If you play classical cello, you want your music to be heard whenever and wherever you are performing. Cello microphones can help amplify your sound when you are performing on stage. They are also great for recording studios so that you can isolate the sound of your cello. While you can always use a cello pickup, cello microphones tend to capture a more natural sound of the cello. You could also always to choose to get an electric cello.
Should you choose to use a cello mic, there are a lot of options to consider. In this article, we are going to guide you in identifying ten of the best cello microphones on the market.
Overall Best Cello Microphone
This cardioid microphone provides clear reproduction of sound sources and makes it a great recording microphone for your cello.
Features:
• Flexible gooseneck
• In-line preamplifier
• Clear sound reproduction
Overall Best Wireless Microphone
Fully equipped with an internally powered, active preamp to produce the richest sound.
Features:
• Lightweight
• Internally powered
• Plug and play
Best Cello Microphones
| Cello Microphones | Price |
| 1. Shure PGA98H-XLR Cardioid Condenser | $135.00 |
| 2. Audio-Technica PRO 35 Cardioid Condenser | $149.00 |
| 3. The Feather Cello Pickup | $218.00 |
| 4. Amoper Wireless Cello Microphone | $47.68 |
| 5. Korg CM200BK Clip-On Contact Microphone | $22.45 |
| 6. HEIMU Clip On Cello Condenser Microphone | $65.99 |
| 7. Imelod Contact Microphone | $8.99 |
| 8. DPA D:vote CORE 4099 | $605.98 |
| 9. Audio Technica Unimount Microphone | $36.95 |
| 10. ZINGYOU Condenser Microphone | $34.99 |
What to Look for in Cello Microphones
In order to buy the right cello microphone or cello pickup you need to evaluate the potential options on several criteria. Here we’ve laid out a few of the features you should consider.
What Polar Patterns, Proximity Effects, and Sensitivity Do You Need?
When choosing the best cello microphones, one of the first things that you should do is to look for the right specifications for polar patterns, proximity effects, and sensitivity. These will depend on the recording equipment that you have and what sound you are looking to produce.
What Sound Do You Want?
Another thing that you should take note of is the sound that it is able to amplify. There are some microphones that produce a metallic in nature. Get the sound that would produce the naturally rich sound of your cello. You do not want to have a mediocre performance just because you had a bad microphone. Hence, go for the better sounding microphone and have the performance of your life!
Do You Need a Cello Microphone or Cello Pickup?
First, consider whether you want a cello microphone or a cello pickup. A pickup is generally used to connect a cello to an amp for live performances to mimic the sound of an electric cello whereas a cello microphone is used to record the sound of a cello.While you can technically interchange them, they will work and sound best when used for their intended purposes. We mostly cover cello microphones in this article, but you can find more our of recommended cello pickups here.
These are just a few of the things that you should consider before picking one from the best cello microphones. It is worth noting that knowledge of its key features will actually make your job of choosing the most appropriate instrument easier.
All Cello Microphones
1. Shure PGA98H-XLR Cardioid Condenser
This cardioid microphone provides clear reproduction of sound sources and makes it a great recording microphone for your cello. The cardioid polar pattern picks up audio from the source while rejecting unwanted noise. The gooseneck bends so that you can quickly and easily mount the microphone in the perfect position.
2. Audio-Technica PRO 35 Cardioid Condenser
A great overall cello microphone that works well for studio and live recordings. It’s unique recording technology limits the amount of sound bleeding from the surrounding area.It consists of a UniMount clip which permits accurate positioning and provides shock resistance. Its cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the rear and the sides. This improves the isolation of the desired sound source. Its extended frequency response captures subtle nuances of your performance. This microphone has a six-inch cable which you could attach permanently to it.
3. The Feather Cello Pickup
Fully equipped with an internally powered, active preamp to produce the richest sound, “The Feather” is so compact that it can be positioned in many different ways in order to capture the best sound. Mount it virtually anywhere on your cello. Made in the USA.
4. Amoper Wireless Cello Microphone
This cello microphone is small, but powerful. This high-sensitivity microphone will let you record your cello with crystal-clear clarity. With wireless capabilities up to 131 ft, you can take your cello anywhere whether you are rocking in the audience or twisting and turning on stage. The 360-degree rotatable silicone shock-proof clip and strong steel collar clip makes it easy to fit this micrphone on any cello.
5. Korg CM200BK Clip-On Contact Microphone
Korg is known for making great cello tuners, but they also make affordable cello microphones. A simple clip will attach to your tailpiece or cello bridge and provide good sound quality. The 5-ft long cord gives you plenty of flexibility for playing.
6. HEIMU Clip On Cello Condenser Microphone
Great for for PA amplification and live recording, the HEIMU microphone will make your cello sound very natural. The microphone attaches to the C and A string below the bridge which allows it to capture a natural sound because it is in a sweet spot between the bridge and fingerboard. A great option for wired and wireless recording.
7. Imelod Contact Microphone
If you’re looking for a cost-effective cello microphone, this is it. Coming at less than $10, this piezo microphoneworks by contacting with the sound source directly. It comes with double sided tape and self adhesive Velcro for multiple mounting options. Just plug in and start recording.
8. DPA D:vote CORE 4099
The DPA d:vote 4099V
– Cello Mic w/Clip is a perfect microphone for your cello! It has a small diaphragm and its super-cardioid condenser could allow you to produce stunning sounds. In addition to this, this microphone mounts gently to your cello, serving up beautiful sound quality. This cello microphone is meant for those who are tired of performing with a microphone stand.
9. Audio Technica Unimount Microphone
The Audio Technica Unimount Microphone has a flexible boom arm which makes it easy to attach to your cello. Its strain relief clips reduce handling noise so that you can get high-quality noise.
10. ZINGYOU Condenser Microphone
While different than most of the cello micrphones in this article, the ZINGYOU Condenser Microphone is a great alternative if you are willing to play close to a mic stand. This is the kind of microphone used in professional recording studios. The thin material diaphragm or “capsule” which vibrates and sends a signal to the output when engaged and is hit by sound waves meaning it replicates the actual sound being played perfectly.
Conclusion
We do recommend that cello players should purchase only the best cello microphones on the market. This is a gadget that you must have, especially when performing for a large audience. This way, you will surely be heard. You should note that these products have various differences which would distinguish one from the other product. However, noting their distinctive characteristics would allow you to arrive at the most appropriate model based on your personal preference.
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