In hopes of expanding your horizons of what microphone manufacturers exist out there in the world, I've compiled a list of microphone manufacturers.
Related articles:
• Full List Of Headphone, Earphone & Headset Brands/Manufacturers
• Full List: Loudspeaker & Studio Monitor Brands/Manufacturers
• Top 10 Best Online Audio Gear/Equipment Retailers
Click here to return to My New Microphone’s articles on musical equipment brands/manufacturers.
I basically have four categories for these microphone brands to fit into:
- Manufacturers that specialize in microphones.
- Manufacturers that specialize in audio products, including microphones.
- Manufacturers that specialize in electronics and produce microphones as “accessories.
- Manufacturers of lower-end consumer-grade microphones.
Note that there are loose categories that may not suit each manufacturer perfectly. Some manufacturers may fit into multiple categories. Also, note that this is a living document and will be subject to change as new microphone manufacturers enter the market and others become defunct.
Please feel free to check out my other, more in-depth articles on microphones brands/manufacturers:
• Top Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Also, note that there are many manufacturers of “consumer-grade” microphones and that mics are found in everyday items like cellphones, computers, smart home devices, etc. Though I've included some noteworthy consumer-grade mic manufacturers, you can be assured that not all manufacturers of consumer-grade mics are on this list.
“Specialized” Microphone Manufacturers
12 Gauge Microphones
12 Gauge Microphones was founded in 2011 by Brad Martin in Pownal, Vermont, USA.
12 Gauge Microphones are built within the shells of spent 12 Gauge shotgun shells. They are hand-built by Brad himself.
Most notable microphone: 12R20
3 Zigma Audio
3 Zigma Audio was founded by Larry Villalla (the founder of ADK Microphones) along with 2 of ADK's collaborators. The company is headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, USA.
This microphone manufacturer specialized in modular microphone designs that they call “CHI” (Capsule Hybrid Integrator System).
Most notable microphone: 3 Zigma Audio CHI with 3 Zigma Audio C-LOL-12
797 Audio
Beijing 797 Audio was founded in 1953 in China. It is the largest microphone manufacturer in China.
797 Audio has microphones ranging from consumer karaoke mics to professional studio mics and everything in between. This mic manufacturer has collaborated with other companies such as Studio Projects and Soundelux.
Link to check the price of the 797 Audio U95S on Amazon
A.I.R
A.I.R has been creating microphones since 2004. Though the manufacturing of A.I.R microphones takes place in Shanghai, China, many of their products are sold in the European market.
A.I.R's product line features affordable condenser, ribbon, and tube microphones.
Most notable microphone: Fat Boy (discontinued)
A.I.R website: N/A
ADK Microphones
ADK Microphones was founded in 1997 by Larry Villella. The company headquarters is in Washington, USA.
ADK specializes in emulating prized vintage microphones at a fraction of the cost. Their microphones are designed to recreate the sound while increasing dynamic range and decreasing self-noise relative to the original classic mics. ADK also provides mic repairs and modifications.
Most notable microphone: Hamburg MK8
Link to check the price of the ADK Hamburg MK8 on Amazon
Advanced Audio
Advanced Audio is a Canadian microphone manufacturer based in British Columbia. The company was founded by head designer and CEO Dave Thomas.
AA specializes in high-quality microphones and mic preamps and provides microphone modifying services.
AEA (Audio Engineering Associates)
AEA is a ribbon microphone manufacturer based in
Though these microphones are a bit pricey (high-end ribbon mics are expected to be), they are worth every penny. AEA also makes excellent microphone preamps to best suit ribbon microphones across the market.
Link to check the price of the AEA R84 on Amazon
AEA is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
• Top 13Best Microphone Preamplifier Brands In The World
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today (Honourable Mention)
AMT (Applied Microphone Technology)
Applied Microphone Technology was founded in 1986 in New Jersey, USA.
All AMT mics are hand-crafted and are designed for live performance. AMT designs their microphones with specific instruments in mind and tailors their mics accordingly.
Most notable microphone: Quantum 7 wireless
Link to check the price of the AMT Quantum 7 Wireless System on B&H Photo/Video
AMT (Applied Microphone Technology) website
AMT is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Aseyer Electric Technology Nanjing Co
Aseyer Electric Technology was first founded as the Nanjing Electroacoustical Institution in 1997 in Nanjing, China.
AET has since developed two world-class capsules, and their microphones have benefitted dramatically because of it.
Aseyer Electric Technology Nanjing website
Aston Microphones
Aston Microphones was founded in 2015 by Phil Smith and James Young (two of the original founders of sE Electronics). This microphone manufacturer is based in the United Kingdom.
Aston microphones are designed with character, quality, and great pricing in mind.
Most notable microphone: Origin
Link to check the price of the Aston Origin on Amazon
Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica was founded in 1962 by Hideo Matsushita in Tokyo, Japan. AT's wide product line has a microphone for nearly any application thinkable. Though primarily a microphone company, Audio-Technica also makes many other audio products, including headphones and turntables.
Because of the extensive product selection, Audio-Technica microphones find themselves in all industries and projects that require microphones.
Most notable microphone: AT4050
Link to check the price of the Audio-Technica AT4050 on Amazon
The Audio-Technica AT4050 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Microphones Under $1,000 for Recording Vocals
• Best Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Under $1000
Audio-Technica is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 13 Best Headphone Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Turntable/Record Player Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Phono Cartridge Brands In The World
Audix
Audix was founded in 1984 in Oregan, USA. Though probably best known for their drum microphones, Audix has a wide range of professional vocal and instrument mics.
Most notable microphone: Audix D6
Link to check the price of the Audix D6 on Amazon
Audix is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Beesneez Microphones
Beesneez Microphones was founded in Australia by Ben Sneesby. The company is a leader in the boutique microphone manufacturing field, bringing hand-crafted high-end microphones to the market at very reasonable prices.
Most notable microphone: Tribute 2
Link to check the price of the Beesneez Tribute 2 on Amazon
Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic was founded in 1924 in Berlin, Germany by Eugen Beyer. Today, the company specializes in microphones for nearly every application. Their mic products include headsets, conference systems, and professional music/broadcast microphones.
Most notable microphones: M 160
Link to check the price of the Beyerdynamic M 160 on Amazon
The Beyerdynamic M 160 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Passive Ribbon Microphones On The Market
Beyerdynamic is featured in My New Microphone's Top 13 Best Headphone Brands In The World.
Bing Carbon Microphones
Bing Carbon Microphones was founded in 2007. I could not find the founder's name nor the location of the BCM headquarters.
The company specializes in lo-fi carbon transmitter microphones for recording and performance.
Most notable microphone: Field Ops
Bing Carbon Microphones website
Blackspade Acoustics
Blackspade Acoustics was founded in 2010 in Switzerland. The company is headquartered in Le Sentier, Switzerland.
BSA specializes in high-quality tube microphones and vintage clone microphones. They also provide microphone design services.
Blackspade Acoustics is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Blue Microphones
Blue Microphones was founded in 1995 by Skipper Wise and Martins Saulespurens in California, USA. Blue has become nearly synonymous with USB microphones due to the highly successful Yeti line of USB microphones they've produced.
Blue Microphones specializes in USB microphones (though they make the XLR variety as well). This “niche” has exploded in popularity alongside the laptop and other home studio technologies. Blue does it right!
Link to check the price of the Blue Yeti at Blue Microphones
The Blue Yeti is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best USB Microphones (Streaming, PC Audio, Etc.)
• Top Best Microphones For Podcasting (All Budgets)
• Top Best Microphones Under $150 For Recording Vocals
• Best Studio Microphones For Recording Singing
• Best USB Microphones For Recording Podcasts
• Best ASMR Stereo Microphones/Mic Pairs
Blue Microphones is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today (Honourable Mention)
Bock Audio
2007 marked the beginning of Bock Audio by founder David Bock in California, USA. David created the company after years of experience creating microphones for another company called Soundelux. Bock Audio specializes in high-end vintage-style microphones.
The Bock Audio shop is even said to resemble that of a vintage shop with only 5 to 10 microphones in production at any given time. Bock Audio microphones are hand-built and sound absolutely incredible.
Link to check the price of the Bock 251 on Amazon
Bock Audio is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
Brauner
Dick Brauner created his first tube microphone in Germany in 1993 and created the Brauner microphone company. Brauner focuses on tube and FET microphones, designing and manufacturing them with technical perfection and beautiful aesthetics in mind.
Although perhaps not popular just yet, Brauner continues to push the limits of what's possible in microphone technology, producing some of the finest microphones in the world.
Brauner is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
CAD Audio
CAD Audio started out in 1931 as the Astatic Corporation by founders C.M. Chorpening and F.H. Woodworth and officially became CAD Audio in 1988. The company is based out of Ohio, USA.
CAD Audio manufactures a wide variety of microphones for nearly any purpose. The applications range from instruments to karaoke to broadcast to paging and communication, covering everything in between.
Most notable microphone: GXL2200
Link to check the price of the CAD Audio GXL2200 on Amazon
Cascade Microphones
Cascade Microphones are based out of Washington, USA. The company hand-builds and test each and every microphone and specializes in
Most notable microphone: Fat Head
Link to check the price of the Cascade Fat Head on Amazon
Cathedral Pipes
Cathedral Pipes was founded in 2010 by Charles Dickinsons in Huntington Beach, California. The company is headquartered in Huntington Beach, California, USA.
Cathedral Pipes sources high-performance microphone components from around the world to build the best microphones at a fair price. The company focuses on high-end large-diaphragm condenser mics.
Most notable microphone: Notre Dame
Charter Oak
Charter Oak was founded in 2002 by Michael Deming in Connecticut, USA.
The company specializes in professional-grade condenser microphones as well as outboard signal processors and headphones.
Most notable microphone: SA538
Link to check the price of the Charter Oak SA538 on Amazon
Cloud Microphones
Stephan Sank established cloud Microphones in 2009 in Arizona, USA. Much like AEA, Cloud Microphones was born out of RCA. Stephen's father, Jon Sank, was a top engineer and innovator at RCA and passed down his knowledge to Stephen.
Cloud Microphones is probably best known for its line of “Cloudlifter” products, which give clean gain to less sensitive microphones and even alter the impedance in some models. However, Cloud also makes amazing studio-grade ribbon microphones of the highest quality.
Link to check the price of the Cloud 44-A on Amazon
The Cloud 44-A is featured in My New Microphone's Top Best Active Ribbon Microphones On The Market.
Core Sound
Core Sound was founded in 1990 by Len Moskowitz and is based out of New Jersey, USA. This esoteric microphone company manufactures and specializes in binaural and ambisonic microphones. This technology is mostly intended for the world of Virtual Reality and Surround Sound.
Core Sound is also affiliated with the microphone manufacturers DPA and Audix, incorporating some of their capsules into the Core Sound designs and selling their full product lines.
Most notable microphone: Octomic
The Core Sound OctoMic is featured in My New Microphone's Best Microphones For Recording Ambience.
Deity
Deity Microphones was founded in 2018 in Los Angeles, California, USA, as part of Emgreat Groups.
The company specializes in microphones for film, including lavaliers and shotgun mics.
Most notable microphone: V-Mic D3 Pro
DIY Pro Audio Components/Bumblebee
DIY Pro Audio Components was founded in 2010 by Artur Fisher in Riga, Latvia. The company is headquartered in Riga, Latvia.
DIY Pro Audio Components specializes in ribbon microphones and DIY ribbon microphone kits.
Most notable microphone: RM-6 DIY
DPA
DPA Microphones was formed in 1992 when founders Ole Brøsted Sørensen and Morten Støve, left the legendary microphone company Brüel & Kjær to start their own. DPA is based in Denmark.
The founders of DPA used the knowledge and experience gained in making the world's most accurate measurement mics at B&K to create some of the world's most accurate and beautiful sounding pro-audio microphones.
Most notable microphone: d:vote 4099
Link to check the price of the DPA 4099 on Amazon
The DPA 4099 is featured in My New Microphone's 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones).
DPA is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today (Honorable Mention)
Ear Trumpet Labs
Ear Trumpet Labs was founded in 2011 by Philip Graham and is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, USA.
ETL combines high-quality microphone components with household items such as plumbing hardware, kitchen gadgets, and bicycle parts. Philip Graham designs and builds his unique microphones all by hand in his Portland, Oregon laboratory.
Most notable microphone: EVELYN
Earthworks
Earthworks was founded by David Blackmer in New Hampshire, USA, in the mid-1990s. Blackmer left his original company dbx (now owned by Harman) with the idea of creating audiophile loudspeakers. Earthworks has since then become a microphone company primarily.
Many of Earthworks' high-definition microphones have ultra-wide frequency responses. Philosophy in the company states that “there is more to human hearing than the range of frequencies which can be heard as tones.”
Link to check the price of the Earthworks SR20 on Amazon
Ehrlund Microphones
Ehrlund Microphones was started in 2005 by Göran Ehrlund in Sweden.
The company is known for its patent on triangular-shaped microphone diaphragms, which give a more natural sound with less resonance than their circular counterparts.
Most notable microphone: EHR-M
Link to check the price of the Ehrlund EHR-M on B&H Photo/Video
Elation Mic Lab
Elation Microphone Lab is a Russian microphone manufacturer created out of the Russian Scientific Research Cinema & Photo Institute (NIFKI). I could not find information on the founders, founding date, or headquarters. Nor could I find any US dealers of Elation microphones.
The company specializes in 3 different condenser microphones.
Most notable microphone: KM901
Feilo
Feilo is a well-known and respected Chinese microphone manufacturer and mic component dealer. Feilo manufactures parts for many popular mic brands around the world. The company is headquartered in Shanghai, China.
Most notable microphone: CR1-14
Flagg Audio
Flagg Audio was founded in 2011 by Randy Carvalho in Virginia, USA.
This niche company produces the Flagg Mic, a revamped payphone microphone with XLR output for use in live performance.
Most notable microphone: Flagg Mic Red
FLEA
FLEA Microphones was founded in 2002 by Jaroslav Kotrla, Miloš Rojko and Ivan Hako. The company is headquartered in Povazska Bystrica, Slovakia.
FLEA prides itself on manufacturing exact replicas of legendary vintage microphones.
Most notable microphone: FLEA 47 Next
FLEA is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Gauge Precision Instruments
Gauge Precision Instruments was founded in 2008 by Chandler Bridges & Rob Chiarelli in California, USA.
This small company has decades of experience and relies on long ear-testing sessions of each microphone. The results yield consistently amazing-sounding microphones that do not break the bank!
Most notable microphone: ECM-47
Link to check the price of the Gauge ECM-47 on Amazon
Gauge Precision Instruments website
Granelli Audio Labs
Granelli Audio Labs was founded in 2009 by John Grant and Tony Correlli in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Granelli Audio Labs is known for bringing the G5790 to market, which is a right-angle-mod for the Shure SM57.
Most notable microphone: G5790 Modified
Hammer Audio
Hammer Audio was founded in 2015 by Max Gale and Ed Marks in London, England.
The company was formed to bring its custom-made HA-872 FET condenser to the broader market.
Most notable microphone: HA-872
Heil Sound
Heil Sound was founded in 1966 by Bob Heil in Illinois, USA. This microphone manufacturer is best known for its live reinforcement microphones.
Heil Sound is one of the top microphone companies in the world and also deals in radio technologies.
Most notable microphone: PR 40
Link to check the price of the Heil PR 40 on Amazon
The Heil PR 40 is also featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Microphones For Podcasting (All Budgets)
• Top Best Dynamic Microphones On The Market
Heil Sound is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Horch Audio
Horch Audio was founded in 2001 by the German studio owner/audio engineer Gibbs Platen. The company is headquartered in Schondorf, Germany.
Horch Audio's inception was driven by the goal of producing a modern version of the legendary Neumann M 49. Since then, Horch Audio has designed several high-end microphones for the pro audio market.
Josephson Engineering
Josephson Engineering was founded in 1988 by David Josephson in San Jose, California. Today, the company is headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, USA.
Josephson Engineering focuses its efforts on a small line of innovative high-end microphones for the studio, live/stage, and measurement markets.
Josephson Engineering is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
JZ Microphones
JZ Microphones was founded in 2007 by lead designer Juris Zarins in Latvia. Since then, JZ has been designing absolutely stunning microphones in both aesthetic and performance.
The JZ team is dedicated to engineering and manufacturing the best microphones for recording music in the studio.
Most notable microphone: BH-1S
Link to check the price of the JZ Microphones BH-1S on Amazon
JZ Microphones is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Kadosh Music
Kadosh is a Brazilian microphone manufacturer. Its aim is to bridge the gap between professional-grade microphone quality and consumer-grade prices. Kadosh has a variety of inexpensive microphones and many wireless microphone systems.
Most notable microphone: K-1201M
Lampifier Company
Lampifier Company was founded by Gary Osbourne and is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
The company is known for its unique inline “audio bulb” processing circuit, which provides compression and noise gating. The tunable circuit allows the user to alter the mic sensitivity, feedback rejection, and gating characteristics to best fit the mic's application.
Most notable microphone: PromoVox 111
Lauten Audio
Lauten Audio is a California, USA-based microphone manufacturer founded in 2006. They create high-end professional microphones with an emphasis on microphone quality and flexibility. Every Lauten microphone has switchable options, yielding multiple timbres in each microphone.
Most notable microphone: Eden LT-386
Link to check the price of the Lauten Audio Eden LT-386 at Sweetwater
Lawson Inc.
Lawson Inc. was founded in 1981 by Gene Lawson in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, where it is still headquartered.
The Lawson Lab is a small shop where a small team of artisans specialize in producing high-end replicas of many of the legendary vintage microphones.
Most notable microphone: L47MPII
Lewitt
Lewitt Audio was launched in 2010 by founder Roman Perschon in Austria. Microphone design happens in Austria, while manufacturing happens in China.
Lewitt Audio creates a wide range of quality microphones for studio, live, and broadcast at affordable prices. Conference microphones are also a specialty of Lewitt Audio. They are designed with transparency and authenticity in mind.
Most notable microphone: LCT-640-TS
Link to check the price of the Lewitt LCT-640-TS on Amazon
The Lewitt LCT-640-TS is featured in My New Microphone's Best Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Under $1000.
MBHO/Haun Microphones
Haun Microphones was founded in 1962 by Herbert Haun in Germany.
The company's microphone parts have been incorporated into the designs of such other microphone manufacturers as Telefunken, Audix, and Brauner. They also have their own product line of professional microphones.
Most notable microphone: MBNM 410
MBHO/Haun is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of.
Mesanovic Microphones
Mesanovic Microphones was founded in 2013 by Deni Mesanovic in Oak Park, Michigan, USA.
The company specializes in the manufacturing of high-quality ribbon microphones.
Most notable microphone: Model 2
Microphone Parts
Microphone Parts was founded in 2010 by Matthew McGlynn and is headquartered in Sonoma County, California, USA.
Microphone Parts is well known for its DIY microphone kits but also manufactures and sell its own line of high-end microphones.
Most notable microphone: MP-47
Microtech Gefell
Microtech Gefell was founded by none other than Georg Neumann (of Neumann fame) in Germany in 1928. The company specializes in professional-grade recording and measurement microphones.
After 90 years in business, Microtech Gefell has solidified its reputation as a high-quality and innovative microphone manufacturer.
Most notable microphone: M 930
Link to check the price of the Microtech Gefell M 930 on B&H Photo/Video
The Microtech Gefell M 930 is featured in My New Microphone's Top Best Solid-State/FET Condenser Microphones.
Microtech Gefell is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
MicW
MicW is the professional mic brand of the Chinese acoustical company BSWA Technology Co. The company was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Beijing, China.
MicW boasts a wide range of microphones for a wide range of applications.
Most notable microphone: i3DMic
Link to check the price of the MicW i2185 on Amazon
Mikme
Mikme was founded in 2013 by Philipp Sonnleitner and Thomas Wachauer in Austria.
Mikme has been called the “GoPro” of microphones. The company specializes in high-quality mics for wired and wireless sync to smart devices and computers.
Link to check the price of the Mikme Gold on Amazon
Miktek
Miktek was founded by Michael Ketchell in Tennessee, USA.
Miktek specializes in microphones for studio and live applications but also designs and manufactures headphones, outboard signal processors, and broadcast equipment.
Link to check the price of the Miktek CV3 on Amazon
Milab Microphones
Milab Microphones was established during a split from Pearl Microphone Laboratory in 1978. The company was originally started by Hans Rosander (the son of Pearl Mic Lab founder Rune Rosander). The company is headquartered in Helsingborg, Sweden and was acquired by TN Development AB in 1993.
Milab (short for “Microphone Laboratory”) produces a respectable line of microphones fit for studio and live/stage applications.
Most notable microphone: DC-196
Mojave Audio
Mojave Audio was founded by David Royer, a top expert in the field of microphone design and construction and founder of Royer Labs. The company was started in a garage in California, USA, in 1985 and become an official company (Mojave Audio Inc.) in 2005.
Mojave utilizes high-quality Jensen transformers, military-spec NOS tubes, premium FET's and custom-made resistors. All microphones are built according to David Royer's excellently laid out plans and are quality checked thoroughly. Combining overseas and domestic manufacturing makes these superb microphones affordable.
Most notable microphone: MA-200
Link to check the price of the Mojave Audio MA-200 on Amazon
The Mojave Audio MA-200 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Best Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Under $1000
• Top Best Tube Condenser Microphones On The Market
Mojave Audio is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Moon Mics
Moon Mics was founded in 2008 by Dave Gaynier in South Rockwood, Michigan, USA.
Moon Mics' DK27 is their flagship product, designed as a “sub-kick” styled kick drum microphone.
Link to check the price of the Moon Mic DK27 on B&H Photo/Video
MXL
MXL is the microphone division of Marshall Electronics (not to be confused with Marshall Amplification). MXL's first branded microphone was introduced in 1998. The company was founded by Leonard Marshall in California, USA.
Nearly all MXL microphones are wired with industry-leading Mogami wiring. MXL creates a wide variety of quality microphones are very reasonable and affordable prices.
Link to check the price of the MXL 770 on Amazon
The MXL 770 is featured in My New Microphone's Top Best Microphones Under $150 For Recording Vocals.
Naiant
Naiant was founded in 2006 by Jon O’Neil in Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA.
Naiant is best known for specialty hand-crafted small-diaphragm condenser microphones.
Neat Microphones
Neat Microphones was launched by Gibson in 2014 and is run by the same two co-founders of Blue Microphones: Skipper Wise and Martins Saulespurens.
Neat mics produce both professional and consumer microphones, including USB mics.
Most notable microphone: King Bee
Link to check the price of the NEAT King Bee on Amazon
The Neat King Bee is featured in My New Microphone's Top Best Microphones Under $150 For Recording Vocals.
Neat Microphones is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Neumann
Neumann was founded by none other than the legendary Georg Neumann. The company started in 1928 in Germany. After the Second World War, there was a split in Georg's company, resulting in two manufacturers: Microtech Gefell and Neumann, both of which are still in business today.
Today, Neumann is synonymous with “the best,” and the company's microphones find their way into nearly all professional studios (and on the wish lists of many project studios). Though specialized in microphones, Neumann also makes some of the best studio monitors on the market.
Link to check the price of the modern Neumann U 87 Ai on Amazon
The Neumann U 87 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
• Top Best Solid-State/FET Condenser Microphones
• Top Best Microphones For Recording Vocals
Neumann is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 11 Best Studio Monitor Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
• What Is A Microphone Capsule? (Plus Top 3 Most Popular Capsules)
Nevaton
Nevaton emerged as a microphone company in 1991, founded by engineers of the Russian Leningrad Optical and Mechanical Association (founded in 1947). The home base of Nevaton is found in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Nevaton produces a wide range of microphone types for a wide range of applications. Much care is taken to hand-craft and test each microphone before the mic is ever put on the market.
Ningbo Alctron Electronics Co.
Ningbo Alctron Electronics was established in 2002 in Ningbo, China.
Alctron is one of the best-known Chinese microphone manufacturers/resellers, and their microphones and mic components are found in mics all over the globe. Due to Chinese sales agent relationships, it's difficult to know exactly whether or not a microphone is made by Ningbo Alctron. Many of their mics are mistaken with/for those of Feilo, ShuaiYin, and 797 Audio.
Ningbo Alctron Electronics website
Oktava
Though Oktava was technically founded in 1946, the same company had been in business since 1929. Oktava is based in Tula, Russia. The company originally designed and manufactured all sorts of products (microphones, loudspeakers, even mine detectors). However, since the
Oktava manufactures quality professional and consumer-grade microphones at very reasonable prices. This has helped Oktava become recognized as a strong, reputable company in the west, selling most of its microphones to Europe and the United States.
Most notable microphone: MK-319
Link to check the price of the Oktava MK-319 on Amazon
Pearl Microphone Laboratory
Pearl Microphone Laboratory was founded in 1941 by Rune Rosander and was the first-ever Swedish microphone manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Astorp, Sweden.
PML is best known for the development of its proprietary rectangular microphone diaphragm, which has been used in many of its microphones.
Most notable microphone: PRIORITY
Pearl Microphone Laboratory website
Pearlman Microphones
Pearlman Microphones was founded by Dave Pearlman and is headquartered in Sherman Oaks, California, USA.
Pearlman's high-end microphones are heavily influenced by the legendary Neumann mics and other popular vintage microphones.
Most notable microphone: The “Church” Microphone
Peluso Microphone Lab
Peluso Microphone Lab is a family-owned microphone manufacturer that was established in 2002 in Virginia,
The company prides itself on making “copies” of the best microphones in history, only at an affordable price point. All Peluso microphones are hand-crafted by a small team and come with an excellent 3-year limited warranty.
Link to check the price of the Peluso P-87 on Amazon
Peluso Microphone Lab is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top Best Microphones Under $1,000 for Recording Vocals
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Placid Audio
Placid Audio was founded in 2003 by Mark Pirro in Dallas, Texas, USA.
Placid Audio's interesting microphones are built within rugged machined copper housings and are purposefully coloured for unique tones and character.
Most notable microphone: Copperphone
Link to check the price of the Placid Audio Copperphone on Amazon
Red5 Audio
Red5 Audio was founded in 2001 by a small team of craftsmen in Greenock, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Red5 Audio has an affordable line of drum mics, condenser mics, valve mics, and related accessories for home and professional studios.
Rode
As a company, Rode originally started in 1967 as ‘Freedman Electronics' in Australia. A lot has changed since then, most notably the rise of Rode as an industry leader in microphone manufacturing.
Today Rode produces many products related to the world of audio, though microphones are what they're best known for. Rode has microphones for any application, and these microphones find themselves popular throughout the world.
Most notable microphone: NT1-A
Link to check the price of the Rode NT1-A on Amazon
The Rode NT1-A is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• 12 Best Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Under $500
• Top 12 Best Microphones Under $1,000 for Recording Vocals
• Top 10 Best Microphones Under $500 for Recording Vocals
• Top 20 Best Microphones For Podcasting (All Budgets)
50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones).
Rode is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 11 Best Microphone Boom Pole Brands On The Market
Ronin Applied Sciences
Ronin Applied Sciences was founded in 2011 by Dimitri Wolfwood in New York City, New York, USA.
This innovative company strives for “firsts” and “only's” in the microphone manufacturing business and has several impressive mics in their product line.
Most notable microphone: The Dove
Ronin Applied Sciences website
Roswell Pro Audio
Rowsell Pro Audio was founded by Matthew McGlynn (of Microphone Parts and Recording Hacks fame) in Sebastopol, California, USA.
The company specializes in beautifully made studio condenser microphones.
Most notable microphone: Delphos II
Link to check the price of the Roswell Delphos II on Amazon
Royer Labs
Royer Labs was founded in 1998 by the legendary microphone designer David Royer. The company is based out of California, USA.
Royer Labs was created to bring the unique ribbon mic designs of David Royer to the world. Since then, Royer has become nearly synonymous with “quality ribbon microphones.”
Most notable microphone: R-121
Link to check the price of the Royer R-121 on Amazon
The Royer R-121 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 12 Best Passive Ribbon Microphones On The Market
Royer Labs is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
Samar Audio Design
Samar Audio Designs was founded in 2011 by Dr. Mark Fouxman in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Omni8 is another brand of Samar Audio Designs.
Samar Audio Designs specializes in ribbon microphones, while Omni8 specializes in condenser microphones. The companies also manufacture quality transformers and mic accessories.
Most notable microphone: MF65A
Sandhill Audio
Sandhill Audio was founded in 2008 by 3 Finnish audio engineers and is headquartered in Pesula, Finland.
Sandhill Audio is known for its single microphone product line, which features the 6011A: an active ribbon microphone with a patented “unbreakable” ribbon diaphragm.
Most notable microphone: 6011A
Sanken Microphone Company
The Sanken Microphone Co was founded (as The Takeuchi Factory) in 1925 by Rihei Takeuchi in Tokyo, Japan. The company changed names to Sanken in 1959 but remains family-run and based in Tokyo.
Since its inception, Sanken has developed an impressive line of microphones across most practical applications.
Most notable microphone: COS-11D
Link to check the price of the Sanken COS-11D options on Amazon
The Sanken COS-11D is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• 7 Best Lavalier/Lapel Microphones (Wired & Wireless)
Sanken Microphone Company website
Schoeps Mikrofone
Schoeps Mikrofone is a family business founded in 1948 in Germany. Though Schoeps has remained relatively small (currently employing roughly 50 people), the company has continued to be a pioneer in microphone technology since its inception.
Schoeps designs transparent and authentic microphones of the highest quality. They are driven by customer satisfaction as much as they are by technical excellence.
Most notable microphone: CMC 6 Vintage Body with MK4 Capsule
Link to check the price of the Schoeps MK 4 / CMC 6 on Amazon
The Schoeps MK 4 / CMC 6 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 11 Best Solid-State/FET Condenser Microphones
Schoeps Mikrofone is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
sE Electronics
sE Electronics was founded in 2000 by Siwei Zou and is an international company. This very successful company is still family-owned and operated and has under 100 employees.
Special care is taken to handcraft and test each sE Electronics microphone. One of sE's main philosophies is to put money back into the microphones, which allows them to sell high-quality handmade mics at very affordable prices.
Link to check the price of the sE Electronics X1 S on Amazon
The sE Electronics X1 is featured in My New Microphone's Top 12 Best Microphones Under $150 For Recording Vocals.
Sennheiser
Sennheiser originally started as Lobaratorium Wennebostel, founded by Dr. Fritz Sennheiser in 1945 in Germany. In 1958, the company was renamed Sennheiser Electronics. With more than 2,000 employees, Sennheiser is an industry leader in microphone manufacturing.
Sennheiser makes high-quality microphones at affordable prices and is a very popular brand in the world of professional audio and in business/commercial settings. The company also produces top-notch headphones.
Most notable microphone: MKH 416
Sennheiser MKH 416 (link to check the price on Amazon)
The Sennheiser MKH 416 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 11 Best Shotgun Microphones On The Market
Sennheiser is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 14 Best Earphone/Earbud Brands In The World
• Top 13 Best Headphone Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Soundbar Brands On The Market
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today (Honourable Mentions
Shinybox
Shineybox was founded in 2010 by Jon Ulrigg in Convington, Washington, USA.
Shinybox specializes in ribbon microphones, all of which are hand-built using parts sourced from around the world.
Most notable microphone: 46MXC
ShuaiYin
ShuaiYin was founded in 2001 by an unknown founded in Shanghai, China.
This company is a lesser-known Chinese microphone manufacturer but has been credited with contract manufacturing for American companies like Avantone and CAD Audio.
The company's own product line is focused on ribbon and condenser microphones.
Most notable microphone: SYR-30
Shure
Shure Radio Company was founded in 1925 by S. N. Shure in Illinois, USA. In 1928, Samuel J. Shure joined the company, and in 1946, the company was renamed Shure Brothers Incorporated.
Shure is perhaps the most popular microphone manufacturer ever. The company specializes in microphones but also produces headphones, monitors, mixers, DSP, and even software. It's an industry leader in audio equipment, and Shure microphones are found around the globe.
Link to check the price of the Shure SM58 on Amazon
The Shure SM58 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 11 Best Dynamic Microphones On The Market
• Top 12 Best Microphones Under $150 For Recording Vocals
• Top 10 Best Microphones Under $500 for Recording Vocals
• Top 20 Best Microphones For Podcasting (All Budgets)
Shure is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 14 Best Earphone/Earbud Brands In The World
• Top 13 Best Headphone Brands In The World
Solomon Design
SOLOMON DESiGN is an American microphone manufacturer founded by Henry French.
This company specializes in low-frequency pickup microphones. Solomon mics are best known for their application on kick drums and bass cabinets.
Most notable microphone: LoFReQ
Link to check the price of the Solomon Mics LoFReQ on Amazon
SOLOMON DESiGN is featured in the following My New Microphone article:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
Sontronics
Sontronics is based in the United Kingdom and was launched in 2005 by founder Trevor Coley.
Sontronics has a beautiful range of quality microphones at affordable prices for studio and live performance. The company also offers a lifetime warranty on their mics.
Most notable microphone: STC-2
Soundman
Soundman was founded in 1982 in Germany.
This microphones manufacturer specializes in the field of artificial head stereophony. Soundman produces stereo and binaural microphones, audio interfaces, and even an artificial head to help with proper microphone placement.
Most notable microphone: OKM II Classical
Soyuz Microphones
Soyuz Microphones was founded in 2013 by David Arthur Brown (American) and Pavel Bazdyrev (Russian). This international company specialized in the original design and manufacture of high-end tube and FET condenser microphones.
Soyuz is a small company, and each microphone is hand-crafted. Nearly all the manufacturing takes place in-house. These high-quality microphones, with their original design, are even starting to replace old tube classics and the remakes of these classics.
Most notable microphones: SU-017
Link to check the price of the Soyuz SU-017 at Sweetwater
Stager Microphones
Stager Microphones is based in Nashville, USA.
Stager specializes in ribbon microphones. All Stager microphones are handcrafted with custom toroidal transformers.
Most notable microphone: SN-1A
Stellar Professional Microphones
Stellar Professional Microphones was founded in 2011 by Peter Bloch in Oregon, USA.
The company specializes in studio-grade large-diaphragm condenser microphones.
Stellar Professional Microphones website
Sterling Audio
Sterling Audio is based in California, USA. The company specializes in high-quality studio-grade microphones and also manufactures high-end studio monitors and headphone amps.
Most notable microphone: ST169
Studio Projects
Studio Projects was started in 1999 by Alan Hyatt in California, USA. This microphone manufacturer is part of the PMI Audio Group. Studio Projects microphones are designed by engineer Brent Casey.
Studio Projects specializes in condenser microphones for professional and home studio use. The company also has several outboard audio processors in their product line.
Most notable microphone: C4 Mk II
Link to check the price of a stereo pair of Studio Projects C4 Mk II on Amazon
T.H.E. Audio
T.H.E. Audio (Taylor Hohendahl Engineering) was founded in 1998 in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA.
T.H.E. specializes in studio-grade modular condensers and precision measurement microphones.
Most notable microphone: BS-3D
Telefunken Elektroakustik
Telefunken is a German company that was established by the merger of two companies: Siemens & Halske and AEG in 1903 and lasted until the 1967 merger with parent company AEG.
Telefunken Elektroakustik (Telefunken USA at the time) was founded by Toni Fishman in 2001 and remains in business today. The company creates new and old trademarked Telefunken microphones, tubes, and other high-quality audio equipment.
Telefunken has since been an industry pioneer, at one point, employed the legendary microphone designer Georg Neumann, who designed the famous U47 microphones.
Most notable microphone: ELA M 251
Link to check the price of the modern Telefunken ELA M 251E at B&H Photo/Video
The Telefunken ELA M 251 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 11 Best Microphones For Recording Vocals
• Top 11 Best Tube Condenser Microphones On The Market
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
Telefunken Elektoakustik website
Telefunken Elektroakustik is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
Vanguard Audio Labs
Vanguard Audio Labs was co-founded in 2013 by Ken Avant and Derek Bargaehr in Los Angeles, California, USA.
Vanguard focuses on producing high-quality studio microphones at affordable prices, sourcing components from China and putting emphasis on excellent design work.
Violet Designs
Violet Designs was founded in 2003 in Latvia.
Violet Designs microphones are inspired by the sound of vintage mics but are built with unique looks and superior sound quality. All Violet Designs mics are designed by Juris Zarins (of JZ Microphones).
Most notable microphone: Amethyst
YPA
YPA is the microphone brand of Shanghai Ziyan Industrial. YPA is based in California, USA and was created in 2009.
YPA specializes in lavalier, earset, and headset microphones.
Link to check the price of the YPA 4016 on Amazon
ZP Microphones
ZP was founded in 2021 by Gregory de Mee in Beringen, Belgium.
ZP specializes in high-end custom microphones.
Most notable microphone: ZP800G
Back to List
“Non-Specialized” Microphone Manufacturers:
Airwave Technologies
Airwave Technologies was founded by Johnny Chen in 1996. It is an international company that produces wireless systems and microphones at affordable prices. Airwave specializes specifically in lavalier and headset mics.
Most notable mic: HSD-SLIMLINE
Link to check the price of the Airwave HSD-SLIMLINE options on Amazon
AKG
AKG was founded in 1947 in Vienna, Austria, by Dr. Rudolf Goerike and Ernst Pless. Though AKG is known today for their headphones more so than their microphone, they actually started off very successfully with handcrafted mics.
AKG was acquired by Harman in 1994. The company also handles all aspects of former microphone manufacturer Crown Audio (also acquired by Harman).
Most notable microphone: C 414
Link to check the price of the modern AKG C 414 XLII on Amazon
The AKG C 414 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
• Top Best Solid-State/FET Condenser Microphones
• Top Best Microphones For Recording Vocals
AKG is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 13 Best Headphone Brands In The World
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
• What Is A Microphone Capsule? (Plus Top 3 Most Popular Capsules)
Crown Audio is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Power Amplifier Brands In The World.
Apex Electronics
Apex electronics is one of the microphone brands owned by Yorkville Sound, a Canadian company.
Apex produces a variety of consumer and professional audio equipment, including microphones and headphones.
Most notable microphone: Apex 435B
Link to check the price of the Apex 435B on Amazon
Yorkville is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best PA Loudspeaker Brands You Should Know And Use.
Apogee Digital
Apogee was founded in1985 by Bruce Jackson, Christof Heidelberger and Betty Bennett. The company is based in California, USA.
Since its inception, Apogee has been an innovator in the world of digital audio. The company is best known for its audio interfaces and converters but also has a small line of USB microphones.
Most notable microphone: MiC Plus
Link to check the price of the Apogee MiC Plus on Amazon
Apogee is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Audio Interface Brands In The World.
ART (Applied Research and Technology)
ART was founded in 1984 and has since then been acquired by Yorkville Sound.
Applied Research and Technology designs and manufactures products in nearly every field of professional audio, including microphones. The company does a great job of bridging the gap between high-quality and affordability.
Link to check the price of the Applied Research and Technology D7 on Amazon
ART is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 13 Best Microphone Preamplifier Brands In The World
• Top 7 Best Power Conditioner Brands For Audio (Live/Studio)
• Top 11 Best Direct Inject Audio Box Brands On The Market
ART (Applied Research and Technology) website
Audio2000s
Audio2000s is a subsidiary of H&F Technologies, founded in 1989. The company is involved in the production of wireless, digital, communication, audio and video technologies.
Most notable microphone: AWM6032U wireless dual-microphone system
Avantone
Avantone is a manufacturer of professional audio equipment based out of New York, USA. The company focuses on making high-quality products at affordable prices.
Avantone is best known for its reference monitors and studio-grade microphones.
Link to check the price of the Avantone CK-6 on Amazon
The Avantone CK-6 is one of My New Microphone's Top Best Microphones Under $150 For Recording Vocals.
Avenson Audio
Avenson Audio was started by Brad Avenson in 2000 in Austin, Texas. Aside from Avenson Audio, Brad has designed microphones with Wunder Audio and Shinybox. Avenson Audio is headquartered in Austin, Texas, USA.
Avenson Audio designs and manufactures professional audio outboard gear. Their flagship microphone is the omnidirectional STO-2.
Most notable microphone: STO-2
Behringer
Behringer was founded in Germany by Uli Behringer in 1989. The company is worldwide with a sales network in over 130 countries. Behringer is owned by Music Group, which is chaired by Uli.
Behringer produces a massive range of products pertaining to music, audio, and lighting.
Most notable microphone: XM8500
Link to check the price of the Behringer XM8500 on Amazon
Behringer is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best DAW Control Surface Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Eurorack Module Synth Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best MIDI Controller Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Mixing Board/Console Brands For Home Studios
• Top 11 Best Synthesizer Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Direct Inject Audio Box Brands On The Market
Brüel & Kjær
Brüel & Kjær was founded Per V. Brüel and Viggo Kjær in Denmark in 1942. Since the very beginning, B&K has been a pioneer in the field of sound and vibration. Today, the company has over 1,000 employees.
Brüel & Kjær specialize in measurement and analyzing sound and vibration in many fields of study. You may not find a B&K microphone in the recording studio next door (although you might),
In 1992, DPA was formed to bring Brüel & Kjær microphones to the broader professional market.
Most notable microphone: TYPE 4184
Carvin Corporation
Carvin Corporation was founded by Lowell Kiesel in his Los Angeles garage in 1946. To this day, the company remains family-run and based in Los Angeles, California, USA.
Carvin Corporation's main focus is on guitar amplifiers, pedals and accessories, though the company also has a solid line of professional audio gear, which includes microphones!
Most notable microphone: Performer 1 T
Cathedral Guitars
Cathedral Guitars was founded by professional guitarist Stephen Andrew Bright in Fort Davis, Texas, USA.
Cathedral Guitars is primarily a guitar retailer. However, in 2012, CG teamed up with Cascade Microphones and began developing and selling microphones under the Cathedral Guitars brand.
Most notable microphone: C12 CG
Cathedral Guitars is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Chandler Limited
Chandler limited was founded in 1999 by Wade Goeke in California, USA. The pro-audio manufacturer is now based in Iowa, USA.
Chandler is one of the very best modern companies at recreating vintage signal processors. The Iowa manufacturer also makes two high-end large-diaphragm condenser microphones: the REDD (tube) and the TG (solid-state).
Most notable microphone: EMI REDD
Link to check the price of the Chandler Limited EMI REDD on Amazon
Chandler Limited is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Audio Compressor Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Audio Equalizer Brands In The World
Coles Electroacoustics
Coles is an English sound equipment company that was founded in 1964 by two employees of the British telecom company Standard Telephones and Cables.
Coles Electroacoustics specializes in microphones, loudspeakers, and other audio units. The company has manufactured the brilliantly-designed BBC ribbon microphones in the UK for over 49 years.
Link to check the price of the Coles 4038 on Amazon
The Coles 4038 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
• Top Best Microphones For Recording Vocals
Coles Electroacoustics website
Coles Electroacoustics is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
• Top 12 Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
Electro-Voice
Electro-Voice was officially established in 1930 by Al Kahn and Lou Burroughs in Indiana, USA. The company is now headquartered in Minnesota.
Electro-Voice specializes in sound systems, loudspeakers, and microphones. E-V does all its component design in‑house and has a long list of successful products in the professional audio industry.
Link to check the price of the Electro-Voice RE20 on Amazon
The Electro-Voice RE20 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Dynamic Microphones On The Market
• Top Best Microphones For Podcasting (All Budgets)
Electro-Voice is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 11 Best PA Loudspeaker Brands You Should Know And Use
• Top 11 Best Subwoofer Brands (Car, PA, Home & Studio)
Equation Audio
Equation Audio was founded in 2003 by Bruce A. Forbes (the former VP of Product Development at CAD Audio). The company is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
Equation Audio designs and manufactures a small line of pro audio equipment, including headphones and microphones.
Most notable microphone: DS-V7
Focusrite
Focusrite was founded in 1985 by the legendary Rupert Neve with a commission from the legendary Sir George Martin to build a custom Neve console.
Today, Focusrite is primarily an audio interface designer and manufacturer. However, they do have a relatively unknown microphone in their CM25.
Link to check the price of a popular Focusrite studio bundle that includes the CM25 on Amazon
Focusrite is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Audio Interface Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best DAW Control Surface Brands In The World
• Top 13 Best Microphone Preamplifier Brands In The World
Golden Age Project
Golden Age Project was originally developed in Sweden in 2005 as a side project of Golden Age Music, a music distributing company. GAP specializes in both microphones and outboard gear (preamps, compressors, etc.).
The condenser, dynamic, and ribbon mics are all hand-crafted and affordable. GAP has a microphone perfect for any studio application.
Most notable microphone: R1 MKII
Link to check the price of the Golden Age Project R1 MKII on Amazon
Hand Crafted Laboratories
Hand Crafted Laboratories is a small pro audio shop headquartered in Ukraine. Unfortunately, I could not find the names of the founders nor the founding date.
Hand Crafter Laboratories specializes in hand-built pro audio outboard gear. The Faust tube condenser is their flagship microphone.
Most notable microphone: Faust
Hand Crafted Laboratories website
IK Multimedia
IK Multimedia was founded in 1996 in Italy.
The company caters to musicians, and its team is made of musicians. IK creates original products and recreates legendary analog equipment digitally. IK has teamed up with iRig, and all their microphones fall under the iRig brand.
Most notable microphone: iRig Mic Studio
Link to check the price of the IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio on Amazon
IK Multimedia is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Virtual/Software Instrument Plugin Brands.
Joemeek
Joemeek is a subsidiary of the PMI Audio Group that was started in 1995. The company's products are created by Alan Hyatt and are designed by Alan Bradford in the United Kingdom.
Geared toward professional and home studios, Joemeek creates specializes in outboard audio processors. The company also has a profitable line of quality microphones.
Link to check the price of the Joemeek JM27 on Amazon
Line Audio
Line Audio is a manufacturer based in Sweden. The company specializes in microphones and microphone preamplifiers. All Line Audio products are built in their small shop in Sweden.
Lucas Engineering
Lucas Engineering was founded in 1991 by Terry Manning in Nassau, Bahamas.
Lucas Engineering has developed and produces a small line of pro audio gear, including microphones. Each piece is built to order in a small shop in the Lucas headquarters in Nassau, Bahamas.
Manley Laboratories
Manley was originally founded in 1988 by David Manley and his son, Luke Manley. Manley Laboratories was later founded during a split of Manley by David and his wife EveAnne in 1993. EveAnna has officially lead the company as president since 1999.
Manley Laboratories specializes in Pro Audio and HiFi products. The company designs and manufactures some of the best outboard gear on the market today (preamplifiers, equalizers, compressors, amplifiers, etc.) and, of course, have a few high-quality microphones in their list of products.
Most notable microphone: Reference Gold
Link to check the price of the Manley Reference Gold at Sweetwater
Manley Laboratories is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Audio Compressor Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Audio Equalizer Brands In The World
Marantz
Marantz was founded in New York, USA by Saul Marantz in 1953 though it is now headquartered in Japan. The company designs and manufactures high-end audio equipment in nearly every sector of audio, including, of course, microphones (under Marantz Professional).
Marantz Professional has designed and continues to design microphones for every plausible application.
Most notable microphone: MPM-3000
Link to check the price of the Marantz MPM-3000 on Amazon
Marantz is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best AV Receiver Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Turntable/Record Player Brands In The World
Mipro
MIPRO electronics was founded in 1995 by K.C. Chang in China.
The company designs and manufactures wireless microphone systems, portable wireless PA systems, and other wireless audio equipment for consumer, professional and commercial applications.
Most notable microphone: MM-590
Nady
Nady Systems was founded in 1976 by John Nady. The company is headquartered in California, USA.
Since its beginnings, Nady has been an industry leader and
Most notable microphone: SP-4C
Link to check the price of the Nady SP-4C on Amazon
NTi Audio
NTi Audio was technically founded in 2000 after a buyout of the Audio Measurement Divison of Neutrik (founded in 1976). The headquarters of NTi Audio is in Liechtenstein.
NTi is an industry leader in testing and measurement systems for acoustic, audio and vibration applications. Of course, this includes microphones, although you may not see anyone singing into them!
Most notable microphone: M2230-WP
RMS Audioworks
RMS Audioworks was founded by Robert Sestili and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA.
RMA Audioworks microphones are 100% hand-crafted with high-end audiophile parts from the US and Europe. The company focuses on precise recreations of high-value and high-quality vintage microphones and even offers repair services for the original microphones they clone.
Most notable microphone: RMS12
sage Electronics
sage Electronics was founded in 2002 by Phillip Victor Bova and his wife Janet Kirby in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
sage Electronics specializes in high-quality pro audio gear, including microphones, and every component of every piece of equipment is designed by and built by Phillip himself in his small Canadian shop.
Most notable microphone: BOVA BALL
Samson Technologies
Samson Technologies was founded in 1980 and is headquartered in New York, USA.
The company started out as a manufacturer of wireless microphone systems and expanded over the year to include many other consumer and professional audio products. Samson Technologies owns three brands: Samson Audio, Samson Wireless and Hartke. Samson has over 250 unique products that are sold in over 140 countries.
Most notable microphone: Meteor
Link to check the price of the Samson Meteor on Amazon
The Samson Meteor is featured in My New Microphone's Top 9 Best USB Microphones (Streaming, PC Audio, Etc.).
Samson Technologies is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Audio Studio Equipment Rack Brands On The Market.
Hartke is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Bass Guitar Amplifier Brands In The World.
Senal Sound
Senal Sound is the pro audio brand of the Gradus Group (a group of companies in the professional photography/video/lighting industries). Senal is headquartered in New York City, New York, USA.
Though Senal Sound produces a wide variety of microphones and other pro audio equipment, its main focus is on sound for video. This means the company specializes in shotgun and lavalier mics.
Most notable microphone: SC-550X
Link to check the price of the Senal Sound SC-550X on Amazon
SKP Audio
SKP Audio was established in 1991 and is based in Florida, USA.
The company's products include high-performance power amplifiers, mixers, microphones, wireless systems, and more.
Most notable microphone: SKS-420
Link to check the price of the SKP Audio SKS-420 on Amazon
SM Pro Audio
SM Pro was founded in 2001 in Melbourne, Australia and has since become a global company.
This manufacturer focuses on all things pro audio, including an impressive line of microphones.
Sony
Sony Corporation was first founded under the name Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo in 1946 by Masaru Ibuka and Akio Morita in Japan. In 1958, the company changed its name to Sony. In 2018, Sony was ranked 97th on the Fortune Global 500 list.
Sony has a massive catalogue of devices in fields ranging from medical to content management. Sony Corporation also manufactures microphones.
Most notable microphone: C-800G
Link to check the price of the Sony C-800G on Amazon
The Sony C-800G is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top 11 Best Microphones For Recording Vocals
• Top 11 Best Tube Condenser Microphones On The Market
Sony is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
• Top 13 Best Headphone Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best AV Receiver Brands In The World
• Top 14 Best Earphone/Earbud Brands In The World
• Top 9 Best Car Stereo Brands In The World
• Top 11 Audio Portable/Field Audio Mixer/Recorder Brands
• Top 11 Best Soundbar Brands On The Market
• Top 8 Best Portable Bluetooth Speaker Brands On The Market
Soundelux
Soundelux was founded in 1980. However, their microphone division was only established in 1995 by David Bock (who went on to start Bock Audio). Soundelux is primarily a post-production facility based out of California, USA.
The microphone division of Soundelux is known for its ability to recreate the sonic signatures of the most popular vintage microphones of all time.
Link to check the price of the Soundelux U195 on Amazon
Soundelux is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Stagg
Stagg was established in Belgium in 1995. The company is primarily a manufacturer of musical instruments but also creates products for lighting and audio.
Most notable microphone: SDMP15
Link to check the price of the Stagg SDMP15 on Amazon
Stagg is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Cymbal Brands In The World.
Superlux
Superlux is a microphone company that was founded in 1987 in Taiwan. They produce consumer and professional audio equipment, including microphones.
Link to check the price of a matched pair of Superlux S502s on Amazon
t.bone
t.bone is the store brand of Thomann, a German online audio retail.
The company manufactures inexpensive microphones based on popular and original mic designs. They have a wide variety of microphones for nearly any possible application.
Most notable microphone: SC 440 USB
Takstar
Takstar was established in China in 1995. Since then, the company has become international and has over 2,500 employees.
Takstar specializes in professional and consumer-grade headphones, amplifiers, audio systems, and microphones. Their products find themselves in a wide range of applications across the world.
Most notable microphone: SGC-598
Link to check the price of the Takstar SGC-598 on Amazon
TASCAM
TASCAM was founded in 1972 as a subsidiary of the Japanese TEAC Corporation. TASCAM is headquartered in California, USA.
The primary focus of TASCAM products is on the recording process. Products include audio interfaces, control surfaces, rack mounts, and microphones.
Most notable microphone: TM-80
Link to check the price of the TASCAM TM-80 on Amazon
TASCAM is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Mixing Board/Console Brands For Home Studios
• Top 11 Audio Portable/Field Audio Mixer/Recorder Brands
TC Helicon
TC HELICON was founded in 2000 through a collaboration between TC Group and IVL Technologies. TCH is based out of British Columbia, Canada.
TC HELICON specialized in all the audio tools and effects needed and wanted by vocalists. Its microphones feature built-in effects.
Most notable microphone: MP-76
TOA Corporation
TOA Electric Manufacturing Company was founded in 1934 by Tsunetaro Nakatani in Japan. The company was renamed TOA Corporation in 1989.
TOA Corporation has a wide variety of products for a wide variety of applications, though they all have to do with sound and audio.
Most notable microphone: DM-1500
Townsend Labs
Townsend Labs was founded in 2015 by Chris Townsend and Erik Papp in California, USA.
Townsend Labs specializes in audio plug-ins and has released the Sphere L22 microphone. This microphone, along with its software, models the characteristics of the most sought-after large-diaphragm condenser microphones and even allows for the selection of different mics and patterns after tracking.
Most notable microphone: Sphere L22
Warm Audio
Warm Audio was founded in 2011 by Bryce Young in Texas, USA.
All Warm Audio products are designed, developed and tested in-house. The company strives to make high-end equipment at affordable prices. Warm Audio products include microphone preamplifiers, compressors, equalizers and microphones.
Most notable microphone: WA-47
Link to check the price of the Warm Audio WA-47 on Amazon
The Warm Audio WA-47 is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 12 Best Microphones Under $1,000 for Recording Vocals
• 11 Best Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Under $1000
Warm Audio is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Microphone Brands You’ve Likely Never Heard Of
• Top 11 Best Direct Inject Audio Box Brands On The Market
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
Wunder Audio
Wunder Audio was founded in 1999 by Mike Castoro in Austin, Texas, USA.
The company's expertise is focused on replicating high-end professional audio equipment, including vintage microphones from Telefunken, Neumann, and AKG.
Most notable microphone: CM7 Suprema
Link to check the price of the Wunder Audio CM7 FET S on Amazon
Wunder Audio is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones) (As A Clone)
• Top 20 Most Expensive Microphones On The Market Today
• Top 11 Best Studio Recording/Mixing Console Brands
“Microphones As Accessories” Manufacturers:
Anchor Audio
Anchor Audio was established in 1975 in California, USA.
Anchor Audio specializes in portable/battery-powered sound systems, PA systems, lecterns, intercoms, and monitors. They are so specialized, in fact, that microphones fall under “accessories” in their product catalogue. So Anchor's microphones are not of the highest quality, but they're worth looking into for a one-stop-shop (microphone, amplifier, and loudspeaker).
Most notable microphone: MIC-50
Link to check the price of the Anchor Audio MIC-50 at B&H Photo/Video
Antelope Audio
Antelope Audio was founded in 2004 by Igor Levin in California, USA.
The company is a world leader in digital audio equipment manufacturing. They specialize in audio interfaces, master clocks, plug-ins, and modeling microphones.
Most notable microphone: Edge Quadro
Link to check the price of the Antelope Audio Edge Quadro on Amazon
Antelope Audio is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Audio Interface Brands In The World.
Aspen Pittman Designs
Aspen Pittman has been in business under varying names since 1978. APD is based in California, USA and is a consultant to Groove Tubes and Fender.
Aspen Pittman specializes in stereo monitors but also has a very intriguing design in his DT-1 microphone.
Boya
Boya is a Chinese microphone manufacturer that was founded in 2007.
Boya specialized in audio for DSLR Cameras, camcorders, and video production in general. The company produces microphones (mostly lavaliers and shotgun), wireless systems, and all the adapters you could possibly need in this specific field.
Most notable microphone: BY-DM1
Link to check the price of the Boya BY-DM1 on Amazon
The Boya BY-DM1 is featured in My New Microphone's Top Best External (Lightning) Microphones For iPhone.
dbx
dbx is a brand owned by Harman (Samsung).
dbx specializes in high-quality outboard audio processors, preamps, and other professional audio equipment. The brand does have one reference microphone: the RTA-M.
Most notable microphone: RTA-M
Link to check the price of the dbx RTA-M on Amazon
dbx is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 13 Best Microphone Preamplifier Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Audio Compressor Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Audio Equalizer Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Audio Brands For 500 Series Modules/Equipment
Fostex
Fostex was founded in 1973 by the Foster Electric Company (1949) in Japan. The company has since grown to over 50,000 employees stationed in nine countries.
Fostex manufactures a wide range of consumer and professional-grade audio equipment, including loudspeakers, monitors, headphones, and microphones.
Lectrosonics
Lectrosonics was founded in 1971 in New Mexico, USA. The company focuses on products for the film, broadcast, music, and technical theatre communities.
Lectrosonics designs and builds wireless systems, audio processors and recorders, and other audio products. The wireless systems will typically work with other manufacturers' mics, although Lectrosonics also produces their own microphones.
Most notable microphone: HHC capsule (with HH wireless transmitter)
Link to check the price of the HHC capsule at B&H Photo/Video
Lectrosonics is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Audio Portable/Field Audio Mixer/Recorder Brands.
Line 6
Line 6 was founded in 1996 by Susan Wolf, Marcus Ryle and Michel Doidic in California, USA.
Though better known for their guitar amps, effects pedals, and even software, Line 6 does manufacture microphones and wireless mic systems.
Most notable microphone: XD-V75 wireless
Link to check the price of the Line 6 XD-V75 Wireless on Amazon
Line 6 is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Guitar/Bass Effects Pedal Brands To Know & Use.
M-Audio
M-Audio was originally founded in 1988 under the name “Midiman,” and officially became M-Audio in 2000.
The company specializes in computer audio interface and studio integration solutions.
Most notable microphone: UBER MIC
Link to check the price of a popular M-Audio bundle that includes the UBER MIC
M-Audio is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Audio Interface Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best MIDI Controller Brands In The World
Olympus
Olympus Corporation started out in 1919 under the name Takachiho Seisakusho. The company was founded by Takeshi Yamashita in Japan.
Olympus is a huge company with technologies in the Industrial and Medical sectors. The company also manufactures cameras and audio. Most of their microphones have to do with camera audio.
Most notable microphone: ME-31
Link to check the price of the Olympus ME-31 on Amazon
Olympus is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Audio Portable/Field Audio Mixer/Recorder Brands.
Peavey
Peavey was founded by Hartley Peavey in 1965. The company is headquartered in Mississippi, USA.
Peavey is one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of musical instruments, amplifiers and professional audio systems in the world, distributing more than 2,000 products to over 130 countries. On the pro-audio side, Peavey has produced loudspeakers, PA systems, power amps, processors, mixers, and, of course, microphones.
Most notable microphone: PVi 100
Link to check the price of the Peavey PVi 100 on Amazon
Peavey is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Mixing Board/Console Brands For Home Studios
• Top 11 Best PA Loudspeaker Brands You Should Know And Use
Prodipe
Prodipe is a French pro-audio and instrument company.
Prodipe has a guitar division specializing in guitars, bass guitars, and ukuleles. On the pro-audio side of things, Prodipe produces monitors, headphones, interfaces, and microphones at
Most notable microphone: R.S.L
Pyle Audio
Pyle Audio is an American company that was founded in 1960 as a manufacturer of audio equipment and stereo systems.
Pyle has a wide variety of products, ranging from car, marine, and professional audio, musical instruments, and a number of other electronic items (including kitchen appliances and metal detectors).
Most notable microphone: PDMICR68SL
Link to check the price of the Pyle Audio PDMICR68SL on Amazon
RCA
The Radio Corporation of America was founded in 1919 by Owen Young and David Sarnoff and was headquartered in New York City, New York, USA, until the company became defunct in 1986. RCA lives on as a brand owned by Technicolor SA.
Though it's been a long time since an RCA microphone has been manufactured, the company is worth noting due to the wild success and many recreations of the famous RCA R44-BX ribbon mic. A microphone that has inspired many and was even an integral part of the formation of AEA and Cloud Microphones.
Most notable microphone: 44-BX
The RCA 44-BX is also featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• 50 Best Microphones Of All Time (With Alternate Versions & Clones)
• Top Best Vintage Microphones (And Their Best Clones)
Roland
Roland Corporation was founded in 1972 by Ikutaro Kakehashi in Japan.
The company is best known for its musical instruments (including the famous samplers such as the TR-808 and TR-909). Roland also makes amplifiers, pro audio and video equipment, and many other audio-based tools, including microphones.
Most notable microphone: DR-50
Link to check the price of the Roland DR-50 on Amazon
Roland is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best MIDI Controller Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Synthesizer Brands In The World
• Top 9 Best Digital Piano Brands In The World
• Top 7 Best MIDI Cable Brands In The World
• Top 11 Best Rackmount Case Brands On The Market
• Top 11 Audio Portable/Field Audio Mixer/Recorder Brands
Slate Digital
Slate Digital was founded in 2008 by Steven Slate and Fabrice Gabriel. The company is headquartered in California, USA.
Slate Digital specializes in digital audio plug-ins. Slate Digital also has a small line of modeling microphones capable of acting as a wide variety of different microphones.
Most notable microphone: VMS ML-1
Link to check the price of the Slate Digital VMS ML-1 digital system on Amazon
Slate Digital is featured in My New Microphone's Top 11 Best Audio Plugin (VST/AU/AAX) Brands In The World.
Sonarworks
Sonarworks is a Latvian microphone manufacturer that was founded in 2012.
This company specializes in audio software aimed at removing coloration from recording and playback equipment. The company also makes a reference microphone called the XREF20.
Most notable microphone: XREF20
Zoom
The Zoom Corporation was founded in Japan in 1983.
Zoom is best known for its field recording equipment and also designs and manufactures audio mixers and instrument effects pedals. On top of the recorders, Zoom also makes a variety of microphone capsules as “accessories” to its other products.
Most notable microphone: SGH-6 Shotgun Capsule
Link to check the price of the Zoom SGH-6 on Amazon
Zoom is featured in the following My New Microphone articles:
• Top 11 Best Mixing Board/Console Brands For Home Studios
• Top 11 Audio Portable/Field Audio Mixer/Recorder Brands
Zylia
Zylia was founded in 2012 by Piotr Szczechowiak and Tomasz Żernicki in Poland.
Zylia specializes in 3D/360 microphones and the complementary software that goes along with them.
Link to check the price of the Zylia ZM-1 on B&H Photo/Video
A Few Consumer-Grade Microphone Manufacturers Worth Noting:
Badaax
Although I couldn't find any website or information on Badaax, it's still a brand that is available at online retailers. From what I've read, these inexpensive microphones are
Most notable microphone: GT-2B
Link to check the price of the Badaax GT-2B on Amazon
Badaax website: N/A
Excelvan
Excelvan was founded in 2003 in California, USA. The company's goal is to provide high-end electronics to the general public at an affordable cost.
Excelvan produces consumer-grade computers, photo and video equipment, audio equipment, smart electronics, motor vehicle electronics, and home and garden products.
Most notable microphone: K18-V
Monoprice
Monoprice was founded in 2002 by Jong Lee and Seok Hong in California, USA. The company has since grown to be an international company and sells over 7,000 affordable electronics and accessories worldwide.
Audio is only one sector of many for Monoprice, and the microphone section, a small portion of that. That being said, Monoprice has a wide variety of consumer-grade mics to choose from.
Most notable microphone: Large Diaphragm Condenser
Monoprice is featured in My New Microphone's Top 7 Best MIDI Cable Brands In The World.
Movo
Movo was created in 2013. It is based in New York, USA.
Neewer
Neewer was created in 2010 by Shenzhen Xing Ying Da Industry Co. in China.
The goal of the Neewer brand is to provide high-end photography and video equipment at low-end costs.
Most notable microphone: NW-800
Sheng Yue
Sheng Yue is a Chinese consumer brand of microphones.
Most notable microphone: SY-660
Sheng Yue website: N/A
Back to ListTonor
Tonor is a California-based consumer-grade microphone manufacturer. The products are designed in California, USA and manufactured in Shenzhen, China.
Most notable microphone: Pro Recording Condenser
Back to ListChoosing the right microphone(s) for your applications and budget can be a challenging task. For this reason, I've created My New Microphone's Comprehensive Microphone Buyer's Guide. Check it out for help in determining your next microphone purchase.
This article has been approved in accordance with the My New Microphone Editorial Policy.