Can I Use Condenser Microphone For Karaoke? 3-Minute Read
Although you need a microphone for your karaoke machine, that doesn’t mean you should go out and just pick any old option.
There is actually is a wide range of microphones out there and some perform better than others when it comes to producing a great karaoke experience at home.
Many of my friends over the years have asked me if they can use a condenser mic with their karaoke machine.
So, can you use a condenser mic for karaoke?
Condenser microphones aren’t good for karaoke. They are fragile, require phantom power, and tend to pick up even the smallest sounds quite well. Moreover, using a condenser microphone in an uncontrolled environment such as karaoke presents a huge risk of feedback.
That said, dynamic mics are the best for karaoke. They are tough and can withstand rough use, and they don’t even need phantom power. If you’re looking for a microphone for karaoke, then I will highly recommend you get the Fifine Wireless Handheld Microphones.
These mics have hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon from many happy customers who regularly use them with their karaoke machines.
Don’t forget to check out my top 5 recommended microphones for karaoke in the next section of this article.
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Condenser vs. Dynamic Microphones For Karaoke
Condenser and Dynamic are the two predominant microphone technologies in use today.
A karaoke microphone is not different from a regular mike in the sense that the same internal mechanism makes both types work. That is why it may serve you to know a bit about dynamic mics and condenser mics.
As a rule of thumb, any mic for karaoke machines, be it a regular one, or a wireless Bluetooth karaoke microphone is usually a dynamic model.
These mics offer the best performance for the price, and since karaoke machines are intended for fun, not for recording music in a studio, for instance, they are ideal for the purpose.
Below I have listed a few reasons why condenser microphones are not good for karaoke, and dynamic mics are almost always the best choice.
1. Condenser mics are too sensitive for karaoke.
Condenser microphones offer better sound quality and higher sensitivity, meaning they can capture a much wider range of frequencies, including quieter, more delicate sounds.
The condenser microphone’s higher sensitivity is perfect for a soundproof recording studio, but not suitable for a karaoke setting with amateur vocalists.
Dynamic mics, on the other hand, are not that sensitive and that is why they are preferred over condenser mics in a live setting.
2. Condenser mics may create a feedback loop.
In an uncontrolled environment such as karaoke, it’s quite possible that a condenser mic will start “hearing” the speakers it’s connected to, creating a feedback loop.
A feedback loop is when there’s a continuous squealing sound emanating from the speakers.
3. Condenser mics are too fragile for karaoke.
Condenser microphones are designed to be fixed on a stand and used in a recording studio.
Condenser mics have a sensitive and fragile diaphragm inside and these mics are not meant for rough use.
The more intricate design of condenser diaphragms makes them susceptible to humidity, (sweating singers), excess heat, and the dreaded fumble and drop, which in most cases will render the microphone useless.
On the other hand, dynamic microphones use simple technology and are much more reliable and durable in the long term.
Dynamic microphones are also much more robust as compared to condenser mics and can handle a bit of knocking around.
A dynamic mic pretty much guarantees that your karaoke setup will last a long time. Since it is most likely that your kids will love the karaoke machine, it is a good idea to give them a toy they cannot break easily. They will be able to handle the karaoke microphone pretty roughly and still see no harm come to it.
4. Condenser mics are expensive.
Condenser mics are usually intended for recording studios, and they are aimed at providing superior performance.
Because the technology employed in their making is more complicated than in the case of a dynamic model, they are pretty expensive.
We all know how mics are typically handled and passed around during a passion-filled session of karaoke, and an expensive condenser mic is not meant to be treated that way.
Best Microphones For Karaoke
The sheer number of karaoke microphones on the market is overwhelming, and if it’s getting too tricky for you to pick out a good mic for karaoke, here’s a list that will ensure you can find the perfect mic for your party.
| Image | Title | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Fifine UHF Wireless Microphone | See on Amazon | |
 | Shure BLX288/PG58 Wireless Mic | See on Amazon | |
 | Shure SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone | See on Amazon | |
 | GTD Audio G-380H VHF Wireless Microphone System | See on Amazon | |
 | BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone | See on Amazon |
1. Fifine Wireless Handheld Microphone
- 3 vocalists can sing karaoke together. 1/4’’ input for extra wireless microphone (not included but could be found from Fifine). Separate volume control (VOL.A & VOL.B) for each wireless mic. Perfect for karaoke, party, school and church.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
I personally like this pair because of its superior audio quality, and because it actually rejects and suppresses a lot of background noises. This makes it an excellent choice for belting out your favorite tunes outside, in a park, or in your backyard.
It’s a wireless mic, which is another admirable feature because it means you don’t have to worry about getting tangled up, yet it still has a very powerful range so that you stay connected while you move (and groove) around.
There’s nothing worse than dropping outright as your song hits its peak! Also, the battery life on this mic is impressive.
2. Shure Microphone System
- Included: BLX88 dual wireless receiver; 2 BLX2/PG58 handheld transmitters with integrated PG58 cardioid dynamic microphone capsules; 2 microphone clip
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Shure dual handheld microphone is perfect for some karaoke time with your friends and family.
This set features two handheld PG58 vocal microphones that are wonderful regarding audio clarity when singing. The best part may be that both microphones are wireless.
They are both connected to a receiver that provides essential visual information such as the power status and battery status.
Many happy customers of this mic say that the microphones cause no feedback, meaning that they don’t produce any additional, unwanted sounds, created by the interference of speakers.
3. Shure SM58 Microphone
- Frequency response tailored for vocals with brightened midrange and bass rolloff to control proximity effect
- Effective built-in spherical wind and pop filter. Frequency response: 50 to 15000 Hz
- Cardioid (unidirectional) dyna
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone has been a true standout on the market since its inception all the way back in 1966.
The SM58 features a high gain-before-feedback design, along with its groundbreaking integrated pneumatic shock mount, and consistent cardioid polar pattern.
The frequency response has been tailored specifically for vocals, with bass roll-off and a brightened midrange to control the proximity effect.
In terms of the SM58 being used as a karaoke microphone, the only drawback we can see is it not being wireless. Now, this will not necessarily be a problem in all situations, but it is worth noting.
4. GTD Audio G-380H VHF Wireless Microphone System
- Consumer Alert: Most users do not need a license to operate this wireless microphone system. Nevertheless, operating this microphone system without a license is subject to certain restrictions: the system may not cause harmful interference; it must operate at a low power level (not in excess of 50 milliwatts); and it has no protection from interference received from any other devi
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Karaoke by yourself is fine, but having your pals back you up is a lot more enjoyable. With this system, you get four handheld wireless mics which are perfect for having a great karaoke party!
This is also an excellent option for new bands or small groups that really need a few mics to practice and perform with.
This system comes in at a very affordable price point, especially given the fact that you get four mics, which is exactly why I have included it on the list.
The microphones are well made and strong enough to deal with some punishment whilst still being light enough to use for longer periods of time.
5. BONAOK Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone
- The excellent design of our karaoke wireless microphone is very suitable for your hand, which can make you feel more comfortable. And the built-in high-quality Bluetooth module can be used as speaker, player and Recorder, compatible with various singing applications
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Bonaok Q37 Karaoke Microphone joins this list as one of the best Bluetooth wireless karaoke microphones.
The value that this wireless karaoke microphone offers in its price segment is unprecedented.
With 11 color options available to suit even the pickiest karaoke fans and impressive sound quality, this is easily one of the top wireless microphones for karaoke on the market.
A high-quality Bluetooth module in the Q37 enables smooth sound reproduction up to 32 feet away from the receiver.
While compact, the mic’s construction includes sturdy materials that are often available only on microphones in a much higher price segment.
What type of karaoke microphone do you need?
Taking a close look at the various types of mics for karaoke machines available out there can definitely help you choose the right one for your needs.
At first glance, they might not look that different from one another, but closer inspection can make it clear that you’re dealing with products that offer distinct functionalities.
For instance, you might want a karaoke microphone for your TV. These models are designed to work with smart TVs, and they involve the use of an application.
They used to be quite popular, as you could use YouTube videos to have plenty of karaoke fun. Still, since there are mobile devices now that are easy to use, another type has taken over.
That would be the wireless Bluetooth karaoke microphone type, which you can easily connect to your iPad or a smartphone.
You will like the fact that these microphones tend to be quite convenient, once because there’s no need for an audio cable to connect them to your smartphone, and second because mobile devices are fun and easy to use.
Some people might prefer a karaoke microphone stand. While some stands are just that, and you can use them for holding the mike, others are entire karaoke systems that come in handy for people who don’t have a lot of room at their disposal for this type of activity.
Keep in mind that If you already have an impressive karaoke system that handles everything, a barebones microphone that provides excellent sound quality is more than what you need.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a microphone that also acts as a Bluetooth speaker or a karaoke machine itself, you should opt for a more multifunctional solution.
Never make compromises on reliability and build quality when buying a microphone, regardless of the features.
How to maintain your karaoke microphone?
- Here are a few tips to properly take care of your karaoke microphone so that it can last a long time.
- Dust and saliva are the number one enemies of your microphone. Make sure to invest in a pop filter to prevent saliva from reaching the sensor. Putting the microphone in a plastic bag or a case after use helps prevent dust collection.
- If you have a portable karaoke microphone and take it on the road, consider a hard protective case.
- Always keep the microphone at least 5 to 6 inches away from your mouth to avoid damaging the sensor and for optimal sound.
- Never connect a microphone cable to a live power supply of another device. Always connect the microphone cable to the mic and the device before turning the power on. Otherwise, an electric shock might permanently damage your microphone.
- Avoid dropping or otherwise hitting your microphone. The sensors in microphones tend to be quite sensitive and can be easily damaged if dropped or hit on a hard surface.
- Do not take the microphone apart for cleaning unless you know what you are doing and have experience with this. In general, for budget microphones, avoid this altogether. More expensive microphones are a different story but letting a professional do it might be your best bet.
Conclusion
I hope that after reading this article you know the reason why a condenser microphone might not be a good choice for karaoke. If you were looking for a decent karaoke mic, I hope my recommendations helped you in choosing one that suits you the best.
Keep in mind that since a condenser microphone is not suitable for karaoke as it’s very sensitive, fragile, expensive, and needs phantom power to function.
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