Best Selling Microphones of 2023

When it came to microphones, customers mainly stuck to the hits in 2023. The majority of this year’s best-selling microphones consist of familiar names, but hey, they’re considered studio essentials for a reason. Whether you need a new condenser, a road-ready dynamic, a retro-tinged ribbon, or a cutting-edge modeling mic, these top-selling microphones of 2023 are all fantastic options.

Shure SM7B

No surprises here. Aside from being one of the top best-sellers for the third year in a row, the SM7B is probably one of the most recognizable mics in the world. While it’s historically a go-to for vocals, the 7B’s flat frequency response, focused cardioid pattern, and high SPL also make it a great option for guitar cabs, horns, and even drums. Outside of music, the mic also has plenty of devoted users in the podcasting and streaming worlds—a true testament to its sheer versatility.

Coles 4038

Taking silver this year is the waffle iron-shaped marvel made by the BBC. Used most famously by Glyn Johns on records by the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Bob Dylan, the 4038 particularly excels at capturing the subtle details and transients of a source even in high-output setups. Its punchy and warm sound is particularly great for drums, which is why they’re the key ingredient in Johns’ classic drum setup, but this mic will pair well with just about anything.

Electro Voice 635A

This quirky omnidirectional mic has been kicking around studios since 1965, and plenty of people are still enjoying it today. Small but mighty, the 635A sports a high max SPL, a smooth response, and a near-indestructible enclosure that withstands shocks, humidity, and extreme temperatures. These qualities are great for broadcasting and field recording, but the 635A’s vibey omni sound is what makes it the ultimate “curveball” mic—the one that always makes people ask, “How’d you make it sound like that?”

Sennheiser MD 421 II

Some things never change, including the MD 421 II being a top 5 best-seller. The mic’s high maximum SPLs and focused-yet-detailed cardioid pattern complement guitar and bass amps, but the built-in five-position bass roll-off and Music/Speech switch also make it a great option for vocals, drums, and even brass instruments. With all of these features packed into a sleek and compact design, there’s no question why the 421 II is a must-have for any artist, producer, and engineer.

Universal Audio Sphere DLX

Next up is the first mic on the list to come out this year…well, sort of. The UA Sphere DLX is actually a new version of the Townsend Labs Sphere (a past best-seller) and a direct result of the two companies’ recent merger. Thankfully, everything great about the original Sphere is back, and now with UA’s revolutionary emulation technology to boot. When used with the UA Sphere plugin, this single mic gives you access to 38 of the most renowned condenser, dynamic, and ribbon mics ever made. Mix and match mics with the click of a mouse, record with zero latency, and even change the mics after tracking—a perfect setup for maximum flexibility and creativity.

Slate Digital ML-1

Another solid modeling mic, the ML-1 is a budget-friendly option that punches well above its weight. As part of Slate’s Virtual Microphone System, the ML-1 offers a neutral and clean sound signature that’s an ideal blank slate for its eight microphone and two preamp emulations. For the indecisive types, you can even completely redo your mic setup in post without affecting your audio quality.

Earthworks DM20

Tracking drums can be a daunting task, from finding the perfect spot for them to hoping they don’t take a direct hit from a drumstick. That’s where the Earthworks DM20 and included RM1 RimMount come in: A mic setup designed specifically for close miking snares and toms. The mic itself handles high attack and SPL without sacrificing dynamics or detail, and the mount makes placing the mic quick and discreet. Whether it’s onstage or in the studio, the DM20 will capture every nuance from the kit and its player with ease while also staying out of harm’s way.

Telefunken M80

Condenser or dynamic? The Telefunken M80 says, “Why choose?” This budget-friendly vocal mic combines the clarity and detail of a condenser mic with the stability and high SPL of a dynamic. Onstage, it gives you an open and transparent sound without risking feedback or sound bleed, and in the studio, you have a no-fuss mic with a flat frequency response and reduced proximity effect. Either way, you win.

Lewitt LCT-440 PURE

This striking green-and-black mic is an affordable entry point into the world of Lewitt’s renowned and meticulously crafted mics. Featuring the same components and tech found in the higher-tier Prestige models, the LCT 440 PURE does exactly what the name implies: gives you clean, transparent recordings that bring out every detail in vocals, acoustic guitars, drums, and more. Plus, the low self-noise and included shock mount and custom magnetic pop filter ensure that nothing gets in the way between you, the performance, and top-quality recordings.

Josephson e22S

No, this isn’t a sonic screwdriver from Doctor Who, but it could be your next trusty tool in the studio. Made for the one-and-only Steve Albini, this mic was designed for the specific purpose of fitting easily in between drum hardware. Since then, plenty of people have found use for its compact size and crip sound on guitars, amps, and keys. Whether you’re setting it up in the middle of the room or in a specific, otherwise unreachable nook, this mic is a reliable and somewhat unconventional option.

Check out more of the best-selling gear of 2023 on our blog!

If you’re interested in purchasing any of the microphones mentioned in this blog, we're here to help! Contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.