You might assume that the most expensive studio microphone is the safest bet for your strings, but that is often far from the truth. An acoustic guitar is a complex, wood-resonant machine that frequently sounds better through a simple, character-filled transducer.
Choosing the Best Microphones for Recording Acoustic Guitar requires understanding how the room interacts with your specific instrument. Sometimes a humble dynamic mic captures the nuance you crave better than a high-end condenser. Keep reading to see how these different designs affect your final sound.
Key Takeaways
- Small diaphragm condensers generally provide the most accurate frequency response for capturing delicate string vibrations.
- Dynamic microphones excel at filtering out unwanted room noise if you are recording in a less than ideal acoustic space.
- Consider a pair of matched microphones if you want to capture a wide, stereo image of your guitar body and neck.
- Cardioid polar patterns are your most reliable choice for minimizing reflections from your walls and floor.
- Large diaphragm condensers offer a warmer, more present tone that helps lead parts sit prominently in a mix.
| Best Stereo Versatility |  |
LyxPro SDPC-2 Small Diaphragm Condenser | Three interchangeable capsules | Excellent stereo imaging | Consistent frequency response | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Industry Standard Workhorse |  |
Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone | Near indestructible build | High SPL handling | Tight cardioid pickup | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Crisp Detail Specialist |  |
AKG Perception 170 Instrumental Microphone | High transient response | Lightweight pencil design | Switchable attenuation pad | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Convenient Side-Address Design |  |
Sennheiser e 609 Instrument Microphone | Unique side-address profile | Excellent isolation | Simple setup | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| The Reliable All-Rounder |  |
Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone | Legendary durability | Built-in pop filter | Consistent performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Professional Studio Clarity |  |
Rode NT1 Large Diaphragm Condenser | Very low self-noise | Large diaphragm clarity | Complete accessory kit | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Essential Entry Point |  |
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser | High SPL handling | Excellent build quality | Natural sound reproduction | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Hands-Free Performance |  |
Audio-Technica PRO 35 Clip-on | Secure clip-on design | Lightweight and unobtrusive | Wide frequency response | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Simplest Setup Possible |  |
Fifine K669B USB Condenser | USB connectivity | Easy volume control | Budget-friendly simplicity | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tone-Shaping Flexibility |  |
Behringer B 906 Dynamic Microphone | Switchable presence filter | Versatile flat design | Tight directional pickup | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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LyxPro SDPC-2 Small Diaphragm Condenser
If you want to capture the true width of your guitar, this pair is your best bet. Because they include interchangeable capsules, you can switch between cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional patterns to suit your specific room acoustics.
They are ideal for players who want a natural, precise sound without spending a fortune. Just remember that these require 48V phantom power to operate, so ensure your audio interface has that toggle switch ready to go.
- Brand:LyxPro
- Microphone Type:Small Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omni
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Stereo bar, windscreens, clips
- Application Focus:Acoustic instruments
- Additional Feature:Low noise circuitry
- Additional Feature:Durable metal construction
- Additional Feature:Precise pencil shape
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Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
You have likely seen this microphone in every studio on the planet for a reason. Its rugged design can take a beating, and it handles high sound pressure levels like a champ, making it perfect for loud strumming or dense mixes.
While it is a dynamic mic, it captures the mid-range punch of an acoustic guitar quite well when placed close to the sound hole. It lacks the shimmering highs of a condenser, so it is better suited for a gritty, focused tone.
- Brand:Shure
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Application Focus:Instruments and percussion
- Additional Feature:Flat grille design
- Additional Feature:Pneumatic shock mount
- Additional Feature:Reliable performance
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AKG Perception 170 Instrumental Microphone
This mic excels at pulling out the shimmer and transient detail that acoustic guitars produce. It is a lightweight pencil condenser that fits easily into tight spaces, allowing you to find the perfect angle near the 12th fret.
It is a fantastic tool for those seeking a bright and airy recording quality. The only downside is its sensitivity, as it will pick up background noise if your room is not properly treated.
- Brand:AKG
- Microphone Type:Small Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Stand adapter
- Application Focus:Acoustic instruments
- Additional Feature:Rugged metal chassis
- Additional Feature:Low self-noise
- Additional Feature:Consistent off-axis rejection
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Sennheiser e 609 Instrument Microphone
The flat, side-address profile of this mic is a clever solution for getting close to an instrument without the stand getting in your way. It is built to reject ambient noise, keeping your recording focused solely on the strings.
Its super-cardioid pattern provides a narrow capture area, which helps isolate your guitar from other instruments in the room. You might find it a bit dark compared to a condenser, but it sits beautifully in a busy mix.
- Brand:Sennheiser
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Super-cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Pouch, stand mount
- Application Focus:Guitar amps and acoustic
- Additional Feature:Hum-compensating coil
- Additional Feature:Integrated stand mount
- Additional Feature:Durable metal housing
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Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone
While famously a vocal mic, the SM58 is a dependable backup for acoustic guitar when you need a warm, rounded sound. It is built like a tank and features an internal pop filter that helps manage any unwanted thumps.
If you are recording in a less than ideal environment, its limited frequency range actually works in your favor by ignoring annoying high-end reflections. It won't give you studio-grade sparkle, but it will get the job done every time.
- Brand:Shure
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Zipper bag, mic clip
- Application Focus:Vocals and instruments
- Additional Feature:Pneumatic shock mount
- Additional Feature:Steel mesh grille
- Additional Feature:Uniform pickup
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Rode NT1 Large Diaphragm Condenser
This large-diaphragm condenser is the gold standard for those who want a smooth, balanced recording. It captures a wide frequency range, ensuring that both the deep resonance of the guitar body and the snap of the strings are clear.
It comes as a complete package, which is a massive help for anyone building their first recording rig. The internal shock mounting is a clever touch that keeps mechanical vibrations from muddying up your clean sound.
- Brand:Rode
- Microphone Type:Large Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Shock mount, pop filter, cable
- Application Focus:Studio recording
- Additional Feature:Gold-plated connectors
- Additional Feature:Internal capsule suspension
- Additional Feature:Sleek black finish
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Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser
This is the go-to choice for home studio owners who want professional results on a budget. It handles high sound levels with ease and provides a remarkably consistent frequency response across the board.
The side-address design makes it simple to position in front of your guitar. Just keep in mind that as a sensitive condenser, it will require a quiet room to get the best possible tracks.
- Brand:Audio-Technica
- Microphone Type:Large Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Stand mount, pouch
- Application Focus:Home studio
- Additional Feature:Custom-engineered diaphragm
- Additional Feature:Pivot mount included
- Additional Feature:Durable metal housing
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Audio-Technica PRO 35 Clip-on
If you move around while you play, a clip-on mic is the only logical choice. This tiny condenser attaches directly to your guitar, providing consistent proximity to the sound source regardless of how much you sway.
It offers a natural, open sound that is often missing from built-in guitar pickups. Because it is a small condenser, it does require a power module, which is included, to interface with your mixer or recorder.
- Brand:Audio-Technica
- Microphone Type:Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Included Accessories:Power module, clip
- Application Focus:Live performance
- Additional Feature:Flexible gooseneck
- Additional Feature:Rugged metal construction
- Additional Feature:Excellent isolation
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Fifine K669B USB Condenser
For those who want to record directly into a computer without an interface, this USB mic is the answer. It is a plug-and-play device that removes the need for extra cables or preamps.
The built-in volume knob allows for quick gain adjustments right on the mic body. While it lacks the nuance of professional XLR gear, it is perfectly fine for quick demos or casual recording projects.
- Brand:Fifine
- Microphone Type:Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Connectivity:USB
- Application Focus:Streaming and home recording
- Additional Feature:Metal body construction
- Additional Feature:Desktop stand included
- Additional Feature:Direct computer connection
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Behringer B 906 Dynamic Microphone
This microphone is a versatile tool that features a switchable presence filter to tailor the high-end response of your guitar. By flipping the switch, you can boost or cut the frequencies that determine how much detail "cuts through" the rest of the music.
The flat design allows you to hang it right in front of your amp or instrument with ease. It is a super-cardioid workhorse that helps reject unwanted sounds from the sides, focusing strictly on the tone you want to capture.
- Brand:Behringer
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Super-cardioid
- Connectivity:XLR
- Application Focus:Instruments and amps
- Additional Feature:Three-position switch
- Additional Feature:Integrated stand mount
- Additional Feature:Durable metal casing
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a condenser microphone for acoustic guitar?
You almost certainly do. Condenser microphones are built to pick up high-frequency detail and fast transients that dynamic microphones often smooth over. While you can record a guitar with a dynamic microphone in a pinch, you will likely find the results lack the sparkle and air that define a professional acoustic sound.
Where is the best place to point the microphone?
Start by aiming the capsule at the 12th fret from about six to twelve inches away. This position finds a balance between the body resonance and the crispness of the strings. If the sound is too boomy, move the microphone slightly further away from the sound hole. You want to avoid pointing directly at the hole, as that often results in a muddy, overwhelming low end.
What is the benefit of a matched pair?
A matched pair consists of two microphones produced to have identical frequency responses and output levels. This is essential for stereo recording techniques like X/Y or ORTF. Using unmatched microphones for stereo can cause the left and right channels to sound different, which creates an unbalanced image. A matched set ensures the stereo field remains cohesive and natural.
Should I worry about my room acoustics?
Acoustic guitars are sensitive instruments that capture every reflection in the room. Even the best microphone will sound mediocre if your room has excessive echo or standing waves. Use soft furnishings like rugs, curtains, or foam panels to dampen the space. You want to kill the flutter echo so the microphone hears the guitar instead of the walls.
Can I use an XLR to USB adapter?
It is much better to use a dedicated audio interface with proper phantom power. Adapters rarely provide the 48V phantom power required to run condenser microphones correctly. An interface provides a cleaner signal path and lower latency. This ensures your recordings remain professional and free from the digital noise common with cheap conversion cables.
