Modern Metal Vocal Mic - Yes, I have an SM7b 😀

[Briz]

Hi All,

I'm looking for a budget friendly condenser mic that will capture modern metalcore clean vocals and vocals with a bit of an edge (on the precipice, but not all out screaming). I use an SM7B when recording harsh vocals.

Preferably, I'd like to stay around $1200 or less. I'm not opposed to budget mics either, though I already have a few (I have a Michael Joly U87 clone, a Rode NT1, SM57 & 58, and a Sennheiser e835). However, I'm curious what your thoughts are. I've set aside this amount to add to my mic locker and I've spent two days down the YouTube, forums, and internet rabbit hole.

I could post on another popular pro audio forum, but I'd prefer to avoid the snobbery and ad hominem attacks. Thus far, I've experienced nothing but pleasant help and constructive criticism here.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

[Sam Inglis]

Sad to say, I don't often get the chance to record metal, so can't give you a recommendation from personal experience, but I would ask a couple of questions that might be helpful. First, what do you feel is lacking in the mics you have already? And second, are you looking for a mic that the singer can work close like the SM7B, or are you happy with a more typical studio mic that would be addressed from further away?

One option that springs to mind for example is one of the Earthworks vocal mics like the SR314 or Ethos. They are designed to be used fairly close, and can take a lot of level, but they have a more 'hi-fi' sound than an SM7, with a more open top end.

[Briz]

Great questions. When I was working at a larger studio, I noticed that some mics sounded more polished out of the gate. The Manley and a couple of Telefunkens come to mind. I'm looking for a mic that's not too brittle on the top end, but not too dark. Really, something that can capture range while tolerating a decent SPL, if that makes sense. Proximity isn't an issue, as this won't be used for harsh metal vocals.

For reference, I like the way Spencer Sotelo's vocals sound (from Periphery), but he's using a Sony C-800G. I know there's no magic bullet, so I'm looking for recommendations within my budget that suits this genre.

Hope this helps. Thank you.

[Wonks]

Jack Ruston would be a good one to ask, but he's only a very infrequent visitor here now.

Do you feel anything is missing if recording with your U87 clone or NT1? Have you tried recording something in that vein with them?

[Briz]

I have recorded with both. They both work well with certain vocal styles. The U87 clone is a little thin sounding with high sibilance. While the Rode works, I find that it's not that great when clarity is needed. I could tackle both of these impediments inside the box. I'm just curious if anyone has a suggestion for the type of music I'm targeting.

Thanks again.

[Drew Stephenson]

Not sure if this will squeeze in your budget but given how you're feeling with the U87 clone I'd definitely have it on the shortlist: https://www.gear4music.com/Recording-an ... kcQAvD_BwE

Or possibly over budget: https://www.gear4music.com/Recording-an ... DE2*_up*MQ..
In which case maybe try and OC18?

[Briz]

Thanks! I'll take a look. I'll see if I can rent them for a day or two locally, if possible.

[sonics]

I'll start by admitting I've not recorded much metal since the 1990s!

I'm not sure what you mean by "budget friendly" though. Have you considered something like a Neumann 104? Great mic. Apologies if this idea is way off-mark

If I were presented with this task, I'd just go through the locker and choose what I liked the most. I am guessing that you've already done that. As others have asked, what is it that you don't get from your current selection?

[Aled Hughes]

I'm not sure what you mean by "budget friendly" though. Have you considered something like a Neumann 104? Great mic. Apologies if this idea is way off-mark

Do you mean the KMS 104 (handheld stage condenser) or BCM 104 (LD condenser for broacdast) ?

I guess both could work well!

[ore_terra]

If you’re ok with DIY, micparts U47 FET clone is a nice mic too. I haven’t used it for metal, but yes for hard rock with agressive vocals and a slightly thin voiced singer. In omni.

[Briz]

If you’re ok with DIY, micparts U47 FET clone is a nice mic too. I haven’t used it for metal, but yes for hard rock with agressive vocals and a slightly thin voiced singer. In omni.

Thank you. How does Mic Parts stack up against Warm Audio WA-47? I've never heard of Mic Parts, but they've piqued my interest. I've had a Michael Joly U87 clone for nearly a decade and I love that mic. I'm not opposed to checking out boutique shop clones.

[sonics]

Do you mean the KMS 104 (handheld stage condenser) or BCM 104 (LD condenser for broacdast) ?

Well spotted that man!
The KMS 104, actually. I thought the handheld vibe might work, given the style.

[ore_terra]

If you’re ok with DIY, micparts U47 FET clone is a nice mic too. I haven’t used it for metal, but yes for hard rock with agressive vocals and a slightly thin voiced singer. In omni.

Thank you. How does Mic Parts stack up against Warm Audio WA-47? I've never heard of Mic Parts, but they've piqued my interest. I've had a Michael Joly U87 clone for nearly a decade and I love that mic. I'm not opposed to checking out boutique shop clones.

I havent tried the warm myself, sorry.

Micparts are good kits, with good and not particularly cheap components. Also quite easy to build. They have good reviews and I believe Greg Wells posted about how good he found the T12's (not sure about the specific model)

The wa47 jr, according to SOS review, seems also a very capable mic.

[Briz]

Thank you, everyone, for your input. I greatly appreciate your insights. You've all definitely given me options to research (and hopefully try before I buy).

[jaminem]

Don't discount the Warm C800 clone, you say you like the dude from Periphery who uses the 'proper' one Sony one.
I have it and find it really it really good to cut through a busy mix...
There's also the Slate VMS, that models it pretty well, alongside a ton of other mics...

[Briz]

Don't discount the Warm C800 clone, you say you like the dude from Periphery who uses the 'proper' one Sony one.
I have it and find it really it really good to cut through a busy mix...
There's also the Slate VMS, that models it pretty well, alongside a ton of other mics...

Have you used Warm Audio's version for high SPL rock or metal vocals?

[jaminem]

Rock and industrial!
But to be clear not many condensers are going to stand someone screaming into them right up on their lips, but it should handle that style of music with sensible mic technique and a pop shield.