5 Best Microphones for Recording Acoustic Guitar in 2025

Different mics work better for various styles and settings. Dynamic mics like the Shure SM57 and SM58 handle loud sounds well and reduce background noise. Condenser mics like the AKG P170 and Audio-Technica PRO 35 capture more detail and brightness.

The Sennheiser e 609 offers a unique shape for close miking and clear instrument sound. This guide covers top options to help you find the best microphone for your acoustic guitar recordings. Simple choices can make your music sound professional and full of life.

1. Shure Sm57 Pro Xlr Dynamic Microphone

The Shure SM57 Pro XLR Dynamic Microphone is ideal for musicians, audio engineers, and recording professionals who need a reliable, high-quality microphone for both studio recording and live performances. It is especially suited for those who want to capture clear and dynamic sound from instruments such as drums, percussion, and amplifiers, making it an essential tool for bands, podcasters, and sound technicians.

Pros:

• Durable and rugged construction suitable for demanding live environments
• Cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates the desired sound source
• Versatile for a wide range of instruments including drums and guitar amps
• Professional-grade sound quality with clear and accurate audio reproduction
• Compact and lightweight design for easy handling and placement

Cons:

• Lacks built-in pop filter, which might require additional accessories
• Dynamic microphone may not capture as much detail as condenser microphones
• Mono audio output only, limiting stereo recording options

The Shure SM57 Pro features a cardioid polar pattern which focuses on the sound directly in front of the microphone while minimizing background noise. This makes it perfect for isolating instruments in both noisy live settings and controlled studio environments. Its dynamic capsule provides excellent handling of high sound pressure levels, ensuring distortion-free recording of loud instruments like drums and electric guitar amplifiers. The microphone’s robust metal construction ensures it withstands the rigors of touring and frequent use.

Additionally, the SM57 Pro delivers clear, natural sound with a frequency response tailored to instrument miking. This means users benefit from accurate sound capture that enhances the tonal characteristics of their instruments. Its compact size and lightweight design allow for flexible placement in tight spaces or on stage, while the XLR connection ensures compatibility with professional audio equipment. Overall, this microphone combines durability, versatility, and sound quality, making it a trusted choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

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2. Sennheiser E 609

The Sennheiser Professional e 609 Silver Super-Cardioid Instrument Microphone is ideal for musicians and audio professionals who require a reliable and high-quality microphone specifically designed for instrument recording. Whether you’re a guitarist, bassist, or sound engineer looking for clear and precise sound capture, this microphone suits both live performances and studio settings.

Pros:

• Super-cardioid pickup pattern for excellent isolation of the instrument sound.
• Durable grey/silver metal construction ensures long-lasting use.
• Compact and lightweight design (only 0.273 lbs) for easy handling and placement.
• Versatile wired and wireless compatibility for flexible performance setups.
• Designed by Sennheiser, a trusted brand in professional audio equipment.

Cons:

• Limited color options available, only in grey/silver.
• May require additional accessories for optimal wireless use.
• Not ideal for vocal recording due to its instrument-focused design.

The Sennheiser e 609 Silver Microphone features a super-cardioid pickup pattern that minimizes background noise and feedback, making it perfect for capturing the true sound of instruments with clarity. Its compact dimensions (1.3″ height, 5.7″ width, and 2.2″ length) allow it to be positioned close to amplifiers and drum kits, enhancing sound accuracy and presence during recording or live performances.

Thanks to its sturdy build and lightweight design, this microphone offers durability without compromising portability. Being a product from Sennheiser, it guarantees professional-grade audio quality, while its wired and wireless compatibility adds versatility for different stage and studio setups. Overall, this microphone is an excellent choice for musicians seeking precision and reliability in their instrument sound capture.

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3. Audio-technica Pro 35

The Audio-Technica PRO 35 Cardioid Condenser Clip-on Instrument Microphone is ideal for musicians and performers who need a reliable, high-quality microphone that can be easily attached to their instruments. Whether you play brass, woodwind, or string instruments, this microphone offers excellent sound capture while allowing freedom of movement on stage. It’s perfect for live performances, studio recordings, and rehearsals where clarity and precision are essential.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design for easy attachment and portability
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces background noise and feedback
• High-quality condenser microphone element for clear, natural sound
• Durable construction suitable for rigorous performance environments
• Includes clip-on mechanism that securely attaches to various instrument types

Cons:

• May require phantom power, limiting compatibility with some sound systems
• Fixed cable length could be restrictive in some setups
• Not ideal for vocal use due to its instrument-specific design

The Audio-Technica PRO 35 features a cardioid condenser capsule that is specifically designed to capture the natural tones of instruments while minimizing unwanted background noise. This directional pickup pattern makes it a great choice for live stage settings where multiple sound sources are present. The microphone’s small form factor and clip-on design allow it to be discreetly mounted on your instrument without interfering with your playing technique or stage presence.

Additionally, the microphone’s robust build ensures it can withstand the demands of touring and frequent use. Musicians will appreciate the clear and detailed sound reproduction that enhances the overall audio quality of their performance or recording. The PRO 35’s ability to isolate the instrument’s sound while rejecting ambient noise results in a cleaner mix, whether in live sound or studio environments.

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4. Shure Sm58 Pro Xlr Dynamic Microphone

The Shure SM58 Pro XLR Dynamic Microphone is ideal for musicians, podcasters, and audio professionals seeking a reliable and high-quality microphone for both studio recording and live performances. If you need a microphone that delivers clear vocals and robust sound with excellent durability, this microphone is designed to meet those needs effectively.

Pros:

• Durable construction built to withstand rigorous live use
• Cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise for clearer sound
• High-quality dynamic microphone ideal for vocals and podcasting
• Reliable Shure brand known for professional audio equipment
• Includes XLR connection for professional audio setups

Cons:

• Requires an external audio interface or mixer for use
• Not ideal for capturing very high-frequency instruments

The Shure SM58 Pro features a classic cardioid design that effectively isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted ambient noise. This makes it perfect for vocalists who need to project clear and focused sound during live performances or recordings. Its dynamic element ensures durability and consistent audio quality even in demanding environments. Additionally, the robust metal construction guarantees the microphone can handle the rigors of touring and frequent handling without compromising performance.

With its XLR output, the SM58 Pro seamlessly integrates with professional audio equipment, making it a versatile choice for studios and live sound setups alike. The microphone’s frequency response is tailored specifically for vocals, enhancing clarity and presence. This results in a polished and professional sound that benefits podcasters, singers, and broadcasters looking to deliver high-quality audio content.

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5. Akg Pro Audio Instrument Condenser Microphone

The AKG Pro Audio Instrument Condenser Microphone, XLR, Black (P170) is ideal for musicians, recording engineers, and audio professionals seeking a high-quality microphone for capturing detailed instrument sounds. If you require a reliable, precise condenser mic that excels in studio and live settings, this microphone is a perfect choice.

Pros:

• High-quality condenser capsule delivers clear and accurate sound reproduction.
• Compact and lightweight design ensures easy handling and placement.
• Durable black finish provides professional aesthetics and protection.
• XLR connection allows compatibility with professional audio equipment.

Cons:

• Requires phantom power to operate, which might not be available in all setups.
• Limited to instrument recording, less versatile for vocals or other audio sources.
• Relatively narrow frequency response compared to some higher-end models.

The AKG P170 features a precision-engineered condenser capsule designed specifically for capturing the nuances of acoustic instruments. Its compact dimensions (7.086 inches tall and 1.575 inches in diameter) and lightweight build (approximately 0.29 pounds) make it highly portable and easy to position in any recording environment. This microphone excels in delivering detailed audio without coloration, ensuring that the natural tone of your instrument is faithfully reproduced.

Equipped with an XLR connection, the P170 seamlessly integrates with professional audio interfaces, mixers, and preamps. The robust black finish not only enhances its visual appeal but also provides durability for frequent use in both studio and live performances. Overall, the AKG P170 is a dependable choice for anyone looking to capture high-fidelity instrument sounds with clarity and precision.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Microphone Is Best For Recording Acoustic Guitar?

The Shure SM57 Pro is ideal for acoustic guitar. It offers clear sound and excellent instrument miking. Its cardioid pattern captures detailed tones and reduces background noise, perfect for studio and live settings.

How Does The Sennheiser E 609 Perform On Acoustic Guitars?

The Sennheiser e 609 delivers a focused and natural acoustic guitar sound. Its super-cardioid pattern minimizes ambient noise. It excels in capturing string dynamics and produces a warm, rich tone suitable for both recording and live performance.

Is The Audio-technica Pro 35 Good For Acoustic Guitar Recording?

Yes, the Audio-Technica PRO 35 is great for acoustic guitars. Its cardioid condenser captures detailed sound with clarity. The clip-on design offers convenient positioning, making it perfect for live and studio acoustic guitar recordings.

Can The Shure Sm58 Be Used For Acoustic Guitar Recording?

The Shure SM58 can record acoustic guitars but is mainly designed for vocals. It offers durability and cardioid pickup but lacks the detailed frequency response that specialized instrument mics provide.

What Makes The Akg P170 Suitable For Acoustic Guitars?

The AKG P170 condenser microphone captures clear, natural acoustic guitar tones. It has a wide frequency response and low self-noise, making it perfect for detailed studio recordings. Its compact design suits close miking techniques effectively.

Conclusion

Choosing the right microphone can greatly improve your acoustic guitar recordings. Each mic on this list offers clear sound and good quality. The Shure SM57 and SM58 are reliable for both live and studio use. Sennheiser e 609 and AKG P170 deliver detailed and rich tones.

The Audio-Technica PRO 35 is great for hands-free playing. Think about your budget and recording space when picking a mic. Remember, good sound comes from both the guitar and the microphone. Try different options to find what suits your style best.

This way, your recordings will sound natural and full. With the right microphone, your acoustic guitar will shine in every track. Keep practicing, and enjoy making music with clear, warm sound.