You might think an expensive microphone is the only way to capture the soul of a wooden instrument, but the best recordings often happen with humble, reliable tools. Most acoustic guitars have a natural brightness that cheaper condensers can actually capture better than high-end gear.
Precision is usually overrated when you are just starting out. Finding the Best Microphones for Recording Acoustic Guitar really comes down to matching your room environment with the right sensitivity. Let us look at what makes these specific tools work for your setup.
Key Takeaways
- Small diaphragm condensers provide the crisp transient response necessary to capture intricate fingerpicking styles accurately.
- Dynamic microphones excel at rejecting unwanted room noise if you are recording in a space that lacks professional acoustic treatment.
- Matched pairs offer a distinct advantage for stereo imaging, which creates a wide and realistic soundstage for your solo acoustic recordings.
- Cardioid polar patterns are your safest choice for home studios because they focus on the instrument while ignoring sound from behind the mic.
- Pay attention to the maximum sound pressure level rating if you plan on positioning the mic very close to a loud or aggressive acoustic source.
| Versatile Stereo Mastering |  |
LyxPro SDPC-2 Small Diaphragm Condenser | Includes interchangeable capsules | Perfect stereo imaging | High frequency detail | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| The Industry Standard |  |
Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone | Extremely durable build | Excellent mid range focus | Handles high sound pressure | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Flat Profile Specialist |  |
Sennheiser e 609 Silver Microphone | Unique side address design | Compact and low profile | Clear sound reproduction | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Active Performer Choice |  |
Audio-Technica PRO 35 Clip-on Condenser | Attaches directly to guitar | Consistent pickup pattern | Crisp natural tone | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Consistent Performance Essential |  |
Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone | Extremely versatile usage | Very warm sound profile | Built to last forever | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Precision Detail Capture |  |
AKG Perception 170 Instrument Microphone | Excellent transient response | Balanced frequency range | Slim and compact design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Large Diaphragm Clarity |  |
Rode NT1 Signature Series Condenser | Ultra low self noise | Rich frequency capture | Complete accessory bundle | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Focused Broadcast Quality |  |
Rode PodMic Dynamic Broadcast Microphone | Excellent room noise rejection | Sturdy broadcast build | Focused sound profile | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Professional Stereo Depth |  |
Rode M5 Matched Stereo Pair | Perfectly matched pair | High quality construction | Wide stereo coverage | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Value Driven Reliability |  |
GLS Audio ES-57 Instrument Microphone | Excellent budget value | Familiar instrument sound | Includes mic clip | 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 spatial character of your guitar, this stereo pair is your best bet. Because it includes interchangeable capsules, you can switch between polar patterns to adjust how much room noise you include in your recording.
It is ideal for recording engineers who need a complete stereo solution right out of the box. Just keep in mind that these require a bit more patience to position correctly compared to a simple plug and play mic.
- Brand Name:LyxPro
- Microphone Type:Small Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Omni, Cardioid, Super Cardioid
- Package Quantity:Two microphones
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Includes three capsule pairs
- Additional Feature:Hard shell carrying case
- Additional Feature:Stereo bar mounting hardware
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Shure SM57 Dynamic Instrument Microphone
You have likely seen this microphone in every studio on the planet because it is virtually indestructible. It excels at capturing the mid range punch of an acoustic guitar when you want a focused, tight sound without picking up unwanted room reflections.
It is perfect for the player who needs a reliable workhorse that performs well in both loud live settings and quiet studio environments. The only downside is that it lacks the high end sparkle you get from a condenser microphone.
- Brand Name:Shure
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Included Accessories:A25D adapter and storage bag
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Legendary rugged construction
- Additional Feature:Versatile for many instruments
- Additional Feature:Consistent sonic performance
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Sennheiser e 609 Silver Microphone
This mic features a unique side address design, which makes it remarkably easy to position against the body of an acoustic guitar. It manages to capture a very clean, honest representation of your instrument.
If you are tired of bulky microphones getting in your way while you play, this flat profile is a welcome relief. It is not designed to capture wide room ambiance, so focus on placing it close to the sound hole for the best results.
- Brand Name:Sennheiser
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Super Cardioid
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Integrated stand mount
- Additional Feature:Hum compensating coil
- Additional Feature:Rugged metal housing
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Audio-Technica PRO 35 Clip-on Condenser
When you need to move around while you play, a clip on mic is the only way to ensure consistent distance from the guitar. This condenser offers a natural, crisp tone that captures the nuances of your fingerstyle playing.
It is a fantastic tool for the musician who performs live and needs to eliminate the feedback issues associated with standard stage mics. Just be aware that you will need phantom power to get this unit running.
- Brand Name:Audio-Technica
- Microphone Type:Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Includes power module
- Additional Feature:Flexible gooseneck positioning
- Additional Feature:Low profile mounting clamp
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Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone
While famously marketed for vocals, this microphone is a surprisingly capable instrument mic when you want a warm, rounded acoustic guitar sound. It handles transients well and is very forgiving if your recording space is not perfectly treated.
This is the ultimate mic for the songwriter who wants one piece of gear that can do everything. It is not the most detailed microphone for high end shimmer, but it provides a warm and reliable signal every time.
- Brand Name:Shure
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Built in pop filter
- Additional Feature:Shock mounted internal capsule
- Additional Feature:Heavy duty steel mesh
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AKG Perception 170 Instrument Microphone
This small diaphragm condenser is all about capturing transient detail, making it perfect for acoustic guitars with intricate steel string textures. It offers a very balanced response that makes mixing your tracks much easier later on.
It is a great choice for home recordists who want a professional studio sound without a massive learning curve. Do keep in mind that its sensitivity means it will pick up background noise if you are not in a quiet room.
- Brand Name:AKG
- Microphone Type:Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Switchable attenuation pad
- Additional Feature:Durable metal construction
- Additional Feature:Clean signal path
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Rode NT1 Signature Series Condenser
Large diaphragm condensers like this one are excellent for capturing the full body and resonance of a guitar. It provides a studio quality sound with a very low noise floor, which keeps your recordings sounding professional and clean.
This is best for someone looking to build a serious home studio around a primary microphone. Because it is sensitive, you should use the included shock mount to prevent vibrations from creeping into your tracks.
- Brand Name:Rode
- Microphone Type:Large Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Included Accessories:Shock mount and pop filter
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:High SPL handling
- Additional Feature:Professional grade finish
- Additional Feature:Studio quality components
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Rode PodMic Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Although often used for speech, this dynamic mic has a tight frequency response that works surprisingly well for recording acoustic guitar in untreated rooms. It ignores the room noise that usually ruins home recordings.
It is a solid pick for the musician who also streams or creates video content and wants one microphone to handle both tasks. It is quite heavy, so ensure you have a sturdy mic stand to support the weight.
- Brand Name:Rode
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Internal pop filter
- Additional Feature:Integrated swing mount
- Additional Feature:All metal construction
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Rode M5 Matched Stereo Pair
Having a matched pair is crucial if you want to achieve a wide, professional sounding stereo image for your acoustic tracks. These small diaphragm condensers are remarkably clear and provide an honest sound that does not color your tone too much.
They are ideal for the guitarist who enjoys recording complex arrangements that require depth and width. Just ensure your audio interface has two available XLR inputs with phantom power to run both simultaneously.
- Brand Name:Rode
- Microphone Type:Small Diaphragm Condenser
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Package Quantity:Two microphones
- Included Accessories:Stereo bar and cables
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Low noise operation
- Additional Feature:Durable ceramic finish
- Additional Feature:Compact form factor
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GLS Audio ES-57 Instrument Microphone
If you are working on a budget but still need a reliable instrument mic, this unit provides a sound profile similar to the industry classics. It is more than capable of capturing a guitar track that sits well in a mix.
It is a great choice for the student or hobbyist who needs to grow their collection without spending a fortune. Be aware that the build quality is functional, though it lacks the premium feel of more expensive, specialized gear.
- Brand Name:GLS Audio
- Microphone Type:Dynamic
- Polar Pattern:Cardioid
- Included Accessories:Mic clip
- Output Connection:XLR
- Additional Feature:Unidirectional pickup
- Additional Feature:Rugged outer casing
- Additional Feature:Simple setup process
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need two microphones to record an acoustic guitar?
You do not strictly need two mics, but a stereo pair provides a much wider, more realistic soundstage. Placing one mic near the 12th fret and another near the bridge captures both the sparkle of the strings and the resonance of the body. If you are just starting, a single high-quality mic placed about 12 inches away from the guitar works perfectly fine.
Is a dynamic mic ever better than a condenser?
Dynamic mics are excellent if you are recording in a room with a lot of background noise or poor acoustic treatment. They are less sensitive than condensers, which means they won't pick up the hum of your computer or the traffic outside as easily. While they might lose a little bit of high-end air, they provide a very focused and punchy sound.
What is the best position to place my microphone?
Aim the microphone at the 12th fret of the guitar, about 6 to 12 inches away, to get a balanced tone. Pointing the mic directly at the sound hole often results in a muddy, boomy sound that is difficult to fix later. If you want more brightness, angle the mic slightly toward the bridge or soundboard.
Do I need a special interface to use these microphones?
Most professional-grade microphones require 48V phantom power, which is provided by almost all modern audio interfaces. Ensure your interface has a preamp with enough clean gain, especially if you choose a ribbon microphone. Always use a high-quality XLR cable to connect your gear to avoid unwanted interference.
Should I use a pop filter or a windscreen?
You generally do not need a pop filter for acoustic guitar because you are not dealing with plosive breath sounds. However, a windscreen is useful if you are recording in a drafty room or if you find that the air movement from your picking hand is hitting the capsule. Use them sparingly, as extra layers between the source and the mic can slightly dull your high frequencies.
