On Your Gear!
Shure MOTIV MV51
Overall Rating: 5/5
Unleash studio-grade recording capabilities with the Shure MOTIV MV51. Elevate your sound quality effortlessly – explore the MV51 now!
Blue Yeti USB Microphone
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Level up your audio game with the Blue Yeti USB Microphone – a powerhouse for crystal-clear recordings. Experience an excellent sound quality flawlessly – discover the Blue Yeti now!
RODE NT-USB Mini USB Microphone
Overall Rating: 4/5
Capture your voice in stunning detail with the RODE NT-USB Mini USB Microphone. Go ahead and explore the NT-USB Mini today!
The 7 Best Microphones For Background Noise
The 7 mics below have been selected due to overall performance and customer reviews.
- Shure MOTIV MV51
- Blue Yeti USB Microphone
- RODE NT-USB Mini USB Microphone
- Shure SM58
- Electro-Voice RE320
- Samsom Q2U
- Zoom H4n Pro
Too Much Noise For My Mics
In today’s world of content creation, podcasts, and video conferencing, a high-quality microphone is essential for anyone looking to stand out from the competition.
One of the major challenges faced when investing in a microphone is the ability to minimize background noise, ensuring clear and professional sound.
This article aims to explore the best microphone for background noise available on the market, as well as other important things to think about.
The Best Microphone For Background Noise May Vary
Regardless of the specific requirements, the core functionality of a good microphone for eliminating background noise remains consistent – capturing your voice while ensuring the surrounding distractions remain as inconspicuous as possible. 🤔
To provide an in-depth understanding of the top-performing microphones capable of handling background noise, this article will delve into the available technologies and designs, as well as discuss their advantages and limitations.
Armed with this knowledge, you will be better equipped to make an informed decision when choosing the perfect microphone for your specific needs! Let’s look at the best microphone for background noise in each of these!!
Examining Specific Microphone Models – Best Options
Please note: Different microphones cater to a variety of needs and preferences, taking into account factors such as personal budget, recording environment, and intended use.
1. Shure MOTIV MV51
The Shure MOTIV MV51 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone specially designed for high-quality digital audio recording.
Engineered with a retro-inspired yet modern look, this microphone offers versatile features suitable for a wide range of recording applications.
With its intuitive controls, it provides users with quick access to various recording settings, including a built-in touch panel for adjusting volume, gain, and monitoring in real-time.
The MV51 also features five onboard DSP preset modes tailored for various recording scenarios, ensuring optimal sound quality and versatility.
This microphone is compatible with both iOS and USB-equipped devices, making it a versatile choice for recording music, podcasts, vocals, and instruments with ease and exceptional audio clarity.
You can rest assured, knowing the Shure MV Models are sophisticated digital audio recording solutions offering exceptional versatility and top-notch performance.
I have this Shure MOTIV mic and I absolutely love it! I used to use it to just record my drums, but since I’ve acquired gear again, I use it for my vocals for all drum videos. With the settings available on this, it is a very adaptable mic!
I don’t typically do a lot of post-mixing and I get some pretty solid voice mixes, especially considering I am drumming in all of these mixes. I personally think this is the best microphone for background noise, especially with the background noise being DRUMS! 💯
Pros:
- Sound Quality: Praised for crisp, clear, and well-balanced audio suitable for vocals and instruments.
- Durability: Commended for sturdy build quality, featuring a solid metal housing for long-term use.
- Design and Usability: Liked for its stylish vintage design, easy setup, and plug-and-play feature, compatible with various devices.
- Versatility: Applauded for recording versatility across different content types like podcasts and musical performances, with various recording modes.
Cons:
- Price: Some users find the price relatively high compared to similar USB microphones, considering its features.
- Compatibility Issues: Reported difficulties in compatibility with certain operating systems or software.
- Limited Polar Patterns: Fixed polar pattern restricts directional flexibility, lacking options for various recording scenarios.
- Gain Control: Users noted issues with adjusting gain, citing complexity or lack of a physical gain knob for software-based adjustments.
2. Blue Yeti USB Microphone
The Blue Yeti USB Microphone is well-regarded for its ability to manage background noise effectively due to several key features:
Multiple Polar Patterns: The Blue Yeti offers multiple polar patterns, including cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo.
The cardioid pattern, commonly used for solo recordings, captures sound primarily from the front while minimizing unwanted noise from the sides and rear. This directional characteristic helps in focusing on the primary sound source and reducing ambient noise.
Quality Construction: The microphone is built with a sturdy and durable design that minimizes internal vibrations and resonances.
This construction reduces the likelihood of picking up mechanical noise, resulting in cleaner recordings with fewer unwanted sounds.
Built-in Gain Control and Volume Control: The Blue Yeti features convenient controls for adjusting gain and volume directly on the microphone.
Properly adjusting the gain helps in optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio, allowing you to capture the desired sound while minimizing background noise.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP): The microphone includes internal digital processing that helps enhance the audio quality and reduce certain types of background noise.
This feature aids in providing clearer recordings by minimizing unwanted sounds during the capture process.
Compatible Software: Blue offers companion software, such as the Blue Sherpa app, that allows users to fine-tune microphone settings, including gain adjustments and various audio processing features.
These software tools can assist in reducing background noise and optimizing the microphone for specific recording scenarios.
The Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a popular choice for podcasters, streamers, and home studio enthusiasts due to its versatility and ease of use.
This microphone features multiple pickup patterns, including cardioid, which can be the best microphone for background noise noise for you and reducing that! Some prominent features of the Blue Yeti USB Microphone are:
- USB connection for plug-and-play simplicity
- Multiple pickup patterns, including cardioid
- Onboard gain control and headphone jack
- Ideal for vocals, podcasts, and voiceovers
Pros:
- Superb Sound Quality: Provides exceptional, clear, and high-quality audio for podcasts, streaming, vocals, and instruments.
- Versatile Polar Patterns: Offers multiple settings (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo) for diverse recording needs.
- Ease of Use: Simple plug-and-play setup; compatible with various operating systems, no extra software needed.
- Durable Build: Sturdy, solid metal construction and adjustable stand ensure stability during recordings.
Cons:
- Background Noise Sensitivity: Some users find it sensitive to background noise, requiring adjustments to minimize unwanted sounds.
- Bulkiness: Its size and weight may hinder portability compared to smaller USB microphones.
- No XLR Output: Lacks an XLR output, requiring additional equipment to connect to professional audio interfaces.
- Price Factor: Considered relatively expensive compared to other USB microphones in the market.
3. RODE NT-USB Mini USB Microphone
The RODE NT-USB Mini USB Microphone is revered for its capacity to minimize background noise due to several design elements:
Directional Recording: The NT-USB Mini features a cardioid polar pattern that captures sound primarily from the front while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear.
This focused pickup pattern enables the microphone to capture the intended audio source more directly and reduce environmental noises.
Internal Shock Mounting: The microphone incorporates an integrated shock mounting system that effectively reduces vibrations and handling noise.
This feature helps in isolating the microphone from external physical disturbances, ensuring clearer recordings with fewer unwanted sounds.
Quality Build: RODE microphones are known for their high-quality construction and attention to detail.
The NT-USB Mini is built with premium components and offers a durable design, reducing the likelihood of mechanical vibrations or resonance that could introduce unwanted noise into recordings.
Digital Signal Processing (DSP): The microphone includes built-in digital signal processing that can assist in reducing background noise and enhancing audio quality.
While not specifically designed for noise cancellation, these digital features can improve the overall sound by minimizing certain types of ambient noise.
Compatible Software: RODE provides companion software, the RODE Connect app, which includes features like noise reduction and audio processing tools.
These software tools help in reducing background noise and enhancing the clarity of recordings made with the NT-USB Mini.
While the RODE NT-USB Mini isn’t explicitly marketed as a noise-canceling microphone, its directional recording, shock mounting, and digital processing features make it effective in reducing background noise and capturing clean audio recordings in various environments.
Pros:
- Sound Quality: Excellent audio clarity suitable for vocals, podcasts, and instruments.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight design for convenient on-the-go recordings.
- Ease of Use: Simple plug-and-play setup for compatibility with various devices.
- Build Quality: Durable metal construction ensures long-term reliability.
Cons:
- Limited Accessories: Some users desire extra accessories like a pop filter for improved performance.
- Headphone Jack Volume: Few users find the headphone volume control slightly sensitive.
- Gain Control: Limited gain range; some find adjustment slightly challenging.
4. Shure SM58
The Shure SM Series microphones are renowned for their durability and performance in various environments.
With its cardioid polar pattern, the Shure SM58 is particularly effective at minimizing background noise.
It does so by focusing on the sound source directly in front of the microphone while rejecting sounds from the sides and rear. In most of their models, I believe Shure makes the best microphone for background noise. Some features of the Shure SM Series include:
- Dynamic microphone design
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Built-in shock mount system
- Frequency response tailored for vocals
Pros:
- Durable Build: Known for its robust construction, making it highly durable for extensive use in live performances and studio recording.
- Excellent Sound Quality: Praised for its clear and crisp audio reproduction, especially for vocals.
- Effective at Noise Rejection: Superior at minimizing background noise and feedback, ensuring a clean and focused sound.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent and reliable performance over extended periods, withstanding rugged handling and various environmental conditions.
Cons:
- No On/Off Switch: Lacks an on/off switch, which some users might prefer for immediate muting during performances.
- Slightly Heavy: Compared to some newer models, a few users find it slightly heavier, which might affect prolonged handheld use.
- Sensitivity to Plosives: May capture plosive sounds (like ‘p’ and ‘b’ sounds), requiring additional accessories like a pop filter for improvement.
5. Electro-Voice RE320
Electro-Voice RE models, such as the RE20 and RE320, are known for their exceptional noise rejection capabilities.
They employ a “Variable-D” design that minimizes the proximity effect and allows for more consistent tonal quality when used at varying distances. Key aspects of Electro-Voice RE Models include:
- Dynamic microphone design
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Variable-D technology for consistent tonality
- Great for both vocals and instruments
Pros:
- Versatile Performance: Admired for its versatility in capturing a wide range of instruments and vocals with exceptional clarity.
- Robust Build: Highly praised for its durable build quality and solid construction, making it suitable for long-term use.
- Excellent Sound Quality: Known for delivering rich, clear, and natural audio reproduction, particularly for broadcasting and recording vocals.
- Reduced Proximity Effect: Effective at minimizing proximity effect, enabling consistent sound quality at varying distances from the microphone.
Cons:
- Limited Accessories: Some users desire additional accessories or a shock mount to enhance performance further.
- Requires Phantom Power: As a dynamic microphone, it necessitates a preamp or interface with sufficient gain, which might require phantom power.
- Sensitivity to Handling Noise: While sturdy, a few users notice that it can pick up handling noise or vibrations, particularly when handling the microphone.
6. Samsom Q2U
The Samson Q Series microphones offer an affordable range of dynamic microphones designed for various applications in live sound and recording.
The Samson Q2U features a cardioid polar pattern, effectively rejecting background noise and delivering clear vocal reproduction.
It also offers a USB connection, making it an enticing option for budget-conscious users. Features of the Samson Q Series include:
- Dynamic microphone design
- Cardioid polar pattern
- USB and XLR connectivity options
- Affordable price point
Pros:
- Versatility: Praised for its versatility in capturing vocals, instruments, and podcasting with clear and natural sound quality.
- Dual Connectivity: Offers both USB and XLR connections, providing flexibility for direct computer use or connection to audio interfaces and mixers.
- Budget-Friendly: Considered a cost-effective option for its reasonable price while delivering quality performance.
- Easy Setup: Simple and user-friendly setup without the need for additional drivers; compatible with various operating systems.
Cons:
- Build Quality: A few users note that the microphone’s build might feel less robust compared to more premium options.
- USB Cable Quality: Some users report issues with the provided USB cable quality, recommending using a better-quality cable for improved reliability.
- Pop Filter Requirement: Suggested by some users to benefit from a pop filter or windscreen to minimize plosives and breath sounds during recording.
7. Zoom H4n Pro
Zoom H Models, such as the Zoom H1n and Zoom H4n Pro, are portable audio recorders equipped with built-in microphones.
The H4n Pro features adjustable XY microphones that allow users to control the stereo width, making it easier to focus on the sound source and reduce unwanted ambient noise. Some features of the Zoom H Models are:
- Portable audio recorders with built-in microphones
- Adjustable XY microphone configuration on H4n Pro
- Onboard audio processing and limiting features
- Versatile recording options, including multitrack
Pros:
- Sound Quality: Praised for its exceptional audio recording quality and versatility in capturing various sources, including vocals, instruments, and field recordings.
- Versatile Features: Offers adjustable XY stereo microphones, multiple recording formats, phantom power for external mics, and built-in effects for enhancing recordings.
- Build Quality: Sturdy construction and durable design, suitable for both studio and on-the-go recording environments.
- Battery Life: Appreciated for its extended battery life, allowing for longer recording sessions without frequent recharging.
Cons:
- Menu Navigation: Some users find the menu navigation and settings adjustment slightly complex or not as intuitive, requiring time to familiarize themselves with the device.
- Size and Weight: Considered relatively bulkier compared to smaller handheld recorders, potentially impacting portability for some users.
- Interface Issues: A few users report occasional interface issues or software bugs that might affect operation or recording reliability.
Understanding Microphones in a Noisy Environment
Ambient Noise and Unwanted Sounds
What about the best microphone for background noise in a constantly noisy space? In a noisy environment, ambient noise and unwanted sounds can significantly impact the quality of audio recordings.
Ambient noise refers to the background sounds present in an environment, while unwanted sounds are specific noises that may interfere with the target sound. To combat these issues, it’s pretty important to select the proper microphone type.
Directional microphones, such as cardioid microphones and shotgun microphones, are designed to focus on a specific sound source while minimizing surrounding noise.
These microphones can be useful in noisy environments, as they prioritize the target sound and help to minimize unwanted noise.
Additionally, using a shock mount can help reduce vibrations and noise caused by handling the microphone. It isolates the microphone from external disturbances, ensuring that the target sound is clear!
Target Sounds and Noise Level
In order to effectively capture target sounds in a noisy environment, it’s essential to consider the noise level of the location.
Noise level refers to the volume of ambient noise and unwanted sounds, which can make it difficult to distinguish the target sound.
Here are some tips for optimizing sound capture/recording in noisy environments:
- Positioning: Place the microphone closer to the target sound source to ensure clear audio capture.
- Microphone pattern selection: Choose a directional microphone with a polar pattern that best suits the scenario, ensuring it’s focused on the target sound.
- Noise-cancellation technologies: Some microphones are equipped with noise-cancellation features, making it easier to capture clear audio in noisy settings.
Understanding the impact of ambient noise and unwanted sounds on audio quality is crucial when selecting a microphone for use in a noisy environment.
By considering factors such as microphone type, positioning, and noise-cancellation technologies, it’s possible to achieve clear audio capture of target sounds while minimizing the effects of unwanted noise.
Types of Microphones and Their Qualities
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are a popular choice for any live performance and studio recordings due to their durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels.
They use a magnetic coil to convert sound waves into electrical signals. Dynamic mics are less sensitive to subtle sound details, making them ideal for capturing louder sounds while minimizing background noise.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones are perfect for capturing intricate details in sound and have a wider frequency response compared to dynamic microphones.
They require an external power source, such as phantom power, making them more suitable for studio recordings (and cymbals if you are a drummer)!
Condenser mics are more fragile and sensitive to environmental factors like temperature and humidity. Therefore, they are not recommended for applications where ruggedness is a priority.
Omnidirectional Microphones
Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from all directions (omnidirectional polar pattern), making them a great choice for recording audio in a natural and realistic manner (hello nature documentaries). These microphones have the following characteristics:
- Wide frequency response
- Natural sound capture
- More sensitive to room ambience
However, they also pick up more background noise and are not ideal in situations where you need to focus on a specific sound source.
Noise Cancelling Microphones
A noise cancelling microphone is specifically designed to minimize or reduce background noise. They use a unidirectional or cardioid polar pattern that captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from other directions. Some features of noise cancelling microphones include:
- Improved audio clarity
- High noise rejection capabilities
- Best for noisy environments
These microphones are often used for podcasts, interviews, and broadcasting purposes to provide a clear, concise audio output.
How to Enhance Audio Quality
Using a Pop Filter
While the best microphone for background noise is important, a pop filter is an essential tool when it comes to enhancing audio quality. It is placed between the microphone and the speaker to reduce plosive sounds like “p” and “b” that can cause distortions in the recording.
This device eliminates unwanted noise, ensuring a clearer and more professional sound.
- Benefits of using a pop filter:
- Reduces unwanted noise
- Protects the microphone from saliva and moisture
- Improves vocal clarity
Choosing the Right Frequency Response
The frequency response is a crucial factor in determining audio quality. It refers to the microphone’s ability to pick up and reproduce a range of sound frequencies accurately.
Each microphone has its frequency response, which can be tailored to specific applications.
- Characteristics of a good frequency response:
- Flat frequency response for natural and accurate sound reproduction
- Slight presence boost for vocal clarity and detail
- Tailored frequency response for specific uses (e.g., instruments)
When selecting a microphone, check its frequency response chart and ensure it suits your desired application. This will result in improved audio quality and better overall performance.
Importance of a Unique Design
Unique design plays a vital role in enhancing audio quality. Microphones with specialized features, such as noise cancellation, are designed to reduce background noise and capture the speaker’s voice more clearly.
For instance, unidirectional microphones are effective at isolating the main source of sound and decreasing ambient noise.
- Design features that can improve audio quality:
- Noise suppression technology
- Unidirectional polar pattern
- Shock mount attachments
- Built-in acoustic treatment
Choose a microphone with a distinctive design that caters to your specific needs to ensure optimal audio quality.
In conclusion, enhancing audio quality is crucial for a successful recording setup. By using a pop filter, selecting the right frequency response, and opting for a unique design, you can significantly improve the overall quality of your audio recordings. 😃
Choosing the Best Microphone for You
When searching for the best microphone for background noise reduction, there are a few key factors to consider.
The type of microphone, its polar pattern, and additional features should all be taken into account. This section will guide you through the process of choosing the right microphone for your needs as a content creator.
First, let’s explore the different types of microphones. The most common types of microphones are:
- Dynamic microphones
- Condenser microphones
- Ribbon microphones
Dynamic microphones are known for their durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. These microphones are generally more affordable and work well in live settings or environments with loud background noise.
On the other hand, condenser microphones are more sensitive and provide a higher level of audio fidelity.
They are a popular choice for recording vocals and instruments in the studio. However, they may pick up more background noise due to their sensitivity.
Ribbon microphones are typically not the best choice for content creators dealing with background noise, as they are delicate and sensitive to loud sounds.
They are often used in controlled studio environments and may not be suitable for your needs.
Now, let’s consider the polar patterns. A microphone’s polar pattern determines the directionality of its sound pickup. Common polar patterns include:
- Cardioid
- Omnidirectional
- Bidirectional
A cardioid polar pattern is ideal for reducing background noise, as it captures sound primarily from the front and sides while rejecting sound from the rear. This pattern is perfect for isolating your voice from other sounds in the environment.
Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from all directions, making them less suitable for reducing background noise.
Likewise, bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and rear, which may not be ideal for your requirements.
To further improve your audio quality, you might want to consider microphones with additional features, like:
- Noise-canceling technology
- High-pass filters
A noise-canceling microphone works to actively reduce or eliminate background noise, allowing for a clearer audio signal. Meanwhile, high-pass filters can help remove low-frequency rumbling noises.
The best microphone for you will depend on your specific needs and recording environment.
Focus your search on dynamic or condenser microphones with a cardioid polar pattern, and consider additional features that can help reduce background noise and deliver the most pristine audio possible.
Mics And More
So, what is the best microphone for background noise? I think enough has been covered in this to help you out.
High-quality audio can be achieved with any of these choices. Ultimately, if you start with the basics in mind for what you absolutely need, you shouldn’t have any issues finding one that’ll work for you!
You Are Armed With Microphone Knowledge
So, what are your thoughts on mics and eliminating background noise? I’d love to hear your comments below or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at evan@attunedmusician.com!
Want to save $$ 🤑 and get your gear?? 🧐 You can find ALL you need on Musician’s Friend by clicking here! 🔥