The Best Mic for Choir

Many experts will point to cardioid condenser microphones as the best options for use with choirs due to their compatibility and range of features. The best mic for choir should  have a long cable, robust design and deliver high quality output with minimal interference.  Whether wireless or wired, a high quality mic for choir should be easy to use, full of additional features, deliver great sound and capture audio as expected. These are some of the top options to consider when looking for the best mic for your choir needs.

Audio-Technica PRO 44 Semi cardioid Microphone

The proprietary half-cardioid Audio-Technica PRO 44 Microphone is a great mic for choir because it features a unique design that makes it easy to position while still remaining largely  incognito. It features high quality sound reinforcement for added sensitivity, and will deliver great transient response with minimal distortion. You will be able to capture a choir clearly with this well designed and easy to use microphone.

Pros

Pros

• Easy to position
• Great semi-cardioid design for  improved sound efficiency
• High sensitivity

Cons

Cons

• Minimum visibility may expose microphone to increased risk of dropping

Peavey VCM 3 Choir Microphone

The hanging Peavey VCM 3 Choir Microphone is a great option . It is low profile, and can be placed directly above your choir for quality output. It is very easy to set up and use, although ideal placement should be achieved to reduce the likelihood that there is distortion or unbalanced sound. It offers a wide frequency and transient response. In the event of impact, the rubberized coat should minimize damage.

Pros

Pros

• Omnidirectional sound capture
• Low profile design  for minimal interference
• Durable and well built

Cons

Cons

• Might move if not secured before use

Shure CVO-B/C Overhead Microphone

The lightweight Shure CVO-B/C Overhead Condenser Microphone is a high quality choice which is well designed and durable. The hanging condenser microphone features inline filters for higher clarity and improved sensitivity. The gooseneck shape enhances its capture ability, which ensures higher quality audio delivery. It is very easy to position and use, and will ensure a complete capture of your choir. Like other hanging options, mic placement will affect the quality of sound delivery.

Pros

Pros

• High quality build for added durability
• Great design for incognito use
• Lengthy cable for convenient placement

Cons

Cons

• Might deliver distorted sound if placed poorly

Samson C02PR Pencil Condenser Microphones

The Samson C02PR Pencil Condenser Microphones will cut out all noise and distortion as a result of vibration thanks to its high quality build. The pair of diaphragm microphones  feature a protective design and foam windshields, which makes them ideally suited for high quality delivery in  noisy environments. They are designed for reduced feedback, ensuring uncompromised sound quality  even with standard mic placement. They are very sturdy ,and could sustain impact more than other listed options.

Pros

Pros

• High quality sound output
• Easy  to position
• Shock mounted clips for added sound filtering

Cons

Cons

• Limited capture  scope compared to other options

Behringer C-2 Studio Condenser Microphones

The Behringer C-2 Studio Condenser Microphones offers versatile performance, which makes it one of the best mics for choir and vocal recording available. The C-2 condenser microphone is designed to filter noise, and features higher sensitivity for enhanced vocal capture ability. The C2– is available in a pair of thin diaphragm mics, increasing the scope and clarity of sound. It also includes an additional wind screen for maximum noise reduction, as well as a carrying case for added protection during storage.

Pros

Pros

• High quality vocal capture
• High sensitivity for high quality output
• Best low cut filter for minimal noise interference

Cons

Cons

• Might experience feedback with poor placement

Rode M5-MP Pair of Cardioid Condenser Microphones

The Rode M5-MP Matched Pair Cardioid Condenser Microphone is a great option for use with a choir due to its ability to minimize feedback. With the right placement, the mic will actively cut out all noise and enhance the sound delivery for quality output. The pair of microphones is easy to position, and will be similarly easy to store.  The additional insulation measures taken up by the brand ensure that this mic will not be impact prone makes it ideally durable.  It features very strong off-axis performance, and with the right placement, could help capture the whole choir clearly.

Pros

Pros

• Value for money performance
• Designed for reduced feedback
• Easy to use and store

Cons

Cons

• Limited dynamic range

PendoMax Choir Microphones

The hanging PendoMax Choir Microphones may be ideal for your choir because they are designed to handle the quality and coverage demands. These mics are portable and very easy to use. They feature great coverage, a sufficient range and high quality sound output. They can be easily positioned, and will work as well outdoors as they will with indoor use.  With the right mic placement, this microphone will deliver high quality redistribution and capture your whole choir clearly and consistently.

Pros

Pros

• Great performance
• Great for outdoor use
• Secure and easy to position

Cons

Cons

• Fragile build requires careful maintenance

The best Microphone Techniques For Choirs

When it comes to output, even the best mic for choirs will underperform if not utilized strategically. In order to get a quality sound experience and maximize the output of your ideal microphones, here are a few basics that should help you out.

Choosing the right microphone

The best mic for choirs will vary depending on the specific setup. A great quality cardioid condenser microphone will usually serve the purpose for choirs, but there are other great alternatives available. In terms of sensitivity, condenser microphones are an ideal option. The thin membrane placed between its capacitor plates enhances its ability to respond to higher frequencies, which makes it a great indoors choice.

There are different options across the board that can be mounted through a stand, overhead or integrated into mic/stand combinations for the perfect convenience. The cardioid and super cardioid mics derive their name from the great rounded shape which reduces the likelihood of sound pickup, for a crisp and clear output. You should be able to find an ideal microphone  for choir from these options.

The ideal number of mics

Many choirs will make the mistake of going for more mics for better sound. Sometimes, even a single mic could be all that’s necessary for high quality output. In fact, you should consider as few microphones as possible. This reduces the likelihood of feedback, which will cause your equipment too squeal. A great quality condenser should be able to cover a choir of about 16 people with the right arrangement. Two to three mics may be needed for a choir of 40-50 people. By ensuring the ideal number of mics, you will be able to deliver clean sound.

Where to place the mic

This brings us to our next  big point. There is no specific height requirement, but many experts will raise the mic as tall as the tallest singer in the  furthest row. Some professionals raise it an additional 1-2 feet. Ensuring a decent height will move the mic to amore equidistant location, allowing for harmonized sound. You should also consider placing it 2-3 feet for a well balanced sound output. Choirs that are larger than average or adhering to an unusual shape should consider adding more mics for clarity. This will reduce the likelihood of production of a hollow sound that may be a result of the comb filler effect or phase cancelation. Usually, this will happen when two mics pick up diverse vocal signals, with one producing direct output while the other is a bit more delayed.

In short, you should consider this guide when placing your mics for a choir for the best output.

• Always place your mics properly.
• Fewer mics can be better
• Turn down any unused mics
• Allow for natural choir mixing
• Avoid over-amplifying the choir
• Instruct your choir members to sing naturally and avoid singing at the mic.

Final word

The portable Peavey VCM 3 choir mic is specially designed for high quality output when used in a choir setup. It is available in both black and white, which facilitates customization options. The miniature size and cardioid pattern also feature heavily in its appropriateness for use with a choir. The powerful and unidirectional sound  combines with the high sensitivity for a great quality output, which makes the model ideal for use with larger choirs. It is rubberized for added impact protection, and features an easy grip for reduced risk of damage. This reliable and high quality mic is our pick for the best mic for choir use.