Are you looking for choir microphones to begin recording your hymns or songs? Then you’re in luck since we can assist you in finding one to record your song and achieve excellent results. The truth is that any microphone will not suffice. To mic a choir, you’ll need a microphone with a long-lasting construction that can tolerate many stages and tough environments. Most uses for these types of microphones will be those wishing to mix live vocals for a church choir or recording choirs at a live performance in a church building or a studio.
The majority of these microphones are condenser microphones with excellent sound quality, making them ideal for choirs. Just keep in mind that condenser microphones require phantom power to function. Some of these choir microphonses can be mounted on stands or hung from the ceiling. Before you buy, it’s a good idea to figure out where you’ll put your microphone. All of the best choir mics on this list offer a cardioid polar pattern for full HD sound.
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Shure CVO-B/C Overhead Condenser Microphone
- Tailored frequency response ideal for capturing fast transients above choirs and other ensembles
- CommShield Technology that guards against unwanted RF interference from portable wireless devices (smartphones, etc.) and high resistance to intense...
- Superior Shure design and rugged, dependable construction
The Shure CVO-B/C lightweight aerial condenser microphone is a high-quality, well-designed, and durable option. The suspended condenser microphone features in-line filters for clarity and improved sensitivity. The gooseneck shape enhances your pickability, ensuring higher quality audio streaming. It is very easy to set up and use, and will ensure a complete capture of your chorus. Like other suspension options, the placement of the microphone will affect the quality of sound reproduction.
Shure introduced the Best Choir Microphones on the market with new technology. That being said, this pendant microphone makes it possible to record live chorus sessions in the best possible way without any frequency interference for choir use. Even with a tall design feature, it still has a compact shape and that’s what makes it portable.
It can be easily adjusted for performance on stage to capture sound in the best possible way. The microphone connects via an XLR cable. The length of the mic cable is the average: 7.6 meters or 25 feet. Overall a great mic! Its price will be a pleasant surprise for you, so you should definitely take a look at this option.
Speaking of some general features, this pendant mic comes with a custom frequency response to ensure audio quality is captured in every way possible with minimum noise interference. On the other hand, the special cardioid sensor model does not allow any signal to interfere. So what you are going to record will be high quality chorus music without any background or radio signal interference. Shure is the best overhead choir microphone on the market and you can trust it with your eyes closed.
The Shure CVO-B/C Overhead Condenser Microphone is the Best Budget Choir Microphone in 2023. That said, it is a great option for your choir sessions, especially if you plan to record Full HD sound quality at churches or events.
Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones
- Small-diaphragm Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphones
Rode M5-MP is the best choir microphone in 2023 with an affordable price range. This cardioid condenser microphone comes with a neat and elegant touch, because Rode is already a famous music brand. The build and quality are on par considering the price this mic got. On the other hand, you are going to have an impact, especially when you used for recording front of a choir music session with the best condenser microphone. Alternatively, the durable and sturdy construction is the main reason this mic is over the top. That is, it can be used for a long time without worry.
Rode MP5-MP is a matching pair of condenser microphones. The great thing about them is that you can move them in different directions to capture the exact area that you want to capture. The pair is suitable for both studios and live performances. It is used to record a choir but also to record musical instruments.
Having some condenser microphones gives you crisp and clear stereo sound. The microphones are quite sensitive, however at the same time they don’t pick up a lot of noise, which is exactly what you need to record a chorus. The sound recorded by the microphones is fairly smooth, with no sharp high-frequency endings.
Australian manufacturer Rode is known for its great trucks at a reasonable cost. These are sold in pairs, which is very important when it comes to recording something like a choir. The idea behind this is that they can be used at the source. Microphones suspended above a choir can be placed at different angles. This helps create a wider sound and a better stereo matrix. This, of course, will not only apply to backing vocals, but to any situation where overhead mics might come in handy, such as cymbals on drums or recording a piece.
Due to its ability to eliminate feedback, the Rode M5-MP is an excellent choice for use with a choir. The mic will actively block out any noise and increase the sound delivery for quality output if it is placed correctly for sound picking. The microphones are simple to position and will be equally simple to store. The brand’s additional insulation techniques ensure that this mic will not be susceptible to impact, making it excellent for long-term use. It has a lot of off-axis performance, and with the appropriate positioning, it could assist catch the entire chorus.
Audio-Technica PRO 45W ProPoint Cardioid Condenser Hanging Microphone
- Hi-SPL handling is ideal for suspension over choirs and orchestras
- Wide-range condenser element with low-mass diaphragm for superior performance
- Self-contained electronics eliminate need for external power modules
Audio-Technica ProPoint is a cardioid condenser microphone that should also hang over the choir. The Best Choir Microphones is as stylish as the previous model. It is also white, which makes it imperceptible, although here you can also choose the black option. The microphone has a flat frequency response that is perfect for vocals, which is 70 Hz to 16,000 Hz. The microphone can also boast a high sound pressure level.
The ability to handle high pressure is very important in recording a choir. Audio-Technica was founded in 1962 in Tokyo, it is a Japanese company with a great reputation. They are perhaps best known for their consumer sound balance. But their trucks are also built to high standards.
If you are looking for a microphone to connect your choir, this pickup patterns is something to consider for sound reinforcement in group singing. This equips the microphone to handle high volumes. This is a condenser microphone with a low-mass design diaphragm and a pickup polar pattern. It has a gooseneck adapter. This allows you to easily point the microphone at the exact point on the sound source you want. You don’t need an external power supply as it has built-in electronics.
Audio-Technica Pro 45 is the best Choir microphone for under $100 with a unique design. It is a suspended choir microphone used to record vocals, instruments, and choral music sessions. The shape of the microphone, on the other hand, is quite compact, making it portable. With a sliding construction, one can use this microphone for a long time without worrying. Immediately after attaching this microphone, you no longer have to worry about it.
Talk about the cardioid pickup pattern. As a result, you will be able to record or deliver your voice without distortion or background noise. Alternatively, there is a low-mass diaphragm available with a special condenser element that filters the sound systems and makes it look as professional as possible. In short, the best choir mic offers a lot more than you might expect and is also a good long-term investment.
Shure MX202B/C Condenser Microphone Cardioid
- Black mini-condenser Cardioid mic, w/cable, in-line preamp, stand adapter
- Balanced, transformer less output for increased immunity to noise over long cable runs.
- Supplied stand-mount adapter for portable applications
Shure MX202 is available in two colors: black and white. The microphone manufacturers has a cardioid polar diagram, however since you can change the cartridges in this microphone, it is possible to expand the choice of polar diagrams for stereo recording. The cable for this microphone is quite long for distance range. With this, however, all the necessary details have been taken into account to increase immunity to noise, which is often the result of long cables for boom stands. The mic goes with an in-line preamplifier gain. There is also a stand adapter that you can use. The mic itself has a very flexible gooseneck so you can direct it any way you want. In addition, there is protection against radio interference and electromagnetic hum.
Typically a hanging condenser microphone will have a polar diagram included to support the main function of the microphone. The Shure MX202B / C condenser microphone has cartridges that can be changed. They include cardioid, omni, and supercardioid, which can be selected and swapped based on what you want to record and how you want to record. It is a condenser microphone with Microflex and in-line preamp, and it comes with an adapter for the microphone stand. It has a gooseneck fit. This is great for getting exactly the correct direction and angle for sound capture. It also comes with a thirty foot cord.
Designed specifically to hang over the sound source, this is an excellent microphone for a choir to use. Therefore, it should be listed as one of the best microphones for choir. The design was created to provide a balanced transformerless output. This reduces the risk of noise that can sometimes occur when using long microphone cables. They have a negligible level of radio frequency interference or any electromagnetic hum.
Behringer C-2 Studio Condenser Microphones Matched Pair
- 2 matched condenser microphones for stereo studio recording and live applications
- Ideal as main and support microphones for studio and live applications
- Cardioid pickup pattern for effective feedback elimination
The Behringer C-2 are the best budget choir mics offer versatile performance, making them one of the best microphones available for vocal and choir recording. The C-2 condenser microphone is designed to filter out noise and features higher sensitivity to enhance voice pick-up capabilities during studio recordings and choir recordings. The C2– is available in a pair of slim diaphragm microphones, increasing the range and clarity of the sound. It also includes an additional windshield for maximum noise reduction, as well as a carrying case for additional protection during storage.
The technical characteristics of this choir microphone will surely surprise you. Simply put, the best choir mics comes with a unidirectional pickup pattern that only records sound and resists background noise at the same time. Low-mass diaphragm technology is also added in the microphone that offers a wide frequency range to capture sound clarity in the best possible way. All in all, the Behringer microphone also comes with a stylish carrying case that helps protect it from the elements. Thus, you stay safe while moving the microphone from place to place to attend different chorus sessions.
They are one of the few hanging choir microphone at this price to include a -10dB pad and a high pass filter. This is great, although unfortunately you can’t use them at the same time. If you’re on a budget, these are a great pair of matching mics. They don’t have some of the features of more expensive microphones, but not everyone needs or can afford them as a boom arm.
Behringer is a German company that produces a wide range of musical equipment and sound system. They are renowned for producing good quality equipment for budget pick. This frequency level pair of matching mics is another great example of what they do.
Beyerdynamic MC930 Small Diaphragm True Condenser Cardioid Microphone
- Includes 2 matched MC 930 true condenser microphones, 2 EA 19/25 elastic suspensions, 2 WS 53 wind shields, and compact travel case
- Microphones have cardioid polar pattern for universal applications
- Very low self-noise, extraordinary signal-to-noise ratio
The Beyerdynamic MC 930 Stereo-Set includes a pair of microphones with a cardioid polar pattern, two windshields, two holders, and a carrying case. The microphones’ frequency range is 40-20 000 Hz, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 71 dB. The microphones are ideal for capturing choirs, orchestras, and single instruments for recording situations. They can be used to record singing church choirs or conversation with the windshield on.
The pre-attenuation of the microphone is 14 dB. Even under strong sound pressure, it will generate a high-quality recording. The mic has a switchable frequency filter – turn the high-pass filter with Q6 dB per octave and a frequency cutoff of 250 Hz to eliminate the proximity effect. The microphone requires phantom power source, making it suitable for use at concerts and in studios.
Beyerdynamic, a German microphone manufacturer, was founded in 1924 and has a stellar reputation. From the earliest dynamic headphones to the ‘new’ medium of cinema in the 1920s, loudspeakers for cinemas have come a long way. Beyer has seen and done everything there is to see and do. The Beatles, Abba, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder are just a few of the artists who have utilised microphones.
This microphone pair can be utilised to create a high-quality stereo pair. They’ll be able to handle a wide range of potentially tough recording conditions. Additionally, they have a high signal-to-noise ratio. They have the ability to work in specialised situations. Acoustic guitar and piano, in particular, demand precision and accuracy. They’re also impressive in any situation where overhead mics are necessary. This is why they are especially suitable for choirs.
Audio-Technica AT4021
- Outstanding performance and rugged construction
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range
- Flat, extended frequency response
With its low profile, the AT4021 choir mic is ideal for critical studio and live applications. With high SPL and dynamic range, you get a flat yet extended frequency response. With minimal self-noise and a low-mass diaphragm for transient responsiveness, it can be used for advanced recording.
The mic helps reduce handling and mechanical noise transfer by increasing response bandwidth. So, if you’re looking for the best cardioid condenser microphone with incredible sound quality, this is it.
Peavey VCM 3 Choir Microphone
- Available in Black and White
- Miniature, cardioid pattern, choir microphone
- Back-electret condenser element
The Peavey VCM 3 Choir Microphone, which hangs from the ceiling, is an excellent choice. It has a low profile and may be placed immediately over your choir or theater productions to produce high-quality sound. It’s simple to set up and use, though proper positioning is recommended to avoid distortion or imbalanced sound. It responds to a wide range of frequencies and transients. The rubberized coat should reduce damage in the event of an impact.
Samson C02 Pencil Condenser Microphones (Pair)
- Cardioid Pickup Pattern
- Gold-plated XLR connectors
- Carry Case & shock-mounted mic clips included
It’s high quality construction, the Samson C02PR Pencil Condenser Microphones will eliminate any noise and distortion caused by vibration. The diaphragm microphones have a protected construction and foam windshields, making them perfect for delivering high-quality audio in noisy conditions. They’re made with little feedback in mind, so sound output is unaffected even when using normal mic placement. They are extremely durable and can withstand greater impact than the other options offered.
Astatic 900W Cardioid Condenser Hanging Choir Mic
- Cardioid Polar Pattern
- 30' Cable
- 3-Pin XLR Connection
This is the microphone you’ve been seeking for if you’re looking for a superb hanging condenser microphone with minimal noise. It boasts an unmatched, genuine sound quality.
When utilizing sound-amplifying equipment, the ASTATIC 900W cardioid choir microphone reduces the influence of feedback. The microphone has a flexible gooseneck-style body that is plastic laminated. This allows the microphone head to be directed in the proper direction for dubbing.
A 3-pin small XLR connection with phantom power converter is included with the microphone. The ASTATIC 900W also comes with a 10-meter cable.
Rode NTK Premium Tube
- Large-diaphragm Vacuum Tube Condenser Microphone
Rode might be adored for a variety of reasons. But it’s their highly trained and qualified disciplines that put them ahead of the pack. It’s the key to their high-performance products’ success. The NTK condenser mics have kept the company’s tradition alive. This is a full frequency response 12 cardioid condenser mic.
The build quality robust and durable material. The sturdy body ensures lengthy service, as it usually does. What could be done to improve this situation? The warranty is for ten years. For a “lively” and appealing appearance, the producer employed ceramic coating with a matte black finish. When you combine the outer attractiveness with the high-quality and “pencil” structure, it will impress even the most discerning sound professional.
The Rode NTK mics ensure that the fluctuation is less than 1dB. The feature boosts the sensitivity of the microphone pair (Yes, one set comes with two similar mics).
Neewer 2-Pack Pencil Stick Condenser Microphone
- INTERCHANGEABLE CAPSULES THREE DIRECTIOANS: Includes cardioid, omni and super capsules for use in virtually most recording situation. You can get the...
- WIDELY USE: Widely used for recording studio vocals, acoustic, instruments, strings, horns, orchestras and choral groups, ambient instrument audio,...
- 5/8-INCH MIC CLIP AND WINDSCREEN: Clip Fits most microphone stand with 5/8-inch thread, can firmly hold your microphone in different positions. Foam...
For individuals who want to correctly capture sound at a long or near range, these Neewer Microphones are an excellent and very economical solution for choir performance in concert halls. They are incredibly sensitive, with interchangeable capsules that allow you to be effective in most recording settings, whether in a small, closed setting such as a studio, or in a larger, open event such as a live choir or orchestra.
The two microphones, as well as their attachments, are housed in a gorgeous foam padded aluminum case, which serves to increase the product’s durability while also making transportation much easier.
AKG Pro Audio C1000S High-Performance Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
- Gold sputtered microphone capsule and XLR pins give high immunity against humidity
- Powered by internal AA batteries or by Phantom power for use with any equipment and every application
- Bass cut and -10 dB switchable for amazing versatility in every situation
This AKG microphone is an excellent choice for recording choir sound, as well as close-voice audio (voiceovers and singing) and single instrument recording.
The sound quality is excellent and clean, with a bass reduction and a -10 dB switch for further adaptability while working in an environment with more moving, inconstant sounds. There’s also a polar pattern switch that lets you convert from cardioid to hypercardioid mode on the mic.
This product’s metal finish and gold-sputtered mic capsule make it more resistant to moisture and highly protected against it with smooth frequency response. It’s a dynamic microphone that’s also incredibly capable. This product is available for a somewhat higher-than-average price.
Shure PGA81-XLR Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone
- Flat-response microphone cartridge design for clear reproduction of acoustic instrument sound sources in more sensitive environments
- Cardioid polar pattern picks up audio from the source while rejecting unwanted noise
- Updated industrial design with black metallic finish and grille for unobtrusive visual presence
This Shure microphone is unquestionably one of the best mics available, and it also comes at a reasonable price. A flat-response mechanism and a cartridge design enable crystal clear reproduction of instrumental or choir sounds, resulting in excellent sound quality. The mic’s design also allows it to reject any unwanted secondary sounds.
The black metallic finish of the material makes these items incredibly durable, allowing them to withstand minor falls and remain completely functional for an extended period of time. Although the kit does not include a windscreen, it does include a stand adaptor to make mounting the mic on a mic stand easier.
Choir Mic Buying guide
A condenser microphone with a cardioid or super-cardioid polar pattern is typically the best option for choir mics. That’s because this mic successfully rejects the majority of feedback and audio pickups from several singers, providing good coverage.
Cardioid condenser mics are the finest option for choirs, according to the experts. They offer a ton of fantastic features and are compatible with the majority of attachments.
In general, if you choose a wired microphone, you should search for a long cable that will offer clear audio without any interference. The quality of your microphone’s audio capture is what matters most.
Here are some factors to think about when buying a choir microphone.
Position
The three primary types of choir microphones are each placed in a certain location to enable the best sound capture.
The first is an installed overhead microphone over the choir. This is the best choice because it guarantees that the microphone will pick up all voices coming from above.
The traditional microphone on a stand comes next. Although an excellent choice, it might be a little less balanced.
Third, floor-level foot-level microphones are available. The mic can be positioned close to the choir members’ feet.
The pickup technique
You may record sounds using the distinctive pickup patterns of microphones.
The cardioid pattern used on the majority of choir microphones is excellent for reducing distortion and background noise.
Wireless vs. wired
Both of these choir microphone types have benefits and drawbacks.
Wireless microphones have no mounting limitations. It is important to consider the distance range within which it should connect to the receiver.
Analog wireless microphones are inferior to wired microphones in terms of sound quality. Nonetheless, they perform similarly to wireless digital mics in terms of sound picking up and amplification.
The stage is “messed up” with wired microphones, which is a drawback. Also, you will need to use long cables if the stage is big.
UHF and VHF
Ultra-high frequency (UHF) or very high frequency (VHF) are terms used to define the frequency level of a microphone (VHF). They speak of the voice signals that are sent from your microphone to its receiver.
The frequency range of a VHF microphone is 70 MHz to 216 MHz. In contrast, the UHF microphone broadcasts from 450 MHz to 915 MHz, or nearly 5 times greater.
Naturally, the UHF mic costs a lot more than the VHF because it produces a better sound.
Unless it’s a special recording day, the average-sized church or school choir doesn’t need a UHF mic. Because interference will disrupt the frequency too much, the VHF mic is excellent.
The one unique situation in which a UHF would be truly necessary is if there are transmitters within or close to the church that interfere with your frequency.
A UHF mic can handle the transmitter far better in that situation than a VHF mic.
Budget and quality
Quality and price go hand in hand when purchasing any product. Saving money is fantastic, but not if the result is a subpar product.
Find anything in your budget range that has received positive ratings and is produced by a company you can trust for the greatest outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you mic a choir live?
Using two microphones, such as the ones discussed above, is the ideal approach to mic a small to medium-sized chorus. These condenser mics were created specifically for this use. It’s preferable to place the mics above head height and facing the vocalists if possible. Simply position the mics further apart to produce a broader stereo sound.
Where to place a choir mic?
Two at the front, one on each side, and two overheads would be ideal. Each one was recorded on its own channel. This manner, you can combine the data to create the exact sound you’re hearing. This certainly depends on the size of the choir; smaller choirs may just require two front microphones and two overhead microphones.
What is the 3/1 rule?
This is true when using matched pair stereo microphones to record a sound source. First, determine or measure the distance between the source (i.e., singers or the front row of the choir), and then space the two microphones three times the distance to the chorus. The idea is that this will assist reduce feedback by reducing interference between the mics with an audio interface. However, at the end of the day, what matters is how it sounds, so you may need to try to get it to sound the way you want it to.
How do you mic a choir for an indoors performance?
When it comes to location, a 2 foot (central-wise) distance from the choir’s first row is ideal. In terms of microphone placement, it should be 2 feet above the choir’s tallest row, with the mike pointing at the choir’s center mass. The ideal positioning of the mic system can get fairly high depending on the number of choir members and their individual positions, so it’s strongly suggested that you work with an appropriate hanging mechanism.
It’s also recommended that one microphone be used for every 20 choir members. Using more mics than necessary could generate undesired interferences, while using fewer mics than necessary could result in a failure to catch all of the choir sounds.
How do you mic a choir for an outdoors performance?
If the choir you’re putting together will be held outside, you’ll need some high-quality windscreens to go with your microphones. Aside from that, because we’re presumably talking about an open event with a larger crowd than normal, you’ll want to arrange the mics in such a way that they aren’t interfered with or torn down by any audience members.