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Cheap Dynamic Mic for VO?

R

Randy Lahey

I know for voice over most would prefer a condensor, but if acoustics are bad a dynamic can help a lot. For condensors, there are a lot of pretty decent mics for under $250.

Dynamics seem to have 2 ranges - stage/instrument mics like 57s and 58s etc, and then the studio mics like RE20, Heil Pr40, Senn 421, Shure SM7 etc. The Shure 57/58s are nice and cheap, but won't really do the job for VO, and the other mics I mentioned are about $350 and up.

Is there any dynamics you guys would recomend for VO other than the ones I mentioned(also cheaper. lol)
 
First..... I would debate with your first premise.... that somehow a dynamic mic deals with acoustics better than a condenser mic. The polar pick-up characteristics are the key factor in whether the residual noise in the room is going to compete with the primary signal of your voice.

Second... if budget is a critical factor I would not be so quick to write off the SM57 or 58. Work it right, located it in the room right and condition the room a bit and you can do some pretty dynamite stuff. In the end it is going to be YOUR VOICE and your DELIVERY that brings home the groceries.

Third.... Don't overlook something like the AT2020 or the Sampson CO1 in a condenser mic. If you go into the studio knowing that you don't have a $1,500 mic it may motivate you to put a little extra care and effort in your voice. Then you may end up sounding better than the person with the big fancy mic who tries to slide through.... thinking the mic cures all wants and ills.

Fourth... whatever you end up with do a lot of experimenting with location of you and the mic in your recording space. Find a location within the space and a direction to face that minimizes any noise and reflections trashing up your space. Experiment with the position and angle of closet doors. Find a used bookshelf or two and angle them somewhere in the room that takes the fiz out of noise and reflections. (A few randomly spaced used books on the shelves will also help.)
 
I know you'll feel like singing "Feelings" at a wedding, but the SM58 is SURPRISINGY vivid in detail when in the studio..really a strong VO mic with a little EQ. My favorite dynamic is still the black bullett MD421 from Sennheiser..BUT WAUT! for an even BETTER version (with a capsule made with better materials..slightly better low end..find a vintage one from www.madooma.com a grey body. AWESOME, and a little cheaper than a new one. Martin over there always has a batch of them. (remember to click the ENGLISH box)
 
Find an Electro Voice RE-15 or RE-16.

Sleeper mics and there's a reason their value has been rising on e-bay in the last few months.

Also, you won't find it for less than $300 usually but the Beyer M-88TG is excellent as well.
 
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