10 Best Microphones for Home Studios UK 2024 | Shure, Aston and More

If the Shure SM58 was the industry standard set in the first boom of mass recording, this Aston Spirit is fast becoming the new industry standard. It provides a brilliant frequency range, has an incredible sound and is practically indestructible. 

One feature about this robust capsule is that, because the shock absorption is so good, you can mount it straight to a standard mic stand. Additionally, you have multiple pattern options. It might be a little pricier than the other mics, but if you're looking to invest, this is a microphone that will keep producing the goods even as you evolve as a producer.  

When it comes to microphones, the previously-mentioned Shure SM57 and this SM58 are practically identical. Released in the mid-60s, this mic's world-renowned sound can be found in pretty much any studio, anywhere. There is one major difference between the two though, and that's why this one finds itself much higher up our ranking. 

The SM58 has a bulb-shaped grill around the mic which provides a natural pop filter, making it ideal for reducing the blowout and distortion that sometimes comes when recording vocals. If you're looking for a flexible mic that can be taken to live shows when you need to, there's no more reliable than the SM58. 

If the ability to plug in and play is your top priority, then the award-winning Blue Yeti Pro Studio USB microphone is hard to beat. One of the main features users rave about is that it comes with a suite of audio editing and production software, so producers feel it's much easier to find a good sound straight off the bat. 

The device works when capturing voice, instrument and multi-track recordings which will instantly transform your creative space into a much more professional-style studio. And if you fancy making a few YouTube videos while you're at, it's perfect for that too. 

RØDE are one of the top names in home studio equipment, and this NT1-A is regarded by many as the go-to condenser mic for home studios. It's known for capturing a good range of frequencies with clarity and accuracy and is just as distinct whether you're working with loud or quiet noise. 

Included in the pack are a pop filter, the microphone, a shock mount, a cable, and even a dust cover, so you'll be pretty much straight to go from the off. All you need to do is make sure you have the songs or content ready to record! 

This microphone from Samson offers something we think should be fitted to more USB mics, and that is an instrument input. Therefore, with this mic, you'll be able to record both straight into your DAW. In addition to this, the microphone also has three different polar patterns to help you find the perfect one for the task. 

Another feature we like, although more about practicality than the sound, is the heavy base, which has a rubber bottom to ensure it always remains sturdy and stays precisely where you want it to. 

The Shure SM57 is the Ford Fiesta of dynamic microphones. In that, it's unflashy but completely reliable and pretty much any studio worth its salt will have a couple of these knocking about somewhere. And although they're primarily for recording instruments, in a pinch, they'll record vocals too. 

The cardioid pattern makes it perfect for head-on directional placement, which in turn, cuts down on spills and feedback from other sound sources. Our only issue is that it isn't as good as its successor, which we may or may not be seeing later on. 

If you're working on a tight budget, then you could do a lot worse than this USB microphone from IMG. Designed for creating podcasts and home recording, this piece of kit requires no additional hardware or software so you can be recording in an instant. 

In addition to the microphone, you'll be provided with a shock mount, the necessary cables and even a nice leather storage bag. Of course, there's a slight drop off in sound quality, but for the price, you'll certainly be getting more than you bargained for. 

If you're looking to record some drums at home, then firstly, bless your neighbours, because they must be saints. Secondly, you're going to need a dedicated kick drum microphone, and this AKG D112 is built specifically for that purpose. This microphone is all about capturing low frequencies. 

Although built for drums, this microphone has also been known to record bass guitars well, too. While this second application shows a little versatility, this is probably a better purchase for those who already have other microphones and are instead looking to create and expand on a specific arsenal. 

The unique feature of this USB microphone is the different polar patterns that you can choose. Alongside the cardioid and figure of eight, there is also wide and tight stereo. While these aren't traditional in terms of standard music mics, they are useful and fun to play with to create new dynamics. 

Alongside the versatility – you could even use this for voice recordings on podcasts or videos – the microphone offers solid sonics and attractive aesthetics. We are a little concerned with some of the dials being found on the back though, as sometimes it's difficult enough to dial in when you can see what you're doing. 

This condenser mic from SE Electronics proves that you don't have to spend a fortune to get a great sounding microphone. A lot of the sound quality comes from the large capsule size, which delivers excellent accuracy and clarity to every recording. 

Furthermore, the pack includes a pop filter and cables, so you've less to fork out for before you get started. One issue some buyers have found is that it can be a touch over-sensitive, so you might want to be careful if there are others in the room to avoid it picking up even the smallest of sounds.