vocals. While it’s not a karaoke mic, the ability to mix in music and sing along while monitoring through headphones gives the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ an edge with vocalists.

Low-cost XLR microphones for voice over

If you’re not paranoid about quality and you want to keep it functional and easy to use, then go with an economy model! Most low-priced mics are good enough for voice overs and podcasts. Need a quick start without breaking the bank? Read on for your options.

Without further ado, let’s see what the market offers in the affordable segment.

5. Harlan Hogan VO →

VO: 1-A Harlan Hogan Signature Series Microphone - The Voice Over Microphone!

$359.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 10:42 pm GMT

XLR, condenser, cardioid

The Harlan Hogan VO is a great choice for voice over actors and novice audio producers. The package also includes a hard case, shock mount, XLR cable and quick clip mount, as well as two replacement mount bands. The device supports both a USB-style and XLR connection.

You can plug it into your audio interface at home or the studio and use it as a standalone USB mic on the road. Very convenient.

Why I Picked It:

• I trusted this mic from the start because it was designed by voiceover legend Harlan Hogan himself and manufactured by Marshall Electronics. The quality and attention to detail in the frequency response for the human voice is apparent no matter what type of vocal performance I threw at the Harlan Hogan VO.
• I was able to get deep, rich bass from this mic without mud, even though I have a mid-range voice. The Harlan Hogan VO also delivered sparkling, silky high-end audio capture without a hint of harshness.
• The addition of Class A circuitry in this mic not only gives it best-in-class performance, but it also ensures that I received consistency with each take. I didn’t hear any self-noise when monitoring or during post-production of my voiceover takes, and this means a lot when pairing the Harlan Hogan VO with a budget pre-amp.

Who It’s For: this mic was designed specifically for voiceover artists, and I think that no matter your experience level, if you want quality and consistency in an affordable voiceover mic, the Harlan Hogan VO is a must-have. I also think this mic would work well for solo podcasting in a studio environment, but I would avoid using it for recording instruments due to the frequency response tuning.

6. SE Electronics sE2200a →

sE Electronics 2200 Class A Condenser Microphone

$249.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 09:52 am GMT

XLR, condenser, cardioid

Powered with excellent vocal isolation, the SE Electronics sE2200a is a superb choice as a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser mic. This model easily filters background noises. It also comes with a shock mount.

The device is recommended for its dynamic recording of versatile tones and voices, warm sound, and nice look and feel.

Why I Picked It:

• The SE Electronics sE2200a utilizes two diaphragms for improved acoustic pickup, so it offers enhancement for untreated spaces as well as vocal recordings in an isolated setting. I really liked this feature as it expands on the dynamic range of this mic.
• I found that the price point for this mic allows access for both professionals and those who are just getting started on their journey in the voiceover and recording industries.
• The sE2200a covers the full frequency spectrum, and the latest model includes switchable polar patterns. These options allow for greater control over a recording based on environment, directional requirements, and group size.

Who It’s For: while I like the sE2200a for voiceover work, I think this mic really shines for sound design and instrumental recording. It’s a great choice for both home and professional studios and works flawlessly for picking up crisp detail in the high-end. I would also recommend this mic for use in recording solo vocals as it brings out a silky quality to the human voice that isn’t found in other microphones in the same price range.

Dynamic Microphones

In a dynamic mic, sound waves make a wire or coil resonate, and induce a current that is later converted back to sound. Dynamic models fit many applications and everyday audio tasks, deliver excellent sound, and come in handy for lengthy voice overs in places with poor noise reduction.

Note! If you choose a dynamic mic, consider getting a Cloudlifter. What it does is leverage phantom power to amplify dynamic mics by up to 25dB without channeling the power through the mic itself. Just locate the Cloudlifter at the front of your dynamic microphone and turn on the phantom power to make your basic device sound its very best.

7. Shure SM7B – My choice among dynamic mics →

Shure SM7B Vocal Microphone

$399.00

What’s inside?

• Bass roll-off and mid-range controls with graphic display
• Internal air suspension shock isolation
• Very effective pop filter

Killer feature: Wide-range frequency response that will produce clean and natural sound for speech and music

See Deal!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 03:12 am GMT

XLR, dynamic, cardioid

The SM7B dynamic microphone offers a flat wide-range frequency response that works great for both music and speech recording.

That means it’s a good microphone for recording vocals, narration, voice acting, podcasting, and just about anything else you can think of.

The SM7B contains perfect shielding against the electromagnetic hum produced by neon lights, computer screens and other gadgets. The included pop filter makes any additional protection against plosive sounds superfluous, effectively eliminating most defects even for close-up narrations.

Also, it has a switchable frequency filter that’ll pep up consonants and pep up your speech in the mix. With the filter turned on, the frequency response is similar to the most recognizable on-stage microphone, the Shure SM58.

Two legendary voice over microphones in one! Great value for the money, and great sound quality!

No wonder the Shure SM7B is the preferred microphone of top podcasters like Joe Rogan, Marc Maron, Tim Ferriss, Russel Brand, and more.

Why I Picked It:

• As a dynamic cardioid mic, the SM7B delivers amazing performance when paired with a mid-range pre-amp. I found that I was able to use this mic for both loud voiceover performance pieces while still retaining the character of a performance when recording at normal speaking volumes.
• The directional field on this dynamic microphone is tight enough to block out unwanted background noise, but it’s not so tight that I had to be exactly dead center the entire time I was recording. This gives more freedom to move about for performances without taking away from the sound.
• This mic is a classic in the broadcast industry, and I really like that it’s designed to work well with an articulating arm mount. Once again, this offers more flexibility in placement and performer positioning.

Who It’s For: the Shure SM7B is a wonderful option for voiceover artists and vocal performers who use dynamic microphones while still capturing a detailed sound. I would recommend this mic to anyone in the voiceover industry, including beginners, as it is a great all-around unit that offers a classic sound that can be heard across the world in professional broadcast environments. It’s also a great microphone for vocals in music too.

Watch this video review by Crosstalk to learn more about the Shure company and recommended additional equipment.

8. Rode Procaster →

Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone

$229.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 01:22 pm GMT

XLR, dynamic, tight polar pattern

The Procaster is a perfect fit for YouTube videos, long narrations, and audiobook recordings.

This model offers a tight polar pattern and tailored frequency response. It’s a robust voice over mic with excellent noise reduction. The high-output dynamic capsule ensures its top qualities as a broadcast and voice over microphone.

It also comes with a built-in pop filter to minimize plosives.

Why I Picked It:

• The frequency response on the Rode Procaster is tuned specifically to enhance the range of the human voice. During testing, I definitely noticed that Rode went to great lengths to find the right roll-off frequencies. The bottom end drops off after 75Hz, and the top end maxes out at 18kHz.
• Although suited best for voiceover work, I tried this mic on some instrumental recordings and was satisfied with the results. It makes for an excellent room mic, but I was also able to get good results on guitar and bass cabinets.
• This mic’s low-impedance output controls character and gives options for placement, making it an essential piece of recording gear for voiceover artists who need to record in different spaces during a project.

Who It’s For: voiceover artists who are looking for dynamic microphones specifically crafted to enhance the human voice will want to get their hands on the Procaster. I also think that podcasters could benefit from the Procaster because it can elevate voices and give them a professional sound without much post-production work needed. Audio engineers would also want to give this mic a try for recording in dynamic environments, including drum rooms.

9. Heil PR-40 →

HEiL sound PR-40 Dynamic Studio Microphone

$349.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 05:57 am GMT

XLR, dynamic, cardioid

The Heil PR 40 is a dynamic studio recording mic designed for multiple pro applications, including live recording and commercial broadcasting.

This model boasts a really wide frequency range and beats most condenser microphones in this regard. It addresses huge amounts of SPL and also caters to natural voice articulation.

Why I Picked It:

• Heil designed the PR-40 with a flat response, and this works really well for capturing an uncolored, natural sound. This is a benefit not only to audio engineers and sound designers, but also to voiceover artists who want to craft a specific sound in post.
• This mic also rolls off muddy lows and harsh highs between 28Hz and 18kHz. I felt like this specific tuning worked perfectly with my voice during testing, and the lack of coloration gave me more freedom to focus on the performance instead of trying to balance out highs and lows.
• I also fell in love with the looks of this mic. It features gold and chrome plating on some models that just oozes sophistication, craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Who It’s For: this mic is the perfect addition to the cabinet of any sound design professional due to the flat response and ability to shape the character of a recording in post. I would also recommend the Heil PR-40 for voiceover artists who work best when they are able to act naturally without thinking about changing a performance to suit a specific sound.

10. Electro Voice RE-20 →

Electro-Voice RE20 Broadcast Announcer Microphone with Variable-D

$449.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 12:37 pm GMT

XLR, dynamic, cardioid

The RE20 dynamic cardioid mic is considered an industry standard, employed by sound engineers and music producers across the globe.

It comes with a heavy-duty internal pop filter which does a great job for close-in voice recordings, as well as an internal shock mount for noise reduction.

Why I Picked It:

• The low end response on this mic is fantastic. At 45Hz, bass tones really add depth, character and power to a vocal take, and the RE20 really capitalizes on this.
• I love the addition of Electro-Voice’s Variable-D technology as it reduces proximity noise, giving me a cleaner recording without the need for a lot of post cleanup. I tested this mic in both studio spaces and in crowded environments, and I could hear the difference the Variable-D technology made in keeping the focus on my voice each time.
• The RE20 includes a large diaphragm and bass roll-off control for superior sculpting of vocal characteristics. These two features made it easy to get professional results in my studio at home as well as in a professional vocal booth.

Who It’s For: voiceover artists who are looking for power and a real advantage in the low end will love this mic. The RE20 tackles the tough parts of keeping mud at bay, but at the same time, this mic delivers a clear and concise high end without frying vocal parts. I would also recommend this mic to podcasters and YouTubers who want to get a the sound of a professional broadcaster without shelling out big bucks for a high-end mic.

Mid-range condenser voice over microphones

The previous mics were moderately priced and quite suitable for most VO recording tasks. Now let’s get into something more posh and sophisticated.

Condenser mics have always been a perfect fit for studio recordings, and for good reason. Thanks to its lightweight diaphragm, a condenser microphone follows sound waves more precisely than its dynamic sibling. Of all types, condensers reveal the widest frequency range, clear transients and greater sensitivity.

That said, reasonably priced condensers may be well-suited for advanced home users, amateur musicians, and voice over talents that need to upgrade their existing devices. Pick a condenser for semi-pro or pro applications and studio use — you can’t go wrong.

Simply put, these are great microphones for recording vocals, voice over work, audio narration, and more.

Without further ado, let’s move on to the mid-range roundup.

11. Neumann TLM 102 MT – My choice among mid-range mics →

Neumann TLM 102 MT Condenser Microphone, Cardioid

$701.70

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 07:07 am GMT

XLR, condenser, cardioid

The TLM 102 is a smart condenser choice, compact, good looking, and a great value for the money. It features a new large-diaphragm cardioid capsule that allows for a maximum sound pressure level of 144 dB. This allows for very high-output recordings.

For acoustic instruments, the Neumann TLM102 offers a fast transient response, but the best applications for this mic are vocals and voice overs. It comes with a built-in pop screen to remove plosives and a stand mount for increased stability.

The reasonable price and flexibility make this device a great fit for home recording and project studios.

Why I Picked It:

• Right away, I noticed that Neumann made it a point to accentuate top-end sounds when recording with the TLM 102 MT. My voice sounded natural and solid, but this mic brought out a rich, bright character that I don’t hear very often with voiceover mics.
• I think that TLM 102 MT is sleek and sophisticated in design and appearance. I found myself really drawn to this mic’s classic look as it harkens back to the days of stand-up broadcasts and radio plays that relied heavily on the vocal performances of the artists.
• The Neumann TLM 102 MT includes an integrated pop filter, and I found that this was a welcome addition not found on most mics. During testing, I was able to achieve a full sound without excessive plosives or sibilants as a result of Neumann’s innovation.

Who It’s For: I believe the Neumann TLM 102 MT does a great job at capturing clarity in vocal performances, but it really stands out when capturing higher frequencies. That’s why I would recommend this mic to voiceover artists who have voices that perform best at higher octaves or that don’t require additional bass. Studio engineers can also benefit from having a TLM 102 MT in the mic cabinet for recording piano and stringed instruments that need some extra sparkle.

Watch a Podcastage review and audio test of the Neumann TLM 102. The reviewer checks the mic’s various aspects and applications, and reveals why the TLM 102 may be your perfect choice for VO work.

12. Rode NTK →

Rode NTK Premium Tube Cardioid Condenser Microphone

$529.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/17/2024 08:52 am GMT

XLR, condenser, cardioid

A large diaphragm condenser with a great warm sound, the Rode NTK is a nice choice for those who prefer it real loud.

Devoted users also cite the broad dynamic range and durability of this mic. Similar to other tube microphones, you need to warm it up for a while so it performs its best.

Make sure you turn it on and keep it on standby for 20-30 minutes before recording an audio lecture.

Why I Picked It:

• The Rode NTK features valve circuitry, adding warmth to vocals and instruments alike. During testing, I really liked how even in a vocal booth, my voice came across with an analog tape quality reminiscent of the classic mics of the 1960s.
• When it came to testing for frequency response, I was pleasantly surprised to find that, although the Rode NTK focused on warm tones overall, it did deliver on the company’s promise of full-spectrum frequency response.
• This mic includes the addition of a gold-plated 1” diaphragm, and this combines well with the Class A circuitry and graded 6922 twin-triode valve to improve performance in terms of sound reproduction.

Who It’s For: both voiceover performers and studio engineers can turn to the Rode NTK for recording when the job calls for added warmth. I wouldn’t really recommend this mic for broadcast professionals or podcasting because it may take attention away from vocal detail, but I think it would be suited well for recording engineers who need to capture ambient sounds or for mic placement to create reverb effects.

Professional Microphones

In this high-end category, I cover the outstanding mics used by artists, musicians, broadcasters, and other voice professionals. Quality voice recording encompasses a slew of characteristics, and pro mics match them all in one way or another: crystal-clear sound, responsiveness, broad-spectrum, dynamics, and more. If you are serious about your sound, welcome to the world of professional gear.

Now, let’s get go through a few top models.

13. Neumann TLM103 – My choice among professional microphones →

Neumann TLM 103 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone (Nickel) With Suspension Shockmount

$1,195.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 07:17 pm GMT

XLR, condenser, cardioid

A golden choice in the music industry, the TLM 103 is a large diaphragm microphone for pro and semi-pro use. This is the best voice over microphone I’ve ever used!

The TLM 103 utilizes the classic transformerless circuit employed in many Neumann models, and combines top-notch noise reduction with high sound pressure levels. It’s a universal large-diaphragm cardioid with straightforward handling and very low self-noise.

The TLM also works efficiently against plosives and pop noises.

These characteristics make the mic suitable for a wide range of applications, from home recording to professional broadcasting and studio recording.

Why I Picked It:

• The capsule in the Neumann TLM 103 is derived straight from the classic Neumann U87, but at a greatly reduced cost. This gives the TLM 103 a classic sound that is well-known in the broadcast and voiceover industries without the need for a huge budget.
• When I tested the TLM 103, I noticed that it really shined when I focused on the top end of the frequency spectrum. My voice sounded clean and clear, but there were no harsh overtones or buzzing.
• I also loved the dynamic range of the Neumann TLM 103. I was able to achieve fantastic results using this mic to record everything from radio spots to narration at different volume levels without a bit of loss in character or detail.

Who It’s For: I would recommend the Neumann TLM 103 to professional voiceover artists who either don’t want to spend a lot for a Neumann U87 or who want the Neumann sound in a modern mic. This mic is also a good choice for home studio recording enthusiasts who are seeking a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive broadcast mics.

Here’s a interesting comparison of the Neumann TLM103 and the CAD e100 from Mike DelGaudio. See how these two popular models stack up against one another and make up your mind.

14. Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 →

Sennheiser Pro Audio MKH416-P48U3 Super-Cardioid Shotgun Tube Condenser Microphone

$897.88

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 08:07 am GMT

XLR, condenser, shotgun

The Sennheiser Mic is used in professional studios and is dubbed as the “gold standard.” A great choice for road trips and outside recordings, the Sennheiser is a classic directional shotgun mic: rugged, lightweight, and user friendly.

Equipped with feedback suppression, it delivers superb sound quality and ease of use.

Why I Picked It:

• The Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 is excellent at capturing clear vocals on set while still recording natural ambiance. This makes it an essential piece of gear when you need to a mic for vocal work in a crowd.
• During testing, I found that this mic rejects feedback for clear audio in monitoring environments. I didn’t run into any problems, even when I had monitors nearby, and I didn’t notice any feedback in post-production.
• I also like that the Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 features high directivity to capture the right audio source. All I had to do was re-position the mic when a scene changed an I was able to easily target the right vocal performer without sacrificing sound quality.

Who It’s For: the Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 is really a specialty mic that is designed for film, television and live broadcast environments, so I would only recommend it for on-set audio specialists. Voiceover artists might use this mic while working, but it isn’t really something that you would want to use in a vocal studio setting. On the other hand, you may find some use for the MKH416-P48U3 in a studio if you need to capture overhead ambiance for specialty vocal recordings.

15. Neumann U87 →

Neumann U 87 Ai Switchable Studio Microphone - Nickel Color

$3,295.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 10:12 pm GMT

XLR, condenser, multi-directional

Professionals are full of praise for the Neumann U87 model. This exceptionally pricey mic supports three directional patterns: all-directional, cardioid and figure-8.

Neumann fans have a more affordable choice though. A lower option, the Neumann TLM103, also delivers great quality recordings. It fits the expectations of broadcasters and home studio owners.

This mic is extremely sensitive; users maintain that it renders emotions and nuances with great efficiency.

Why I Picked It:

• The Neumann U87 is a top-of-the line voiceover mic that has a long history in the world of broadcast and professional recording. I love the character of this mic, and it consistently delivers quality recordings with a tight frequency response tailored to the human voice.
• The depth and power provided by the U87 helps lowers tones really reach their potential, but it also shines bright on the top end.
• Using the Neumann U87, I have the ability to quickly choose between three classic polar patterns, including figure-eight, cardioid and omni. This provides options for solo, group and ambient recordings.
• The U87 also has a switchable bass roll-off that has been dialed in with the human voice in mind. It reduces mud while emphasizing lower registers for added character, tone and punch.

Who It’s For: the Neumann U87 is the mic I recommend most to professional voiceover artists who are having a hard time finding the right fit. This mic provides everything needed to bring out the best in any vocal performance, and studio professionals can also get a big boost in quality and clarity when using the U87 as a room mic. The price of the U87 is on the higher end, but the performance this mic provides is worth it when you need the best.

That’s it for the voice over microphones for now. Let’s see what additional gear you may need to help your mic of choice shine like a star.

Other must-haves for voice over recording

Watch this video and learn which equipment Israel Hyman, a voice over expert, suggests for home studio recording.

Headphones →

A good set of headphones are essential for you to monitor audio tracks while recording voice overs.

It’s important to use headphones for monitoring, because you want to prevent your mic from picking up sound from the speakers. Otherwise, it’ll cause a bad-sounding feedback effect.

When recording voice overs, make sure you are in a quiet room and wear headphones.

If you need to pick one model, my recommendation here is the Sony MDR7506. Perfectly flat sound, clear mids and highs – you can’t go wrong with this one. For more details, check out my article on headphones.

Microphone stands →

To avoid shakiness and sound disruptions, use a mic stand that suits your facilities and preferred position. If you’ll be sitting when recording voice overs, it makes sense to pick a desk stand or a studio arm. A desk stand is a smaller, desktop alternative to a standard microphone stand. A studio arm can be attached to a table with a removable clamp or fixed holder.

If you prefer standing, your best option is a microphone floor stand, a longer model with boom arms. The latter will provide more flexibility in choosing the right angle and position for the mic.

Here are my recommendations in each category:

• Arm stands: NEEWER. A durable and convenient model that you can easily fold and carry around if needed. It’s also very easy to set up. Smart pick!
• Floor stands: Samson MK-10. A sturdy tripod boom stand that comes with a mic clip. Very lightweight, easy to transport. Make sure to check it out!
• Desk stands: On Stage DS7200C. Solid solution for voice over talents and podcasters; comes with an adjustable height. Sturdy and ergonomic.

Pop filters →

Basically, pop filters serve to improve your speech flow.

When using sensitive microphones, it’s essential to avoid the plosives and sibilant sounds that may be picked up by the mic. That’s exactly the job for a pop filter – a compact screen that connects to a microphone stand with a clamp.

You can position the filter right in front of the microphone capsule and it will help diffuse the air generated by the notorious P’s and T’s. Depending on the model, the screen can be metallic or made of a nylon fabric. I recommend using the Dragonpad USA Pop filter. Cheap and cheerful, it comes with a 360-degree flexible gooseneck. It’s easy to use and set up, and works great.

Another job of a pop filter, when used with a condenser microphone, is to protect the capsule from tiny particles of saliva that inevitably fly out when you speak. Longer contact with moisture will corrupt the sensitive capsule.

As for dynamic microphones, most of them already come in a protective capsule that has a foam pop-filter that goes in between the protective metallic grid and microphone capsule. Plus, the capsule on dynamic microphones is more tolerant to moisture. However, an extra layer of pop filter on a gooseneck may be helpful.

Shock mount →

A shock mount is a suspension device that prevents a mic from picking up rumbling sounds from the desk or floor. It’s mounted on the end of a microphone stand and holds the mic.

Voice over talents may use a shock mount to suspend a mic with special bands, thus absorbing most unwanted noises. The type of shock mount totally depends on the particular microphone.

Sometimes shock mounts are bundled with the mic. If you need a standalone device, I recommend you check out Neewer. This shock mount isolates most condenser mics and offers smooth angle adjustment. With a durable metallic structure, it’s a great option for broadcasting and voice overs.

Microphone preamps →

As a rule, your mic’s output is way too low to connect it directly to a recorder or audio interface. In order to amplify the sound, i.e. make it louder, I recommend you use a preamplifier.

Preamps come in all sorts and shapes: internal and external, single channel and dual channel, solid state and tube. The important thing is to get the most out of your gear and deliver better gain, less distortion, and hopefully the desired sound character.

With a preamp like the Focusrite ISA One, this is a simple task. This model is a classic one-channel pre with an independent D.I., switchable impedance, balanced input and output, VU meter, and more. Belonging in the mid-range category, the ISA One does its job just right, and produces a clear well-weighed sound with impressive headroom.

Long story short, you can’t go wrong with the Focusrite!

Want to learn more about preamps? Check out my dedicated article!

Audio interface →

Audio interfaces are external equipment that connects to computers via USB or other ports (USB-C, FireWire). Need to plug an XLR microphone into a computer? An audio interface is the solution.

Many interfaces include various inputs such as XLR and instrument input jacks (usually combined) as well as outputs, such as headphones and speakers. All interfaces that have an XLR input have a phantom power switch and a built-in preamp (which is decent for most tasks). Also, most interfaces let you monitor the sound you record directly.

My recommendation for a USB interface is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen) a great mic preamp that comes with embedded phantom power. Best-in-class conversion rates, universal compatibility.

XLR Cable →

An obvious means of connectivity for your audio recording environment. A standard cable should be compatible with all XLR microphones, recorders, mixers and any other XLR-enabled devices.

I suggest using 25-foot mic cables – long, thick, and durable. Naturally, you should choose a good length for your setup, but too long is always better than too short. A good choice in this field is the Mogami GOLD STUDIO-25 XLR Microphone Cable. It’s cheap, sturdy and built to last. This is the type of thing that you set and forget.

Isolation filter →

This is, essentially, a curved baffle covering the microphone with acoustic absorption materials; it’s a smart way to decrease room ambience. An isolation filter surrounds the back part and sides of a mic and absorbs unwanted echo, but at the same time leaves the subtle ambient echo, which is not bad at all.

Most filters of this sort are not exactly lightweight, so you’ll probably need a robust microphone stand as well.

What’s my pick in this category? I recommend LyxPro VRI-30. This is a portable and adjustable foam microphone isolation shield for stand mount or desktop use. Comes with steady feet and a one-year warranty for your peace of mind. All in all, it’s a real deal!

Acoustic panels →

Foam panels are also specifically designed to cut down on room ambience. They are usually placed in focal points across the studio. Acoustic panels may vary in size and structure: some of them may include bass traps and adhesives.

They are good for studios, vocal booths, control rooms, and other recording environments. Actually, they’ll work great anywhere to help prevent echoes inside the room.

Product care may include occasional vacuum cleaning for better results. The item I have in mind here is Soundproofing Acoustic Studio Foam, 4 Pack. These panels are composed of two-inch wedge foam and provide moderate noise deadening where required. Good value for the money. Highly recommended!

Don’t overuse acoustic panels, otherwise your voice will sound very dry and unnatural.

Studio monitors →

Unlike headphones, monitors reproduce a more natural sound for critical listening, because the sound source isn’t that close to your ears.

Studio monitors are an immense upgrade as opposed to common computer speakers or HiFi. Regular speakers and stereo systems tend to alter the sound to make it more appealing, whereas monitors give you a better idea of your recording quality. Monitors are capable of a flat frequency response so you can hear frequencies exactly as they’ve been recorded, and make tweaks accordingly.

My recommendation: Yamaha HS7 100-Watt. This is a two-way powered studio monitor with a 43Hz–30kHz frequency response, room control and high trim response, XLR and TRS phone jack inputs, and more great features. This mid-priced Yamaha model is a real bang for the buck!

For more choices, refer to my article on studio monitors.

Software →

Well, this is not exactly equipment, but you will surely need software to manage your recordings. There is an enormous selection of audio editors, so take your pick. Before you look into the pricey options, check out the open-source Audacity software. It’s a comprehensive multi-track audio editor and recorder that works on all major OSs: Windows, Mac OS X, and GNU/Linux.

Among the major professional offerings, take a look at Adobe Audition CC, a workstation for audio pros that helps you design sound effects and edit audio. It’s a Swiss army knife that includes a multitrack, waveform, and spectral display for recording, mixing, and editing audio.

Need more information?

Check out Mike DelGaudio’s YouTube channel, which covers voice overs, home studio recording, and equipment.

A Final Word About Voice Over Microphones

If you’re looking to purchase a microphone for voice overs or other recording tasks and can’t decide which one to get, hopefully this guide helped you out. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner taking online voice over classes, the mics in the guide above are just what you’re looking for.

If you ever get a chance, try renting a voice acting mic and test it in your actual recording environment for a couple of days to see if it’s what you need. After all, there’s no true substitute for testing out microphones and figuring out which one sounds best with your unique voice.

Your optimal mic is the one that makes your unique voice sound great – don’t forget about that and don’t get carried away with bells and whistles.

“Go with personal preference. Trust your ears,” Proctor said.

And you may even want to consider taking public speaking classes online to become a better speaker and get more from your setup.

Jot down a list of essential features to meet your specific tasks. Wipe out the unneeded extras, and there you go.

You can’t just be satisfied with the first voice over mic you encounter. Like any creative pro, you need the ability to tweak and tune, and possibly produce a couple of test lectures.

You may even wish to install some acoustic foam panels on the walls and/or ceiling in your recording space to further improve the quality and clarity of your recordings.

Be picky but don’t overplay it. After all, your voice is only as good as your content.

Have any questions about choosing a voice over mic? Leave us a comment and we’ll try to help you out.

The post 15 Best Voice Over Microphones for Narrating & Voice Acting in eLearning (2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

If you’re looking for a quality microphone to improve your audio recordings, now is a great time to shop. As someone with a bit of an unhealthy obsession with gear for my studio where I record audio for my eLearning projects, now is a great time to score some deals on new mics to try out.

For Prime Day 2023, there are some excellent deals on microphones from top brands like Shure, Audio-Technica, and more.

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is a two-day event (October 10-11 in 2023) when the retailer offers big discounts on everything from Amazon devices to 4K TVs.

The only catch is you have to be a member of their Amazon Prime program.

If you’re not already an Amazon Prime member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial to take advantage of these deals and enjoy all of the other perks that come with membership.

Keep in mind, new deals are constantly being added, so while we’re doing our best to keep this guide updated, things are subject to change. You can see all the latest deals at this link.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

Prime Day Microphone Deals

Amazon.com | Prime Day 2023

Shop huge savings on products across all categories in this annual two-day event!

See the Deals!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Here are some of the best Prime Big Deal Day deals on microphones:

Blue Yeti USB Microphone - 31% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

TONOR Wireless Microphone,Metal Dual Professional UHF Cordless Dynamic Mic Handheld Microphone System - 45% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

ovedisa USB Gaming Microphone PC,Professional Cardioid 192kHz/24Bit Plug & Play Mic Recording Microphone Kit - 36% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

USB Microphone, TONOR Computer Condenser PC Gaming Mic with Tripod Stand & Pop Filter (43% Off!)

See Deal!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

JYX Wireless Microphones, Dual UHF Handheld Dynamic Mic with Receiver - 20% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

USB Microphone,FIFINE Metal Condenser Recording Microphone for Laptop MAC or Windows Cardioid Studio Recording Vocals, Voice Overs,Streaming Broadcast and YouTube Videos-K669B

$29.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 02:07 pm GMT

Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac, Blue VO!CE effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Headphone Output and Volume Control, Mic Gain Control, Adjustable Stand, Plug and Play – Blackout

See Deal!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

AUDIOPRO USB Microphone – Computer Condenser Gaming Mic for PC/Laptop/Phone/PS4/5 (32% Off!)

$39.97

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 10:37 pm GMT

ZealSound USB Microphone,Condenser Computer PC Mic - 20% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

MAONO XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone, RGB Podcast Mic with Software for Streaming, Gaming, Recording, Voice-Over - 20% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

How to Get the Best Prime Day Microphone Deals

Ready to shop these great Prime Day deals on microphones?

Here’s all you need to do to get started:

• Sign up for a free 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.
• Download the Amazon app on your phone or visit the website to explore the deals
• Shop the Prime Day deals starting at 3 a.m. ET on October 10.
• Check regularly throughout Prime Day for the latest deals and flash sales, as new deals are added throughout the event. If you see a deal you like, add it to your cart and check out quickly before it sells out!
• Miss out on a deal? You can join a Waitlist and get notified if the item comes back in stock within a certain time frame.

What are some of the best Prime Day deals for microphones that you’ve seen? Share them with us by dropping a comment below.

The post The Best Prime Day Microphone Deals to Shop Now (October 2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is a two-day shopping event exclusively for Prime members. This year’s sale runs from October 10-11.

Now is the perfect time to save on a new sound system for your  studio (or just to enjoy in your home). As someone who’s obsessed with gear for my studio where I record audio for my eLearning projects, this is a great time to snag some monitors and speakers.

Whether you’re looking for a speaker to use outdoors or a powerful subwoofer to enhance your movie-watching experience or a soundbar, there are plenty of great deals to be had.

In this guide, we’ll round up the best Prime Day speaker deals to help you save big.

Remember, though, you must be a Prime member to take advantage of these great offers.

Amazon offers a 30-day free trial to try Prime so you can shop the deals right now at no extra cost.

Keep in mind, new deals are constantly being added, so while we’re doing our best to keep this guide updated, things are subject to change. You can see all the latest deals at this link.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

Prime Day Speaker Deals

Amazon.com | Prime Day 2023

Shop huge savings on products across all categories in this annual two-day event!

See the Deals!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Here are some of our favorite Prime Big Deal Days deals on speakers for 2023…

Polk Audio Atrium 4 Outdoor Speakers with Powerful Bass (Pair, Black) - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony SRS-XB13 Extra BASS Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Compact Travel Speaker - 42% Off!

$58.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:12 pm GMT

Sony SA-RS3S Wireless Rear Speakers - 15% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Klipsch R-41M Powerful Detailed Bookshelf Home Speaker Set of 2 Black

$119.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:52 pm GMT

Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 Bookshelf Speaker - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker System - 38% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony SRS-XP500 X-Series Wireless Portable-BLUETOOTH-Karaoke Party-Speaker IPX4 - 25% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Magnat Signature 503 3-Way Floorstanding Speaker -35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Magnat Monitor Supreme 2002 Floorstanding Speaker - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

BESTISAN Bookshelf Speakers, 60 Watt Powered Bookshelf Speakers with Bluetooth 5.0 and Wired Optical RCA Input Port - 17% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

How to Get the Best Prime Day Speaker Deals

Ready to save big on these awesome Prime Big Deal Days deals on speakers?

Here’s how to get started:

• Sign up for a free 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.
• Download the Amazon app on your phone or visit the website to shop the latest deals
• Shop the latest Prime Day deals now through October 11th
• Check regularly throughout Prime Day for the latest deals and flash sales

Not an Amazon Prime member yet? Sign up for a free 30-day trial now to get these great deals!

What are some of the best Prime Day deals for speakers that you’ve come across? Share them with us by dropping a comment below.

The post The Best Prime Day Speaker Deals to Shop Now (October 2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is a huge two-day event (October 10-11 in 2023) where shoppers can save big on everything from TVs to laptops to kitchen appliances.

If you’re looking for great audio equipment at rock-bottom prices, Prime Day is the time to do it. Most major retailers participate in Prime Big Deal Days, and that includes some of the biggest names in audio. As an eLearning pro, for me this is a great time to snag some equipment for my home studio where I record audio my instructional programs.

So whether you’re looking for a new set of headphones, a sound bar for your TV, or a Bluetooth speaker for your next party, we’ve got you covered.

To take advantage of these deals, though, you need to be a Prime member.

Luckily, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial to try Prime so you can shop the deals right now at no extra cost.

Keep in mind, new deals are constantly being added, so while we’re doing our best to keep this guide updated, things are subject to change. You can see all the latest deals at this link.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

Prime Day Audio Deals

Amazon.com | Prime Day 2023

Shop huge savings on products across all categories in this annual two-day event!

See the Deals!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Here are some of the best Prime Big Deal Days deals on audio equipment:

Headphones:

Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony-INZONE H3 Wired Gaming Headset, Over-ear Headphones with 360 Spatial Sound - 42% Off!

$98.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:07 pm GMT

Sony LinkBuds Truly Wireless Earbud Headphones with an Open-Ring Design for Ambient Sounds and Alexa Built-in - 29% Off!

$178.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 05:57 pm GMT

Amazon Basics In Ear Wired Headphones, Earbuds with Microphone - 27% Off!

$8.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:22 pm GMT

Soundbars:

LG S75Q 3.1.2ch Sound bar with Dolby Atmos DTS:X - 51% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony HT-S2000: 3.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar Surround Sound Home Theater with Bluetooth Technology - 40% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar with DTS Virtual:X- 33% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Speakers:

Polk Audio Atrium 4 Outdoor Speakers with Powerful Bass (Pair, Black) - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony SRS-XB13 Extra BASS Wireless Bluetooth Portable Lightweight Compact Travel Speaker - 42% Off!

$58.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:12 pm GMT

Sony SA-RS3S Wireless Rear Speakers - 15% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Klipsch R-41M Powerful Detailed Bookshelf Home Speaker Set of 2 Black

$119.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:52 pm GMT

Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 Bookshelf Speaker - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker System - 38% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Sony SRS-XP500 X-Series Wireless Portable-BLUETOOTH-Karaoke Party-Speaker IPX4 - 25% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Magnat Signature 503 3-Way Floorstanding Speaker -35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Magnat Monitor Supreme 2002 Floorstanding Speaker - 35% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

BESTISAN Bookshelf Speakers, 60 Watt Powered Bookshelf Speakers with Bluetooth 5.0 and Wired Optical RCA Input Port - 17% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Microphones:

Blue Yeti USB Microphone - 31% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

TONOR Wireless Microphone,Metal Dual Professional UHF Cordless Dynamic Mic Handheld Microphone System - 45% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

ovedisa USB Gaming Microphone PC,Professional Cardioid 192kHz/24Bit Plug & Play Mic Recording Microphone Kit - 36% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

USB Microphone, TONOR Computer Condenser PC Gaming Mic with Tripod Stand & Pop Filter (43% Off!)

See Deal!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

JYX Wireless Microphones, Dual UHF Handheld Dynamic Mic with Receiver - 20% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

USB Microphone,FIFINE Metal Condenser Recording Microphone for Laptop MAC or Windows Cardioid Studio Recording Vocals, Voice Overs,Streaming Broadcast and YouTube Videos-K669B

$29.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 02:07 pm GMT

Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording and Streaming on PC and Mac, Blue VO!CE effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Headphone Output and Volume Control, Mic Gain Control, Adjustable Stand, Plug and Play – Blackout

See Deal!

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

AUDIOPRO USB Microphone – Computer Condenser Gaming Mic for PC/Laptop/Phone/PS4/5 (32% Off!)

$39.97

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 10:37 pm GMT

ZealSound USB Microphone,Condenser Computer PC Mic - 20% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

MAONO XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone, RGB Podcast Mic with Software for Streaming, Gaming, Recording, Voice-Over - 20% Off!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

How to Get the Best Prime Day Audio Deals

Ready to shop these great Prime Day deals on audio equipment?

Here’s how to get in the game:

• Sign up for a free 30-day trial of Amazon Prime.
• Download the Amazon app on your phone or visit the website to shop the latest deals
• Shop the Prime Day deals now through October 11th
• Check regularly throughout Prime Day for the latest deals and flash sales — new deals are always being added
• Miss out on a deal? You can join a Waitlist for the product on the Amazon website and get notified if it comes back in stock

Not an Amazon Prime member yet? Sign up for a free 30-day trial now so you can take advantage of these great deals!

What are some of the best Prime Big Deal Days deals for audio equipment that you’ve come across? Share them with us by dropping a comment below.

The post The Best Prime Day Audio Deals to Shop Now (October 2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

And the key word here is “cheap”.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get quality bass traps for your studio.

Bass traps are essential acoustic treatment components that offer significant benefits in creating a well-balanced and controlled sound environment within a studio. These specialized absorbers primarily target low-frequency sound waves, which tend to be more challenging to manage due to their longer wavelengths.

Incorporating bass traps into a studio setup can yield several advantages that contribute to improved sound quality and a more accurate audio monitoring experience.

Most notably, bass traps offer the ability to mitigate excessive bass buildup and standing waves.

In untreated or poorly treated spaces, low-frequency sound waves can accumulate and resonate, leading to uneven bass response and muddiness in recordings and mixes. Bass traps strategically placed effectively absorb and diffuse these low-frequency sound waves, reducing problematic resonances and providing a more balanced bass reproduction.

This results in cleaner mixes and accurate bass perception, enabling engineers and producers to make informed decisions about their low-frequency content.

On top of my decades of experience in audio engineering, I’ve done a lot of research on the best products out there today. I read lots of forums about the solutions used by other audio engineers to deal with excessive bass sound in a recording environment.

I tried more than 30 affordable bass traps to test them for this review article. A few of the ones that I tested deserve to be mentioned, such as ATS Acoustic Tri-Corner Bass Trap, UA-acoustics Corner Bass trap, and Primacoustic Bass Trap but they did not make the cut of my choices for the best picks, mostly because they are too expensive.

Only the best cheap bass traps are included in my reviews so read on to learn the details of my choices that will help you decide what is good for your studio (and your wallet).

This guide has been fully updated for 2023 to include the best current options on the market right now, so you can be sure you’re getting the latest info to help you make a great buying decision.

Important Safety Tip: Bass traps capture low frequencies and trap them by turning the vibrational energy into heat by using friction. If you are going to make your own ones, be sure not to create a fire hazard accidentally by using highly flammable materials. Treat all flammable materials in your recording studio with a fire retardant.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

A Quick Look at the Best Cheap Bass Traps

I’ll go more in depth on all of the top bass traps later in this article, but for those in a hurry, here’s a quick glance at my top picks:

Top Pick

TRUE NORTH Bass Traps w/Adhesive 8 Pack (12"x6"x6")

$34.99

What’s inside?

• Made from non-toxic, fire-retardant material.
• The density of the foam is 30 kg per square meter.
• The high-density foam is 20% to 25% denser than standard foam.
• Easy installation with included adhesive strips.
• Full refund guarantee if not satisfied.

Killer feature: Very high-density foam.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 06:07 am GMT

You will appreciate the TRUE NORTH bass traps because the denser foam makes them much more effective when compared to others that are made from less dense foam. You can easily hear an improvement when these picks are installed properly. The TRUE NORTH acoustic treatment products are professional grade.

Also Great

JBER 4 Pack Acoustic Foam Bass Trap Studio Foam 12" X 7" X 7"

What’s inside?

• Effective sound deadener for standing waves and flutter echo.
• Made from non-toxic polyurethane foam.
• Unique shape for excellent acoustic absorption.
• Improves room acoustics to provide warmer sound.
• Budget-priced with a nice style.

Killer feature: The low price of this product is the main attraction.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

If you are on a tight budget, you can find a four-pack of these ones for about $20. The foam is not as dense as my top pick in these reviews but can work for most home recording studio setups to help improve the room sound.

For best results, you may also want to add acoustic panels (sold separately) running down the walls under these installed bass traps placed in the upper corners near the ceiling.

Also Great

DEKIRU 8 Pack Acoustic Foam Bass Traps Corner Block 12" X 7" X 7"

$26.99

What’s inside?

• Made from eco-friendly and fire-proof materials.
• Improves acoustical quality and helps decrease unwanted room noise.
• Easy to install.
• Excellent customer service.
• 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Killer feature: Perfect for the sound treatment of small- to medium-sized rooms.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 05:47 am GMT

The DEKIRU acoustic panels are also a good choice for those on a limited budget. You can get eight of them for less than $30. I appreciate that the manufacturer offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

With all of these bass traps that arrive in a compressed package, I recommend that you unpack them immediately. Soak them in water and let them dry out to make sure they expand to the proper shape and size before installing them.

Do Bass Traps Make a Difference?

Acoustic engineers demonstrate the difference in using bass traps in a room through a method called sound waveform analysis. By recording sound in the room and analyzing the waveform before and after applying them, it is easy to see the effect on the computer readout of the waveform analysis.

However, actually hearing the difference is more complicated. The reason for this is that human hearing goes down to about 20 Hz. A sub-base frequency is below this level is not heard by a person but can be felt by a person.

The other consideration is that bass frequencies resonate with the surrounding environment. If the bass sound being emitted matches a resonate frequency of the materials in a room, the sound can build upon itself. For example, a low hum can turn into a resonating vibration that causes the building to vibrate.

In this video, produced by Tommy Callaway, he answers the question of whether using a few bass traps in his recording studio would make a difference that he could actually hear.

In the video, the narrator plays back some music using his computer, which is picked up and recorded by the mic of his video camera.

He recommends opening the box immediately that they come in. Remove the foam because it has been compressed for shipping. Be careful when opening the box with a razor cutter not to cut the foam by accident.

He installs them on the wall opposite his monitors. He adds two bass traps to the corners of his home studio using t-pins to mount the foam to the wall. He prefers using t-pins over adhesive on sheetrock walls because this method does less damage, and the foam can easily be removed if necessary.

After comparing the playback with and without them in place, he concludes that the bass traps make an audible difference. He describes this result of using them as creating a richer sound for the bass, and he recommends using them.

FAQ and Buyer’s Guide: Choosing Cheap Bass Traps

Here I’ll answer the most common questions about these picks.

Q: What Do Bass Traps Do?

Bass traps absorb low-frequency sound to keep the sound from reflecting off hard surfaces. They also reduce the resonant frequency, lower the echo, and reduce vibration.

Q: Do Bass Traps Reduce Outside Noise?

The low-frequency sound coming from outside a room, such as the low rumble from passing traffic or a neighbor’s bass sound, can be reduced using a bass trap in your room.

Q: Are Bass Traps Worth the Expense?

Using them improves the sound of the music in a room. This improvement gives more bass sound with less need for bass amplification or EQ. The sound of the bass is more evenly spread throughout the room.

Q: Should Bass Traps Be Put in All Corners?

Yes, however, you can place them in two corners of the room to achieve nearly the same desired effect by treating the corners closest to the monitor speakers.

In this video, produced by GIK Acoustics, the narrator guides you on making the proper placement of bass traps and helps you understand how a bass trap works.

If you follow the techniques in this video, you will place the bass traps in the perfect positions to have the most benefit in your recording studio.

Q: Should Bass Traps Be Installed Floor to Ceiling?

The best places to install them are the upper wall to ceiling area and the wall to floor area. More acoustic pressure from low frequencies accumulates in these corners.

In this video, produced by Acoustics Insider, the narrator discusses the comparison between floor-to-ceiling and half-the-corner bass traps.

Floor-to-ceiling installations are ideal for absorption. You can eliminate covering the wall near the floor area if you need the floor space for other things and still benefit.

Q: Why Does Bass Build Up in Corners?

The ninety-degree angle of corners causes the bass sound to reflect on itself as an echo. A bass trap reduces these reflections.

Q: Can You Have Too Many Bass Traps?

No, because of the acoustic quality of the bass sound, it is not possible to have too many bass traps. If you put them in all corners, there will be very little bass reflection.

However, treating just two corners works almost as well if those corners are near the monitor speakers because you catch almost all the base coming from the source.

There are three steps in choosing a cheap bass trap:

Step 1. Decide How Much Acoustic Foam You Need.

Measure the area of the corners to make sure you get an appropriate size and amount to cover the part of the wall you want to be covered.

Step 2. Features You Want

Here is a list of the things you want to consider:

• Made from non-toxic materials.
• Fire-resistant or use an additional fire-retardant treatment.
• Foam thickness and density.
• Shape of the design.
• Color to make the treatment look nice.
• Durability of the product and guarantee.

Step 3. Choose the Solution You Can Afford.

I intentionally selected the cheap bass traps. If you are on a very low budget, you can buy the acoustic foam in sheets and then cut it into pieces that you glue together to make the shape of a bass trap. You may also want to use acoustic blankets.

In this video, produced by Mixdown Music, you can view creating a DIY acoustic absorption bass trap as an interesting time-lapse build.

To get more ideas about other acoustic materials, you can read my reviews of the best acoustic foam panels. You may also be interested in substitutes that you can use as an acoustic foam alternative.

In this video, produced by Next Generation Acoustics, you will learn the differences between an acoustic panel and a bass trap.

The key differences are the purpose, placement, and design.

The 8 Best Cheap Bass Traps: In-Depth Look

Here is a list of the cheap models that I reviewed, followed by detailed information about each one.

I had a lot of fun reviewing and testing these bass traps because I had not analyzed my recording studio since I first built it. It turns out I had some problems that I was not aware of with the low frequencies. I was able to correct the problems using cheap bass traps.

The Best Cheap Bass Traps

	1. TRUE NORTH → Best for a home recording studio on a tight budget. My choice!	Amazon →
	2. JBER  → Best for recording studios, for video streaming, podcasts, and in-home cinemas.	Amazon →
	3. DEKIRU  → Best for places where the look of the foam is not important.	Amazon →
	4. Bekith → Best for video bloggers and podcasters.	Amazon →
	5. XIN&LOG→ Best for home recording studios, vocal booths, and production rooms.	Amazon →
	6. Ueemph → Best for piano practice rooms, recording studios, and dance studios.	Amazon →
	7. SD SODOCT → Best for home theater center, recording studio, control room, podcast studio, or musical instrument studio.	Amazon →
	8. BEIYIN Block Foam → Best for any drum room, piano room, home entertainment center, or meeting rooms.	Amazon →

With more than a dozen cheap bass traps to choose from, we need to drill down on the specifics to see the ones that work the best for different applications and which ones offer the best value, so read the detailed specifications in the reviews.

My Reviews on Best Cheap Bass Trap

The reviews start with my favorite choice to help you compare the specifications to the rest of the cheap bass traps.

The post 8 Cheap Bass Traps to Improve the Sound in Your Recording Studio (2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

I’ve worked in pro audio for years, recording in some top studios using some of the best gear on the planet. What I’ve discovered is that, even with access to incredible hardware and advanced software, none of it matters if the studio acoustics aren’t right.

Yes, you can spend a fortune to have a studio outfitted with custom acoustic treatments, but I’ve found a secret weapon that works wonders: soundproof curtains or draperies (also sometimes called “acoustic curtains”).

Using soundproof curtains for studio audio control is a fast, easy, and affordable way to isolate sounds and make better use of any recording space. They are a practical and effective way to improve the recording environment and enhance the overall audio quality of recordings.

Soundproof curtains, also known as acoustic curtains or noise-reducing curtains, are specially designed to absorb and block sound waves, helping to reduce unwanted external noise and minimize sound reflections within the room.

As recording engineer and producer Adam Sliger at Sunray Recording Studio told us, “Soundproofing curtains can definitely be effective. If you are hearing sound reflect off of a window, soundproofing curtains can take away that smooth surface and prevent reflections from bouncing around the room.”

But the studio isn’t the only place where soundproof curtains are useful.

A lot of homeowners use noise-reducing curtains in their home theaters as well to help cut back on noise and sound waves leaking out from the space.

I know it can be difficult searching for the right soundproof curtains for acoustic control since there are so many choices out there.

To help you out, I reviewed 40 different products, but in the end, only 11 made the cut when it came to being among the very best soundproof curtains worth trying. I rated the acoustic courtains based on several factors, like materials used, effectiveness at sound absorption, customer reviews, cost, and more.

Although I’m only including my reviews of the best soundproof curtains for studio audio below, other options exist. For example, the Yakamok Blackout Curtains is a good choice on a budget, but I didn’t include them in my reviews because they simply weren’t what I would consider truly great acoustic curtains for use in a studio environment.

This guide has been fully updated for 2023 to include the best options currently on the market, so you can be sure you’re getting relevant recommendations.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

What You’ll Learn in This Article

• Why to use soundproof curtains
• How to select the right soundproof curtains
• The features of each soundproof studio curtain I reviewed
• The pros and cons of using each curtain in my list
• Other must-have accessories you’ll need to enhance your recording experience

Why Use Soundproof Curtains?

There are many ways to soundproof your studio, home theater, or other space.

During my time in the studio, I’ve discovered that soundproof curtains can be used in many different ways to shape and control sound.

In some cases, I use them to divide a room into sections for different musicians.

In others, I layer curtains against hard surfaces to reduce acoustic reflections. Of course, I also use them if I’m recording in a studio that has windows facing outdoors to control environmental sounds as well.

All in all, soundproof curtains offer a host of benefits, including:

• Blocking sound from entering or exiting a room
• Reducing noise levels in a studio, home theater, office, or other space
• Improving the acoustics of a room
• Improving the quality of your recordings

With the different uses of soundproof curtains in mind, I considered a sound reduction, thermal insulation, fabric type and appearance during the course of my testing. I had the opportunity to try out some really great products, but only one stood out above the rest.

How to Choose the Best Soundproof Curtains for Your Space

How can you choose the right soundproof curtains for your studio?

While you might think that all soundproof curtains can work in all studio environments, the truth is that there are a number of factors to consider before making a purchase.

No one wants to go through the purchase process and installation only to find out that the sound deadening curtains they bought aren’t the right ones for the job.

To help you find the right options, I’ve included some easy steps below for choosing the right soundproof curtains for your studio.

Step 1: Analyze Your Budget

I almost always start planning any recording purchase by analyzing my budget.

Why?

Well, we all have a bottom line to think about, but I also want to make sure I’m not spending too much on one piece of gear when I could put that money into more important studio hardware in the future.

The good news is that sound absorbing curtains are relatively inexpensive compared to other types of acoustic control solutions. Even the best soundproof curtains are fairly affordable for most people.

Many options I outline in my reviews below are available to meet almost any budget.

Step 2: Consider the Size of the Sound Absorbing Curtains You Need

In keeping with the budget planning, I also recommend you take a long, hard look at your space and its needs. Bust out the tape measure and note down the size of the room, and include a breakdown of each individual area that will require sound control.

This will help in planning your budget, but it will also give you an idea of where you can position certain audio sources relative to your soundproof curtains to maximize the space you have.

Remember that you may need to add extra layers to block or reduce sound in some areas with hard surfaces, so consider picking up a few extra sound deadening curtains to give yourself options.

Step 3: Choose the Right Materials for Your Soundproof Curtains

After you’ve figured out how much space you’ll need to cover and how much the basic setup will cost, the next step is to consider the type of materials you’ll want your sound deadening curtains to be made out of.

I like to think of these factors as upgrades after I know how much I have to spend and how much my base price is going to be.

“If you’re looking to buy soundproofing curtains, you should look for thick, heavy curtains that will cover the whole window,” Sliger said. “Thin, lightweight curtains won’t be as effective in stopping sound waves from reflecting off of your windows. If they’re thin and see-through, you aren’t getting the most optimal acoustic situation.”

In other words, regular window curtains won’t cut it here. You need curtains specifically designed to absorb noise and offer effective acoustic treatment.

Here are some common configurations of studio curtains:

Multi-Layer

Multi-layer soundproof curtains are sometimes made of different materials that have been sewn together. This is usually done to improve the blocking power of the curtain, but it may also improve the aesthetics.

I like multi-layer products, but I sometimes prefer using single-layer products that I can layer myself. This gives me more control of the setup of my sound absorbing curtains.

Insulated

Insulated designs can be beneficial when an audio source needs to be isolated from changes in temperature. This can help a vocalist who needs to feel warmer or cooler, but it can also isolate equipment from heat sources.

Blackout

Soundproof curtains that utilize blackout materials can provide a lot of sound control, but they will also make it harder to see if they are used to cover windows and doorways. Most studios are kept dim anyway, so a blackout design may make spaces even darker.

If you’re using soundproof curtains for a home theater space, blackout curtains can definitely be a good choice.

Step 4: Think About the Installation

Lastly, it’s important to consider the installation process when choosing the best soundproof curtains for noise control. Products that utilize multiple layers, and especially products that include thermal blocking, can tend to be heavy.

If you’re hanging heavy soundproof curtains to be used as a divider in a studio space, you’ll need enough support to manage the extra weight.

If, however, you’re using sound dampening curtains that are made from linens, cottons, nylons and other fabrics, hanging draperies from a standard rod may be just fine.

When using sound control fabrics on windows or to cover doors, make sure you have the appropriate height clearance to attach mounting hardware. I like to leave a few inches of clearance in case adjustments need to be made later.

When used properly, studio draperies can make a big difference in recording clarity and quality. I want to put my years of experience to work for you because I share your passion for audio and sound.

What are the Best Soundproof Curtains?

Take a look at the list below to see which sound absorbing curtains I tested, but keep reading to see my in-depth review of each product as well as a list of the features I really liked, the pros and cons of each product I tested and insightful YouTube videos to help you find the right solution for your recording needs.

My List of the 11 Best Soundproof Curtains for Studio

	1. DWCN → Best soundproof curtain for home studio production and voice-over artists.	Amazon →
	2. NICETOWN → Best soundproof curtain for dividing vocal groups in the main room and console rooms.	Amazon →
	3. Rutterllow → Best soundproof curtain for studio spaces that need thermal control and vocal booth audio.	Amazon →
	4. Deconovo → Best soundproof curtain for studios that use mounting hardware and vocalist isolation. Also Great!	Amazon →
	5. RYB Home → Best soundproof curtain for controlling reflections in a console room and in vocal recording areas.	Amazon →
	6. H. VERSAILTEX → Best soundproof curtain for controlling reflections and temperature in vocal spaces and mixing rooms.	Amazon →
	7. Cherry Home → Best soundproof curtain for attenuating acoustics in main rooms and separating vocalists.	Amazon →
	8. Flamingo → Best soundproof curtain for studio spaces outfitted with ceiling brackets and studios needing thermal control.	Amazon →
	9. Rose Home Fashion → Best soundproof curtain for controlling acoustic reflections in vocal booths and from exterior sources.	Amazon →
	10. MIUCO → Best soundproof curtain for vocal booth sound shaping and acoustic control in console rooms.	Amazon →
	11. BGment → Best soundproof curtain for keeping recording spaces dark and cool while reducing early and late reflections. Also Great!	Amazon →

When looking for products to test, I tried to think about my own experiences over the years. If you have a professional studio that was designed with acoustic principles in mind, you likely don’t have outward-facing windows in recording spaces.

If, on the other hand, you have a home studio, you may have windows and doors all over that can benefit from soundproofing fabrics and noise reduction products.

In either case, I tried to find noise reduction solutions that would be a great fit for either type of recording situation.

1. DWCN

I tried the DWCN blackout curtains in a number of areas of my home studio and my professional studio. Right off the bat, I was really impressed by the professional construction and soft feel of the product.

In terms of controlling sound waves, I got the best results in my home studio when trying to control ambient noise. Although I already have plenty of soundproofing in my home studio, ambient noise from exterior sources can still be an issue.

These soundproof curtains don’t come with grommets, so I used a simple curtain rod and layered them around my doors and windows. Even with my neighbor mowing his yard down the street, my sensitize condenser mic didn’t pick up much of the outside noise.

Features

• Made from 100% polyester
• Reduces glare from studio lighting and outdoor sources
• Triple-weaved fabric
• Can filter up to 70% of ambient noise

Pros

• Machine-washable
• Available in a variety of colors
• Different sizes available to fit your needs
• Thermal insulation controls temperatures
• Effective noise reduction curtains for most studio environments

Cons

• Grommets not pre-installed
• May require layering to block sound

Best For: Home studio owners who need budget-friendly sound control

Killer Feature: Triple-weave fabric construction improves durability

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

2. NICETOWN

The NICETOWN 100% blackout curtains are one of my top picks, and they performed exceptionally well during my testing. I tried these sound dampening curtains over my studio windows to block out street noise, but I also tested them for dividing sections of vocalists in my main room.

The large size of the 52” x 108” model was more than enough to cover my windows, and it also gave me plenty of room to work with when setting up my divider.

Using these products, I was able to isolate the room noise and sounds I wanted, reduce reflections dramatically in my mixing room and keep unwanted noise and sound energy from getting into my recording.

Features

• Thermal insulation
• Excellent sound absorption
• Available in a variety of colors
• Polyester fabric feels soft and looks professional
• Black liner reduces light and glare
• Machine-washable

Pros

• Great sound absorption with one layer
• Includes grommets
• Can divide recording spaces for isolation
• Able to be used in vocal booths
• Performs better than most noise reduction curtains
• Big enough to cover huge windows in many cases

Cons

• May require additional hardware to mount
• A little heavier than other options

Best For: Mixing rooms and larger studio recording spaces

Killer Feature: Multi-layer design reduces the need to purchase a lot of extra fabric

In this video, Soundproof Guide tests draperies from NICETOWN to see how they hold up in a real-world recording environment. Using meters and more, this video demonstrates the capabilities of NICETOWN products when it comes to reducing reflections and controlling ambient noise.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →
• Check price on Nicetown →

3. Rutterllow

Although the Rutterllow blackout sound blocking curtains aren’t available in sizes as large as some of the other options I tested, I still found this product to be more than sufficient for blocking ambient noise from my studio windows. I also tested these draperies in my vocal booth by layering them against a few hard surfaces.

In both instances, I noticed a reduction in reflections, and I hardly noticed any ambient noise from outside at all. In fact, using my digital audio workstation software, I was able to eliminate it entirely.

The best part is that these soundproof curtains are more than affordable for pretty much any recording budget. This alone makes them a worthwhile investment to have around for various sound control needs.

Features

• Temperature control through thermal-blocking fabric
• Can be used to for sound absorption and reduction all around the studio
• Grommets already installed
• Blackout fabric eliminates glare from studio lights

Pros

• Reduces unwanted noise with just a few layers
• Affordable budget soundproof curtains
• Available in a variety of colors
• Size choices fit most standard windows

Cons

• May require layers to deliver results
• Hardware required for ceiling mounting

Best For: Vocal booth sound dampening and ambient noise filtering on windows

Killer Feature: Thermal fabric works well to reduce temperatures in mixing rooms

When using any type of acoustic treatment, there is such a thing as too much. Deadening a room completely can suck the life out of a performance, so it’s important to strike a balance between acoustic control and natural reverberation.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

4. Deconovo

The Deconovo blackout curtains excel at more than just darkening a room. I tried these products out in my mixing room and was able to hear a difference before I even got started recording.

Once mounted, they were able to reduce ambient outside noise from the other room. I also noticed a difference in speech clarity when talking to others during breaks in my mixing session.

Natural tones were allowed to flourish, but there was less of a sense of space in the room. This was also repeated when I installed the Deconovo draperies on the windows around my recording space.

Features

• Soundproofing curtains available in 29 colors
• Comes in sizes up to 42” x 120”
• Grommets come pre-installed
• Polyester fabric weave
• Available as single panels

Pros

• Thermal insulation keeps talent and equipment cool
• Blocks glare from outdoor light
• Affordable option for sound control
• Able to be cleaned in a standard washing machine

Cons

• May need to be layered for desired sound control
• Can require extra mounting hardware in some situations

Best For: Controlling acoustics in console rooms with windows

Killer Feature: Includes grommets for easy hanging and mounting

Using soundproof fabric products, you can make use of more areas in your recording space.

I like to cordon off different sections in my main recording room for different types of vocalists when recording groups of singers. This allows me to get everyone in the same room during a take instead of having each vocalist in a separate booth or recording to a dub track.

I find that this works well when recording voice-over work as well. In fact, I use this technique when recording YouTube videos featuring multiple voice actors. You can learn more about some of the best microphones for YouTube in this article.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →
• Check price on Deconovo →

5. RYB Home

As the name suggests, the RYB Home room divider sound dampening curtains work great for dividing up a recording spaces into different sections. This is a great way to isolate sound from one another when recording different sounds at the same time in the same space.

During my testing, I recorded a number of different vocalists in my main room using the RYB Home divider curtains as my only means of sectioning things off. I found a lot of success by hanging these products from a ceiling bracket and allowing everyone to perform naturally.

I also tried these in my console room during a mixing session. I found that they provided a great deal of sound dampening, especially in the top end.

Features

• Soundproof curtains come in sizes up to 20’ x 9’
• 100% polyester fabric
• Includes metal grommets already installed
• Triple-woven fabric
• Dampens reflections in console rooms with ease

Pros

• Can be used to cover bay windows and other large openings
• Able to be used to divide large recording spaces
• Good level of sound absorption
• Works well in blocking temperature shifts
• Durable and machine-washable

Cons

• Large size may be difficult to manage in small spaces
• Special mounting hardware may be required to handle size

Best For: Cordoning off main rooms for different recording talent

Killer Feature: Available in extra large sizes to cover open recording spaces

In this video from Acoustic Fields, take a deep dive into how soundproof curtains work, learn the definition of soundproofing as it applies to reducing sound in the studio and find out how to get better acoustics for your recordings.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

6. H. VERSAILTEX

The H. Versailtex blackout curtain provides a lot of coverage as the model I tested measured in at 108” long. This gave me plenty of fabric to work with, and I was even able to double up the curtain to create a separate layer.

In terms of sound control, these products did a fairly good job at controlling reverb. When used on windows, they blocked ambient noise from outdoors well enough that I didn’t have to spend a lot of time in post cleaning things up.

I like the look of the design, and the fact that grommets already came pre-installed made it easy and fast to hang the fabric around the studio. The linen fabric didn’t hold up in terms of blocking sound as much as some of the thicker and heavier products I tested, but for general noise reduction, I was more than satisfied.

Features

• Available in 12 colors
• Comes in unique plaid patterns
• Thermal insulation protects against heat shifts
• Anti-glare blackout fabric darkens outdoor light
• Quality warranty covers eight years

Pros

• Improves energy efficiency when used on studio windows
• Reduces ambient and unwanted sound
• Stylish in virtually any studio setting or indoor space
• Can be used to dampen reflections in a vocal booth

Cons

• May need to use layers for desired effect
• Requires a 1/2” rod for hanging

Best For: Sound reduction in mixing rooms

Killer Feature: Includes eight-year quality warranty for peace of mind

When using a sound blocking curtain that has thermal insulation, remember that small, enclosed spaces can get hot fast. This means that you need to be careful when using a thermal curtain in a vocal booth as the thermal layer could cause a vocalist to become too hot.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

7. Cherry Home

Blocking sound using fabric typically requires a product with thickness and weight behind it. I found the Cherry Home blackout curtains to provide both during my testing, and these products did a great job.

During recording, these sound absorbing curtains were draped over windows and doors in my main room as these are hard surfaces that are not acoustically treated like my walls. I noticed a difference during playback when my vocalist belted out some notes in the direction of the draperies.

The reflections I sometimes hear were gone, and the final recording didn’t require nearly as much post-processing to clean up unwanted noise. These products also worked wonders to add extra dampening inside of my vocal booth since it includes a small window.

Features

• Unique polyester & velvet weave adds extra weight
• Available in sizes up to 52” x 120”
• Grommets come pre-installed
• UV protection from outdoor light

Pros

• Available in 17 colors
• Blocks light and sound from outdoors
• Offers thermal protection without a dedicated thermal layer
• Easy to hand-clean

Cons

• More expensive than other options
• May be too heavy for standard mounting hardware

Best For: Use in main rooms to isolate vocalists

Killer Feature: Heavyweight design reduces sound across a range of frequencies

Although soundproof curtains can reduce sounds from outside, this doesn’t mean that they will stop all sounds from getting outside. As a result, people outside of a window that is covered by a sound proof curtain may still be able to hear loud sounds inside your studio.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

8. Flamingo

Flamingo makes some beautiful window coverings for the home, and the blackout curtains I tested looked great. I was impressed by the fabric as well as the eco-friendly manufacturing process that uses no chemical treatment.

Regarding sound blocking, these guys did a great job reducing outdoor noise when tested on my studio windows. I didn’t hear much noise from passing vehicles in my final recording.

When using these products to cordon off sections in my main room, I was impressed by the difference I noticed in reverb. These did a better job handling mid and high frequencies while still allowing bass to come through naturally.

Features

• Available in sizes up to 52” x 108”
• Unique construction blocks out 100% of light
• Construction is eco-friendly
• Includes thermal insulation barrier
• Functions well in open recording spaces as well as windows

Pros

• Grommets are already installed
• Machine-washable
• Can be hung using most 1 1/4” rods
• No chemical coating

Cons

• Not two-sided
• Only seven colors available

Best For: Large studio windows and open studio spaces in need of isolation

Killer Feature: Can block out 100% of all light to reduce glare

When using an omnidirectional condenser microphone around fabric dividers, take note of the mic’s placement. Because condenser mics tend to be very sensitive, an omnidirectional polar pattern could cause some sounds to be out of phase due to fabric blocking reflections from one angle but not another.

You can learn more about some of the best omnidirectional microphones in this article.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

9. Rose Home Fashion

The vocal booth is one of the few places in a studio that requires total acoustic control. There are plenty of ways to achieve this, but some can reduce natural tones so much that they destroy a performance.

When I tested the Rose Home Fashion blackout option, I was very happy with the results. They added just enough dampening in the vocal booth without completely draining the life out of the sound.

I also installed these soundproof curtains over some windows in my studio and measured the sound coming from outside. During my testing, I didn’t hear much in the way of ambient noise, and only a little bit showed up on my final recording.

Features

• Unique burlap fabric weave adds thickness
• Sewn-in liner blocks light and sound
• Sizes available up to 50” x 108”
• Eight silver grommets pre-installed
• Reduces glare from outdoor and studio light

Pros

• Works well to block out ambient sound
• Tames reflections in vocal booths
• Has a vintage look
• Machine-washable

Cons

• Only available in six colors
• Liner may weigh fabric down

Best For: Vocal booth sound control and exterior sound reduction

Killer Feature: Internal liner blocks sound without taking away from the design

If you’re going to divide a recording space with fabrics to isolate different musicians, it’s best to provide each musician with a set of headphones. You can communicate with recording talent from the console room, and talent can talk back through the mic they are recording with.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

10. MIUCO

The MIUCO thermal insulated soundproof curtains boast about balancing energy-efficiency through thermal control. I found this to be the case as they kept my studio at an even temperature despite the weather outside.

Because of this quality, I tried using these in my vocal booth to see how well they would do to keep my vocalist comfortable. She said that during the entire session, she didn’t experience any shifts in temperature and she remained comfortable the entire time.

Regarding the sound control factor, these sound blocking curtains did a good job at reducing early and late reflections. I hung one set on the large window of my console room and draped another set in the back of the room. This keep things neutral during mixing, and I feel I came out with a better final mix because of these as a result.

Features

• Thermal design balances indoor temperatures
• Blocks nearly 60% of outdoor ambient noise
• Reduces outdoor light from windows by 98%
• Includes tie-backs

Pros

• Available in 18 colors
• Includes grommets
• Wide side and bottom hems for durability
• Machine-washable

Cons

• Only available in three sizes
• May wrinkle easily with cleaning

Best For: Vocal booth acoustic treatment and sound control in console rooms

Killer Feature: Energy-efficient design works well to balance temperatures in recording spaces

In this video, Kennis Russell talks about how soundproof fabrics can be used in-studio and in home theater environments to not only control sound, but also to control light. You’ll learn some interesting acoustic principles as well as how to effectively use soundproof draperies to shape your audio environment.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

11. BGment

I tested a lot of different sound reducing curtains for this article, but I really liked the BGment blackout product. They did a fantastic job at keeping my recording space balanced in terms of temperature, and they also blocked a lot of unwanted external noise from outside of the studio.

When testing them in my studio, I placed them as a divider between two vocalists to reduce sound bleed. This worked well as I was able to capture both vocalists at once without both voices seeping into each other’s tracks in the mixer.

I also hung these products up in my mixing room and was impressed by their ability to balance reflections with the natural tone of the room. The best part was I didn’t have to spend an arm and a leg on expensive acoustic treatments to get this result.

Features

• Thermal insulation keeps recording spaces balanced
• Reduces unwanted noise from outside sources
• Can be used to isolate vocalists and musicians
• Easy to layer
• Affordable price point

Pros

• Available in 23 colors
• Great for sound deadening in any space
• Grommets are pre-installed
• Machine-washable
• Blocks out up to 99% of light to reduce glare

Cons

• Could stand to be thicker to absorb sound even better
• Grommets may slide too easily on metal rods

Best For: Console rooms with windows and recording spaces that need to stay cool

Killer Feature: Pre-installed grommets offer multiple mounting options

If you’re using grommets that slide on a hanging rod, consider affixing the edges of the draperies to a secure surface. The sound of sliding metal or plastic could come through if a curtain gets moved during a recording session.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

Other Must-Haves

During my testing, I found that there are a number of ways to improve the efficiency of soundproof draperies by having some accessories available.

Below, I’m outlining some must-have items that can enhance your recording experience when using sound dampening curtains:

Curtain Rods

Once you have your acoustic soundproofing, you’re likely going to want to mount it. This is the case whether you’re using draperies to divide a recording space or you’re using them to reduce reflections off of hard surfaces.

Curtain rods are ideal for mounting this type of soundproofing because you can extend and collapse many rods to the right size. You also achieve greater stability by mounting on a rod since the weight distribution of heavy draperies can be controlled.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

Ceiling Mount Brackets

Ceiling mounting brackets are another must-have item for working with sound-control fabrics in a studio setting. Mounting brackets that are installed into a studio ceiling can serve as a permanent fixture that allows you to change out various soundproofing draperies based on your needs for that particular project.

When installing brackets in a ceiling, try to be forward-thinking. This is to say that you should think about the placement and size in order to accommodate changing needs in the future as well as curtain rods of differing sizes and products of differing weights.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

Holdbacks

Although holdbacks are typically used to keep window coverings open to allow light in, they can also be used to keep your soundproof draperies out of the way in the studio. This is important around expensive and fragile recording equipment since a snag or pull on a piece of curtain fabric could lead to a nasty spill, damage and injuries.

I often install holdbacks for my studio draperies when I know I’ll need to make adjustments to them throughout the recording process. This also helps keep my recording space tidy when I’m not in the middle of a session that requires soundproof draperies.

Buying Options:

• Check price on Amazon →

Useful Resources

• Science of soundproofing
• How to build a soundproof room
• Most effective soundproofing materials
• Soundproofing vs sound absorbing – what’s the difference?
• Egg carton soundproofing: Does it work?

Conclusion

Experimentation can yield better results for your sound deadening needs.

Finally, I want to leave you with encouragement to experiment with different setups and placements for your sound deadening curtains.

You may be surprised to find out just how much of a difference it can make to add an extra layer or move a piece of fabric when working with soundproof curtains for studio audio control.

Acoustics can be tricky to tame, especially when using sensitive condenser mics. This is why you should take the time to find the options that work best for your needs.

You can learn more about condenser mics and how to select the best for your project in this article.

Have any questions about choosing the best soundproof curtains for your space? Leave a comment and we’ll help you out.

The post 11 Best Soundproof Curtains for Studios, Home Theaters, & More (2023) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Using acoustic blankets in a studio for sound control is a practical and versatile solution to improve the acoustic environment and achieve better audio quality.

Acoustic blankets, sometimes called sound blankets or soundproof blankets, are specially designed to absorb and dampen sound waves, making them an effective tool for reducing echoes, reflections, and unwanted noise in recording spaces.

The best sound control blankets are made from special noise-absorbing materials that can significantly reduce the reverberation of sound waves in your recording space to help you capture the best sound possible.

And when placed over windows or doors, they can help block external noises and prevent sound leakage in or out of the studio. This added soundproofing capability is especially beneficial in urban or noisy environments where external disturbances could compromise the recording process.

Choosing the right acoustic blankets, however, can be difficult if you’re new to recording because there are dozens of choices out there.

There are some options that might work in a pinch, but some products are a bit too thin to really be used for serious sound control.

This is why I took the time to thoroughly test and review 25 products and chose the best of the bunch to pass along to you. Below, I’ve included my review of 10 great sound control blankets in a range of prices and thickness levels.

What You’ll Learn in This Article:

• The pros and cons of each product reviewed
• The features of each blanket to help you find what you’re looking for
• How you can enhance your recording experience using other must-have items

I also provide you with guidance as to what each blanket is best suited for so that you can make an informed purchase with your recording budget. After checking out my guide below, I’m confident you’ll find the right acoustic treatments to tackle your next recording project.

This guide has been fully updated for 2023 to include the best current options on the market so you can make an informed buying decision for your studio.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

Quick Picks for the Best Acoustic Blankets

Blankets for acoustic sound control can be used in a number of different ways. Whether you choose to use single or multiple blankets in layers, you have the ability to reduce reverb and delay as much or as little as you want.

During the course of my testing, I had the opportunity to review a lot of quality products, but a few stood out above the rest.

If you don’t feel like reading this full guide, check out a few of my favorite options for acoustic treatment blankets that offer amazing performance and durability:

Sound dampening using blankets requires products that are large enough to cover open spaces but small enough to not get in the way of your audio equipment. I also took this into consideration during my testing in order to find products that provide enough coverage without becoming a burden.

Pro Tip: Acoustic treatment in a studio environment usually requires attention to detail. Leaving small bits of a hard surface exposed can lead to unwanted audio reflections that can muddle a recording.

To alleviate this, you need to use sound dampening blankets that offer coverage while still offering flexibility. Below is an option that I also found fit the bill during my testing:

Pro Tip: When using blankets as acoustic treatments in large rooms, I recommend the addition of bass traps. These can be used in corners to reduce mud while allowing top-end sounds to cut through clearly.

There is no need to add blankets to the traps since most dedicated bass traps are designed to eliminate specific frequencies. In fact, adding them on top of traps could reduce the traps’ absorption power and make a recording sound worse.

How to Choose Acoustic Blankets for Your Recording Project

Before making a purchase, I recommend taking a moment to consider some factors that will play into how you choose the right sound treatment blankets. I believe that research is an incredibly powerful tool when purchasing audio equipment and studio supplies, so here are some steps you can take to figure out what you need:

Step 1: Analyze Your Budget

The first step in choosing the right product is to analyze your budget. This involves more than just thinking about how much you have to spend.

Acoustic treatments in a recording space are nice, but you may need to spend money on better microphones and pre-amps first. Sometimes, you can solve acoustics issues through the use of software as well.

When analyzing your budget, work out all of the essentials first. You should also consider your deadline since some acoustic treatments may not be available for immediate purchase in your local area.

Step 2: Decide How Many Items You Need

Once you have a budget in mind, you need to think about how many blankets you’ll need. You might think that this is as easy as simply measuring your recording space and purchasing enough, but there’s more to it.

Some areas may require layers of blankets in order to get the right sound dampening. Other areas in your recording space may cause them to bend and fold, potentially resulting in the need for extra blankets to fill in the gaps.

My advice is to only double up on layers when you have a solid, hard surface to cover. I also encourage you to have a few spare blankets around in the event that your main inventory doesn’t cover every surface that needs coverage.

Step 3: Moving or Sound Blankets?

Finally, you need to choose between moving blankets and dedicated sound absorbing blankets. Both have pros and cons, and both are designed for specific functions.

Moving blankets can usually be purchased locally from a moving supply company or storage facility. Sound blankets will likely only be available from a music store or an acoustic treatment manufacturer.

Although moving blankets may be more readily available, they may not provide the right kind of frequency control to reduce harsh high-end sounds and rumble from low-end sounds.

Sound blankets are often designed with acoustic principles in mind and are crafted to reduce specific frequencies known to cause audio troubles. Keep in mind though, that you’re looking for sound absorbing blankets, not soundproof blankets (true “soundproof blankets” don’t really exist, they just reduce noise and control the sound).

Moving blankets may be less expensive and available in bulk compared to sound ones. This could save you money if you’re looking for a fast solution to reduce reverb in a recording space.

Bonus Tip!

You should also consider the positioning of your blankets when considering your recording space. Simply hanging them on a wall isn’t necessarily going to give you the dampening you need.

I try to position sound blankets opposite my audio source, but you can also place them behind an audio source. The first option reduces immediate reflections, but the latter will reduce late reflections.

In some cases, like when using sound blankets in a vocal booth, it may make sense to cover every surface with it for total coverage. In this article, you can learn more about some great vocal booth options for both home and professional studio spaces.

You can experiment with different positioning to get the sound you want. In the end, however, positioning can affect the number of items you’ll need as well as the type and your total cost.

My List of the 10 Best Acoustic Blankets

I separated the list of products I reviewed into two separate categories. These include:

• Moving Blankets
• Sound Blankets

After checking out the list, keep reading to see a detailed breakdown of each product’s features, pros and cons as well as some videos that demonstrate how acoustic control blankets can be used.

Moving Blankets

	1. UBoxes → Lightweight choice for quick sound dampening, great for beginners needing fast dampening.	Amazon →
	2. Sure-Max → A perfect sound control solution for home studios and beginners on a budget. My Top Pick!	Amazon → Walmart →
	3. US Cargo Control (Supreme Mover) → Large, washable solution for in-studio and portable recording needs.	Amazon → US Cargo Control →
	4. Forearm Forklift → A durable dampening solution that works for home studios and professional recording spaces.	Amazon →

Sound Blankets

	5. Big Boxer → Efficient sound dampening that can be easily hung. Great for intermediate audio engineers.	Boxer Tool →
	6. Filmcraft → Excels at light dampening to reduce noise, perfect for general recording needs in a home studio.	Amazon → Adorama →
	7. VocalBoothToGo Producer’s Choice → Grommeted solution that’s perfect for vocal booths and main room recording.	VocalBoothToGo →
	8. US Cargo Control (Large) → Absorbs sound waves without blocking it entirely, great choice for home studio recording. Also Great!	Amazon → US Cargo Control → Walmart →
	9. Audimute Sound Absorption Sheet → Designed to absorb sound waves for superior dampening, excellent for amateurs and professionals.	Amazon → Audimute →
	10. Audimute isolé Sound Barrier Sheet → Blocks unwanted sounds for overall isolation in home studios and professional spaces	Amazon → Audimute →

Sound Control Blankets, Tested and Reviewed

As discussed above, moving and sound blankets are usually manufactured differently and have different purposes. Choosing the right item may come down to your budget, but don’t let that be the only factor you consider.

Moving Blankets

They can be used to dampen sound because most are crafted using thick padding and strong stitching. Some advantages that moving blankets have over dedicated sound ones is that they are often less expensive and easy to find at any moving supply retailer or storage facility.

1. UBoxes

Textile moving blankets from Uboxes are available in 6 packs and other configurations, and I really liked that I was able to purchase these in bulk. I’ve already mentioned that I believe it’s helpful to have extra acoustic treatment items available when recording, so this option gave me peace of mind knowing that I wouldn’t be caught empty handed.

They are also made from recycled materials, so I felt good knowing that I was helping to reduce waste. These blankets themselves did a good job at dampening sound, and I would recommend them for general use reflection reduction.

I also like the fact that they can double as muffling for other uses around the studio. I tried using one of them inside of a kick drum and got great results when tracking a jazz quartet.

Best for: General use in a home studio

Killer Feature: Bulk packs save money

Features

• Inexpensive and general purpose
• Bulk availability offers more coverage area
• Measures 54” x 72”
• Different bulk packs available

Pros

• Made from recycled materials
• Flexible for easy form fitting
• Easy to layer for additional dampening
• Can be used inside kick drums for added muffling

Cons

• May not be suitable for professional recording
• Doesn’t come with grommets or hooks
• May require additional hardware to install

Pro Tip: If a sound control blanket is made from recycled materials or colored fabrics, read the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Using them on some surfaces may cause colors to rub off and transfer to nearby objects.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

2. Sure-Max – Heavy-Duty

The Sure-Max Heavy Duty Moving Blankets I tested did an amazing job at handling loud volumes in my studio. I was able to dampen my drum room, vocal booth, and mixing room with ease simply by clamping a few of them to some portable stands.

The blankets themselves feel incredibly sturdy and thick. I really feel like these are the types of sound control products that will last for many years.

In terms of size, they provided plenty of coverage. They were a little difficult to maneuver into place in some areas because of their weight, but once in place, they stayed exactly where I needed them.

Best for: Professional studio use and drum rooms

Killer Feature: Premium construction offers extended life

Features

• Virgin cotton with polyester binding
• Zig-zag stitching offers extended use
• Double-sided construction offers sound dampening from both sides
• Measures 80” x 72”

Pros

• Premium construction
• Available in packs
• Made to handle tough conditions
• Breathable fabric keeps studio air fresh

Cons

• Large size could be an issue in tight spaces
• May require layering due to thickness

To learn more about using moving blankets for acoustic treatment while recording, check out this video from House of Hacks. The video features a demonstration of how they can be an effective and affordable solution to control acoustics in tight spaces with hard surfaces.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on Walmart →

3. US Cargo Control – Supreme Mover

US Cargo Control Supreme Mover blankets turned out to be an overall solution for general sound dampening during my testing. They arrived in a four-pack, and I was able to set them up quickly around my studio.

They did a good job at reducing reverb, but I didn’t find them as effective in my drum room. They really excelled at removing reflections in my vocal booth, however.

I ended up installing some grommets in these blankets and tried hanging them from stands. This solution added more sound control to my mixing room where volume levels can range from quiet to very loud.

Best for: General home studio sound control and vocal booths

Killer Feature: Lightweight construction delivers flexibility in positing around the studio

Features

• Blended cotton and polyester construction
• Available in packs of four
• Each weighs 7.5 lbs
• Measures 80” x 72”

Pros

• Lightweight solution for general sound control
• Blankets can double as dampening for instruments
• Made from recycled materials
• Machine washable

Cons

• Will need to install grommets and hooks
• May not be suitable in professional recording
• Might require layering to get top-quality sound dampening

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on US Cargo Control →

4. Forearm Forklift

Although the Forearm Forklift Moving Blankets are designed for protection of items while in transit, I found that they excelled at controlling sound and blocking noise in my vocal booth. They held up against a wide range of vocalists while allowing the natural tone to shine through.

I also tried mounting them to stands in front of and behind my mixing console. They really helped control early and late reflections without diminishing the overall balance of the mix.

Another thing that I noticed about these blankets is that they were very good at dampening sound reflecting off of my studio’s ceiling. I even tried mounting a few to ceiling strips to add some additional control and got great results.

Best for: Vocal booth dampening and general studio sound control

Killer Feature: Stitched construction around edges adds extended durability

Features

• Quilted, double-stitched construction
• Made from both woven and non-woven polyester
• Each weighs seven lbs, other weights available
• Measures 72” x 80”

Pros

• Easily fits into tight spaces
• Convenient size provides coverage without a lot of layering
• Can be used in a variety of recording spaces
• Can stand up to a lot of use adding to extended life

Cons

• May not dampen enough in large, open recording environments
• Provides sound reduction but doesn’t block sounds entirely
• Layering can get expensive over time

Pro Tip: When purchasing moving blankets to be used for sound control, consider only using the blankets for this purpose. Using them for other purposes when not recording could reduce the life you get out of them by introducing unnecessary wear and tear.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Sound Blankets

They are usually designed with specific acoustic principles in mind. These blankets are meant to be used to eliminate early and late reflections, reduce rumble and flatten sharp sounds that can cause harsh top-end in a recording.

5. Big Boxer

I tried the Big Boxer Grommeted Industrial blanket in a number of spaces in my studio. It held up surprisingly well to dampen louder sounds, even in my mixing room.

One thing I really like about this product is that it includes metal grommets pre-installed. This made it easy to hang from stands, rods, walls and other surfaces.

I’m a bit cautious about using a product like this near instruments because the metal grommets could potentially cause scratches or damage. This is especially true when trying to control sound inside of a kick drum or when muffling a brass instrument.

I did like, however, that I was able to hang a few of them across my main room to divide it. This was helpful when recording to groups of vocalists at once for sound bleed control.

Best for: General sound dampening in mixing rooms and vocal booths

Killer Feature: Pre-installed grommets offer easy hanging and positioning

Features

• Grommeted construction makes hanging fast and easy
• Also dampens vibration to reduce mechanical noise
• Lightweight at only eight lbs per blanket
• Measures 78” x 72”

Pros

• Comes with grommets already installed
• Can be used to divide main rooms during live recording
• Zig-zag construction offers durability
• Black materials make it easy to blend with existing studio space

Cons

• Not designed for complete sound blocking
• Polyester construction could cause odors

Pro Tip: When using a sound control blanket to dampen a kick drum, don’t allow the blanket to touch the insides of the drum heads. Instead, fold the blanket so that is lies flat on the bottom of the shell to achieve better dampening without affecting the tone.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on Boxer Tool →

6. Filmcraft

The Filmcraft Studio Blanket is designed specifically to reduce reverb and dampen sounds in main rooms and mixing rooms. I found that this product really helped when filming YouTube video content as it helped to focus vocal takes without the need for a lot of post-processing.

Best for: Video content production

Killer Feature: Lightweight, non-woven construction adds portability and flexibility

Features

• Weight in at only 5.5 lbs
• Includes 90-day warranty
• Black color blends seamlessly into most studio settings
• Can also block unwanted light when used in film production

Pros

• Designed specifically for film and video audio
• Includes grommets for convenient positioning
• Versatile enough to handle voice talent and ambient noise
• Can double as a moving blanket

Cons

• A bit expensive compared to moving blanket solutions
• Includes grommets, but more may be needed
• May not be suitable for loud music recording

You can see (and hear) sound blankets in action in this video presented by DSLR Video Shooter. The presenter uses them to demonstrate effective sound recording techniques for video and show how you can use accessories like clamps. This video is particularly important if you’re planning on using sound blankets for recording YouTube content or other video-focused audio.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on Adorama →

Check price on B&H →

7. VocalBoothToGo – Producer’s Choice

Vocal Booth to Go is known for its array of vocal booth solutions, and I found that the Producer’s Choice Sound Blankets were no exception to my experience with the company. Quality and sound control are everything when recording vocals, and they helped in both areas.

These products did a phenomenal job at absorbing and dampening sound in my vocal booth. I was able to get natural tones with virtually no reverb at all, making it easy to mix the track.

I also like that they are designed specifically to address troublesome audio frequencies. They were able to tame harsh highs and rumbling lows without a problem.

Best for: Vocal booths, general recording, and mixing rooms

Killer Feature: Rated to absorb up to 95% of sound when installed in pleated fashion

Features

• Superior sound absorption
• Can be used in a variety of recording spaces
• Becomes nearly invisible in dark environments
• Measures 80” x 80”

Pros

• Offers 80% sound absorption
• NRC rating 0.8 (G-75 mount)
• Not a soundproof blanket, but absorbs sound
• Designed specifically to handle troublesome audio frequencies

Cons

• A bit more expensive than other options
• Not designed for looks, may include some imperfections

Sound dampening is often the go-to acoustic treatment for recording vocals, but in this video, drummer Marcus Thomas shows that sound blankets can also be effective when recording live instruments. Percussive sounds are some of the biggest offenders when it comes to early and late reflections, so having the ability to dampen them can make a big difference in the quality of a recording.

Buying Options

Check price on VocalBoothToGo →

8. US Cargo Control – Large

US Cargo Control’s Large Sound Blanket gave me the chance to cover a large area in my mixing room with ease. I was able to quickly spread out the product and clamp it to a stand without a problem.

Regarding sound control, this blanket did a great job when used for vocals and some low-volume instruments. If used in a drum room, I would recommend layering at least once for the best results.

I want to point out that, like other blankets reviewed here, it is meant to absorb sound. This means it isn’t a soundproof blanket.

Because of this, I highly recommend layering these blankets if you really want to get the best sound control. Each layer you add makes this product more potent in controlling loud volumes.

Best for: Main rooms, drum rooms, big mixing rooms, and other large spaces

Killer Feature: Large size provides extended coverage in open recording spaces

Features

• Cotton and polyester construction
• Moderately lightweight at 12 lbs per blanket
• Made from recycled materials
• Measures 96” x 80”

Pros

• Other sizes available
• Can reduce sound in-studio, but can also be used for blocking noise from outside
• Includes grommets for easy hanging
• 85g weight fabric
• Great for large spaces

Cons

• Can be cumbersome when setting up alone
• May require additional hardware to hang

US Cargo Control has created an informative video demonstrating the qualities of its large sound blanket option. This video not only covers the features of the model, but it also demonstrates some positioning options and features.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on US Sound Control →

Check price on Walmart →

9. Audimute – Sound Absorption Sheet

Audimute designs sound products for the audio industry, so the brand’s sound absorption sheets are made to handle common problems faced by audio enthusiasts. I found these products to be very easy to work with, and I loved the results.

I tried Audimute’s sound absorption sheets in my vocal booth, my main room, and in my drum room. They performed well in all cases, removed reverb while leaving natural tones in place and left me plenty of audio space for post-processing.

Best for: Vocal booths, recording rooms, and mixing rooms

Killer Feature: Designed specifically to tackle troublesome audio frequencies

Features

• Large size provides a huge area of coverage
• Useful in a variety of recording spaces
• Weighs in at 10 lbs
• Measures 95” x 54”

Pros

• Designed for the audio industry
• The same or better results compared to similar tiles and foams
• Can be used in practice rooms as well as studio spaces
• Deadens exterior noises for quiet focus in control rooms

Cons

• On the expensive side compared to similar products
• Large size offers coverage, but can be cumbersome to set up alone

Recording in a drum room can be a major hassle, but as this video from Audimute shows, you can easily control percussive sounds using sound blankets. This video utilizes acoustic measuring devices to show the precise difference they can make in reducing reverb and minimizing delay in recording.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on Audimute →

10. Audimute – isolé Sound Barrier Sheet

As with Audimute’s Sound Sheets, I also found the company’s Isolé line to perform exceptionally well. This product is unique in that it is meant to act as a partition in audio spaces.

As such, I found that this sound barrier worked wonders when used for group recording in a large space. I was able to have vocalists on two sides of my main room record clearly with minimal bleed simply by using this sheet as a partition.

Best for: Large, open recording spaces that require a partition

Killer Feature: Included grommets make these sheets a breeze to set up

Features

• Utilizes Audimute’s PeaceKeeper Sound Barrier technology
• Designed to function an as audio partition
• Weighs 20 lbs
• Measures in at 34.5” x 82”

Pros

• Large length provides plenty of room to close off open spaces
• Unique design benefits partitioned recording spaces
• Can be used to separate work spaces in studios
• Excels when used at first point of reflection

Cons

• May not be suitable for general sound control
• May require additional hardware for mounting

To learn more about Audimute’s sound sheets, take a look at this video. Presenter Rick offers an in-depth look at some of the features found in Audimute’s sound sheet line. He also presents some important audio principles that can help you determine the right positioning and use for acoustic treatments in a studio environment.

Buying Options

Check price on Amazon →

Check price on Audimute →

Other Must-Haves

One of the main benefits to using acoustic blankets for sound control is that they can be positioned to meet a wide variety of needs. In order to do this effectively and with the least amount of hassle, you’re going to need some accessories.

I tested a number of different must-have products to go along with acoustic control blankets, and here are my recommendations:

Grommet Kit and Grommet Packs →

Grommets make it easy to hang acoustic blankets on walls, from ceilings, and in other areas that require controlled sound. Many blankets come with grommets pre-installed, but you can also purchase a grommet kit and grommet packs to customize your sound blankets.

Most kits have simple instructions for installation, but always consider the length between any grommets you install. Everything needs to be spaced out evenly to ensure that a sound blanket’s weight will be evenly distributed.

Hooks →

To go along with grommets for easy hanging, you’re probably going to want to also have some dedicated acoustic blanket hooks on hand. Hooks come in a variety of sizes and strengths, so be sure to check your blanket manufacturer’s guidelines to know which is right for you.

Keep in mind that if a blanket is too heavy or its weight is not distributed properly, hooks can bend and break. At the same time, you don’t need to use heavy duty hooks for a lightweight blanket.

Clamps →

Clamps come in very handy around the recording studio for a number of reasons, but they’re especially helpful when affixing sound control blankets to surfaces. I usually find that I need to clamp them to and around irregular surfaces like tables, chairs, and stands that may reflect sound in a vocal booth or a main room.

Clamps can also be used to hang sound control blankets from objects like shelves for better positioning. Once again, just make sure you pay attention to the weight of each blanket and the distribution of weight to avoid damage to it or other objects.

Useful Links

• Acoustic treatment: how to get a better sounding room →
• Room modes 101 – acoustic frontiers →
• An architect’s guide to soundproofing →
• 9 secrets for DIY wall soundproofing →

Final Thoughts on the Best Sound Absorbing Blankets for Noise Control

In the end, the acoustic blankets you use really come down to the needs of your project. Don’t purchase sound treatments just because some big studio has them.

In fact, many recording engineers have ditched the big studios to work from home studios using things like acoustic foam panels and bass traps for sound control. You can learn more about the best acoustic foam panels where I provide you with research and products to get the most out of your recordings spaces.

Also, don’t forget that it’s always better to have more than you need, so don’t be afraid to have a couple of extra acoustic blankets around in case a recording project calls for them.

Have any questions about acoustic blankets and sound absorbing blankets? What have you tried for noise reduction? Share your questions and comments below.

The post The 10 Best Acoustic Blankets for Sound Control (2023 Rankings) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Monitors are an essential part of any home studio. They are the speakers that help you accurately hear what is being recorded and mixed.

And before you ask, yes, monitors are different from regular speakers. Studio monitors produce natural, flat, and accurate sound reproduction. While regular speakers are designed to enhance certain frequencies and make music sound better, monitors have a flat frequency response that allows producers to get the most accurate representation of their mixes.

While we’ve already put together a comprehensive guide to the best home studio monitors, many of our picks were quite expensive. Some of the best studio monitors can set you back several hundred dollars or more.

But we also realize that not everyone has that kind of money to shell out on their studio.

For those on a budget, it may seem challenging to find studio monitors that deliver excellent performance without breaking the bank. The good news is there are some quality budget studio monitors out there that do a solid job with their performance without costing an arm and a leg, providing impressive sound reproduction for aspiring musicians, content creators, and home studio owners.

We’ve been testing and reviewing dozens of studio monitors for the last 3 years, and during that time, we’ve come across some excellent cheap studio monitors that offer great sound, satisfactory build quality, and a good value for their price.

For our purposes, we defined “cheap studio monitors” as anything under $200 for a pair as that’s the price point we feel is most reasonable for beginners and hobbyists.

So which monitors should you look for if you’re on a budget? Read on for our top picks for the best studio monitors under $200.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

How We Chose the Best Budget Studio Monitors

Before we dive into our picks, let’s quickly go over some of the criteria we considered when selecting which affordable studio monitors to include in this list.

First, sound quality and performance were paramount. No matter how cheap a monitor was, if it didn’t perform well or accurately represent what we heard from our mix sources, it didn’t make the cut.

Second, build quality was important to us. We wanted monitors that were well-built, looked nice, and seemed durable enough to last a while in the studio.

Third, we also looked at the extra features and controls each monitor offered, as well as its overall design.

And of course, there’s the actual price. We did a lot of debating over what exactly qualified as “cheap studio monitors” and settled on $200 as the maximum price point to be considered for this list. We considered the value for money — we wanted to make sure you weren’t sacrificing too much quality for your budget.

Now that you know what criteria we used to pick these monitors, let’s take a look at our top picks.

The Best Studio Monitors Under $200

Here are our picks for the best budget studio monitors you can get in 2023…

1. PreSonus Eris E3.5

PreSonus Eris E3.5-3.5" Near Field Studio Monitor (Pair) (E3.5)

$86.10

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 06:57 pm GMT

As we noted in our PreSonus Eris E3.5 review, their overall quality makes them some of the best studio monitors out there at any price point.

These near-field studio monitors reproduce sound with a neutral, flat, and unenhanced frequency response to give you the most accurate representation of your recorded audio without any artificial boosts.

For the best results, we recommend listening to these monitors at a low-to-medium volume level while being physically close to them.

One of the cool features of the PreSonus Eris E3.5 is that they include a high-end and low-end tuning knob on the back of the left-side unit that lets you adjust and fine-tune the monitors based on your studio environment so you can get accurate, balanced sound.

These monitors also have multiple connections for different audio sources, including 1/4″ TRS and RCA inputs on the back and 1/8″ one-eighth inch stereo, unbalanced line inputs on the front to use for mobile devices.

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

2. Mackie CR3-X

Mackie CR3-X 3-Inch Creative Reference Multimedia Professional Studio Monitors - Pair

$99.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 02:18 am GMT

The CR3-X monitors deliver studio-quality sound on a budget, and they look great too.

A few of the things we really liked about these monitors include:

• Sleek, stylish design with brushed metal panel and clean outline
• Convenient headphone output and volume control on the front panel
• Flexible rear panel inputs that include a balanced 1/4″ TRS, 1/8” Stereo, and RCA
• Comes with several cables included for easy setup — 1/8″ to stereo RCA cable, 1/8″ to 1/8″ cable, and speaker wire
• Waveform OEM DAW Essentials Collection also included

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

3. Alesis Elevate 5 MKII

Alesis Elevate 5 MKII | Powered Desktop Studio Speakers for Home Studios/Video-Editing/Gaming and Mobile Devices

$79.00

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 10:32 pm GMT

The Alesis Elevate 5 MKII is a great budget studio monitor set that produces clear sounds, competently handling low end, mid-range, and high-end frequencies.

It has a powered 5-inch dome and 1-inch tweeter to produce studio-quality sound.

The build quality on these monitors is also worth pointing out. It’s made from high-density wood so that the cabinet reduces vibrations and interference.

The Elevate 5 MKII also has flexible inputs and outputs for easy connectivity.

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

4. Hercules DJSpeaker 32 SMART

Hercules DJSPEAKER 32 SMART

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Compact and robust, the DJ Speaker 32 Smart Speakers offer a quality audio experience at a great price.

Delivering 30 watts of RMS output power each with optimized acoustic waveguide, these speakers take your mixing sessions to a new level.

With Bluetooth multi-pairing tech (including simultaneous connection to two devices) as well as cable hookup options available in the box, you can work wherever you like without sacrificing sound quality or performance.

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

5. M-Audio BX3

M-Audio BX3 – 120-Watt Powered Desktop Computer Speakers / Studio Monitors for Gaming, Music Production, Live Streaming and Podcasting (Pair)

$99.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 09:12 pm GMT

The M-Audio BX3 is a pair of compact desktop studio monitors that are great for everything from gaming to podcasting to home recording.

While these monitors are very affordably priced, they use high-end, premium components that produce a deep, clear, and full sound.

In the BX3, the speaker cones are placed behind a grill, meaning the monitors don’t get hot to the touch like some of the other models out there.

They’re not super loud, but they’re still a perfect fit for a small home studio.

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

6. KRK Studio Monitor

KRK Studio Monitor (59107)

$269.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 02:17 am GMT

With over three decades of expertise from one of the world’s foremost studio monitor makers, KRK Classic 5 Powered Studio Monitors provide an unbeatable blend between classic sound and modern-day innovation.

Featuring a flat frequency solution for more precise mixing as well as an optional +2dB Bass Boost to maintain renowned sonic fidelity, these budget-friendly monitors deliver everything you need to ensure each mix is up your exacting standards.

Packed with features such as Class A/B amplifiers complete with built-in automatic limiter technology and quality components like 1” soft dome tweeters plus 5″ glass aramid composite woofers in addition to waveguides designed for imaging accuracy, these monitors deliver performance that helps push music production boundaries further than ever before.

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

7. Edifier M4

Edifier MR4 Powered Studio Monitor Speakers, 4" Active Near-Field Monitor Speaker - White (Pair)

$129.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 02:22 am GMT

Based on the acclaimed Edifier bookshelf speakers, these studio monitors offer a clean, flat responsive curve for optimum sound quality for any recording application.

The 1″ silk dome tweeters combined with 4″ composite woofers provide a clear, smooth audio – all enclosed in a MDF wood frame that reduces resonance for true clarity of sound.

These budget monitors offer flexible connections, including a 1/4″ balanced TRS input, an unbalanced RCA input, an unbalanced AUX input, and a front headphone output, so you’re guaranteed total device compatibility whatever is needed.

Plus there are dual modes available: monitor mode outputting ‘true’ audio perfect for creation and production, as well as music mode for casual, everyday listening.

Click here to shop these monitors on Amazon.

A Final Word on the Best Budget Studio Monitors

When you’re setting up a home studio, it’s important to stretch your dollar as far as possible without sacrificing quality.

Hopefully, this guide has showed you that it’s possible to get some excellent cheap studio monitors under $200 that can still provide you with great sound quality and performance.

Do your research, read reviews, and test out products yourself to see what works best for your particular situation.

And remember, even the most expensive monitors won’t make up for poor recording and mixing techniques — it’s always important to practice and hone your skills first.

Have any questions about our guide to the best budget studio monitors? Let us know by commenting below.

The post The 7 Best Budget Studio Monitors Under $200 (2023 Buyer’s Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

But buyer beware — not all acoustic foam tiles are created equal. And finding the best sound treatment panels when there are thousands of options to choose from can be overwhelming.

There are many different factors you have to consider when choosing foam tiles, including their thickness/density, their size, the quality of the foam they’re made from, and even their aesthetic.

In this post, I’ve reviewed and ranked the best sound treatment materials you can use to make your home studio a wonderful audio recording environment.

These picks are based on years of personal experience as well as closely analyzing user reviews and feedback from other industry experts.

I’ve also included tons of details about what to look for when choosing acoustical foam panels and studio wall foam, how to use them properly for effective sound absorbing and acoustic treatment of your space, and other valuable tips to help you get your studio set up just the way you want for superior sound quality.

This guide has been fully updated for 2023 to include the latest products currently on the market, so you can find the best acoustic foam panels for your needs.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost for you, we might get a commission if you click the link and purchase.

What are the Best Acoustic Foam Panels?

Here are my picks for the 6 best acoustic foam tiles for your studio in 2023:

1. 1. Pro Studio Acoustics Wedge Foam →
   2. SoundAssured Acoustic Studio Foam →
   3. IZO Acoustic Egg-Crate Tiles →
   4. JBER Pyramid Acoustic Foam Panels →
   5. Mybecca Hexagon Acoustic Panels →
   6. TroyStudio Acoustic Studio Absorption Panels →

1. Pro Studio Acoustics Wedge Foam →

Top Pick

Pro Studio Acoustics - Blue/Charcoal - 12"x12"x2" Acoustic Wedge Foam Absorption Soundproofing Tiles - 12 Pack

$69.99

Top Features:

• 12 inches square
• 2 inches thick
• 2 colors of blue and charcoal
• 12-pack with six of each color
• Attractive checkerboard pattern with strong sound absorption

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 01:37 pm GMT

The Pro Studios Acoustics Wedge Foam is My Top Pick because it comes in a 12-pack with six panels in blue and six panels in black that you can mix and match in your studio.

At two-inches thick, these acoustic foam tiles provide the strong soundproofing that most studios need. Thanks to the low price, you can easily get as many as you need for spot treating sound all around your studio space.

The recommended design of these sound absorption tiles is to use them in an alternating pattern of color and alignment. This creates an attractive checkerboard pattern with strong sound absorption.

It’s worth noting these tiles don’t have adhesive on the back of them. The company says, “For permanent installations, we recommend using spray adhesive. If you are concerned about being able to remove the tiles at a later date without causing damage to the walls, we recommend using either t-pins or 3M Command strips for installation.”

Characteristics

• Two colors: blue and charcoal
• The tiles are 12 inches square and two inches thick.
• They come in a 12-pack with six of each color.

What’s special about these acoustic foam tiles?

• These soundproof panels reduce standing sound waves and flutter echoes in home studios.
• This product is “Made in the USA.” It comes uncompressed in a box, so there is no warping or waiting days for expansion from compressed vacuum packaging.
• Thanks to the thick design, the foam distorts all types of noises and does a great job with sound absorbing.

Best for: covering a full wall or they can be useful for spot acoustic treatments in the audio environment.

Click here to shop this product on Amazon.

2. SoundAssured Acoustic Studio Foam →

Soundproofing Acoustic Studio Foam - Wedge Style Acoustic Foam Panels 12"x12"x2" Tiles - 4 Pack - DIY

$24.95

Top Features:

• Available in multiple colors
• Easy to install
• Comes in a package of four (4) 1' squares of 2" thick professional acoustic foam
• Discounts available for ordering multiple bundles

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 08:42 pm GMT

These acoustical foam panels have a wedge style to create more surface area for sound absorption. The result is less echo and reverberations in your studio for improved recording and playback quality.

Characteristics

• This studio foam comes in a four-pack, with over a dozen attractive colors to choose from.
• The dimensions are 12 inches by 12 inches square by two inches thick.
• Fire-retardant with a rating of ASTM E 84.

What’s special about this studio wall foam?

• It is easy to calculate how many packages you need to cover your home recording studio walls. Just measure the square footage of the wall space and then divide by four, since each package covers four square feet.
• This studio wall foam is very easy to install. You can trim them as needed with regular scissors. Installation can be permanent by using adhesive tape or spray (sold separately) or you can use push pins or Velcro to hang them temporarily.
• This product does a great job with sound absorbing for mid to high frequencies.

Best for: moderating sound deadening and it is useful to control or remove echoes.

In this video, Josh the MusicTechHelpGuy discusses the installation of these acoustic foam tiles in his home studio. They also come in one-inch, two-inch, three-inch, and four-inch-thick versions for different applications. The thinner tiles absorb high frequencies better. The thicker tiles absorb low-end frequencies better.

The takeaway from this video is how to use these tiles to get rid of room echo and reverb. A good tip is to make sure to cover the corners in the room because those wall angles are a source of undesirable flutter echo.

Click here to shop this product on Amazon.

3. IZO Acoustic Egg-Crate Tiles →

6 Pack Egg Crate Foam Cushion 2" Thick Acoustic Panels Sound Proof Foam Padding

$15.99

Top Features:

• 12" x 12" size
• 2" thick for improved sound absorption
• Great for acoustically treating walls and ceilings for a variety of purposes

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 12:32 am GMT

These sound treatment tiles have an egg crate design that absorbs sounds to prevent noises from leaving the studio. Use them on your studio walls or ceilings to improve sound clarity.

Characteristics

• Two inches thick, when measured from the peak of the tip of the foam to the base.
• Variety of sizes of 12 inches to 36 inches.
• One color of charcoal gray.

What’s special about them?

• The egg-crate design is very efficient for sound absorption.
• You can easily attach the foam tiles to your walls or ceiling
• The two-inch thickness reduces reverb and reflections, especially in the mid- to high-frequency range.

Best for: covering the ceiling, especially if it is not parallel to the floor because of the angular reflection of sound that will be bouncing back from the ceiling to walls. The lightweight nature of soundproofing foam makes it easy to apply acoustic tiles to the ceiling or any other surface.

This video is by Caleb from DSLR Video Shooter focuses on improving a home recording studio to improve the sound quality for video recording. There is an explanation of the difference between soundproofing and sound treatment, sound deadening tips, how sound travels/sound energy insights, and how sound is picked up by a microphone.

The takeaway from this video is that for the typical home studio, 100% soundproofing is not usually feasible due to the complexities and the cost. However, sound treatment is easy to accomplish and not very expensive, especially with quality, affordable acoustic foam panels like these. Sound treatment does not result in much soundproofing; however, it can significantly improve the quality of the recorded sound.

Click here to shop this product on Amazon.

4. JBER Pyramid Acoustic Foam Panels →

JBER Acoustic Sound Foam Panels, 24 Pack 2" X 12" X 12" Charcoal Soundproofing Treatment Studio Wall Padding Sound Absorbing Fireproof Pyramid

$39.99

Top Features:

• Comes in a 24 pack to save money and increase coverage of your space
• Great for spot treating studios, rehearsal spaces, and other areas
• Each package covers 24 sq. ft.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/17/2024 02:42 am GMT

You can hear the difference when using this pyramid foam properly as a sound treatment. You will be amazed by how much sound improvement is possible with just a few of these acoustic sound panels strategically placed in your studio. They can do a great job to eliminated unwanted noise.

Characteristics

• These foam panels are two-inches thick and have a pyramid-cone shape.
• They come in a 24-pack in three colors of charcoal, blue, and red.
• They are 12 inches square.
• They add modest soundproofing to reduce outside noises.
• They ship compressed.

What’s special about this studio wall foam?

• You can choose between six-pack and 24-pack options based on the size of your studio.
• They reduce both echos and background noises.
• You can cut and shape the sound dampening panels without affecting their noise reduction.
• Great for acoustic treatment in a home studio.

Best for: home studios to help reduce reverb, flutter echo, and unwanted reflections.  Use them to cover a wall or for spot sound treatment of special areas.

This video by EXOcontrato shows how to use acoustic sound panels with the technique of spot treatment. Spot treatment is using the acoustic panel to block reflection and modify the sound patterns in a room. To use this technique he uses a mirror to determine where the wall will reflect sound toward where the listener will be sitting.

The takeaway from this video is, you can use acoustic sound panels to fine-tune a recording studio or home entertainment room without fully covering all the walls.

Click here to shop this product on Amazon.

5. Mybecca Hexagon Acoustic Panels →

Mybecca 6 Pack Hexagon Acoustic Foam Panels

$29.69

Top Features:

• Unique hexagonal design - 12" x 12" x 2"
• Affordable choice for soundproofing rooms of all sizes
• Great for studios, vocal booths, and control rooms
• Reduces noise, reverbn and flutter echoes

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 08:37 pm GMT

These acoustic panels are a hexagon-style that can be used to dampen sound and improve clarity in your studio environment.

Characteristics

• They are 12″ x 12″ x 2″.
• They are very affordable and cost-efficient.
• Unique hexagonal design makes them stylish as well as effective.

What’s special about them?

• Like all quality acoustic panels, they eliminate standing waves, reduce undesired sound reflection, and help reduce outside noise and other unwanted noise.
• Examine all the hard surfaces in a room. Those will reflect sound. The echoes will cause recordings, especially of voice-overs, to sound strange and somewhat hollow. Covering reflective surfaces with these panels will reduce or eliminate these problems.
• The panels reduce between 80 and 90% of typical background noises and sounds.
• They are compliant with all flammability standards.
• You can use the panels in small and large spaces.

Best for control rooms, recording studios, and vocal booths.

The product manufacturer, Mybecca, produced this video to show how easy it is to install their acoustic tiles using spray glue. While this video is for their wedge panels, the same applies to their hexagon studio wall foam panels. Be aware that if you do not own the home, you may have to return the place to its original condition when moving out. For a rented home, consider mounting these acoustic tiles on cardboard and then hang the cardboard on the wall, in such a way that it does not cause any damage.

The takeaway from this video. Gluing panels on a wall is a more permanent solution. Be sure you place them properly, where you want them. Depending on the type of adhesive used, it can damage a wall or leave some residue of glue or bits of foam on the wall, when you pull the tiles off.

Click here to shop this product on Amazon.

6. TroyStudio Acoustic Studio Absorption Panels →

TroyStudio Acoustic Studio Absorption Foam Panel - Broadband Sound Absorber

$12.99

Top Features:

• 12" x 12" 2" size
• Unique groove structure design offers better sound absorption than many other panels
• Easy to cut and install

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/15/2024 10:07 pm GMT

Enjoy the soundproofing and elimination of background noises that you need with these innovative acoustical foam panels featuring a groove structure for maximum sound absorption.

Characteristics

• They measure 12 inches by 12 inches by two inches thick.
• They come in a six-pack with the choice of black, blue, and purple colors.
• Special 18-pack also available for those needing more coverage.
• Excellent sound absorption qualities.

What’s special about them?

• The panels meet flammability standards and are environmentally friendly.
• They are very easy to cut and get set up in your space.
• These panels have a high NRC rating, which makes them a superb choice to cover a portion of a wall that causes unwanted sound reflections.

The NRC rating is the noise reduction coefficient. It is a single number that ranges from zero to 10. At zero NRC, there is no noise reduction and the surface is very reflective. At an NRC of 10, all sound is absorbed. At an NRC of eight, the material absorbs about 80% of the mid-frequency sound. Any NRC around eight is excellent.

Best for: spot treating areas where you need a little more soundproofing and acoustic treatment.

Click here to shop this product on Amazon.

The Benefits of Using Acoustic Panels in Your Studio

Foam acoustic panels offer a myriad of benefits that make them an indispensable addition to any home recording studio.

One of the most significant advantages is their ability to improve sound quality by effectively absorbing and dampening unwanted echoes, reverberations, and reflections within the room. When recording audio, these acoustic issues can negatively impact the final product, introducing unwanted noise and muddiness. By strategically placing foam acoustic panels on walls, ceilings, and even doors, the studio’s acoustics can be optimized, resulting in a cleaner, more professional sound.

Moreover, acoustic panels are relatively easy to install and can be customized to fit the specific needs of the recording space. They come in various sizes, shapes, and thicknesses, allowing users to tailor their placement to target problem areas and create a well-balanced acoustic environment. This flexibility also means that studios with limited space can still benefit from their sound-enhancing properties without significant alterations to the room’s layout.

Another advantage of using acoustic panels is their cost-effectiveness. Compared to other soundproofing materials, acoustic foam is generally more affordable and readily available, making it a practical choice for those on a budget or looking for a quick and straightforward solution. Additionally, their lightweight nature means they can be easily removed and relocated if necessary, making them ideal for those who may move or change their studio setup in the future.

On top of all that, the improved sound quality achieved with foam acoustic panels reduces the need for extensive post-production editing and noise reduction, saving both time and effort during the recording process. Artists and content creators can focus more on their creative endeavors and less on dealing with audio imperfections, leading to a more enjoyable and efficient recording experience.

Guide to Choosing & Using Acoustic Foam Panels

Here is a guide about important topics to understand and consider for the sound treatment and sound dampening of your home recording studio with studio wall foam.

Sound Treatment is Not Soundproofing

Sound treatment is different from soundproofing.

The goal of soundproofing is to block sound transmission from one place to another one.

“Sound isolation is about isolating the sound between inside and outside. You may want a quiet place, without the sound of outside cars. Or you may want to have a room with loud music but without interfering with your neighbors,” explained Nuno Fonseca, CEO of audio software company Sound Particles.

I giggle at the silliness when I read complaints that people try to block sound of a neighbor’s dog barking by putting these acoustic panels to hang in front of their windows. That will not work at all.

Soundproofing and blocking sound is a reconstruction project because soundproof foam does not exist.

Soundproofing is a completely different endeavor. It is much more expensive and requires substantial changes in the room design including renovation and major construction. You need very thick, heavily insulated, concrete walls to achieve 100% soundproofing. There is no comparison with hanging a few foam acoustic panels on the walls.

“[Sound] isolation is like a chain that breaks but its weakest link. I can place a fantastic isolation material everywhere, but if I have a door or a window that doesn’t isolate much, all the remaining isolation will not do much,” Fonseca told us.

If your goal is complete soundproofing and completely stopping a sound wave from leaving a room, this guide is not going to help you.

You need to learn more about blocking sound compared to absorbing sound. Soundproofing is blocking sound and that means completely stopping vibrations, not changing the quality of the sound by absorbing a part of it.

Acoustic panels are for the sound treatment of a room to stop sound from bouncing around the room in ways that reduce the quality (not the volume) of the sound.

Think of these as fine-tuning the room to keep reflected sound from bouncing off hard surfaces and coming to your ears more than once in distorted ways that make it sound bad.

Sound treatment is the fine-tuning of your home studio to make the room sound cleaner and clearer, and it’s not something you can ignore.

“Acoustic treatment is focused on making sure that the sound that is produced inside the room is listened to in the best perfect way (also inside the room),” Fonseca said. “For instance, if the room is too reflective, it will have too much reverb. If the room is a material that is too reflective on some frequency ranges, the equalization of the arriving sound will be off. If the room has some flutter echos, the sound will be terrible.”

In an interview with Reverb.com, famed producer John Cuniberti explained that a huge mistake people make when setting up their studio is “they don’t spend enough time, energy, and money on the acoustics, and they spend too much money on the bright, shiny things…One of the problems is once you start building a studio, it’s tough to undo it, and you are usually stuck with the results. I would suggest going slow. Hang some acoustic panels in the obvious places and then do some recording and mixing

As the voice actor Michael Schwalbe said, “The most important element is an acoustically-treated space to record in. Ideally, this is something like a walk-in closet with lots of clothes or pillows to absorb sound, but you can use acoustic foam or comforters too.”

How to Choose Acoustic Foam Panels

The considerations for the acoustic foam tiles include a choice of sound absorption, thickness, size, and design.

To get better quality acoustic panels, look for a high number (in the range of one to 10) for the noise reduction coefficient (NRC) for better sound absorption. The recommended NRC for a home studio is around eight.

Be aware that the NRC is only a measurement of the absorption of the mid-range sound. If you are having trouble with the bass sound in your home recording studio this NRC number is meaningless for bass frequencies because it does not measure them.

The recommended thickness is two inches. Denser foam weighs more.

You can tell if the product is of better quality, with denser foam, by comparing the product’s weight (not including the shipping packaging weight) with another product that covers the same amount of square feet.

The design style of the foam is a matter of personal choice. If they are the same quality, there is not much of a difference between panels that are wedge style, pyramid style, or egg crate style.

The only difference in style that makes a significant difference is a panel designed for capturing low frequencies. Accomplish this by using another product designed specifically to absorb bass frequencies. These specialized “bass traps” install in the corners of the room and the ceiling corners, where bass sound tends to collect. They are thicker, have more angles, and fit in a corner well.

How many acoustic panels do you need?

Use this handy acoustic panel room calculator to enter the length, width, and height (in feet) of your home recording studio to get the number of recommended panels.

Please note that in most home recording studios you do not want 100% coverage. You will get better sounding results with a sound treatment that provides 60 to 80% coverage.

The results given by the calculator include a light treatment recommendation for living rooms, conference rooms, or workout rooms. It gives a recommended treatment for most sound rooms, which is good for home studios. It also gives a recommendation for heavy sound treatment for professional recording studios. This calculator tells you the number of panels needed for three sizes of panels that are two-feet square, two by three feet, and two by four feet.

How to Choose Correct Panels Positioning

There are two ways to choose the positioning of acoustic panels for a home studio.

The basic way is to use a mirror to imagine the direction of the sound reflections. Doing this mirror technique with the help of a friend makes it easier.

The other way is to use a professional audio testing system that shoots sharp sounds out of a handheld transmitting device while recording the sound as it bounces from the room surfaces. Then, the software makes some calculations and presents a wave pattern of the sound, used by a professional audio technician to make room adjustments.

You can see this audio testing equipment used in the tutorial video above – How to Set Up, Test and Improve Your Home Music Production Studio Room. In this video, the instructor converts a regular bedroom in a house into a home recording studio from scratch. The same applies to creating a studio for your podcast (more info on creating a podcast at home in this guide by Porch.com).

For the vast majority of home recording studios, the mirror technique is the most appropriate. Invite a friend to help you.

Sit in your desk chair in front of your sound mixing table.

Make sure to center the table and check if it is equidistant from both walls.

Make sure your monitor speakers are at the proper height, which is at eye-level from the center point between the tweeters (high-end speakers) and the bigger mid-range speakers below them. Both speakers are together in the speaker monitor cabinets placed on your studio desk or stands.

Once you have the correct position for yourself, ask your friend to carry a mirror around the room to hold up to the walls. Have your friend stop frequently for you to look for the reflection of the monitor speakers in the mirror. When you see the reflection of your monitors, have your friend mark those spots on the walls. That is where sound will reflect from the sound coming out of your monitors.

If you use acoustic panels to cover a large portion of these reflective areas, you will deaden the reflections and improve the sound in the room. These are the “first reflections” of the sound. You do not have to cover the walls from floor to ceiling for effective sound dampening. Just cover a wide area of the wall about two feet up from the floor to about two feet above the height of your head when you are sitting down at your mixing desk.

Here is a video showing how to use the mirror technique for the placement of acoustic panels.

Sound Treatment of Corners and Ceilings

If you want the best sound, any corners in the room are going to need sound treatment.

Sound waves move quickly — at 1,086.9 feet per second to be precise.

And when those fast-moving sound waves hit a corner or ceiling in your recording space, they’ll bounce and forth at breakneck speeds, causing flutter echoes.

Consider using bass traps in the corners because bass collects in that part of the room and causes distortions in what you hear in the low-frequency range.

Sit at your sound mixing desk and look up.

If you see a reflective surface, then, that part of the ceiling needs covering with acoustic tiles. Cover from where the ceiling meets the wall in front of you to about six feet behind you. This will keep all the sound that heads upward from being reflecting down to your ears.

It sounds bad when reflected sound is out of sync with the sound you hear from the monitors.

How to Cut Acoustic Foam Sound Absorbing Panels

Cutting acoustic panels is easy and fun. It is like an art and crafts project.

For acoustic panels that are two-inches thick, you can cut them with a nice pair of scissors. The kind of scissors used to cut fabric.

If you want to cut thicker panels and make clean lines, consider using an electric carving knife like the kind you use to carve a turkey.

Mark the cut to make on the back of a panel and use the electric knife like you might use an electric circular saw. This is easier and makes neater cuts than trying to cut the foam panel with a utility knife.

How to Hang Acoustic Foam Panels

Here are some options to use for ways to hang the acoustic foam sound dampening panels:

3M General Purpose 45 Spray Adhesive →

This is a popular spray adhesive that can either be sprayed on the tile, the wall, or the ceiling, and then place the tile in position. It gives a secure bond in 30 seconds and dries completely within 15 minutes. It can also be sprayed on cardboard to attach tiles to a cardboard backing, and then attach the cardboard to the surface in an easily removable way.

Loctite 2235316 General Performance 100 →

This is a translucent spray that creates a strong enough adhesive hold that tiles will permanently stay in place. The tiles will still be removable, without causing damage, even if the installation is temporary or if the acoustic tiles need to be re-positioned.

Command Large Strips →

These strips are 0.75 inches wide by 3.65 inches long. They are strong enough to hold acoustic tiles in place and easily remove without causing any damage. They work on most surfaces.

Tips for Getting the Most from Studio Wall Foam

Here are some tips that will help you with the sound treatment of your home recording studio.

Thickness

Thicker panels are better; however, two-inch-thick panels are is the best choice for a home recording studio. This is the most popular standard.

Size

Large panels are harder to mount and to replace with new ones. Smaller tiles are easier to mount, especially if you are working alone. The most flexible choice is to buy the 12-inch square or 24-inch square sizes of acoustic tiles.

Wall Surfaces

Here are the best things to use for different wall surfaces and textures:

• Drywall and Smooth Surfaces: Use spray adhesive, double-sided tape, adhesive squares, Gorilla® mounting tape, 3M Command Strips®, or two-inch T-shaped pushpins.
• Concrete, Brick, and Rough Surfaces: Use a construction adhesive like Liquid Nails®
• Wallpaper or Textured Surfaces: It is not recommended to install acoustic tiles on these delicate surfaces using spray adhesive. They will not adhere well and you will cause significant damage when removing the tiles.
• Uneven surfaces: Mount the acoustic foam tiles on cardboard to give them a sturdy flat surface to adhere to and then hang the cardboard on the uneven wall using any of the materials described above, depending on the type of wall surface.

This video tutorial shows the easy installation of acoustic panels using 3M Command Strips®. The panels are easy to place and to remove without damaging the walls.

The Sandwich Acoustic Panel

Making a “sandwich” of materials may help with the installation of acoustic panels, depending on the surface you are working with. The technique also makes the acoustic panels more portable if you need to remove them frequently, take them to another location, or have to be careful not to damage walls of rented spaces.

The basic sandwich is an acoustic panel mounted on cardboard using permanent spray adhesive. The advanced sandwich technique has more layers, which are, in order, these options:

1. Acoustic Tile
2. Permanent Spray Adhesive or Glue
3. Cardboard, Corrugated Plastic Board, or Plywood
4. Wall Surface

Make the acoustic tile sandwich, let it completely dry, and then attach the sandwich to the wall using push pins, small nails, tacks, or a non-permanent, easy-to-remove adhesive, such as 3M Command Strips®. If you prefer, use adhesive squares. Use at least three adhesive squares (two in corners at the top and one in the center at the bottom) for a one-square-foot acoustic panel or four adhesive squares (one in each corner), if the acoustic-panel thickness is more than two inches.

Here is a video tutorial about this technique:

FAQ

Q: Do foam panels really work?

A: For sound treatment in a studio, acoustic panels are a great, budget-friendly choice. They can help improve the overall sound quality in your space by stopping echoes and reverberations for better recordings.

Q: What is the difference between soundproofing vs. sound treatment?
A: Soundproofing is much more difficult. It blocks sound by stopping vibrations from one place to another. Sound treatment changes the sound, using acoustic panels to improve quality, but does not lower the volume.

Q: What are the common shapes (types) of sound dampening panels?
A: Acoustic panels come in three popular styles, which are wedges, pyramids, and egg crate. There are subtle differences between them; however, they all work in the same way to absorb sound and re-direct the sound waves.

Q: What is Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating?
A: The Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) tells how good the acoustic foam material is at absorbing mid-range frequencies. An NRC of 10 is the maximum with 100% maximum sound absorption of certain mid-range frequencies. An NRC of zero is a reflective surface that absorbs no sound. A decent NRC rating for a home recording studio is around eight. A higher NRC is better. An NRC rating is only a measurement of the mid-range frequencies. It will not help problems with bass sound frequencies.

Q: What about ceiling sound treatment?
A: The sound that hits the ceiling will bounce back down to the walls and the floor. The floor’s sound absorption improves with thick carpet and gets worse if it’s a bare wood floor. Cover the ceiling area directly above the mixing station to get a better sound.

Q: What are other ways to improve sound treatment?
A: Bass traps go along well with acoustic tiles. Lower frequencies come out of the woofers and subwoofers and move in an omnidirectional (spherical pattern) way. The bass sound collects in the corners of a room and builds up until it causes a distortion problem. This means you will not be able to hear the low-end of your sound mix correctly. The solution is a bass trap like the Acoustic Foam Bass Trap Corner Wall or the Mybecca acoustic foam bass trap. For the best results, place these bass traps in all corners of the room where the walls meet and in the spots where the wall corners meet the ceiling.

Q: Can you have too much sound treatment?

A: Yes, it is possible to have too much sound treatment in your recording space, causing the room to sound weird and unnatural and making your recordings sound off. As audio engineer Daniel Milne at TheSeasonedPodcaster.com explained, “Using too much can lead to a room not sounding ‘lively’ enough and sounding unnatural. This will mean you’ll likely be spending time adding artificial reverberation to sounds that you record in your studio.” In other words, more panels and foam pieces isn’t always better.

A Final Word on Using Acoustic Tiles

You will be amazed at the richness of the sound that is achievable for a modest investment in time and money to use acoustic tiles for the sound treatment of your home recording studio.

Combine this effort with the recommendations for voice-over equipment, microphones, and the best home studio monitors. This will make your home studio a magnificent space for voice-over recordings.

And if you’re looking to further improve the sound in your studio, consider these cheap soundproofing materials that work great side-by-side with acoustical foam times.

Have any questions about using acoustic panels in your studio or rehearsal space? Comment below and we’ll help.

The post 6 Best Acoustic Foam Panels for Your Home Recording Studio (2023 Guide) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

With technology continuously evolving and being used more and more to complete tasks in everyday life, a microphone for Zoom calls is an essential tool to attend your important meetings, classes, interviews, and more.

After all, Zoom has become one of the most popular virtual conference platforms, used by millions.

While Zoom has helped us stay connected from anywhere in the world, the quality of sound on calls is also important.

Let’s talk about why picking the right microphone for your Zoom meetings is so important.

You know those moments when you’re on a call, and the audio sounds all garbled and fuzzy? Yeah, that’s exactly why a good microphone matters. When you’ve got the right one, it ensures crystal-clear audio quality, no background noises causing distractions, and that everyone can hear each other loud and clear.

Trust me, it makes a world of difference in how smoothly your meetings go.

Imagine this: you’re in a virtual meeting, trying to get your point across, but your voice is coming out all muffled and distorted. Not good, right?

A good Zoom microphone helps with speech intelligibility, so everyone can easily understand what’s being said. No more “Sorry, can you repeat that?” or awkward moments of silence. It keeps the conversation flowing and everyone on the same page.

Plus, having a solid Zoom mic gives you a more professional vibe. Whether you’re having a business meeting, doing an online interview, or presenting to a group, good audio quality shows that you’re on top of your game. It adds that extra touch of credibility and shows you mean business.

And let’s not forget the time and frustration you’ll save. With a reliable microphone for Zoom calls, you won’t have to deal with those pesky technical issues. No more adjusting settings, dealing with echoes, or asking, “Can you hear me now?” You can just dive into the meeting without a hitch and get things done more efficiently.

And that’s why I’ve rounded up the best Zoom microphones so you can dial into your next meeting with confidence.

In this article, I will give my insights on 2023’s best mics for Zoom calls and meetings, including USB Zoom mics, XLR mics, and smartphone mics.

Our team has reviewed and ranked the best microphones for Zoom meetings based on a range of key factors, including price, audio quality, durability, ease of use, and other reviews from real customers.

Don’t feel like reading the whole guide? Here are a few microphones we loved the most:

Blue Snowball iCE

What’s inside?

• Custom condenser capsule
• Frequency range of 40 – 18 kHz
• USB 2.0 device that is easy to plug and play directly from your PC or Mac

Killer features: Provides crystal clear audio for Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

The Blue Snowball iCE is my top pick because it is a fantastic Zoom microphone that provides users with professional, crystal clear high quality audio even after constant use over time. This USB microphone is affordable and easy to plug directly into your computer to begin using immediately for your online meetings.

Also Great

Elgato Wave: 3 – USB Condenser Microphone

What’s inside?

• Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern
• Accessibility to the Wave Length App to control the device
• Frequency range of 24-bit / 96 kHz

Killer feature: Voice is captured with precision and audio signal transmission is perfect

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

The Elgato Wave:3 is another wonderful USB microphone for Zoom meetings that I like because it possesses the ability to record speech perfectly and accurately. This model also offers users control through an app called Wave Link, which is a terrific feature for those looking for a model with a variety of audio sources.

Also Great

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

What’s inside?

• High SPL handling and wide dynamic range
• Custom designed low mass diaphragm that offers great frequency and transient responses
• Noise level of 20 dB SPL

Killer feature: Reduces any background noise and sounds, which improves voice and desired sound

Check Price on Amazon

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is another one of my favorite microphones for Zoom meetings because it works great for home studios, eliminating background noise, and concentrates on the main source. This device is decently priced, professional, and offers excellent versatility and high-quality audio to all individuals looking for studio microphones. You will be surprised by the sound reproduction on this one.

Choosing the Best Microphone for Zoom Meeting Calls

There are certain things that you should be aware of and pay close attention to when searching for the perfect Zoom microphone for video conferencing and online meetings.

The following are some of these important aspects to consider when choosing your mic for a Zoom call:

USB or XLR Zoom Microphone?

One of the main differences between USB mics and XLR audio devices are the connections. An XLR device has 3 prongs and will connect to most audio interfaces, while a USB device connects directly to the computer with no audio interface needed.

XLR models require additional equipment (like an audio interface) and tend to be more expensive, but they offer exceptional sound. A USB mic is very affordable and easy to plug into any laptop or desktop computer that possesses a USB port.

XLR devices are popular among musical artists who enjoy performing live, and USB mic models are favored by podcasters who need a cost-effective device quickly.

What Polar Pattern is The Best for Zoom Meetings?

A mic’s polar pattern is the three-dimensional space around the capsule, where it usually is most sensitive to sound. A few of the most common polar patterns found on an audio device are the cardioid, figure-8, and omnidirectional. Below, I will briefly give a description of these three popular polar patterns.

• Cardioid: The Cardioid pattern is great with any recording applications as it is able to reduce any background noises in a room such as a fan blowing and electrical noises from appliances.
• Figure-8: The Figure-8 pattern works well with individuals who speak directly into the microphone. This pattern is perfect for live recording. Even though it is the most effective at rejecting any side sounds, it is still very sensitive to wind and handling noises.
• Omnidirectional: The Omnidirectional pattern offers perfect bass response, the flattest frequency responses, and is not sensitive to any handling or wind sounds. However, if you are in a noisy room, an omnidirectional model will not work well for you. This is because it picks up a lot of background noise.

Your goal should be to improve your voice quality, eliminate background noise, and eliminate any echoes during your online Zoom meetings.

Therefore, I would recommend that you find a high-quality, professional microphone with a cardioid polar pattern.

This will ensure that your voice is captured crisply and correctly with high quality audio as well as all background noise is reduced from the room that you are recording in.

When to Choose a Mic for a Smartphone?

If you travel or are on-the-go often, I would encourage you to choose a microphone for a smartphone. If you are nowhere near a computer and a Zoom meeting is scheduled, a smartphone mic will help make it convenient for you to still be able to attend your online meetings on time with great audio quality. You will no longer have to rush or worry. The only thing that you will be required to do is simply plug the audio device into your smartphone and begin using.

Below, I will provide a list of several options for you to take a look at and determine which microphone for Zoom meetings and calls fits your needs the most.

Best Microphones for Zoom Meetings

	1. Blue Yeti → Nice device for amateur microphone users, as it offers a variety of pattern selections. Our top pick for the best microphone for Zoom. Category: USB microphone	Check Price→
	2. Elgato Wave:3 → This is an easy-to-use microphone for Zoom made for entry-level users. Category: USB microphone	Amazon →
	3. Fifine K669B → For individuals interested in doing voice-overs or simply attending a Zoom meeting Category: USB microphone	Amazon →
	4. Samson Meteorite → Good choice to communicate with their family, or coworkers online. Category: USB microphone	Amazon →
	5. Blue Snowball ice → It can be used in a home office or while traveling as a microphone for Zoom calls. Category: USB microphone	Check Price→
	6. CAD Audio U37 → Tunes out all background noises for speaking, singing, or playing an instrument. Category: USB microphone	Amazon →
	7. Audio-Technica AT2020 → Reduces the background sounds. Perfect pick for those needing to use Zoom a lot. Category: XLR	Amazon →
	8. MXL 990 → Option for individuals who have prior experience with microphones. Category: XLR	Amazon →
	9. Heil Sound PR 40 → Stunning addition to any home office. Category: XLR	Amazon →
	10. Shure MV88 → Small model that can be carried on the go and used by teachers and business professionals. Category: for Smartphone	Amazon →
	11. Zoom iQ6 → Adjustable device to attend small or large meetings or conduct interviews while traveling. Category: for Smartphone	Amazon →
	12. Rode VideoMic Me → Portable model to use while connected to your Apple devices or other smartphones. Category: for Smartphone	Amazon →
	13. Saramonic SmartMic → Lightweight model that is easy to carry around with your Apple or Android device. Category: for Smartphone	Amazon →

Keep in mind that these are my recommended picks for a microphone for Zoom meetings. Depending on what you are looking for, different models may work better for you.

Best Microphones for Zoom Calls

To help you choose a perfect device that will be beneficial to you and your needs, I have created reviews below for my list.

Best USB Microphones for Zoom

A USB model is an audio device that directly connects to your computer through the USB output. Once it is plugged into your computer or laptop, you can begin recording and speaking with it. The output of a USB mic is digital, and it typically possesses a built-in analog-to-digital converter.

1. Blue Yeti

The Blue Yeti microphone is a professional USB model that produces a high-quality, clear sound when used. It is perfect for a home office and features four different recording modes. This device is affordable, well-built, and is a great choice for individuals looking for a device that is easy to set up and use when needed.

All in all, it’s the best USB microphone for Zoom meetings.

Features

• Three Condenser Capsules
• Four Different Pickup Patterns
• Adjustable, flexible stand included

Pros

• Affordable mic for Zoom and other applications made with high-quality components
• A versatile model that can be used for a variety of different audio recordings
• The size is perfect to carry along with you and record anywhere
• Exception audio clarity and quality

Cons

• May be difficult to use if it is your first device
• May be considered fragile, as it can easily be damaged or broken
• Works better indoors

Best for: The Blue Yeti is best for individuals needing to attend Zoom meetings, or create other voice content online. This USB Zoom microphone is easy to set up and use with any computer.

For a more detailed look at the Blue Yeti, check out Andy Slye’s YouTube video. He goes over the Yeti’s key features, gives his own video review, and does an audio test that is worth watching.

Buying Options

• Check price →

2. Elgato Wave:3

The Elgato Wave:3 condenser microphone plugs directly into your computer and ensures exceptional sound quality. At an affordable price, you can get this high-quality USB Zoom mic model that will look great in your home office and deliver good audio quality on every video call. It is a nice choice for those often needing a microphone but do not want anything too complicated.

Features

• Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern
• A frequency range of 24-bit / 96 kHz
• Accessibility to the Wave Length App to control the device

Pros

• Captures speech perfectly with its great frequency range
• Audio signal transmission is high-ranking
• Natural sound diffusion
• Great capsule protection
• Excellent audio quality

Cons

• You will have to be careful with background noises, as this device can still easily pick them up
• Works best indoors
• Recommends third-party software to help with reducing background noise

Best for: The Elgato Wave:3 is best for individuals who are on the go and have a traveling office, as it is a breeze to plug into a computer and simply begin using. It is also a good choice for those who have a permanent office and need to amplify their voice while attending Zoom meetings.

To get an up-close look at the Elgato Wave:3, check out CNET’s YouTube video. They do a great job covering the amazing features of this product as well as give the mic a test for those interested in purchasing the device.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

3. Fifine K669B

The Fifine K669B offers its users wonderful quality and flexibility at a very affordable price. Once you plug it in and begin using it, you will be surprised by its clear sound for a Zoom mic that is this cheap.

Features

• Metal cardioid condenser and strong, well-built design
• Sturdy tripod included
• Volume knob to give users a louder voice output

Pros

• Very affordable
• Gives a louder output when needed
• Sensitive to where your voice will be easily heard
• Produces crystal clear sound with no static

Cons

• May be too sensitive to sounds which means it can easily pick up noise and interference
• Indoor use is preferred
• May be considered fragile, as it can easily break or become damaged

Best for: The Fifine K669B is best for individuals interested in doing voice overs or who simply need a microphone for Zoom meetings. All you have to do is plug it into your computer, and it will be ready to deliver high-quality recordings by you.

To find out more information on the Fifine K669B, take a look at Tom Buck’s YouTube video. He talks about his experience buying this model, shows you how to set it up, and gives you a sound test.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon  →

4. Samson Meteorite

The Samson Meteorite will provide top-level voice recordings directly from your computer. It is the solution to all your office needs, whether you are looking for a better way to communicate with coworkers on Zoom, record videos for YouTube, or video calls with family.

Features

• Portable device able to be easily taken anywhere
• Magnetic base to help with the positioning of the device
• Cardioid pattern that focuses on the main sound and reduces background noise
• Frequency response of 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Portable and can be carried on the go anywhere
• Provides a wide range of motion and flexibility
• No installing required
• Focuses on main sound instead of background noises

Cons

• May be difficult for beginners to use
• The cord is long and may get in the way
• You may have to remove anything that causes extra noise before you begin recording

Best for: The Samson Meteorite is best for individuals looking for a quick and efficient option to communicate with their family, friends, or coworkers online. Its mission is to improve your audio sound quality and make virtual communication easier.

To see what the Samson Meteorite entails, watch Podcastage’s YouTube video. He gives an in-depth video review on the device, shows what is included when you purchase it, and tests it out to show you how it works.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

5. Blue Snowball

The Blue Snowball is an outstanding USB Zoom microphone that will deliver natural, clear sound on your conference calls and online meetings. It works great at improving sound quality for a variety of applications and tasks. All you have to do is plug it into your computer, and it is ready to use. An adjustable stand is also included, which is a great perk.

Features

• Custom condenser capsule
• USB 2.0 device that is easy to plug and play directly from your PC or Mac
• Frequency range of 40 – 18 khz

Pros

• Very easy to set up and begin using
• Provides efficiency
• Ability to test and evaluate the performance of this model using the thumb switch
• Good quality microphone that’s easy to set up and use for Zoom conference calls and other applications

Cons

• May be difficult to troubleshoot
• Large size
• Can be very sensitive which results in picking up thuds and vibrations

Best for: The Blue Snowball ice is best for individuals looking for an affordable, all-in-one model that will record their voice perfectly. It can be used in a home office or while traveling.

If you are interested in learning more about the Blue Snowball ice, take a look at Jason’s YouTube video. He gives advice on how to set up it for the perfect sound.

Buying Options

• Check price →

6. CAD Audio U37

The CAD Audio U37 is a large device that minimizes background noise and captures voice sounds fantastically, making it a good choice for video meetings.

It offers an extended frequency response which is great for speaking, singing, or playing an instrument.

Features

• Large condenser microphone model
• Cardioid pick-up pattern that reduces any background noise and focuses on the main voice
• Extended frequency response
• 10dB overload-protection switch that eliminates background noise
• Bass-reduction switch that minimizes noise

Pros

• Extended frequency response which improves singing, speeches, and instrument playing
• With its overload protection switch, loud distortions are reduced
• Bass-reduction switch eliminates background noise
• Diverse range for everything from recording music to making simple Zoom calls

Cons

• Large size
• May need to get rid of anything that could cause interference while recording
• May need to speak closely while in use

Best for: The CAD Audio U37 is best for music performers, broadcast professionals, or individuals looking for a device to attend their online meetings. This product is the solution to your virtual communication needs.

For a closer look at the CAD Audio U37, watch Michael Dontigney’s YouTube video. He gives a wonderful explanation of what he thinks of it.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

XLR Microphones

An XLR model is an analog device that connects through a three-prong connector. These types of microphones can perform in non-digital settings, which means you are not stuck in front of a computer if you do not wish to be. Instead, you can connect to any device that has an XLR connection.

7. Audio-Technica AT2020

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a nicely designed model that provides users with great quality and consistency. It is very easy to use and impressive on how accurate it can record voice sound.

Features

• High SPL handling and wide dynamic range
• Noise level of 20 dB SPL
• Custom designed low mass diaphragm that offers great frequency and transient responses
• Cardioid polar pattern that helps minimize background noise

Pros

• The price and performance of this product are excellent
• Wider dynamic range
• Reduces pickup of background sounds while focusing on the main sound

Cons

• Preferred indoor usage
• You will need to buy an XLR cable
• May be more difficult to use if you are a beginner

Best for: The Audio-Technica AT2020 is the perfect video conferencing mic for those needing to use Zoom a lot. I would recommend it for anyone interested in purchasing a device that captures voice accurately and precisely.

To see a test and review of the Audio-Technica AT2020, check out Podcastage’s YouTube video. He gives a thorough look at the device, which will help you decide if it is worth buying.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

8. MXL 990

The MXL 990 is a top-grade, professional device that offers an amazingly balanced sound and sleek golden look to its users. Users will find that this model is well-made and will produce high-quality sound and recordings.

Features

• Golden diaphragms
• Sturdy hard mount mic stand adapter
• top-notch carrying case included
• Frequency range of 30 Hz – 20 kHz

Pros

• Beautiful design
• Produces high quality sound
• Awesome power on a low budget

Cons

• May seem complicated to beginners
• Super sensitive which means they will pick up on a lot of noise
• May be hard to troubleshoot

Best for: The MXL 990 is a perfect option for individuals who have prior experience with microphones. This high-end model will improve the sound of your speaking, and so much more.

For an in-depth observation of the MXL 990, take a look at Podcastage’s YouTube video. As a person with microphone expertise, he gives his opinion of the MXL 990 and tests it for viewers.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

9. Heil Sound PR 40

The Heil Sound PR 40 is a nicely designed device that provides wide frequency range when speaking into it. This Zoom meeting microphone is one of the pricier options on this list, but it will get the job done exceptionally well.

Features

• Flexible, steel device that absorbs vibrations
• Carrying case and mic stand clip included
• Cardioid pickup pattern that reduces background noise

Pros

• Captures natural sound really well
• The look of this product is stunning
• It offers high performance and a flexible support system

Cons

• May need to get rid of anything that could cause background noise
• May need to purchase a preamp to amplify your voice
• Easy to break or damage, as it is very fragile

Best for: I would recommend the Heil Sound PR 40 for individuals interested in spending more for a microphone that will work really well for them. This model will be a stunning addition to any home office and will offer great performance while speaking into it.

If you are interested in seeing the Heil Sound PR 40 being tested, Podcastage has a beneficial video that you can watch. He gives a thorough explanation as to why he thinks this is one of the best devices on the market.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

Mics for Smartphones

Mics for smartphones are small, portable, and easy to carry along with you anywhere you may go. After you have determined if the device you would like to purchase is compatible with the type of smartphone that you have, you can take it and use it on-the-go while traveling. No matter where you may be, these models are easy to take out of your luggage or pocket, plug into your cellular device, and start recording.

10. Shure MV88

The Shure MV88 is the perfect on-the-go mic with its top-grade stereo audio and ability to capture surprisingly clear sound. Once it is plugged into your smartphone, it does a wonderful job eliminating any background noise while allowing the user the flexibility to move around.

Features

• Digital condenser microphone model with iOS lightning connection
• Compatible with Apple devices
• Small device that can fit in a pocket and capture audio recordings
• Accessibility to two free applications (ShurePlus MOTIV & ShurePlus MOTIV Video) to customize and set up the device to fit your specific needs
• Black foam windscreen included to minimize any wind noise
• Carry case also included

Pros

• Offers professional-quality audio sound
• Can easily be stored and taken anywhere
• Sturdy structure and design

Cons

• Will only work with the app
• May have to wait for the app to update when a new Apple device is released
• May be difficult to set up for beginners

Best for: The Shure MV88 is a good choice for teachers and business professionals needing a model that can travel with them. I would recommend this device to anyone interested in using a mic to create content or attend a meeting or class while on the road.

To get a glimpse of the Shure MV88 in action, view Podcastage’s YouTube video. He gives an informative look at the model, shows everything that is included, and tests its performance.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

11. Zoom iQ6

The iQ6 is an impressive portable device that has the ability to capture sounds perfectly. It can precisely capture recordings of interviews, meetings, lectures, and more. This model is also small enough to be placed in a pocket to be easily transported with you.

Features

• Adjustable, flexible model that can move from 90 to 120 degrees
• Compatible with almost all Apple devices
• 44.1 kHz / 16-bit audio quality
• Offers wide audio coverage
• Extended lightning connector included

Pros

• Adjustable device which provides great flexibility
• Can use with phones that have cases or without
• Can easily take it anywhere with you

Cons

• Interference created by the iPhone may occur
• It is difficult to attach to an iPhone
• The software sometimes experiences issues

Best for: The iQ6 is best for individuals needing access to a microphone to record interviews, or attend meetings on the go. It is small enough to travel along with you and provide excellent sound quality when you need it the most.

If you would like to see a detailed review of the Zoom iQ6, check out Alexander Thickstun’s YouTube video. He compares this device to other devices to help you decide if purchasing it is a good idea.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

12. Rode VideoMic Me

The Rode VideoMic Me is another device that is easy to take on the go and capture your voice in a clear-cut way. This model is meant to be used with smartphones and plugs directly into the headphone port for easy use.

Features

• A neatly compact cardioid model
• Compatible with most iOS and smartphone devices
• A frequency range of 100 Hz – 20 kHz
• 3.5 mm headphone output
• Furry windshield included to reduce sound outdoors

Pros

• Small, compact device than can be taken anywhere with you
• Improves audio sound quality on smartphone devices
• Reduces wind noise

Cons

• May have some distortion or inference if you do not go into Airplane mode
• May be difficult to connect to the device
• Works better with Apple products than Samsung

Best for: The Rode VideoMic Me is best for those looking for a quick fix in their sound quality. This Zoom mic is the perfect addition to individuals who need to attend a meeting, lecture, or chat with family online from their smartphones.

To determine if the Rode VideoMic Me is a good mode for you, check out Podcastage’s YouTube video. He gives a rigorous review on this product while also giving his own expert opinion of it.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

13. Saramonic SmartMic Mini

The Saramonic SmartMic Mini is a light and compact condenser microphone that will deliver superb sound instantly. This small device truly does big things. It will drastically improve the sound quality of your online meetings, video shoots, and audio recordings.

Features

• Small condenser model that is easy to carry around
• Compatible with Apple and Android smartphone devices
• Adjustable head that allows users flexible recording
• Windscreen included to minimize background noise
• Superb anti-interference functions

Pros

• Increases sound levels significantly
• Cuts out background noise and makes voice crisp sounding
• Small size and easy to use

Cons

• May be difficult to set up
• Works better indoors
• Considered to be very fragile which means it could break or become damaged easily

Best for: The Saramonic SmartMic Mini is best for individuals who travel frequently and find it beneficial to use a mic while virtually attending a meeting. I would recommend this device to anyone who needs to speak into a microphone and has a smartphone to plug it into.

To see an unboxing review of the Saramonic SmartMic Mini, watch Atomic Shrimp’s YouTube video. They provide an excellent review on unboxing and using this model.

Buying Options

• Check price on Amazon →

Other Must-Haves

After you have decided on a microphone to buy, you should consider purchasing accessories to go with it. The following are a few must-haves that will help your new model reach its full potential:

Jack Adapter →

The Apple jack adapter will enable you to connect microphones to your apple devices. It will work with any device that has a lightning connector and supports iOS 10 or later, which includes iPads, iPhones, and iPods.

Windscreen →

The furry cover windscreen will help you reduce any occurring noise when attending or recording a Zoom meeting outside or in a windy, noisy environment. With its artificial fur, this muff ensures that the user of a mic can be heard clearly and the background noise is reduced significantly.

Pop Filter →

The Auphonix Pop Filter is perfect for producing excellent sound quality. It minimizes any noises that may occur, such as thuds, pops, hisses, etc. It also reduces air pressure and any wind-related noise that could potentially be surrounding a microphone.

Foam Windscreen →

The Foam Windscreen that I chose was made for the Blue Yeti and Yeti Pro. This model cover piece is made of high-quality foam, which will help improve your voice quality and minimize any background or wind noises.

It will also help protect your Blue Yeti from any particles and scratches. If you decide to purchase a Blue Yeti, I would recommend purchasing the mic cover foam as well.

Useful Resources

• What is Zoom and how does it work?
• How to record Zoom meetings without permission
• A beginner’s guide to using Zoom
• 10 benefits of Zoom for small businesses
• How to use Zoom to teach classes
• How to connect multiple microphones to a computer
• The best headset microphones
• The best Zoom alternatives

A Final Word on the Best Mic for Zoom Calls

Hopefully, our guide to the best microphones for Zoom calls has been helpful in helping you determine the best device for your needs.

Whether it’s a Blue Yeti or another option from our list, make sure that whatever mic you choose is high-quality and reliable so you sound great on your video call.

Each of the Zoom microphones from the list above has exceptional qualities that will provide you with optimal voice sound (making it easier for your audience and transcription software programs to decipher what you’re saying), and you will never have to worry about the person on the other end hearing you clearly again when using this popular screen sharing app.

Although this article mentioned a few models that can be used for YouTube, you can check out my ultimate list of best microphones for YouTube. I will provide details about the models that I believe will work best for recording videos for your YouTube channel.

Have any questions about our guide to the best microphones for Zoom calls and meetings? Have experience with any of these devices? Share your questions and thoughts by leaving a comment below.

The post 13 Best Microphones for Zoom Calls and Online Meetings in 2023 appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Creating a functional and comfortable workspace doesn’t have to break the bank. You can get a great recording desk at a reasonable price. Just make sure you factor in more than price in your search — dimensions (making sure you have room for your studio monitors, computer, interface, etc.), durability, and functionality are just a few things you’ll need to factor in when trying to find the right studio desk.

I’ve reviewed a number of cheap studio desks based on a variety of factors, and put together a guide to the top recording desks for every budget, studio size, and purpose from music production to voiceover work and more (click here to learn about our entire Editorial Process & Methodology for product reviews). I’ve also shared my recommendations for additional accessories you’ll find helpful to add onto your desk.

What are the Best Cheap Studio Desks for Home Recording?

Here are my top picks for the best studio desk under $200 to use in your home in 2023:

1. Mobile & Compact Workstation Desk
2. L-Shaped Desk with Rounded Corner
3. Large L-Shaped Desk
4. Desk with Extra Surface
5. Cyrus Workstation
6. Corner Desk

1. Mobile & Compact Workstation Desk →

Techni Mobili Compact Computer Cart With Storage, Graphite

$59.32

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 09:37 pm GMT

Quick Take: This desk is designed to be space-saving, making it great for home recording studios where space might be limited. Despite being pretty compact, it features a main shelf for a computer or recording equipment, a pull-out keyboard tray, and an additional bottom shelf for storage which is more than enough for most simple recording setups.

Brand: Techni Mobili

Dimensions: The outside dimensions of the entire studio desk with shelves installed are 19.75 inches of depth by 28.25 inches of width by 35.25 inches in height.

The lower shelf has 13.75 inches of depth by 21.5 inches of width by 7.5 inches in height from the floor. The computer keyboard tray has 19.5 inches of depth by 11.75 inches of width by 26 inches in height from the floor.

The desktop surface has 18.75 inches of depth by 27.5 inches of width by 31.25 in height from the floor (3.5 inches above the keyboard tray). The monitor shelf has 9.75 inches of depth by 15.75 inches of width by 35.25 inches in height from the floor (3.75 inches above the desktop).

What’s included: This studio desk is made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) panels that are covered by a moisture-resistant PVC laminated veneer with a graphite-colored finish. The frame is made of steel that is finished with a scratch-resistant powder coating. This recording desk comes with casters that have durable, non-marking, nylon wheels.

It ships in one box that includes all the pieces for the desk frame, desktop, lower shelf, monitor shelf, keyboard tray, CD rack space, and casters. This desk weighs 31 lbs.

Top Features: The monitor shelf can be mounted on the right side, the left side, or in the center to allow the placement of the monitor in the area that works the best. The pullout keyboard tray has a safety stop. The casters can lock in place.

The width of this studio desk reduces by six inches if you do not install the CD rack on the left side. It is possible to drill new holes in the inner part of the leg on the right side and install the CD rack space underneath the keyboard tray to be able to use it while reducing the overall width of the desk by six inches to 21.25 inches wide.

Best for: home studios or sound booths with limited space and recording equipment that is not too heavy.

2. L-Shaped Desk with Rounded Corner →

Coleshome 66" L Shaped Gaming Desk, Corner Computer Desk, Sturdy Home Office Computer Table, Writing Desk, Larger Gaming Desk Workstation, Black

$159.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/16/2024 04:02 pm GMT

Quick Take: This desk snugly fits into corners, optimizing space in the home studio. Its robust steel frame handles heavy equipment effortlessly, and I particularly appreciate the waterproof MDF desktop and the handy iron hook for storing your studio headphones and cables. It’s a blend of practicality and style.

Brand: Coleshome

Dimensions: 66″L x 47″W x 28.5″H

What’s included: This studio desk is made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF). It comes with the framing, the larger-side desktop, the corner piece, the shorter-side desktop, and a monitor shelf. The steel frame comes with extra metal brackets and cables to ensure stability. The monitor shelf installs on the shorter side. An instruction manual for the assembly and a screwdriver is included. There are no other tools needed for the assembly of this desk.

Top Features: The desktop surface is waterproof and scratch-resistant. It is 0.98 inches thick. The shorter side placement is changeable to either the right or the left. The legs have adjustable pads used to level the desk on uneven flooring. The steel crosspiece supports, placed between the legs, add stability. This studio desk is strong enough to have multiple all-in-one computers or computer monitors on it.

Best for: a home recording studio with a contemporary style and plenty of room.

3. Large L-Shaped Desk →

Soges 59 x 59 inches Large L-Shaped Desk Computer Desk L Desk Office Desk Workstation Desk Corner Desk, Black CS-ZJ02-BK

$109.99

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

01/17/2024 08:42 am GMT

Quick Take: This desk’s expansive dimensions offer ample space, ensuring your recording equipment fits comfortably. The desk’s solid design is resistant to scratches and friction, making it durable for long-term use. Its L-shape isn’t just a space-saver but also provides an organized setup for multitasking. The added PC stand is a thoughtful touch, protecting your computer from potential moisture. This desk is a blend of functionality and modern aesthetics, making it a top choice for any home recording studio or office.

Brand: Soges

Dimensions: This desk measures 59 inches by 59 inches wide. The depth of the desktop is 21.7 inches. The desktop surface is 30 inches in height above the floor.

What’s included: This desktop is made from E1-grade particleboard that has a high resistance to scratches. It has an oak wood pattern finish. It comes with the frame, the diagonal brace supports, a metal leveling bracket, the two side desktop pieces, and the corner piece. The included parts list has a link to the downloadable instruction manual.

Top Features: The metal framing is 0.047 inches (1.2 mm) thick, which is one and one-half times thicker than ordinary ones made from lower-gauge steel (8 mm). The diagonal braces for each side provide more stability. The metal leveling bracket that installs under the desktop, toward the end of the assembly process, makes sure all the parts stay in place and that the work areas of the desktops are level with each other.

Best for: a home studio with plenty of room. This is a very strong recording desk and can support multiple all-in-one computers or large monitors.

4. Desk with Extra Surface →

TOPSKY Computer Desk with Storage Shelves/23.2” Keyboard Tray/Monitor Stand Study Table for Home Office(46.5inch, Rustic Brown)

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Quick Take: This desk, with its rustic brown finish, not only adds a touch of elegance to a workspace but also offers practicality with its storage shelves and an ample keyboard tray. The monitor stand is a game-changer, elevating your screen to the ideal height, reducing neck strain during those long work hours. The side bookshelf keeps everything within arm’s reach, and the center shelf, which I can remove if needed, is perfect for storing other items.

Brand: Topsky

Dimensions: The size of this studio desk is 46.5 inches in width by 19 inches of depth by 34.2 inches in height from the floor to the top of the monitor shelf. The height from the floor to the desktop is 30 inches. The height from the floor to the keyboard tray is 26.3 inches.

The keyboard tray dimensions are 23.2 inches in width by 11.8 inches of depth. The monitor shelf is 46.5 inches in width by 7.8 inches of depth. The two bookcase shelves are 9 inches in width and 19 inches of depth. There are 12.8 inches in clearance above the lower shelf and 13.5 inches clearance above the upper shelf. The desktop computer shelf is 9 inches wide and has 19 inches of depth, with 27 inches of clearance above it. This desk weighs 54 lbs.

What’s included: Included are the frame, four shelves, a keyboard tray, and the desktop. This desk is made of CARB P2-class particleboard with a dark oak pattern finish. The metal frame has a powder-coat finish. All the hardware and tools needed for assembly are included.

Top Features: This studio desk can support up to 200 lbs. Metal crosspieces in the back attach to the frame to give it more stability. The keyboard tray slides out and holds a full-size keyboard 2.8 inches below the desktop for comfortable typing. The bookcase shelves on the left side can hold equipment or be a place used to store things.

The large multi-purpose shelf is a good place to put a desktop computer to keep it off the floor. The computer monitor shelf is wide and goes across the entire back of the desk, allowing room for two monitors.

Best for: smaller rooms with limited space.

5. Cyrus Workstation →

Cyrus Workstation- Z-Line Designs - ZL2200-01WSU - Computer Desk With Hutch

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Quick Take: This contemporary desk seamlessly blends into any home office setting. The clear tempered safety glass not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures durability. What I particularly appreciate is the spacious desktop workspace, perfect for storing various devices and materials, and the pull-out keyboard tray, which generously accommodates both a keyboard and a mouse. The added castors for mobility make rearranging your workspace a breeze. It’s a blend of style and functionality that truly resonates with the needs of an instructional designer.

Brand: Z-Line Designs

Dimensions: The overall dimensions of this studio desk are a depth of 26 inches, a width of 35 inches, and a height of 48 inches from the floor to the top of the monitor shelf.

What’s included: This is a contemporary style desk in a cherry finish and it has black accents. The desktop is clear, tempered glass with a black edge for safety. The cylinder supports for the frame are chrome-treated metal. They are very strong and weigh over 73 lbs. This desk comes with a pullout keyboard tray that is big enough for a large keyboard and a mouse. Castors are included with this studio furniture.

Top Features: This recording desk is very attractive. It is a nice size with plenty of working area, without being too large. The castors allow the desk to move around easily. There are strategically-placed cable pass-through openings in the back panel at each shelf height to make it easy to connect equipment and keep the cables neatly organized. The cables can all run down the back panel, which keeps them cleverly hidden and out of sight.

One caution, if you are thinking about this studio desk, is the glass desktop is a very sound-reflective surface. It will dramatically change the sound quality when placing a microphone on the glass in a south booth for recording. Perhaps, you want to have this brighter sound when recording. However, if you want a more regular sound for your voice-overs, then you will have to cover the glass with a thick pad that absorbs the sound to stop the reflections from happening.

Best for: those who want a very attractive look and who are not bothered by the effect of a glass-top desk on sound recordings. It works well for an editing desk but not so well as a recording desk, with a microphone placed on it.

6. Corner Desk →

Calico Designs Study Corner Desk, Silver with Black

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Quick Take: This desk has a small footprint, but I like that it’s very strudy and has a little bit of storage with its top and bottom shelves. It’s a great choice for a very simple recording setup.

Brand: Calico Designs

Dimensions: The desktop area has 23.5 inches of depth by 46 inches of width. The top monitor shelf has 15.5 inches of depth and 46 inches of width. The bottom shelf has 23.5 inches of depth and 43 inches of width. The height from the floor to the top shelf is 42.2 inches. This desk weighs 52 lbs.

What’s included: It comes with the frame, the desktop, the two shelves, the back metal mesh pieces, and four floor-leveling attachments to use on the legs for leveling the desk on uneven surfaces.

Top Features: This recording desk has an attractive design with a sleek look and clean lines. There is plenty of room on the bottom shelf for desktop computers and other equipment. The desk has a nice large work area. The monitor shelf could hold one large computer monitor or two smaller ones up to 20 inches each.

This studio desk comes in many colors of blue, pink, purple, silver/black, and silver/maple. The brighter colors look like something for a kid’s room and may work for you if you plan to do children’s audiobooks or animation. The silver/black combination looks very professional and I think makes the nicest choice for a home recording studio to do voice-overs.

Best for: areas where space is limited and there is no need for extra bookshelves to store or hold things.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Budget Studio Desk

When setting up a home studio on a budget, choosing the right studio desk is crucial for optimizing your workspace and enhancing productivity.

Here are some essential factors to consider when selecting a cheap and budget-friendly studio desk:

• Size and Space: Assess the available space in your home studio and choose a desk that fits comfortably without overwhelming the area. Consider the dimensions of the desk, including height, width, and depth, to ensure it accommodates your equipment, such as a computer, monitors, MIDI controllers, speakers, and other studio gear, while leaving enough room for you to work comfortably.
• Ergonomics: Pay attention to the desk’s ergonomics to maintain a healthy and comfortable working posture. Look for a desk that allows you to position your monitor(s) at eye level, keeps your arms at a 90-degree angle while working, and provides adequate legroom.
• Build Quality and Materials: While seeking a budget-friendly option, don’t compromise on build quality. Look for desks made from sturdy materials like MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) or solid wood. Check customer reviews and ratings to ensure the desk is durable and can withstand the weight of your studio equipment.
• Cable Management: An organized and tidy workspace contributes to a more efficient workflow. Choose a desk that offers cable management solutions to keep your cables and wires neatly organized and prevent tangling.
• Storage and Shelving: Consider your storage needs for items like headphones, microphones, cables, and other accessories. Some budget-friendly studio desks come with built-in shelves or racks, which can help keep your essentials within reach. A slide out keyboard shelf is another nice feature that can help you save space in your studio.
• Aesthetics: While not directly related to functionality, the aesthetic appeal of the desk can impact your motivation and creativity. Choose a design that resonates with your style and enhances the ambiance of your home studio.
• Assembly: Check whether the desk comes with clear assembly instructions and all the necessary hardware. A straightforward assembly process can save you time and frustration.
• Weight Capacity: Verify the weight capacity of the desk to ensure it can handle the combined weight of your equipment without sagging or causing structural issues.

Accessories for Your Studio Desk

Here are a few other options and useful accessories to consider when getting a desk for your home recording studio:

Stand Up Keyboard Tray →

This is a terrific accessory if you have a regular table edge and space underneath and you want to place a keyboard there.

The depth of this adjustable keyboard tray is 12.25 inches and the width of the smaller size is 27.5 inches. A larger size that is 33 inches wide, which is big enough to accommodate a keyboard and a mouse is also available.

There are three hanging height settings of 2.69 inches, 3.44 inches, and 4.19 inches below the desktop.

This is a brilliant way to increase the work area of your studio desk and have the keyboard held underneath at a more comfortable height for typing.

There is a non-skid surface and stop guard that securely holds a keyboard in place. With its thumbscrew clamps, it attaches easily to any desktop that is up to 1.5 inches thick.

There are no tools required to attach it and this sliding keyboard tray comes off easily to use elsewhere.

Flexpro Standing Desk →

Sit or stand at this desk with easy height adjustment that is nicely powered by a hydraulic pump to change the desk height in seconds. The height is adjustable up to 20.5 inches.

It can sit on top of your existing studio desk or worktable (not included). It comes fully assembled right out of the box. Just set it in place and lift it by the two built-in handles to adjust it to your eye level.

The durable metal base is strong enough to support up to 35 lbs of weight on its shelves. The feet each have a level adjustment to remove wobble caused by uneven surfaces.

The lower shelf/desktop is 37 inches wide with plenty of room for a keyboard and mouse. The monitor shelf is the same width and that allows plenty of room for two large monitors.

OHill Wires Organizer →

Proper cable management is essential for optimizing studio desks and workstations.

This is a kit of 16 differently-sized wire holders with self-sticking adhesive backing. The backing will stick to almost any surface that is clean and dry. These are useful to hold cables in place (such as cables from your studio monitors) and keep everything organized around your recording desk. They can hold anything small that fits in them.

Besides cables, they work for toothbrushes, as a penholder, or to hold tools such as screwdrivers.

Joto Cable Management Sleeve →

This is a four-pack of cable sleeves used to hold many cables together in a stretchable neoprene fabric sleeve that wraps around them and then zips up. The outside dimensions are 1.2 inches after a sleeve is zipped with the cables held inside. The length of each sleeve is 19 to 20 inches. Each one can hold eight to 10 cables, depending on the cable thickness. These sleeves are easy to remove and reuse and are great for organizing studio desks.

Pasow Wires Rope Holder →

This is 50-pack of reusable cable ties that are Velcro. They wrap around any cables and hold them together in a neatly organized fashion. They come in many colors, which can be helpful for using as identification by the color coordination of the audio pathways. The colors are black, blue, bright yellow-green, orange, purple, and red. They help keep cables neatly untangled when the cables are not in use.

Want to Build a DIY Studio Desk?

What does it take to build studio desks yourself?

Here is a link to a YouTube video for a DIY studio desk for those who prefer to build their own. This is more about having a custom solution for your recording desk than about saving money.

The video producer Richard diZerga chose to make his custom desk instead of buying a platform desk from Output for $800. Richard estimated that the cost of materials for his custom studio desk was about $250. It took him three days of his labor to create the desk from birch plywood that he used.

He used the design of the Output desk for his inspiration but ended up making his platform desk from his custom measurements and made some improvements in the design for his needs.

He finished the wood by giving it three coats of shellac and sanding with fine-grain sandpaper between each coat. Then he polished the finished desk using beeswax furniture polish to give it a nice glossy look.

FAQ

How do you choose the right studio desk? 

With so many studio desks out there, it’s important to be sure you’re choosing the one that’s right for your space.

Some factors to consider are the size of your space, the layout of your studio setup/creative space, the type of recording you’ll be doing (e.g. voiceover work, music production, podcasting, etc.), what equipment you need the desk to hold (e.g. computer monitor, studio monitors, interface, etc.), and your budget.

There is no single “best studio desk” for everyone. Your creative space is unique. It all depends on finding the right desk for your unique needs and your home studio setup.

What makes a good studio desk?

When looking for a good recording desk for your home studio setup, there are a few things to keep in mind.

The desk should be large enough to accommodate all of your equipment, and it should be made from a sturdy material that can handle the weight of your gear. You want to make sure the desk is made from quality, durable materials that will withstand daily wear and tear.

It’s also important to choose a desk that has a lot of storage space, so you can keep all of your cables and accessories organized.

How much is a studio desk?

Studio desks come in a wide range of prices — from under $100 to several hundred dollars. However, there’s no need to spend a lot of money on a recording desk. You can easily get a high-quality, cheap studio desk for $200 or less.

How big is a studio desk?

Studio desks come in all different sizes — from smaller desks to fit in cramped home recording spaces to large desks to fit in a big professional workspace. A typical recording desk for a home studio might be around 30″ tall, 47″ wide, and 25-30″ deep.

How deep should a studio desk be?

The ideal recording desk depth depends on how much equipment you have (e.g. studio monitors, computer monitor, interface, music production equipment, etc.), but in general, you want to make sure your desk is 20-30″ deep.

Where should a home studio desk be placed?

While many people are limited by the size of their room in a home studio, ideally you don’t want your recording desk to be too close to the wall as sound from the studio monitors can reflect off the walls and cause issues.

How do you put together a recording desk?

When setting up studio desks, there are a few things to consider. First, locate the manual from the manufacturer, and make sure you have all the tools you need. If the desk is going into a small space, you may want to bring the individual pieces into that room and assemble it inside your studio so you don’t have to worry about squeezing the desk through a small doorway or other tight spaces once it’s fully assembled.

How do you organize studio desks?

Keeping your studio desks organized is essential to being productive and effective at recording. There are many things professionals do when organizing their studio desks, including proper cable management to keep cords from getting tangled, cable labeling, removing clutter/unused items, using shelves and drawers on desks, using hooks to hang items like headphones, and cleaning up regularly. Take the time to make sure your studio setup is just right.

Can you build your own recording desk?

Building your own studio desk can be a great way to save money, and it allows you to customize the desk to fit your specific needs.

However, there are some downsides to building your own desk.

It can be difficult to find the right materials, and it can be time-consuming to put the desk together. If you’re not experienced in carpentry, it’s likely that you’ll run into some problems while building the desk.

Overall, building your own studio desk can be a great way to save money and get exactly what you need. Just make sure you’re aware of the potential challenges involved in the process beforehand.

A Final Word on Studio Desks

The prices for these manufactured studio desks were all under $200. Many were under $100.

For those low prices, it is not worth the effort to make a recording desk from scratch unless you have very specific customized needs. It’s totally doable to find a great desk with enough room for ample workspace at a reasonable price.

Be careful if you plan to use a desk in a sound booth for voice-over recording because if the studio desk surfaces are too reflective, this can distort your sound in ways you may not like. You may have to cover the desktop surface with something like thick padding, carpet tiles, or other sound-deadening materials if you want to put your microphone on it to make a nice sounding voice-over recording.

Be sure to read the information about other voice-over equipment that you may need and the reviews of the best voice-over microphones for a home studio.

Remember, measure everything carefully, if space is tight. You want to make sure the desk actually fits in your workspace and has room for all of your equipment, like your computer, studio monitors, interface, voiceover and music production equipment, etc.

If you are building a studio desk outside of a small sound booth and then want to place the desk inside, be sure to understand any challenges for getting an assembled desk through a narrow door.

If you anticipate that this is a problem, consider assembling your recording desk in place, inside the booth instead.

Have a question about choosing the best cheap studio desk for your home setup? Leave a comment below.

The post 6 Best Cheap Studio Desks for a Home Recording Studio Under $200 (2023) appeared first on MyeLearningWorld.

Of course, not all cheap microphones are up to par, so it’s important to do your homework before making a purchase. To help you out, I’ve compiled a list of the best budget-friendly microphones I’ve tried over the years in my home studio as an eLearning creator. I’ve tested and reviewed dozens of affordable budget microphones since originally putting together this guide back in 2021 (and all throughout my nearly 20 years in the industry), and now, I’ve fully updated it for 2023 to include a curated list of the top cheap microphones on the market today.

I made my picks based on a range of factors, including audio quality, durability, ease of use, and of course, cost (click here to learn about our entire Editorial Process & Methodology for product reviews).

Quick Pick for the Best Budget Microphones Under $100

Don’t feel like reading the full rundown of budget microphones? Here are my quick picks for the very best budget mic under $100:

The Blue Snowball is my top pick for a condenser mic under $100. This budget microphone has a beautiful, classy, retro look. The polar pattern can be changed to allow omnidirectional pickup of sound coming toward the device from every direction or a more-focused cardioid pattern that does not pickup sound from behind the microphone.

The Shure SM58 is my choice of a cardioid dynamic microphone under $100. The pickup pattern is able to capture sounds from in front of the device and not those sounds coming from behind it. Roadies love this budget microphone because it is so durable. You can drop it, swing it around your head on its cable and it will probably still work. Shure products have been the music industry standard for decades.

The MXL R144 is my choice of ribbon mic that is also great. This budget microphone costs right at $100, and among the ribbon models, its price is much cheaper.  The bidirectional polar pattern picks up both the instruments being recorded and the room sound. The high SPL makes it a good choice for a microphone used to record loud instruments like brass or amplified electric guitars. The shock mount helps prevent damage to the product.

The Full List of My Favorite Budget Microphones Under $100

I separated my budget microphone reviews into four categories:

1. Large-Diaphragm Condenser;
2. Small-Diaphragm Condenser;
3. Dynamic;
4. Ribbon.

I also indicate the type of connectors that the microphones have, which can be XLR, USB, and XLR plus USB.

Each category of mic is designed to use for a specific purpose. If you need a refresher about the differences between these four categories, watch this video:

Best Budget Microphones

	1. Audio-Technica AT2020 → Professionals will appreciate this model. Category: large-diaphragm condenser [XLR]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	2. MXL V67G → For those who want to record warm sounding vocals and to speak directly into the mic. Category: large-diaphragm condenser [XLR]	Amazon →MXL →
	3. AKG P120 → Suitable for professional recording studios and home studios. Category: large-diaphragm condenser [XLR]	Amazon →AKG →
	4. Blue Snowball → For podcaster or someone who make voice-overs using software. Category: large-diaphragm condenser [USB] My choice among microphones under $100	Amazon →Blue →
	5. Samson Meteor Mic → Good budget microphone for those who need a compact portable device. Category: large-diaphragm condenser [USB]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	6. Razer Seiren X → Perfect for gamers and live streamers. Category: large-diaphragm condenser [USB]	Amazon →Razer →
	7. AKG PERCEPTION 170 → For studio recording of instruments. Category: small-diaphragm condenser [XLR]	AKG →
	8. MXL 770 → Good budget microphone that can be used for voice-overs, vocals, and recording instruments Category: small-diaphragm condenser [XLR]	Amazon →Guitar Center →
	9. Samson Go Mic → An improvement over the built-in mics found in laptops and still is small enough to be portable. Category: small-diaphragm condenser [USB]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	10. Rode NT-USB-Mini → This budget mic is terrific for podcasting. Category: small-diaphragm condenser [USB]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	11. Blue Yeti Nano → An attractive model for doing podcasts. Category: small-diaphragm condenser [USB]	Logitech→
	12. Shure SM58-LC → Good for almost every live music performance and live recording use. Category: dynamic [XLR] My choice among dynamic microphones under $100	Amazon →SweetWater →
	13. Sennheiser E835 → Made for vocalists giving live performances. Category: dynamic [XLR]	Amazon →Sennheiser →
	14. Samson Q2U → Best budget microphone recommended for Garageband users. Category: dynamic [USB + XLR]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	15. Audio-Technica AT2005USB → Good starter choice for voice-overs and podcasts Category: dynamic [USB + XLR]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	16. Audio-Technica ATR2100x → Good choice for those with devices that have a USB-C input. Category: dynamic [USB + XLR]	Amazon →SweetWater →
	17. MXL R144 → This device helps broaden the tonal palette of instrument recordings. Category: ribbon My choice among cheap ribbon mics!	Amazon →