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When it comes to entertainment a lot of people do not realize that creating the audio is just as important as shooting the video. Just as fancy hardware is required for shooting a great shot, some equipment is needed for the audio as well.
Soundproofing the walls is the popular method to get quality audio but with microphone isolation shields you can get the job done and that too at lower prices. In this article, we will enlist some of the best microphone isolation shields that are available on the market.
These best microphone isolation shields are portable, easy to use, and compared to soundproofing cost a lot less. However, even within this category, a lot of variety is available which makes it a bit harder for beginners.
In this article, we will enlist all the best microphone isolation shields. You would find some high-end options, some budget-friendly options, and some that are in between. The point is, that it would have a piece for everyone.
So, without any further ado, let’s dive right into it. However, before getting too detailed reviews, let’s take a look at the prominent features that you would be getting in these best microphone isolation shields.
Top 10 Best Microphone Isolation Shields
Image | Product | Dimensions | Price |
---|---|---|---|
SE Electronics | 3.05×2.41×0.98 | Check Price | |
Monoprice Microphone | 3.2x16.3x7.5 |
Check Price | |
RF-X SE Electronics | 18x13x8 |
Check Price | |
Neewer Shield | 19.8x12x10.6 |
Check Price | |
SE Electronic Space | 9.45x19.69x13.78 |
Check Price | |
LyxPro VRI | 23x13x20 | Check Price | |
Aston Microphones | 13.2×7.2×15.6 | Check Price | |
Pyle Sound Isolation | 42×7.5×19 | Check Price | |
AxessAbles SF | 12.99x8.27x1.77 |
Check Price | |
TONOR | 9.45 x 19.69 x 13.78 | Check Price |
1. sE Electronics Reflexion Filter Pro-Hand-Made Shield Crafted For Versatility
To kick start our list of the best microphone isolation shields we have one of the most portable and versatile products that you would come across. Be it the podcast, instruments, or vocal recording, this filter would get the job done.
What do you think about it?
What makes this versatile is the surface area of this unit which is significantly larger than some other shields. This larger area creates a bigger filter that does not let the audio bounce back and produce unwanted noise. This kind of unit is best when it comes to recording dry vocals and instrument recording. The musicians would love to get their hands on this unit.
Furthermore, the thing that sets this apart is the fact it is built by hand without any help from the mass machinery. All of these units are carefully crafted at the sE factory by the hands of extremely skilled professionals. Every single detail on this unit has been crafted by keeping the users in perspective.
Moving on, a lot of these shields work only at certain frequencies which is not a problem if you work only within a specific spectrum. However, if your work involves diversity those ordinary shields would not be able to get the job done. Some of those frequencies would be recorded clearly while some would have unwanted noise in them.
What good is this Microphone Isolation Shield
The good news is, you would not have to put yourself through any of that if you get yourself this shield from sE electronics. This shield features a multilayer technology that works evenly and absorbs pretty much all the audible frequency. Hence, you get audio that is noise-free and very clear.
Moving on, the reason I said it is one of the best portable units you can get your hands on is because of the hardware it is mounted at. Back in 2016, the sE completely revamped its hardware and came up with something that is more stable, versatile, and flexible.
This mounting unit permits panning and tilting which gives maximum flexibility. Plus, all the moving parts are achromatized to guarantee durability. Moreover, regardless of the angle, you set this shield at you would not have a problem with stability. This is what makes it versatile as you can get clear dry audio while recording from pretty much all the sources. This is what makes it the best microphone isolation shield.
2. Monoprice Microphone Isolation Shield-Record Crisp Audio Without Breaking The Bank
Monoprice microphone isolation shield is probably one of the most talked-about products in the circles of people who own a recording studio. The product has gained popularity because of the affordable price tag and the performance it delivers despite that. The fact that it is Amazon’s choice, Amazon speaks for the quality and efficiency of this product.
Design
First thing first, the design of the shield features acoustic foam at the front and a vented black metal plate at the back. This setting prevents the reflection within the arc of the shield and enables the microphone to breathe. In addition, the pyramid design of the shield traps the common frequency that can be used to mitigate the reflection from lower frequencies. This sort of arrangement makes the shield versatile as well.
As it offers a wide filtering area it can be used in a number of situations including podcasting, narration, and recording the instruments. Plus, it comes with a desktop foot which can be attached to a computer or other portable audio interfaces.
Moreover, with the stand you can use the shield pretty much everywhere. So, even when some surface is untreated you can use this shield to block reflection.
Features
Another interesting feature of this shield is it can fold on itself. In addition to making it portable, it has some other benefits as well. This design provides optimum closure that enhances the reduction in sound reflection.
You would find this handy when you are recording in an environment that has surfaces like glass, especially curved ones. This design would prevent the sound from bouncing off odd angles and thus deliver crisp and clear audio.
Furthermore, the shield can also be used upside down with a microphone hanging in between. People who are taller than usual can use this arrangement in order to direct the vocals directly at the mic. This would get them clearer audio instead of placing the mic at the bottom. This is why it is the best microphone isolation shield.
Lastly, even though the unit does not cost as much it comes with all the necessary accessories that are needed to get you started. Most shields that come with this price tag usually do not come with all the hardware or you have to purchase them separately. However, with this unit, all you have to do is pull it out of the box and start using it.
3. RF-X SE Electronics – Same Performance With Light Weight And Affordable Price Tag
This is the second entry by SE Electronics in our list of the best microphone isolation shield which goes on to show the quality of the product they are delivering. If you liked their previous unit but were running a little low on budget, this product will help you out. This unit comes at half of the price of the previous one and is just as efficient.
Just like the unit that was mentioned earlier, this one has also been handmade. Each detail in the unit has been carefully crafted by the skilled workers to keep the users in perspective. The unit is pretty sturdy as well and would not lose its stability even after years.
Construction
It features a multi-layer construction which is lighter than its predecessor but at the same time, it has kept the durability intact. The design features an outer vented composite panel, an inner acoustic foam layer, an air gap layer, and a wool fabric layer.
All of these materials ensure that the material does not reflect the sound back. This is what makes it the best microphone isolation shield.
Design
The design of this shield features a traditional horizontal insulation pattern but not just it. Every strip of this insulation has been angled in order to reduce front-facing reflection by increasing the surface area.
This would come in handy especially when you are recording in tighter spaces. You would be able to trap intense frequencies without diminishing the sound source.
The ability of the unit to fold in also makes it versatile. You can use it to record vocals, podcasts, and instruments to get clear and sharp audio.
Build-in Stand
The unit has a built-in stand for the microphone as well. This can be beneficial in most cases but can backfire too when the mic you have cannot mount on it.
However, in most cases, the mic would easily be mounted on the stand. The point is, before purchasing it, make sure you have the mic that would go with this shield.
The only thing that you might have an issue with is the quality of the brackets. Although they are made from metal, they seem really cheap.
However, this is not the type of unit that would require too much handling. Thus, once you have fitted it in one place you would have no problem with the quality of the brackets.
4. Neewer Microphone Isolation Shield-Solid, Sturdy and Efficient
Neewer Microphone Isolation Shield is another budget-friendly unit you can get your hands on. The construction of this unit is solid and has strong absorbing qualities. Plus, the fact that it comes well under $100 makes it an attractive buy.
Basic features
The unit contains EVA foam that has excellent absorbing qualities. However, a major drawback of this unit is you can only operate at normal frequencies.
If the frequency of sound goes a little higher than usual or lower you would encounter some noise. However, as a normal vocalist, instrument recorder, or voice-over artist you have nothing to be worried about.
This EVA foam is surrounded by aluminum housing that imparts strength into the unit to make it durable. Plus, the aluminum used in the unit is lightweight so you do not have to worry about additional weight.
Design
Moving on, the design of the unit is curved and the microphone is placed in between. Therefore, you are getting a maximum reduction of reflection from each side. This design would come in handy when you have some really bouncy material surrounding the microphone area like a glass window or door.
This best microphone isolation shield also has an adjustable support bar that can be used to adjust the height of it. Therefore, regardless of your height, you would be able to speak or sing directly into the mic which would make the audio clearer and sharper.
Moreover, the microphone connection rod is also available that comes with a screw adapter. It is suitable for most microphones but some might not be able to mount on it. Therefore, it is important to make sure you have the right mix otherwise you will have to either buy a new mic or buy the new shield.
A praise-worthy feature of this mic stand is it is also adjustable. So, when you combine the adjustability of a mic stand with a connection rod you can adjust its height regardless of how small or tall you are.
Construction & build quality
In a nutshell, this unit has a very well-built structure carefully crafted from some of the strong materials that are available. The ability to minimize the influence of the environment on your recording is also pretty great.
And it comes with all the necessary hardware that is required to get you started. All of this at a price that is well under 100$ which makes it the best microphone isolation shield.
5. sE Electronic Space Vocal Shield-Unit That Guarantees Zero Reflection
By now you must have realized the kind of products sE is delivering in the market. Their products are some of the best they have built a really impeccable reputation. The product we have at hand is one of the premium units that aces at every test you subject it to.
Construction
This particular isolation shield features a multilayer construction to minimize sound reflection. The number of layers, to be precise, is ten which is massive compared to what we usually see in such products. All of these materials are either excellent absorbents or excellent diffusers that enable the product to perform an exceptional job.
Features
The layers include polyester fiberboard, air gaps, polycarbonate diffuser, wool, and aluminum layered upon each other multiple times. All of these materials have exceptional sound-absorbing qualities especially when we talk about wool.
This system guarantees that the external environment has zero influence over the recording with zero reflection of the audio that is projected at the mic.
Moreover, all of these layers are placed carefully over each other by skilled professionals instead of computerized machines. Each of these units has undergone rigorous testing to ensure that users do not encounter any issues with it. Therefore, the resulting product is one of the best that the market has ever witnessed and also the best microphone isolation shield.
Moving on, the size of the unit is also greater than what you usually see in the isolation shield. And it is curved as well.
This does two things, first minimizes the contact of the outside environment with the mic and increases the surface area to make reflection reduction more effective. This construction design along with the high-quality material makes it one of the best microphone isolation shields that is available in the market.
Although the dimensions of the unit are pretty great and you would not need to adjust it often, in case you do, it can be done. The bar where this unit is mounted is adjustable and can be moved up or down depending on your preference.
The only problem with these dimensions is you cannot put this unit in a tighter space. Therefore, you would have to change your setup if you have a slightly congested space.
Furthermore, the hardware that comes with it is pretty solid and sturdy. It is durable enough to last years and gives you the complete value of the money that you have spent on it. And it is easy to mount as well.
The best thing is, that it allows you to mount the unit at whatever angle you want without compromising on the stability. This is what makes it the best microphone isolation shield that is available on the market.
All in all, as it has been mentioned several times, it is the best microphone isolation shield you can get your hands on. It features solid construction and layers of material that have exceptional absorbing capabilities. Plus, the overall unit is very stable thanks to the sturdy and solid hardware it comes with.
The point is, there is nothing bad that one can say about this unit unless one nitpicks. Yes, it is somewhat expensive but the features you are getting in return make it totally worth it. This is what makes it the best microphone isolation shield.
6. LyxPro VRI-Record the Podcasts with Crisp Audio
LyxPro VRI is another budget-friendly option that has made it to our list of the best microphone isolation shields. It is one of the most portable isolation shields that you would come across which makes it best if you often travel around.
Build quality
The construction of the unit is pretty much standard with absorbing foam surrounded by aluminum housing. The foam featured in it has excellent absorbing qualities that cover a wide bandwidth. You would be able to completely isolate your audio from the outside environment with the foams that are placed in between.
Moreover, the aluminum casing that surrounds it has standard pores in it to disperse the trapped sound. This casing is solid but lightweight at the same time so you do not have to carry extra weight while traveling.
The feature that makes it most portable is the fact it can be disassembled into pieces that go easily inside any bag. It is really to assemble again and takes just a few seconds which means you can start podcasting anytime anywhere.
Design
Another benefit that we get from this portable design is you can set it in whatever direction you want. For example, if you do not have any bouncy objects you can fold them completely out. However, in case there are glass doors or windows around, you can curve them to shield the bounce from those objects.
Moreover, you can also place it in tighter spaces because of this design. This is what makes it the best microphone isolation shield. Plus, the hinges of the unit are pretty sturdy and tight. Therefore, no matter how many times you fold or unfold it the stability of the unit would remain intact.
All the other necessary hardware is also included in the package. You get the adjustable support bar to adjust the height of the unit. Plus, when you want to place it over the table you can simply detach the bar and use the feet of the unit instead. This is something that is not really abundant in most isolation shields which makes it one of the best microphone isolation shields.
A microphone attachment hardware set is also included in the package but it works only if you have a compatible microphone. Therefore, it is imperative to match the type of stand it has with your microphone so you do not have to make other purchases in the future.
All in all, it is one of the best mic isolation shields that you can get while not breaking the bank. This mic isolation shield has everything that one needs to record crisp clear audio.
Plus, it is extremely portable which makes it the best microphone acoustic shield for those who like to travel a lot. Therefore, if you are someone who is running a little on budget and want something for the podcasts this microphone acoustic shield deserves a shot.
7. Aston Microphones Halo-The Big Gun, Quite Literally
Auston Microphone Halo is a high-end isolation shield that is very popular among audio engineers. The fact that it is Amazon’s choice on Amazon.com despite a hefty price tag says a lot about the quality of this product. And unlike most isolation fields, you also have two color options to choose from.
Design
What makes this isolation shield so unique is its 360-degree filtering design. Usually, isolation shields only provide horizontal planes but with this shield, you get vertical protection as well. This is what reduces the reflection of the sound to virtually zero. Even if you have an untreated ceiling, the vertical plane would stop those reflections from getting in the mic. Hence, you get the crisp clear dry audio.
Another excellent feature of this isolation shield is its size which is larger than all the other shields that have been mentioned so far.
This shield is big enough to work regardless of the microphone you throw at it. This is what makes it ideal for studios with dedicated microphone cabinets. Plus, the additional size also allows you to maneuver the equipment where the recording angle is right.
The bests
The best thing about this product is it can work as both a tracking room and a vocal booth. Usually, audio engineers use hardwood acoustics for the tracking of instruments. However, that is not ideal for the vocal recording.
Therefore, by getting your hands on this unit, you would be able to record the vocals as well as track the instruments. This is what makes it the best acoustic microphone shield that is available.
All in all, this is the kind of device that would be ideal for audio engineers who dabble between different kinds of work. However, for those who are only going to record vocals, this would not be an ideal choice since there are a lot cheaper options available.
Therefore, if your work involves working on different instruments and recording the audio, this is the best acoustic microphone shield for you. In case otherwise, you can get the job done with a much cheaper option.
8. Pyle Sound Isolation Recording Booth-Shield for Crisp, Clear, and Dry VoiceOvers
Pyle Sound isolation shield is another budget-friendly isolation shield to make it to our list of microphone isolation shield reviews. It is the kind of unit that is ideal for voice-over artists. However, individuals who need something for recording instruments should look for other options on our list.
Design
The unit features a foldable design that can be folded into form a rectangle or can be used as a complete shielding wall. The size of the unit is big enough to fit microphones of all shapes and sizes. The benefit of such a foldable is not just that you can store it easily but can also work in tighter spaces.
Furthermore, the foldable design allows you to pack it together and convert it into a really compact unit. This is what makes it ideal if you travel around a lot and want to keep working. Hence, this makes it an excellent sound shield for microphones for users who travel a lot.
To prevent the reflection of the sound, it uses thick wedgie foam in three layers. Wedgie foam is an excellent sound absorber and when you use three layers of it, the performance is really impressive. It effectively blocks all the sounds of the atmosphere like air conditioners, fans, and other unwanted sounds in the environment.
These foams are encased in metallic casing that has a black finish. This metal is lightweight but does not compromise the strength of the unit. Even if it falls down accidentally, it would not sustain much damage.
Moreover, the hinges that enable it to fold and unfold are also quite strong. Even after years, you would not find the loosen up which makes it an excellent shield for the microphone.
What you get along with a shield
Moving on, the microphone isolation shield also comes with a tripod base. This adds additional stability to the unit and also allows you to adjust the angles.
The bottom line is, it is the best microphone isolation shield that you can without breaking the budget. Yes, it does not cover the entire bandwidth and is not ideal for recording instruments but there is so much you can ask for at this price.
The fact that it features a very portable design that can be unpacked and packed so easily makes it a really interesting unit. Thus, if you are running a little low on budget and want something that can keep you working while traveling, this sound shield for a microphone is ideal for you.
9. AxessAbles SF-101Kit- Best All-Round Microphone Isolation Shield
Axessables SF is another excellent isolation shield that works for all sorts of sounds. Be it the instrument recording or the vocals, it does a great job at both. Hence, it has made it to our list of microphone isolation shield reviews.
The first thing that I would like to mention is the color variation that is available in this product. You can choose from five different colors that compliment the setting of the studio.
This is something not many companies pay attention to but it is very important. Especially, when you shoot the videos in the studio as well. Thus, the variety of colors is a strong plus point.
Design
Moving on, the design of the unit is foldable that not only makes it portable but also very practical. You can squeeze this unit in tighter spaces which is not possible with the units that are non-foldable. Plus, you can create a different recording environment by creating different shapes from this shield.
Furthermore, for sound absorption, you would find two-inch-thick high-density pyramid foam. This is one of the best sound-dampening foams that are available in the market and does a really great job.
Thanks to this unit, you would be able to record dry vocals and voiceovers. You can use this to record instruments as well but you would find it a little hard to arrange the shield accordingly.
Construction and contents
The package also comes with a tripod stand that comes in handy especially when you want to adjust the shield at different angles. In addition to adjusting angles, you can adjust the height as well to make it easier for you to speak directly into it.
Moreover, in case you want to record the audio while sitting at a desk, it is also possible because the stability legs at the bottom allow desktop configuration.
All in all, it is an excellent all-around microphone isolation shield that is portable as well as highly effective. Plus, it does not cost as much which makes it an attractive buy.
10. TONOR Microphone Isolation Shield-Start Voiceovers with Noise-Free Audio
The last unit to make it to our list of the best microphone isolation shield by TONOR. It is the unit that falls in between the budget and high-end categories. And you get the full value of the money that you spend on it.
Design
The design of the unit is foldable which means it is a versatile shield. You can work in tighter spaces as well and can take this unit with you when you are traveling.
Plus, the hinges on the unit are really tight and would not lose up even after years. This is what makes it the best microphone isolation shield.
Moving on, the inside of the unit features pyramid foam that by now you must know has great sound-absorbing qualities. This foam works impressively in blocking the reflection of the sounds and absorbing unwanted noise from the environment. Using this unit, you would get some of the clear and dry audios that you have ever worked with.
Construction and build quality
The metallic case houses this foam that is very light in weight and makes it easy to adjust. You would not have a problem with the stability of the unit regardless of whichever angle you point it at.
All in all, it is one of the best microphone isolation shields that is available on the market. The construction quality is sturdy and the material used in it is pretty solid. This is the kind of unit that would work well with both vocal recording and instrument recording.
Buyers Guide for Selecting the Best Microphone Isolation Shield
We hope that you have made the decision right now or have at least narrowed down your choices. In case you are still confused this section would help. We would enlist some of the features that you need to look for in order to get the best microphone isolation shield.
1. Compatibility
The first thing you need to check before purchasing the shield is to check its compatibility with the mic you own. Most shields work well with all sorts of the mic but some exceptions are available. If it is not compatible you would have to buy a new mic which would be great regret. Thus, always check the compatibility of the mic with a shield.
2. Design
You would encounter two types of designs in the market, one that is foldable and another that is not. The choice of design should depend on the type of job you are involved in.
If you work in a tighter space and often have to move around, foldable designs are the best. In case otherwise, you can make it work with non-foldable shields as well.
3. Weight
The weight of the shield is also very important because it plays a key role in the stability of the shield. The heavier a shield is, the harder it would be to stabilize it. Plus, if you have to change the angle you would find it really hard to adjust. Therefore, go with a unit that does not have a high weight.
All the units that have been mentioned in this list are pretty lightweight. If you decide to buy one of these products, you would not have a problem with stability.
4. Size
The size of the unit is probably one of the most important factors that you need to consider. The greater the size is, the more surface area it will gain and would effectively reduce the sound reflection. However, it does not mean that you always have to go with the bigger sizes.
Some jobs like voiceovers and vocal recording do not require a really big size. In such cases, the shield that covers the sides of the mic is good enough. However, in case you want to record instruments, you would have to get a bigger shield.
The bigger shield would provide a high surface area and you would be able to get crisp, clear audio in the recording.
5. No. of layers
Isolation shields use different materials to stop the reflection of the sound. All of these materials have varying capabilities of absorbing sound. However, as a general rule, regardless of the material, you should go with the shield that has a higher no. of absorbing layers. This would make the isolation shield more effective.
Conclusion – Best Microphone Isolation Shield
Well, folks there you have everything that we have on the best microphone isolation shield. We hope this article has helped you in finding the best microphone isolation shield.
In case, there is anything you want to ask or add, let us know in the comment section. We would love to respond. You can also check out our other microphone-related guides below.