AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Dynamic Microphones for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is sE Electronics V7 Handheld Supercardioid Dynamic Microphone ($166). Shure SM58 Handheld Cardioid Dynamic Microphone gives you the most for the money at $128. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 73 models across 23 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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sE Electronics V7 Handheld Supercardioid Dynamic Microphone
V7 PTT · sE Electronics
161 for sale on Reverb14 finishes at Thomann
- Size8"
The sE Electronics V7 PTT is a handheld dynamic mic with a supercardioid pattern and a silent push-to-talk button. It has an internal pop filter, an integrated windscreen, and a gold-plated XLR connector, and it comes with a clamp, a bag, and thread adapters. If you need a sturdy talkback mic that you can switch on and off quietly, this one is a good fit for you.
Pros
- Supercardioid pattern picks up mostly the sound directly in front of the mic
- Silent push-to-talk button lets you switch on and off quietly
- Internal pop filter and integrated windscreen help cut down on breath noise
Cons
- Weighs 307 g, so it feels heavier than a lightweight handheld mic
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Shure SM58 Handheld Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
SM58 LC · Shure
241 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Size8"
You get a sturdy dynamic vocal mic with a steel grille and a shock absorber to help cut down on handling noise. Its cardioid pattern picks up sound mainly from the front, and the built-in pop filter helps when you sing or speak close to it. It suits you if you want a tough, straightforward vocal mic that comes with a bag and clamp in the box.
Pros
- Integrated wind and pop filter helps cut down on breath noise
- Shock absorber system helps reduce handling noise
- Robust design with a sturdy steel grille
Cons
- Windshield and replacement grille are sold separately, not included
- Weighs 298 g, so it feels heavier than a lightweight mic
77AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$128 now$128€115 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sennheiser e835 Handheld Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
E835-S-PTT · Sennheiser
72 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Weight0.67 kg
You get a dynamic vocal mic with a cardioid pattern, which means it picks up mostly sound from the front. It has a push-to-talk switch, so you can mute or unmute quickly while you speak or sing. It comes with a bag and a holder, and it is made in Germany with a metal housing.
Pros
- Dynamic design with a cardioid polar pattern for focused vocal pickup
- Built-in push-to-talk function for quick switching during speech
- Metal housing for a sturdy build
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sennheiser e935 Handheld Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
E 935 · Sennheiser
51 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
The Sennheiser E 935 is a dynamic microphone made to give vocals room and help them cut through the mix under loud stage conditions. It is also ideal for vocals and percussion. It suits you if you sing or play live and want a metal-housed mic with a cardioid pattern and a shock-mounted capsule.
Pros
- Metal housing for a sturdy build
- Shock-mounted capsule for the capsule itself
- Hum compensating coil helps keep hum down
Cons
- Weighs 330 g, which can feel heavy in long handheld sets
61AudioFu
Index↓ 2.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$178 · Aug 17$173 now$173€155 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sennheiser e845 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld Vocal Microphone
E845 · Sennheiser
30 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
You get a dynamic mic made for vocals and brass instruments. Its supercardioid pattern helps it focus on the sound in front of it and cut down on sound from the sides and back. It comes with a clamp and a bag, so you can mount it and carry it easily. It suits singers and brass players who want a mic built for those jobs.
Pros
- Supercardioid pattern rejects sound from the sides and rear
- Comes with a clamp and a bag for easy transport and mounting
- Dynamic design is built for vocals and brass instruments
55AudioFu
Index↓ 4.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$106 · Aug 17$102 now$102€91 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Shure BETA 57A Supercardioid Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Beta 57 A · Shure
98 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
You get a dynamic mic made for vocals, toms and brass instruments. Its supercardioid pattern picks up sound mostly from the front, which helps when other sources are close by. It comes with a clamp and a bag, so you can start using it right away.
Pros
- Supercardioid polar pattern helps reject sound from the sides and rear
- Frequency range of 50 to 16,000 Hz covers vocals, toms and brass instruments
- Includes a microphone clamp and a carrying bag
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The ND76 is a seriously solid workhorse vocal mic. It's got a really nice, natural sound with a good amount of presence without being harsh—great for singers with a bit of grit or those needing to cut through a loud stage mix. It’s a fantastic value proposition for performers on a budget who still demand quality.
Pros
- Robust zinc diecast housing offers excellent durability for stage use
- Cardioid pattern effectively isolates vocals, minimizing background noise
- Extended frequency response captures detail beyond typical dynamic mics
Cons
- Can be slightly top-heavy on lighter stands, requiring extra support
- Impedance may necessitate a preamp for optimal signal strength
50AudioFu
Index↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$153 · Aug 17$147 now$147€132 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight0.179 kg
The Audix OMX-E is a seriously impressive budget-friendly dynamic. It's got a surprisingly refined sound, making it a great choice for singer-songwriters, podcasters, or anyone needing a reliable vocal mic without breaking the bank. It’s a solid workhorse that punches above its weight class.
Pros
- VLM capsule delivers surprisingly clear and natural vocal reproduction for a dynamic.
- Cardioid pattern effectively isolates vocals, minimizing stage bleed and feedback.
- Robust construction with a durable handle feels solid and dependable on stage.
Cons
- Lacks the extended high-frequency detail of more premium condenser microphones.
- Impedance is relatively high, potentially requiring a preamp with ample gain.
49AudioFu
Index↓ 19.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$127 · Aug 17$103 now$103€92 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Warm Audio Retro 64 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
Retro 64 · Warm Audio
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.54 kg
This mic sounds bright in the middle with less treble to stop feedback. It feels tough enough for road shows thanks to its special mounting. It works great for singers, guitars, and drums but lacks a full spec sheet.
Pros
- Clear mid-focused sound ideal for lead vocals
- Built-in feedback suppression handles loud stages
- Heavy-duty elastic mounting for touring safety
Cons
- No specific polar pattern type listed
- Connectors and cable type not mentioned
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Audix OM2 Handheld Hypercardioid Dynamic Microphone
OM2 · Audix
28 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The OM2 is a seriously impressive mic for the money. It’s a great workhorse for live vocals, especially if you're battling stage noise and need that focused pickup. It’s perfect for gigging vocalists or bands on a budget who need a reliable, clear sound.
Pros
- Robust zinc housing offers excellent stage durability.
- Hypercardioid pattern minimizes bleed, ideal for loud stages.
- Clear vocal reproduction with surprising detail for its price.
Cons
- Hypercardioid pattern demands precise mic technique; prone to feedback.
- Lacks the warmth and low-end presence of more premium mics.
All 73 dynamic microphones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Audix OM5 Handheld Hypercardioid Dynamic Vocal MicrophoneOM5 · Audix45Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 12
AKG D 5 Vocal MicrophoneD5 S · AKG · 2 finishes44Stable$107€96$107€96Check ↗
- 13
Audix OM3 Hypercardioid Vocal MicrophoneOM3 · Audix43Stable$126€113$126€113Check ↗
- 14
Audix OMX-E Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneOMX-M · Audix41Stable$138€124$138€124Check ↗
- 15
Audix OMX-E Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneOMX-T · Audix41Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 16
RODE M1 Handheld Dynamic MicrophoneM1-S · Rode · 2 finishes39↓ 2.9%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 17
Warm Audio Retro 64 ChromeWarm Audio37Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 18
Beyerdynamic TG V50d Dynamic Cardioid MicrophoneTG V50 · beyerdynamic · 2 finishes36Stable$105€94$105€94Check ↗
- 19
Austrian Audio OD303 Supercardioid Dynamic Handheld MicrophoneOD303 · Austrian Audio35Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 20
sE Electronics V3 Handheld Dynamic MicrophoneV3 · sE Electronics45Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 21
Yamaha YDM505Yamaha · 2 finishes33Stable$103€92$103€92Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha YDM707 BYamaha · 2 finishes33Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
- 23
Lewitt MTP 5 SLewitt · 2 finishes32Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
- 24
sE Electronics V2 Switch Supercardioid Dynamic MicrophoneV2 Switch · sE Electronics48Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 25
Sontronics Solo Supercardioid Dynamic MicrophoneSolo · Sontronics30Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 26
Aston Microphones Apex VoidAston Microphones30↓ 4.1%$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 27
Shure PGA48-XLRPGA48 · Shure48↓ 5.2%$61€55$61€55Check ↗
- 28
the t.bone GM 55the t.bone39Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 29
Mipro MM-58Mipro27Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 30
EV PL 80aEV · 2 finishes26Stable$128€115$128€115Check ↗
- 31
Audix F50 Handheld Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneF50S · Audix40Stable$67€60$67€60Check ↗
- 32
Shure BETA 58A Handheld Supercardioid Dynamic MicrophoneBeta 58 A · Shure · 2 finishes68Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
- 33
Audio-Technica Pro 41Audio-Technica27Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 34
Sennheiser e945 Handheld Supercardioid Dynamic Vocal MicrophoneE 945 · Sennheiser · 6 finishes57↑ 3.6%$195€175$195€175Check ↗
- 35
Shure Nexadyne 8/C Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneNexadyne 8/C · Shure · 2 finishes54↓ 5.6%$374€335$374€335Check ↗
- 36
AKG Perception Live P5sAKG33↓ 6.5%$48€43$48€43Check ↗
- 37
the t.bone MB85 Betathe t.bone · 2 finishes34Stable$45€40$45€40Check ↗
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Shure Super 55 Deluxe Supercardioid Dynamic MicrophoneSuper 55 Deluxe · Shure51Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
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Shure KSM8 Dualdyne Handheld Cardioid Dynamic MicrophoneKSM8 B · Shure51Stable$463€415$463€415Check ↗
- 40
beyerdynamic TG V35 sbeyerdynamic30Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 41
Superlux D108ASuperlux30Stable$50€45$50€45Check ↗
- 42
TC-Helicon MP-85TC-Helicon27Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 43
Audix PDX520Audix48Stable$385€345$385€345Check ↗
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the t.bone MB 88U Dualthe t.bone31Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 45
sE Electronics V8 BlacksE Electronics · 2 finishes47↓ 4.6%$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 46
Audix OM7 Handheld Hypercardioid Dynamic Vocal MicrophoneOM7 · Audix · 2 finishes46Stable$250€224$250€224Check ↗
- 47
AKG Perception Live P3sAKG30Stable$42€38$42€38Check ↗
- 48
Superlux TM58SSuperlux37Stable$28€25$28€25Check ↗
- 49
Behringer Ultravoice XM8500 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal MicrophoneXM8500 Bundle · Behringer · 2 finishes29Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 50
Telefunken M80 Satin ChromeTelefunken · 4 finishes45Stable$479€429$479€429Check ↗
Dynamic Microphones by the numbers
Measured across all 126 models we track, not a sample.
Median $147 — half of all dynamic microphones here cost less.
median of 24 models · 0.18 kg–2.5 kg
median of 23 models · 8"–8"
How to choose the best dynamic microphones
Sensitivity
As an intermediate player, you're developing your mic technique. A mic that's too sensitive will pick up every breath and pop, requiring constant EQ and gate work. We're looking for a sweet spot - enough sensitivity to capture nuances, but not so much that it's a constant battle.
Off-Axis Rejection
Band rehearsals and live gigs are loud. Good off-axis rejection helps isolate the vocals, minimizing bleed from guitars, drums, and other instruments. It's about getting a cleaner vocal signal without resorting to excessive isolation.
Frequency Response & Tone
Forget 'flat' - we want a mic with character. Does it have a slight mid-range bump for clarity? A warmer low-end for a fuller sound? It's about finding a voicing that complements your voice and the music you're making. That 'fat midrange honk' can be a game-changer.
Durability & Build Quality
You're going to be gigging. A mic that falls apart after a few gigs is a waste of money. Solid construction, a robust clip, and a reliable XLR connector are non-negotiable. Cheap mics often skimp here, leading to frustrating failures.
Polar Pattern Options
While cardioid is the most common, having options like hypercardioid or even omnidirectional can be invaluable for different recording situations or stage setups. It offers flexibility as you learn more about mic placement and acoustic environments.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the basic USB mic setup and looking to level up your vocal recording and live sound game? Dynamic mics are the workhorses, but stepping up from a $30 mic to something truly usable requires a bit more thought. This isn't about chasing the 'best' mic, it's about finding the right tool for your skillset and what you're trying to achieve-whether it's nailing a vocal track or cutting through a loud band rehearsal.
Don't fall for the hype. A $200 mic isn't magically going to make you sound like Chris Cornell. Focus on a mic that feels good in your hand and sounds decent straight out of the box - you can always shape it with EQ later.
Watch out for mics that claim to do everything; those are usually doing something poorly. A little bit of research and hands-on testing (if possible) goes a long way.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 126 dynamic microphones from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between cardioid and hypercardioid?
Cardioid mics reject sound from the rear, hypercardid mics reject even more, but have a small lobe of sensitivity directly behind them. Hypercardioid mics are great for isolation, but require very careful mic placement.
Do I need a pop filter?
Absolutely. Plosives ('p' and 'b' sounds) can ruin a vocal recording. A pop filter is cheap insurance against those harsh, breathy sounds. It's not a luxury, it's a necessity.
What about a shock mount?
A shock mount isolates the mic from vibrations - bumps on the floor, stand rumble, etc. It's not essential for every situation, but it's a worthwhile upgrade, especially if you're recording in a less-than-ideal acoustic environment.
Can I use a dynamic mic for instrument recording?
Sure! Dynamic mics can be great for snare drums, guitar amps, and even horns. The key is finding a mic with a frequency response that complements the instrument's character. Don't expect pristine detail like you'd get from a condenser, but you can often get a punchy, aggressive sound.
How do I know if a mic is 'too bright'?
Listen for a harsh, ice-picky top end that sounds brittle or sibilant. It'll make your vocals fatiguing to listen to, and it's often difficult to tame with EQ. A warmer, smoother tone is generally more forgiving, especially for less experienced singers.
