Capture every voice, every whisper, and every sound with condenser microphones. Condenser mic uses vibrating diaphragm, which allows to capture best sound quality. Common use of these microphones is in studios, where they capture high quality sound due to their frequency and transient response.

But with so many options available in the market, choosing the right one can be a difficult task to do. The YOWD team has carefully tested various condenser microphones and has provided you with the best. With different price ranges and specific features, different microphones are available. However, the best condenser microphones will be discussed in this article.

What is Condenser Microphones?

Electric Condenser microphone use capacitor or electrostatic technology that captures the acoustic sound and converts it into electrical energy. These microphones are mostly used in recording studios as they can pick up sensitive sounds.

Condenser microphones are used in closed rooms where sound volume is low. They are perfect for recording vocals of a person and for providing best audio results. These recording tools can also be used to record any type of instrument as they pick up high frequencies.

Benefits of Condenser Microphone

Following are some of the benefits of condenser microphones:

• Condenser microphones have a wide frequency range, which allows them to capture every detail.
• Electric condenser microphone have a superior transient response, due to which they can capture high frequency without any distortion.
• Condenser microphones are more sensitive and can record sound better as compared to dynamic microphones.
• With the help of a condenser mic, it's easy to reduce unwanted ambient noise.

Drawbacks of Condenser Microphone

Some of the drawbacks of condenser microphone are as follows:

• One of the drawbacks of condenser microphone is that they are not perfect for live performances.
• An external power source is also required for the condenser mic to work.
• Condenser microphones are delicate and sensitive as compared to dynamic microphones; therefore, they are not durable.
• You need to consider your budget before purchasing condenser microphones, as they are more expensive.

Top 10 Condenser Microphones in Pakistan

The top 10 microphones in the market with different price ranges and features are given below:

Rode NT1

Rode NT1, a professional audio recording microphone condenser, features frequency of 20Hz to 20kHz. Effectively captures the most delicate sound due to its remarkable sensitivity. With 100Ω impedance and 132dB SPL, Rode NT1 provides optimal performance even in high-pressure recording environments.

Also has a large diaphragm with a cardioid polar pattern for clear sound reproduction. Rode NT1 condenser microphone standout feature is that it is equipped with an advanced JFET impedance converter and bipolar output buffer. P24 and P48 power requirements further help in compatibility.

However, the drawback of Rode NT1 is the exclusion of a pad or low cut filter, meaning, it’s not better for large drums. Rode NT1 condenser mic price in Pakistan is about Rs. 45,000/-. Regarding the rating, I guess with all these features, Rode NT1 deserves a 4/5.

Specifications

Specifications of  Rode NT1 are as follows:

Sennheiser e965

Sennheiser e965 is one of the world's best condenser microphones, which features a  frequency response ranging from 40 to 20000 Hz. The frequency range is really impressive, which is perfect for high pressure recording environments. This also provides an impedance of 50Ω with a remarkable sound pressure level of 142 dB.

Inclusion of -10dB pads is one of the standout features which enhances versatility of Sennheiser e965. Offers both cardioid and super cardioid polar patterns, which precisely capture sound.

Also features a diaphragm of 25.4mm size and a noise level of 21 dB for exceptional clarity. For smooth integration, provides a LR-3 microphone connector. However, we had one concern, which is that Sennheiser e965 doesn't come with a cushion case.

Apart from this Sennheiser e965 professional mic price in Pakistan is Rs 342,499/-. Considering these specifications, Sennheiser e965 undoubtedly deserves a 4.5/5.

Specifications

Specifications of  are given below in the table: 

Lewitt LCT 940

Lewitt LCT 940 is one of the best condenser microphones, which provides a frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz. One of the standout features of Lewitt LCT 940 is the versatile pad options it provides, which are -6dB, -12dB, and -18dB. For precisely capturing sound, Lewitt LCT 940 also provides a 1-inch diaphragm size and 86dB signal-to-noise ratio. The microphone also has multiple polar pattern options, including Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, and Supercardioid.

Lewitt LCT 940 also has XLR connector and low-cut filter, which makes it perfect for professional recording sessions. But when you are buying this amazing microphone, do consider your budget. The price of Lewitt LCT 940 is Rs 190,600/-. Keeping in mind the specifications of Lewitt LCT 940, we will rate it a solid 4/5. 

Specifications 

Specifications of Lewitt LCT 940 are as follows:

Audio-Technica AT2020

Audio-Technica AT2020 has a frequency response range of 20 to 20,000 Hz. Features an open circuit sensitivity of -37 dB for capturing sound with clarity. For removing unwanted background noise, Audio-Technica provides a 74 dB signal-to-noise ratio.

Equipped with a cardioid polar pattern, which further reduced unwanted noise from outside. Compatible with a wide range of audio equipment because of the integral 3-pin XLRM-type output connector.

However, the Audio-Technica does not have a pad or a low-cut filter. Audio-Technica is quite budget friendly having a price of Rs 33,399/-. Due to the features Audio-Technica provides, it deserves a 4.5/5.

Specifications

Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2020 are given in the table below:

Slate Digital VMS ML-1

Slate Digital VMS ML-1 microphone is one of the condenser microphone which has a lot of exceptional features. Featuring a frequency range of 20Hz-20kHz for capturing a wide spectrum of audio quality. For signal transmission and amplification, features an impedance of 200 Ω and 20mV/Pa sensitivity. The 77dB signal-to-noise ratio ensures that unwanted noise in the background doesn't disturb you.

For efficient working of Slate Digital VMS ML-1 provides a 48V phantom power source. However, the Slate Digital VMS has no high-pass filter in the analog chain, which was a drawback. VMS ML-1 condenser microphone price in Pakistan is Rs. 300660/-. After careful consideration, we will rate Digital VMS ML-1 a solid 4/5.

Specifications

Specifications of Slate Digital VMS ML-1 condenser mic are as follows:

AKG C414 XLII

AKG C414 condenser microphone is perfect for professional recordings and broadcasting. Features a remarkable frequency of 20Hz to 20kHz if you want to capture best sound. Diaphragm of AKG C414 is 25.4mm which ensures detailed sound reproduction. The remarkable 140dB SPL is a noteworthy feature that allows recording the highest sound without any distortion.

Along with this, multiple polar pattern options also make AKG C414 unique. The AKG C414 polar pattern includes Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, and Hypercardioid. Inclusion of low cut filters is also noteworthy with settings at 40Hz, 80Hz, and 160Hz. With 48V phantom power, the microphone provides consistent performance.

The 200-ohm impedance and XLR connector make it compatible with a wide array of audio devices. Inclusion of selectable pads at -6dB, -12dB, and -18dB further enhances adaptability. Price of these amazing AKG C414 microphone is Rs 254,999/-. Regarding the rating, we will rate the product an honest 4/5.

Specifications

Specifications of AKG C414 XLII are as follows:

Aston Microphones Spirit

Aston Spirit Microphone features a wide frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz. The built-in 80Hz low-cut filter minimizes unwanted noise for accurate recording sessions. Noise level of 14dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 80dB is perfect for a clear audio signal.

With two polar pattern options, Omni and Cardioid, the microphone provides flexibility. Another standout feature of Aston Microphones Spirit is the inclusion of pad switches at -20dB, -10dB, and 0dB. The operating power at 48 volt phantom power is also notable. However, the mic does not have any shock mount or pop filter.

The price of the microphone is Rs 105,000/- which is reasonable because of its features. Regarding the rating of Aston Microphones Spirit, I guess with its features, it deserves a 5/5.

Specifications

Specifications of Aston Microphones Spirit are as follows:

Neumann KM 184

Neumann KM microphone is one of the best condenser microphones, which has multiple features. Providing a frequency of 20Hz to 20kHz, the microphone is capable of capturing a wide range of spectrums. Along with this, 138dB is also a noteworthy feature.

Standout feature of Neumann KM 184 is that the microphone is unobtrusive and also has low impedance. SPL of  138dB is best for recording sound. 50-ohm impedance is perfect for compatibility with multiple audio equipment.

The Neumann KM microphone also features a cardioid polar pattern for precise audio control. However, our main concern was that Neumann KM 184 doesn't flatter vocals. Talking about the price of Neumann KM, it's Rs 331,181/-. After careful consideration of the microphone features we will rate it a 4.5/5.

Specifications

Specifications of Neumann KM 184 is as follows: 

Lewitt LCT 440 Pure

Lewitt LCT 440 Pure microphone captures high quality audio and has multiple exceptional features. Having a frequency range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz, enjoy clear quality sound. Along with this, the  3-micron Mylar diaphragm with a 25.4mm transducer provides detailed sound capture.

The Lewitt LCT 440 Pure microphone condenser also features a cardioid polar pattern. Other notable features are the 110 Ω internal impedance, 87 dB signal-to-noise ratio, and a 7db self noise level. The Lewitt LCT 440 Pure operates at 48 V ± 4 V while consuming only  2.63 mA current.

The dynamic range of 133 dB and SPL of 140 dBSPL is also perfect for capturing precise sound without any distortion. Lewitt LCT 440 Pure is only available at Rs 122,319/- and with this price, it deserves a 4/5.

Specifications 

Specifications of Lewitt LCT 440 Pure are as follows:

Austrian Audio OC16

Last but not least, Austrian Audio OC16 is another well known condenser microphone that has exceptional features. With a frequency of 20 Hz-20 kHz, the Austrian Audio OC16 captures audio with exceptional precision. With 275 Ω impedance and 11 mV/Pa sensitivity, enjoy responsiveness at its best.

Austrian Audio OC16 operates at 48 V supply voltage, perfect for recording setups. With a 14 dB SPL noise level and 148 SPL, ensures that unwanted noise is prevented from outsourcing. A low cut filter at 40 Hz or 160 Hz delivers precise audio.

Also has an XLR 3-pin connector for a reliable connection. The Austrian Audio OC16 is available at only Rs. 110,800/-. Considering the features and specifications, the Austrian Audio OC16 deserves a 5/5.

Specifications

Specifications of Austrian Audio OC16 are as follows:

Conclusion

To conclude, the right condenser microphone makes all the difference. Although there are various options available, YOWD has provided you with the best list. Each microphone has its own specifications and features. Rode NT1 offers exceptional sensitivity and a remarkable frequency response for accurate sound capture.

Sennheiser e965 has a wide frequency range and multiple polar pattern options. Lewitt LCT 940 provides versatile pad options which is ideal for professional recording sessions. Audio-Technica AT2020 is budget friendly and a powerful microphone with cardioid polar pattern. 

Similarly, Slate Digital VMS ML-1 is best suited for capturing a wide spectrum of audio because of its impressive sensitivity. AKG C414 delivers exceptional sound quality, ideal for professional recordings and broadcasting. With a low cut filter which is accurate for recording sessions, Aston Microphones Spirit is the best option.

Whereas Neumann KM 184 excels in capturing sound with low impedance and a remarkable SPL. Lewitt LCT 440 Pure provides detailed sound capture with its impressive dynamic range. In the last, Austrian Audio OC16 has wide frequency range, high SPL, and precise audio delivery, making it a top choice for recording setups.