7 Best Microphone for Noisy Environment (Buying Guide)


To record quality audio, one needs to get even the tiny bits of pieces right. While it is a little easier in the studio environment where it is mostly quiet, things can get a lot challenging in the noisy surroundings.

To cope with this challenge, you need to get your hands on the best microphone for the noisy environment to ensure that it records quality audio.

While looking for the best microphone for noisy environment, one must understand the components of these devices. Fortunately, we do, and after a series of testing, we have come up with a list of the best mics for noisy environments that are available in the market. So, without any further ado, let’s dive right into it.

Before getting into the detailed review of the best microphone for noisy environments, let’s take a bird’s eye view of the features these microphones offer.

Top 7 Picks – Best Microphone For Noisy Environment

ProductDetailPrice

Shure SM7B

  • Type: Desktop
  • Frequency Response: 50 – 20,000 Hz
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Shure SM57-LC

  • Type: Handheld
  • Frequency Response: 40 – 15,000 Hz
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Shure SM58LC

  • Type: Handheld
  • Frequency Response: 50 – 15, 000 Hz
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Blue Yeti USB

  • Type: Desktop
  • Frequency Response: 16 – 48,000 Hz
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Shure Super Deluxe 55

  • Type: Handheld
  • Frequency Response: 60 – 17,000 Hz
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Plantronics Voyager 520

  • Type: Bluetooth Headset
  • Frequency Response: N/M
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Logitech H390

  • Type: Headset
  • Frequency Response: N/M
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So, these were our top picks for today, now let’s review all of these products one by one and tell you why we’ve picked them as the best microphones for noisy environments. + We’re gonna see what they offer and what you can expect from these products.

1- Shure SM7B Vocal Microphone – An Exceptional All-Round Microphone

  • Durable and good-looking microphone
  • Comes with all the accessories
  • Does not require phantom power
  • Quality audio with excellent noise cancellation.
  • Highly sensitive

Shure SM7B is one of the best all-round market microphones that are available on the market. It is a premium device by Shure that was intended for vocalists.

The manufacturers have got it right to the tiny details. Be it the frequency range, polar pattern, or noise cancellation, it checks all the boxes.

With a frequency response of 50 – 20,000 Hz, it can pick up pretty much all the audible sounds. From the whispers in the vocals to the sound of the drums, it captures all of them effectively.

By virtue of being dynamic, the moving coil microphone is highly sensitive as well. At about -59 dBV, it is one of the most sensitive microphones that are available on the market.

What makes it the ideal option for recording in a noisy environment is its polar pattern which is cardioid. Such a pattern enables it to capture the sound coming from only one direction and block it off from other directions. And unlike most microphones, the polar pattern is very true and strict.

So, when you are recording the vocals in a noisy environment, the sensitivity of the microphone would ensure that it records every detail. And the off-axis rejection would ensure no external noise is made into the recording.

Besides that, the microphone comes with a shock mount which is another noise-cancellation mechanism. The shock mount system absorbs unnecessary vibrations and shocks and does not let that vibration get into the recording.

Thus, your audio would not have that unwanted bass which can ruin the overall quality of audio. And mounting the microphone on the shock mount is pretty easy and simple.

As for durability, I do not think you would get your hands on a better product. It features a metallic housing which makes it one of the most durable microphones available. I have dropped it multiple times from the waist height and it has not sustained as much as scratch.

Furthermore, the black coating on the aluminium casing makes it aesthetically pleasing as well.  It would be a great element in your video to showcase your gear.

All the other accessories like windscreen, thread adapter, and cover plater are included in the package. So, yes, you do pay a handsome sum to get this microphone but, in the end, it is all worth it.

Finally, the microphone comes with an XLR connector which makes it convenient to connect with all the other accessories in your studio. With that said, the same XLR connector would be a headache for you if you do not own an interface. You would have to get a converter adapter which can compromise the audio quality.

The bottom line is, it is one of the excellent devices that a studio owner can have in its gear. But, at the same time, it is not a good option for people who are just starting out. It is costly and a premium device which would take some time to get a hold of.

Pros

  • Durable and good-looking microphone
  • Comes with all the accessories
  • Does not require phantom power
  • Quality audio with an excellent noise-cancellation mechanism
  • Highly sensitive

Cons

  • Not a great option for beginners.

2- Shure SM57-LC – Slim and Sleek Mic For Outdoor Recordings

  • Slim, sleek, and durable design
  • Wide and flat frequency response
  • XLR connector makes it compatible with other studio devices
  • Necessary accessories are included
  • Reasonable price

SM57-LC is Amazon’s choice on Amazon.com which tells you about the quality and performance of this product. The product has received over 600+ 5 stars rating from the customers which shows the confidence of users in the microphone.

SM57-LC is a heavy-duty dynamic microphone designed to withstand the abuse live performances have to offer. By virtue of being dynamic, it is excellent for outdoor performances and recording loud instruments like drums.

From the design point of view, it is a sleek and compact microphone with metallic housing. Ergonomics are decent which makes it feel good in the hand. Besides that, it is a sturdy device that can withstand the wear and tear a live environment has to offer.

It is strong enough to survive accidental falls without sustaining any functional damage. Yes, you may see a few scratches but it is expected.

And the best part is, it weighs only about 0.6 lbs which means the vocalist would not find it hard to hold it for a longer period of time.

As for the performance, it is top-notch, thanks to the powerful components packed into it. With a frequency response of 40 – 15,000 Hz, it can capture pretty much all the sound.

Yes, it may have trouble capturing the sounds of low intensities but you do not want to record them in the noisy environment anyway. Because if it does, you would end up with distorted audio. The frequency response is mostly flat but you may experience some fluctuation in the lower part of the spectrum.

The polar pattern on the microphone is cardioid which allows the sound into the mic that is directly pointed towards it. What it essentially means is that only the sound that you want to pick would be picked and the rest of it would be rejected.

This off-axis rejection ensures that the audio is noise-free even when the environment is noisy. And it is exactly what makes it the best mic for noisy environments.

However, unidirectional polar pattern also has a catch, which is sometimes even the vocalist is not sure which direction to speak in. But given that such mics are used in live performances, one can easily get a hold of them.

Moving on, another feature that makes it the best mic for a noisy environment is the pneumatic shock mount that comes with it. It cuts down the handling noise and absorbs unnecessary vibration and keeps the audio free of unwanted bass.

Furthermore, it connects via XLR making it compatible with all the other studio accessories. And the XLR is also superior to the USB connector when it comes to transferring audio effectively.

Pros

  • Slim, sleek and durable design
  • Wide and flat frequency response
  • XLR connector makes it compatible with other studio devices
  • Necessary accessories are included
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • Users have experienced issues with delivery

3- Shure SM58LC – Affordable Microphone To Reduce Background Noise

  • Absolute Tank, at this price range
  • Excellent off-axis rejection
  • Comes with all the accessories
  • Deep and rich audio
  • Even don’t need audio editing

SM58LC is Shure’s third product to make it to our list of the best microphone with noise cancellation. Believe me, it is not sponsored, it is just that the Shure is producing products that are truly hard to ignore. And it is not any different with the SM58LC as well.

SM58LC falls in the affordable bracket of microphones costing only about 99US$. However, the performance of this microphone is truly above par with the microphones coming at the same price. Like always, Shure has checked all the right boxes with this product as well.

With that said, the mentioned price is only accurate for the base model. If you want to add other features like an on/off switch, cable or a stage performance kit, you would have to spend some extra bucks.

It features a traditional dynamic microphone, a cone-shaped design which we are familiar with. Housing is also metallic which makes it just as durable as the other two products in the list.

However, as for ergonomics, it is good but not as good as the SM57. But given the difference between the price tag of the two products, we can conveniently ignore that fact.

As for the specifications, it resembles the SM57. At a frequency response of about 50-15,000 Hz, it is capable of capturing pretty much all sounds.

It certainly has trouble capturing low-frequency and low-intensity sound but that is not what it is intended for. So, no question there as well. And the frequency response is mostly flat and consistent as well.

Moving on, the polar pattern on this microphone is cardioid and truly unidirectional. Thus, it captures the sound only from the source directed directly towards it. And sound from all the other sources does not make it into the microphones.

It is precisely what makes it the best microphone with noise cancellation. The off-axis rejection keeps the audio clear even when you are recording in a noisy environment.

Furthermore, the frequency response of the microphone is tailored and shaped for vocals. Shure has brightened the midrange with a bass roll-off to control the proximity effect. Thus, in addition to blocking the unwanted noise, it also gives more clarity to the vocals to make them even better.

The microphone also comes with a pneumatic shock mount system which works by absorbing unwanted vibrations. These vibrations can either be due to accidental blows on the handle or because of the movement of the person holding the mic.

Mics that do not have such a mount usually impart unwanted and excessive bass into the audio which ruins the results.

In addition to recording vocals in a noisy environment, the mics also do wonders in recording loud instruments like drums. Because of its dynamic circuitry, it is more resistant which allows it to capture high-pressure waves effectively.

The connector on this microphone is XLR as well which is what you would want if you plan on outdoor performances. Plus, it is compatible with all the other devices in studio equipment as well. So, you would have no problem connecting it with the interface or the other devices that you have in the studio.

Pros

  • Affordable product
  • Comes with all the accessories
  • Customizable
  • Quality audio
  • Excellent off-axis rejection

Cons

  • Cardioid pattern makes it difficult to find the active part.

READ:) Best Dynamic Microphones

4- Blue Yeti USB – An Incredibly Well-Designed Microphone For Loud Environments

  • Comes with an affordable price tag.
  • Microphones for a loud environment
  • Multi pattern helps you record in any environment.
  • Multiple colour options
  • USB connector for convenient connection.

Blue Yeti has enjoyed unprecedented popularity for a USB microphone. It has received ratings from over 37,000 users and still maintains 4.5-star ratings. On top of that, it is Amazon’s choice on Amazon.com. It simply speaks for the sheer quality that the microphone has to offer.

Be it the design or the performance it aces at all of them. From the design perspective, it almost looks as if it is a showpiece. The matte black finish with a stand that looks like a person holding the mic above the shoulders is a sight for the eyes.

And the cherry on top is the number of colours that you can choose from. I do not think any other brand has put this much effort into making their products aesthetically pleasing.

No surprises, YouTubers love to flaunt this piece. Furthermore, in addition to looking elegant, it is a sturdy structure. And it can withstand the abuse (not that you would) thrown at it. In my experience, I have dropped it multiple times from the table and it has not sustained any damage. Yes, some scratches were there but nothing that can be seen from a distance.

The frequency response on this device is 16 to 48,000 Hz which is great for a product with such a price tag. And for the most part, it is flat and consistent. It only fluctuates when you switch between different polar patterns and other settings.

Moving on, it comes with four different polar patterns. While the cardioid or omnidirectional pattern makes it an excellent microphone to reduce background noise. Other patterns enable it to perform exceptionally well at other things.

For example, switching to the omnidirectional pattern would allow it to capture ambience as well. As a result, your audio would complement the video in your videos. You would enjoy it if you like to sing in the live streams.

The overall sound quality is rich and warm which is pleasing to the ear. As it is a desktop-type microphone, no shock mount is available as you would not need it. But, finding a place for it while you speak or sing into it can be challenging.

However, it does allow you to adjust and pivot the microphone. So, you can point it in the direction of the sound source. But even then, you would have to find a table of suitable height so you can place a perfect distance.

The microphone targets the online content creator for the most part and thus comes with a USB connector. It does not seem to affect and the only thing that it has done is to increase the convenience of the users. They can simply plug it in and start recording. No other device is recording.

What truly blows one away is the fact that a package as good as this comes for just under 100$. And it is probably why it has received such a positive response from users all around the world. For me, this is the best mic for the background noise.

Pros

  • Comes with an affordable price tag.
  • Microphone for a loud environment
  • Versatile microphone
  • Multiple colour options
  • USB connector for convenient connection with smart devices

Cons

  • Frequency response can be inconsistent at different polar patterns.

5- Shure Super 55 Deluxe – Microphone For The Rockstars

  • The microphone cancels background noise
  • Attractive and durable design
  • Low impedance
  • The response is tailored for vocals and speeches
  • Very strict polar pattern

Super 55 deluxe by Shure is a vocal microphone that features a signature satin chrome-plated, die-casting casing. It is a design that we have looked at in the grips of our favourite rockstars.

But the best part is, it not only looks good, it is extremely sturdy as well. Believe me, it can handle the rough use not that you would do it with the microphone as well as looking at it. But having that assurance is always good.

And let’s not forget, it is also one of Amazon’s choices on Amazon.com with over 650 ratings. Speaks for its quality and performance, doesn’t it?

The frequency response on this microphone ranges from 60 to 17,000 Hz. I know it is not great, especially for a microphone coming at a price tag as high as this one. However, it is one of the highly consistent responses that I have come across.

It does not fluctuate at any level which is what made me ignore its narrow spectrum. With that said, because of this spectrum you should expect some limitations, especially for recording loud sounds.

The frequency response has also been tailored for the vocals and speeches. So, despite the narrow spectrum, you would not be compromising on the quality of the audio.

Moving on, the polar pattern is the actual reason why we included it on our list of microphones that cancels background noise. It is not cardioid but hyper-cardioid.

This makes the off-axis rejection of the microphone better. The microphone can only pick up sound that is directly pointed towards it. Think of it as a better version of the cardioid mic.

With that said, the problem associated with cardioid mics is finding the active area that is also enhanced in this microphone. However, it is not something that you should be bothered by. You would get a hold of it in a few tries.

Furthermore, it also has a shock-mounted cartridge which minimizes the handling noise and keeps the audio clear of unwanted vibrations.

Another good thing about this microphone is the low impedance. It allows you to use long cables on stage which is not possible with all microphones.

Usually, when you attach too long a cable with a microphone, the audio starts to distort. But it would not happen with this microphone.

Lastly, the microphone comes with all the accessories that you would need to get started. Zipper storage bag, windshield, user guide, you name it, everything is included.

Pros

  • Microphone nicely cancels background noise
  • Attractive and durable design
  • Low impedance response
  • is tailored for vocals and speeches
  • Very strict polar pattern

Cons

  • Narrow frequency response

6- Plantronics Voyager 5200 – Device To Make Your Communications Better & Clear

  • Best mic for background noise
  • Reasonable price
  • Noise cancellation
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Compatible with most device

If you are someone who has to take a lot of calls but the noise around you makes it harder to communicate with others, we have just the right product. Voyager 5200 by Plantronics is the solution to your problem. It is an over-the-ear headset that is compatible to connect to cell phones.

Wearing the device is easy and comfortable. Although there is no cushioning, it is so well-built that you would not feel any discomfort wearing it. Furthermore, it is a lightweight device, so, you would not feel as if you are wearing anything after some time.

The device connects with pretty much all the smart devices available on the market. Thus, compatibility is not an issue unless you own an Apple device.

The performance of the unit is really good and you would not feel any lag in the communication. It features triple mic active digital signal processing which ensures real-time communication. Plus, the range of the device is also decent, allowing you to use it even when your phone is not near you.

Furthermore, the noise cancellation on this device is excellent. It not only blocks the noise of people around you but also the noise of wind which can be a nuisance. Active noise cancellation gives a guarantee of clear communication with your peers.

The audio quality of the earpiece is also very clear which allows you to listen to another person clearly. The combination of this crystal-clear audio on the earpiece and noise cancellation on the microphone is what you have been missing in your communication.

Since it is a wireless device, the battery is really important and thankfully, it does not disappoint. It can provide a talk time of about 7 hours which is more than enough than you would need. And it charges via MicroUSB though the charger does not come with it.

From the price point of view, it is fairly reasonably priced. And anyone who has been having trouble with their communication can use a device as good as this. The mic on this is one of the best mics for a noisy environment.

Pros

  • Best mic for background noise
  • Reasonable price
  • Noise cancellation
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Compatible with most device

Cons

  • Not something that you can wear casually because of its size.

7- Logitech H390 Wired Headset – An Affordable Package To Get You Started

  • Affordable and best mic for background noise
  • Compatible with pretty much all the devices
  • Excellent sensitivities of both microphone and the headphones
  • 2 years of the limited warranty
  • Long cable

Starting as a live streamer but not being able to figure out the right headset and mic? Worry no more! We have come up with exactly what you need for the live streams. Logitech H390 is a treat for anyone who is looking for a quality headset at an affordable price.

The product is so good that it has received over 31,000 ratings and still maintains 4.5 stars. And on top of it, it is Amazon’s choice on Amazon.com. And the best part is, it cost only about 25 bucks. The point is, it cannot get any better.

It features a fairly simple design and comes in plain black colour. Silver options are also available for those who want it. The design is a treat for those who are looking for something elegant yet minimalistic.

Furthermore, it is very comfortable to wear thanks to the padded headband and ear pads. Headband is also adjustable which means regardless of your head size you would find it fitting.

The device is equally good as both headphones and a microphone. The microphone has a frequency response of 100 – 10,000 Hz. And the microphone has active noise cancellation.

The sensitivity of the headphone is 94 dBV while the sensitivity of the microphone is 17 dBV. Both sensitivities are good enough to ensure quality communication between you and your audience.

The pattern on the microphone is unidirectional. Thus, it will only pick up the sound coming from the source that is directed directly at it. 

The headset also comes with volume and mute control. So, you can decide what you want your audience to listen to.

The important thing about such devices is their compatibility with other devices. Fortunately, it is compatible with all devices including MacOS.

So, whatever device you own, you are not going to have an issue with the compatibility of this headset. It connects via USB which makes the connection convenient as well.

Moving on, the headset comes with a long cable that is thick and durable. It is not one of those cables that break easily. So, you are guaranteed to use it for a long time.

Overall, the entire device is very sturdy and delivers quality performance. And the best part is, it comes with a 2 years limited warranty. And it does cover repair and part replacements when the headset needs it.

Pros

  • Affordable and best mic for background noise
  • Compatible with pretty much all the devices
  • Excellent sensitivities of both microphone and the headphones
  • 2 years of limited warranty
  • Long cable

Cons

  • Not highly suitable for long time hearing

READ:) Best Condenser Microphones

Buyer Guide For Selecting The Best Mics For Noisy Environment

While looking for the best microphone for noisy environment, there are a few things that you need to be careful of. Some feature that you need to look for, and in this section, we will let you know about those features.

1. Type of Microphone

The first thing you need to look at while selecting the best mics for noisy environment is the type of microphone. Usually, you would find two types of microphones on the market, condensers and dynamic. Dynamic mics are the best fit if you are looking to record in a noisy environment or outdoors.

Some of the condenser mics are also good for outdoor recordings, but for the most part, you should avoid them.

2. Maximum SPL

Maximum SPL defines the ability of the microphone to withstand loud sound. The microphone that has a low SPL cannot withstand the loud sounds and end up giving you a distorted sound.

However, those with high SPL can perform under high pressure and can give you quality audio. This is one thing that you must look at especially when you work around loud instruments like drums.

3. Polar Pattern

Whenever you are looking for the best microphone for the noisy environment you must look for the polar pattern. It is what can make or break the deal.

A microphone with an omnidirectional pattern would capture sound from all directions by virtue of its design. And thus, would give you noisy audio which you do not want.

On the other hand, the mic with a cardioid or hyper-cardioid polar pattern would capture the sound only from one direction. And by virtue of its design, it will block the sound coming from all other directions. Thus, you would get only the sound that you want in the audio thanks to the off-axis rejection.

It is very important, in fact, it is the first and foremost thing that you should look for before getting the best microphone for a noisy environment.

Conclusion – Best Microphone For Noisy Environment

Recording in a noisy environment can be challenging but it can get a little less difficult if you have the right equipment. Thus, we have given you a list of the best microphone for noisy environments. All of these microphones have come out victorious in our rigorous testing. We hope this would help you in recording challenging noisy situations.

This is all that we had on the best microphones for noisy environments. We hope this has been helpful. If there is anything that you want to add or ask, let us know in the given section. We would love to respond.

FAQs – Best Microphone For Noisy Environment

Why is it important to have a good microphone for a noisy environment?

It’s important to have a good microphone for a noisy environment because you want to be able to be heard clearly. If your voice is muffled or drowned out by background noise, it can be difficult for people to understand you.

What is the best microphone for a noisy environment?

The best microphone for a noisy environment is one that can filter out background noise while still picking up your voice. There are many different types of microphones available, so it’s important to choose one that will work best for your particular needs.

What are some things to consider when choosing a microphone for a noisy environment?

Some things to consider when choosing a microphone for a noisy environment include the type of microphone, the sensitivity, and the directionality. You’ll also want to think about how you’ll be using the microphone and what kind of features you need.

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