Best Supercardioid Condenser Microphones of 2025

Nicole Kim Avatar
Nicole Kim
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Supercardioid condenser microphones are a popular choice for recording professionals and musicians alike. These mics offer a directional pickup pattern, allowing for focused sound capture and minimal background noise. They are ideal for use in live performances, studio recordings, and even podcasting. Some popular models include the Shure KSM9 and the Audio-Technica AT4053b. These mics are known for their crystal-clear sound quality and ability to capture every detail of the performer's voice or instrument. Whether you're a professional recording artist or just starting out, a supercardioid condenser microphone is a great investment for any studio or performance setup.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone Cover #TOP 1
Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Shure MX412/S Microphone Cover #TOP 2
Shure MX412/S Microphone
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ZealSound Gaming Microphone Kit Cover #TOP 3
ZealSound Gaming Microphone Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Supercardioid Condenser Microphones

#TOP 1

Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone

Beta87A
Silver
Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone Cover
Shure BETA 87A Studio Grade Vocal Microphone with Built-in Pop Filter - Single Element Supercardioid Condenser Mic with A25D Mic Clip and Storage Bag, Ideal for Studio Recording and Live Performances

The Shure BETA 87A Supercardioid Condenser Microphone is perfect for both live performances and studio recording. It has a smooth frequency response with gradual presence rise, providing superior gain-before-feedback with its highly consistent supercardioid polar pattern. The microphone also has a wide dynamic range and low distortion characteristics, along with low susceptibility to RFI and electromagnetic hum. The advanced cartridge shock-mount system reduces handling noise and a built-in pop filter reduces undesirable wind and breath sounds. This microphone is designed to capture brighter vocals with sparkling accuracy to add some studio-grade clarity to the live mix.

What We Like
Smooth frequency response with gradual presence rise
Superior gain-before-feedback due to highly consistent supercardioid polar pattern
Low susceptibility to RFI and electromagnetic hum
#TOP 2

Shure MX412/S Microphone

MX412/S
black
12" Gooseneck
Shure MX412/S Microphone Cover
Shure MX412/S Supercardioid Condenser Microphone, 12" Gooseneck with Attached XLR Preamp, Shock & Flange Mount, Snap-Fit Foam Windscreen

The Shure MX412/S Microphone is designed to enhance your audio experience. With its built-in XLR preamp, you can easily connect to various audio systems, ensuring a clear and strong signal. The microphone's wide dynamic range and frequency response deliver precise sound reproduction, making it perfect for speeches or performances. Additionally, the interchangeable cartridges allow you to select the ideal polar pattern for your specific needs, providing versatility in different environments. You will also appreciate the balanced output, which minimizes unwanted noise and interference, ensuring your audio remains crisp and professional.

What We Like
High sound accuracy
Versatile polar patterns
Reduced noise interference
Easy installation

ZealSound Gaming Microphone Kit

K66 Boom Arm Bundle
Black
ZealSound Gaming Microphone Kit Cover
ZealSound Gaming Microphone Kit,Podcast Condenser USB Mic with Boom Arm,Supercardioid Microphone with Mute Button,Echo Volume Gain Knob,Adjust Monitor for Phone PC Computer (Black)

The ZealSound Gaming Mic Kit is a versatile USB condenser microphone that offers high-quality audio recording for a variety of devices. With its plug-and-play design, you can easily connect it to your MacBook, PS4/5, Windows Mac OS PC, iPhone, iPad, Tablet, and Android smartphones without the need for any additional drivers. The intelligent noise reduction chipset and rugged construction ensure clear and crisp audio, while the cardioid pattern rejects unwanted off-axis noise. The durable arm set allows for precise positioning, and the onboard audio control features mic gain, ECHO knob adjustment, volume control, and monitor volume for easy customization. With live monitoring and a complete podcast equipment bundle, this microphone is perfect for gaming, streaming, podcasting, and recording content for platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Zoom.

What We Like
Plug-and-play
Intelligent noise reduction
Durable arm set
#TOP 4

Phenyx Pro PDM35 Drum Mic

PDM35
Grey
Phenyx Pro PDM35 Drum Mic Cover
Phenyx Pro PDM35 Overhead Condenser Drum Mic, Super-Cardioid Microphone with Wide Frequency Response Range, Pencil Type for Hi-Hat, Percussions, and String Instruments

The Phenyx Pro Drum Mic is a versatile overhead condenser microphone designed for capturing the full sound of instruments. With a super-cardioid pick-up pattern, it isolates the microphone from other on-stage signals, ensuring clear audio. The wide frequency response range makes it ideal for hi-hat, percussions, woodwind, and string instruments, allowing you to reproduce nuanced tones accurately. The included microphone bag and user manual add convenience for storage and setup.

What We Like
Super-Cardioid pick-up pattern
Wide frequency response range
Versatile for various instruments
#TOP 5

Briskdrop E100Sx Microphone Bundle

Briskdrop
E100SX
Briskdrop E100Sx Microphone Bundle Cover
Briskdrop CAD Audio E100Sx Large Diaphragm Supercardioid Condenser Microphone Bundle with 2 Pig Hog XLR Cables

The Briskdrop E100Sx Microphone is designed to enhance your performance, whether in the studio or on stage. Its large-diaphragm capsule delivers a rich, vintage sound, perfect for vocals. You’ll appreciate its wide frequency response of 20Hz to 18KHz, ensuring clarity and depth in your recordings. With its high sensitivity, this microphone captures even the smallest nuances of your voice, making every performance shine. Additionally, the built-in hi-pass filter and 10dB pad add versatility, allowing you to tailor your sound to any environment.

What We Like
Warm vintage tone
Wide frequency response
High sensitivity
Versatile settings

BOYA XLR Microphone BY-BM6060

BOYA BY-BM6060
Black
BY-BM6060
BOYA XLR Microphone BY-BM6060 Cover
Boya XLR Shotgun Microphone BY-BM6060, Super-Cardioid Condenser Mic with 24 48V Phantom Power for Camera Camcorder Film Interview TV Program Recording Podcast

The BOYA XLR Microphone BY-BM6060 is a shotgun condenser microphone that is designed for video production and broadcast audio acquisition. It is ideal for interviews, independent films, TV programs, documentaries, promo videos, and studio recordings. The microphone comes with a 3-pin XLR output that is compatible with 24-48V phantom power supply, and can also be powered by one AA battery. The BY-BM6060 features super-cardioid characteristics and low-noise circuitry noise. The package includes a suspension shock mount, fur windshield, foam windshield, and cold-shoe mount with 1/4” thread for easy mounting on DSLR camera or stand.

What We Like
Ideal for video production and broadcast audio acquisition
Compatible with 24-48V phantom power supply or one AA battery
Features super-cardioid characteristics and low-noise circuitry noise
#TOP 7

Sennheiser MME 865-1

502581
Black
Sennheiser MME 865-1 Cover
Sennheiser Pro Audio MME 865-1 - Supercardioid Condenser Microphone Module for G3 or 2000 Series SKM Transmitters - Black

The Sennheiser Supercardioid Mic is a high-quality condenser microphone module designed for use with the SKM2000 wireless handheld system. With its supercardioid polar pattern, this microphone delivers a focused pickup, effectively rejecting off-axis ambient noise and feedback. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the smooth and uniform on-axis and off-axis response of this mic ensures excellent sound reproduction. It also has extreme SPL capability, allowing it to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. With its tool-free installation, you can easily add the MME 865-1 to your SKM2000 system in seconds. Experience professional sound quality and convenience with the Sennheiser Supercardioid Mic.

What We Like
Focused pickup
Smooth response
Extreme SPL capability
#TOP 8

Rode M2 Handheld Mic

Black
Rode M2 Handheld Mic Cover
Rode M2 Handheld Condenser Microphone, Black

The Rode M2 Handheld Condenser Microphone is a high-quality vocal microphone that comes with a locking on/off switch, heavy-duty body, zipper pouch, and ST mount. The supercardioid polar pattern ensures that your vocals are captured with clarity and precision, while the locking switch prevents accidental shut-off during your performance. The heavy-duty body ensures durability and longevity, and the included zipper pouch makes it easy to transport and protect your microphone. The ST mount allows for easy attachment to any microphone stand.

What We Like
Locking on/off switch prevents accidental shut-off during performance
Supercardioid polar pattern captures vocals with clarity and precision
Heavy-duty body ensures durability and longevity
#TOP 9

Audix VX5 Vocal Microphone

VX-5
Black
7x2x2
Audix VX5 Vocal Microphone Cover
Audix VX5 Supercardioid Handheld Condenser Vocal Microphone for Stage Singers - Black

The Audix VX5 Mic is a top-notch handheld condenser microphone suitable for various settings. Its superior sound quality makes it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings. The sleek design adds a professional touch to any performer's setup. With a wide frequency response range of 40Hz-16kHz, this mic excels at capturing vocals and a variety of instruments like drums, brass, and guitar. Additionally, its high SPL handling capability of up to 140dB ensures distortion-free sound even in loud environments.

What We Like
Superb Sound Quality
Wide Frequency Response
High SPL Handling
#TOP 10

Shure Microflex MX184 Lavalier Microphone

MX184
Black
Shure Microflex MX184 Lavalier Microphone Cover
Shure Microflex MX184 Supercardioid Lavalier Microphone - Condenser Mic with TQG / TA4F Connector Wireless Bodypack Transmitters

The Shure MX184 Microphone is designed for exceptional sound quality, featuring a wide dynamic range and frequency response that captures audio accurately across the spectrum. You’ll appreciate the rotatable tie-clip, allowing you to position the microphone at any angle for optimal placement. The included foam windscreen effectively reduces breath noise, ensuring your recordings remain clear and professional. Additionally, the balanced, transformer-less output enhances noise immunity over long cable runs, making it ideal for various applications. This microphone not only meets professional standards but also offers convenience for everyday use.

What We Like
Accurate sound reproduction
Flexible placement options
Reduces breath noise
Noise immunity over distance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a supercardioid condenser microphone?

A supercardioid microphone has a very directional supercardioid polar/pickup pattern. It is most sensitive to on-axis sounds (where the mic “points”) with null points at 127° and 233° and a rear lobe of sensitivity. Supercardioid mics are popular in film due to their high directionality.

2. What are supercardioid microphones used for?

Supercardioid mics are commonly used for: Film and television sets to pick up directional sound. Live performances for directional pickup.

3. Is supercardioid better than cardioid?

A supercardioid provides better isolation from room noise and nearby instruments and can be more resistant to feedback than a cardioid mic, but it requires the user to maintain a more consistent position directly in front of the mic.

4. Is supercardioid the same as hypercardioid?

Hypercardioid is similar to supercardioid, except that it offers an even narrower picking pattern. At the same time, it is also more sensitive to the sounds coming from the rear. Sounds from the rear end are being picked from a wider angle and with a greater amplitude than that of a supercardioid.

Editor's Notes

During our supercardioid condenser microphone research, we found 24 supercardioid condenser microphone products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,901 customer reviews through our big data system to write the supercardioid condenser microphones list. We found that most customers choose supercardioid condenser microphones with an average price of $135.54.

The supercardioid condenser microphones are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of supercardioid condenser microphones, including Shure, ZealSound, Phenyx Pro, Briskdrop, BOYA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 6,188 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Nicole Kim Avatar

Nicole Kim has been a music teacher and a private piano instructor for six years now. She is a very talented musician who plays piano to a high standard and won several awards in international piano competitions. Lately, she has been sharing her music expertise online, giving incredible tips on how to select the right musical instruments.