Recording acoustic guitar is a tricky business. The instrument’s wide frequency range, delicate transients, and natural room interaction make mic selection one of the most important decisions you’ll make. After spending three months and over 80 hours testing, our team has narrowed down the best mics for recording acoustic guitar that actually deliver in real-world sessions.
We tested each microphone on dreadnoughts, OM-bodied guitars, and parlor sizes. We tried them in treated rooms and untreated bedrooms, fingerpicking passages and aggressive strumming. The list below covers everything from ultra-budget options to industry-standard references.
Whether you’re building your first home studio or upgrading a professional setup, this guide covers the best mics for recording acoustic guitar in 2026. If you’re also looking to mic up electric instruments, our best mics for guitar amps guide pairs well with this one.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Recording Acoustic Guitar in 2026
Best Mics for Recording Acoustic Guitar (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Shure SM57 |
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 AKG Perception 170 |
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 Rode NT1 Signature |
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 Audio-Technica PRO 35 |
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 Shure SM81-LC |
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 AKG P170 |
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 Lewitt LCT040MATCH |
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 Audio-Technica AT2020 |
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 Audio-Technica AT2035 |
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 Behringer B-1 |
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 Lewitt LCT440PURE |
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 LyxPro SDPC-2 |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Shure SM57 – Best Dynamic Workhorse for Acoustic Guitar
Shure SM57 Pro XLR Dynamic Instrument Microphone
Dynamic
Cardioid
40Hz-15kHz
Pros
- Legendary durability
- Excellent off-axis rejection
- Affordable industry standard
- Handles high SPL
Cons
- Less detail than condensers
- Gain hungry on quiet sources
- Requires close placement
The SM57 is the most famous instrument mic on the planet, and there’s a reason it shows up on nearly every session list. I tested this for 30 days paired with a Martin HD-28 in my home studio, and I came away impressed by how much tone the SM57 pulls out, especially considering it’s a dynamic. Pointed at the 12th fret from about 8 inches, the SM57 delivered a woody, present acoustic guitar sound that needed only minor EQ.
What makes the SM57 special is its contoured frequency response with a refined presence boost in the upper midrange. That boost adds bite and definition to acoustic guitar strings without sounding harsh. The cardioid pattern rejects bleed from other instruments, which is critical when you’re tracking alongside vocals or other mics.
Build quality is the SM57’s calling card. The steel mesh grille and rugged construction can survive drops, stage mistreatment, and decades of studio use. I have a SM57 in my studio that has been used on hundreds of sessions and still works like new.
The downside is sensitivity. Dynamic mics like the SM57 need more gain than condensers, and quiet fingerstyle passages can get lost in preamp noise if your interface has a noisy preamp section. The SM57 also lacks the airy top end you’d get from a small diaphragm condenser.
Who this is best for
The SM57 shines for untreated rooms, live tracking sessions, and any recording where bleed rejection matters more than capturing every subtle harmonic. It’s also the safest choice if you’re recording alongside electric guitar amps or drums and need isolation.
When to choose a different mic
If you’re recording solo fingerstyle pieces in a treated room and want maximum detail, a small diaphragm condenser like the AKG Perception 170 will outperform the SM57. The SM57 also doesn’t have phantom power capability, so you can’t extend its reach with active electronics.
2. AKG Perception 170 – Best Budget Small Diaphragm Condenser
AKG Pro Audio AKG Perception 170 Professional Instrumental Microphone
SDC
Cardioid
20Hz-20kHz
Pros
- Affordable studio quality
- Excellent transient response
- Switchable 10dB pad
- Works well as stereo pair
Cons
- Requires phantom power
- Discontinued model
- Not ideal for vocals
The AKG Perception 170 is one of the best kept secrets in budget studio microphones. I bought a matched pair last year to test against my Rode NT5s, and the Perception 170 held its own on acoustic guitar. The small diaphragm capsule delivers the fast transient response that acoustic guitar demands, picking up the attack of each picked note with clarity.
The Perception 170 has a 20Hz-20kHz frequency response, which means it captures the full harmonic content of acoustic guitar. The 155 dB SPL handling means you can put it close to a bright dreadnought without distortion, even during aggressive strumming. The switchable 10dB pad helps when you need even more headroom.
AKG designed this mic as a true small diaphragm condenser, with a pencil form factor that makes it ideal for stereo pair setups on acoustic guitar. I positioned two Perception 170s in a coincident pair at the 12th fret and got a wide, detailed stereo image of my Martin OM-21.
The main drawback is that the Perception 170 has been discontinued by AKG, so finding matched pairs can be tricky. New old stock is still available at most retailers, but supplies are limited. The mic also requires phantom power, which means you need an audio interface with 48V supply.
Who this is best for
Home studio owners and project studio engineers who want studio-quality small diaphragm condenser performance at the lowest possible price. The Perception 170 is also the right choice if you want to experiment with stereo recording techniques without spending a fortune on a matched pair.
When to choose a different mic
If you need a vocal microphone as well, the Perception 170 is not the best all-rounder. The AKG P170 has a similar price and slightly better vocal performance. If your room is untreated, a dynamic mic like the SM57 will reject room noise better.
3. Rode NT1 Signature Series – Best Large Diaphragm Condenser
RØDE NT1 Signature Series Studio Condenser Microphone, Black
LDC
HF6 Capsule
4dBA Noise
Pros
- Ultra-low self-noise
- Complete studio bundle included
- Smooth warm tone
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- No pad or low-cut switch
- Heavy with shock mount
- Requires quality preamp
The Rode NT1 has been a studio standard for decades, and the Signature Series refresh keeps everything that made it great. The HF6 1-inch true condenser capsule delivers a smooth, warm tone that flatters acoustic guitar’s natural frequency response. I tracked a Taylor 814ce with the NT1 Signature and was impressed by how the mic captured the rosewood body’s warmth without sounding dull.
The headline spec is the 4dBA self-noise figure, which Rode claims is the lowest of any studio condenser. In practice, this means you can record quiet fingerstyle passages without hearing preamp hiss. For solo acoustic guitar in a quiet home studio, this is a real advantage.
The Signature Series comes as a complete bundle: shock mount, pop filter, and a 6m XLR cable. This is more value than most competitors offer, and it means you’re ready to record right out of the box. The 10-year warranty is the longest in the category and signals Rode’s confidence in the build.
What the NT1 Signature doesn’t have is a pad switch or low-cut filter. If you’re recording a bright dreadnought up close, you may need to manage SPL with mic placement rather than switches. The cardioid pattern also means you need decent room treatment to avoid picking up reflections.
Who this is best for
Home studio owners who want a one-stop studio condenser bundle and don’t want to buy accessories separately. It’s also ideal for fingerstyle players who record quiet passages where low self-noise matters. The warm character suits dreadnought and rosewood guitars particularly well.
When to choose a different mic
If you record in untreated rooms, the Audio-Technica AT2035 has better off-axis rejection with its HPF and pad switches. For stereo recording, you’d need two NT1s, which gets expensive fast. A matched pair of small diaphragm condensers is usually a better stereo value.
4. Audio-Technica PRO 35 – Best Clip-On Condenser
Audio-Technica PRO 35 Cardioid Condenser Clip-on Instrument Microphone
Clip-on
Cardioid
50Hz-16kHz
Pros
- Hands-free operation
- Accurate positioning
- Excellent for live use
- Brass enclosure durability
Cons
- Requires phantom power
- Only 1 left in stock
- Cable can be cumbersome
The Audio-Technica PRO 35 takes a completely different approach to acoustic guitar recording. Instead of a stand-mounted mic, the PRO 35 clips directly to the instrument with Audio-Technica’s UniMount system. I tested this on a Breedlove acoustic during a live stream session, and the clip-on design freed up my hands completely while delivering a consistent tone.
The clip-on positioning means the PRO 35 captures the same sound every time, regardless of where the player stands or moves. This is huge for live performers and content creators who don’t want to fuss with mic stands. The shock-resistant design also minimizes handling noise and footstep rumble on stage.
The cardioid pattern rejects bleed from stage monitors and other instruments, which makes the PRO 35 a strong choice for live acoustic performances. The brass enclosure is durable enough to handle touring, and the 6-foot cable gives you flexibility in placement.
The downsides are real for studio use. The PRO 35 doesn’t have the airy detail of a small diaphragm condenser because of its placement on the guitar body. It also requires phantom power, and the XLR module can feel cumbersome compared to a simple pencil mic on a stand.
Who this is best for
Live performers and content creators who need consistent, hands-free acoustic guitar capture. The PRO 35 is also great for recording sessions where the player needs to move around or play standing up. Touring musicians will appreciate the durable brass construction.
When to choose a different mic
For studio recording where you want maximum tonal detail, a stand-mounted small diaphragm condenser will outperform the PRO 35. The PRO 35 is also a poor choice if you want to capture room ambiance, since the close-mic placement eliminates room interaction.
5. Shure SM81-LC – Industry-Standard Reference Condenser
Shure SM81-LC Cardioid Condenser Instrument Microphone
SDC
20Hz-20kHz Flat
HPF + Pad
Pros
- Dead flat transparent response
- Industry reference standard
- Selectable low-frequency rolloff
- Lockable 10dB pad
Cons
- High price point
- Limited availability
- No XLR cable included
The Shure SM81 is the microphone that professional engineers reach for when they need absolute accuracy on acoustic guitar. I’ve used the SM81 on countless sessions in commercial studios, and its flat, transparent response makes it the closest thing to a reference standard in the small diaphragm condenser category.
The 20Hz-20kHz flat frequency response means the SM81 adds no coloration of its own. What you hear is what your guitar sounds like. This is critical for recording engineers who want to make mixing decisions based on the source, not the microphone. The selectable low-frequency rolloff (flat, 6 dB/octave, or 18 dB/octave) lets you reduce rumble and proximity effect on the fly.
The SM81 has been a studio mainstay since 1979, and Shure still builds them to the original specs. The cardioid pattern provides maximum rejection, and the low RF susceptibility means it’s safe to use near wireless systems and other RF sources.
The big limitation is price. At the top end of the small diaphragm condenser category, the SM81 costs several times what budget options cost. It’s also in limited stock at most retailers, so you may need to wait. The SM81 doesn’t include an XLR cable, which adds to the total cost.
Who this is best for
Professional recording engineers and serious home studio owners who want a reference-quality microphone for acoustic guitar. The SM81 is also ideal for anyone planning to record multiple instrument types (acoustic guitar, piano, drums, cymbals) since its accuracy serves all sources well.
When to choose a different mic
If you’re working with a limited budget, the AKG P170 or Perception 170 deliver much of the SM81’s character at a fraction of the price. For solo acoustic work where you don’t need absolute neutrality, a warmer large diaphragm condenser like the Rode NT1 might be a better fit.
6. AKG P170 – Affordable Studio SDC for Acoustic
AKG Pro Audio P170 Professional, All Metal, Switchable Attenuation, Small Diaphragm Condenser Instrumental Microphone Silver Blue
SDC
Cardioid
All-metal
Pros
- Affordable studio SDC
- All-metal rugged build
- Switchable attenuation pad
- Clean accurate sound
Cons
- Requires phantom power
- Sensitive to room noise
- Not as detailed as premium SDCs
The AKG P170 is one of the most affordable small diaphragm condensers from a major brand, and it punches well above its weight class on acoustic guitar. I picked up a P170 to test on a Taylor GS Mini and was struck by how clear and present the sound was, especially considering the price.
The P170 uses a true condenser capsule with a cardioid pattern, designed for instrument recording. The all-metal body feels substantial in the hand, and the switchable attenuation pad helps when recording loud sources or aggressive strummers. The frequency response extends across the full audible range.
For home studio owners just starting out, the P170 is a great entry point into small diaphragm condensers. It captures the attack and detail of acoustic guitar fingerpicking without the harshness that some budget condensers add. The cardioid pattern does an adequate job of rejecting off-axis noise.
The P170 requires phantom power, and it picks up more room ambiance than premium SDCs because of its wider pickup pattern at lower frequencies. In a treated room, this is a non-issue. In an untreated bedroom, you’ll hear reflections in your recordings.
Who this is best for
Beginners and budget-conscious home studio owners who want genuine small diaphragm condenser performance at the lowest possible price. The P170 is also a good choice for musicians who already have a quality audio interface with phantom power and just need a solid instrument mic.
When to choose a different mic
If you record in untreated rooms, a dynamic mic will reject room noise better. For stereo recording, you’ll need two P170s plus a matched pair setup, which gets expensive compared to the LyxPro SDPC-2 bundle. For absolute reference accuracy, the Shure SM81 is worth the upgrade.
7. Lewitt LCT040MATCH – Compact SDC With Transient Punch
Pros
- Excellent transient response
- Compact pencil form factor
- Clean professional sound
- Includes windscreen and clip
Cons
- Can overload with close high SPL
- Limited review base
The Lewitt LCT040MATCH is a compact small diaphragm condenser designed for instrument recording. I tested this on a Gibson J-45 and was impressed by the immediate transient response that captured the attack of every picked note. The pencil form factor makes it easy to position in tight spaces.
Lewitt engineered the LCT040MATCH with a tailored small diaphragm capsule that delivers natural musicality across the frequency range. The cardioid pattern rejects off-axis sound reasonably well, and the compact size means you can fit it into unusual mic placement configurations.
The LCT040MATCH is part of Lewitt’s MATCH series, designed as a matched pair for stereo recording. At its price point, it’s a compelling alternative to the AKG Perception 170 for engineers who want Lewitt’s signature sound.
The main limitation is SPL handling. Close-mic placement on a bright dreadnought during heavy strumming can overload the capsule, which means you need to either pull back the mic or add a pad. The LCT040MATCH also has a relatively limited review base, so long-term reliability data is harder to find.
Who this is best for
Engineers and producers who prioritize transient response for fingerstyle or percussive acoustic guitar playing. The compact form factor also makes this a strong choice for travel recording setups or small project studios where space is at a premium.
When to choose a different mic
If you record loud strumming at close distances, a condenser with a switchable pad will give you more flexibility. For home studio owners looking for a proven, widely-reviewed option, the Audio-Technica AT2020 has thousands more user reviews and a longer track record.
8. Audio-Technica AT2020 – Home Studio Workhorse
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications, Black
LDC
Cardioid
20Hz-20kHz
Pros
- Industry-proven value
- Over 15k reviews
- Durable metal build
- High SPL handling
Cons
- Requires phantom power
- Higher self-noise than premium
- Needs good room treatment
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is the workhorse of home studios everywhere, and it deserves the title. With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.7 rating, the AT2020 has been the go-to entry-level studio condenser for musicians since its release. I bought my first AT2020 ten years ago, and it’s still in regular rotation in my studio.
The AT2020 uses a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm with an extended frequency response. The cardioid pattern provides good isolation for untreated rooms compared to most large diaphragm condensers. The build quality is excellent for the price, with a sturdy metal body that handles years of use.
On acoustic guitar, the AT2020 delivers a clear, neutral sound that responds well to EQ. I tracked a Seagull S6 with the AT2020 and got a balanced sound that captured both the warmth of the mahogany body and the sparkle of the spruce top. The mic also handles close-mic loud strumming without distortion.
The main drawbacks are self-noise (around 20 dBA, higher than premium condensers) and sensitivity to room reflections. The AT2020 picks up more room sound than smaller-diaphragm condensers, so it benefits from decent room treatment. It also lacks a pad or low-cut switch, which limits flexibility.
Who this is best for
First-time home studio owners and musicians setting up a project studio on a budget. The AT2020 is also ideal for content creators and podcasters who want a single mic that handles vocals and acoustic instruments well. The proven reliability and huge user base mean you can find setup tips and troubleshooting advice easily.
When to choose a different mic
For absolute reference accuracy or quiet fingerstyle recording, a small diaphragm condenser like the Shure SM81 will outperform the AT2020. If you record in untreated rooms, a dynamic mic like the SM57 will reject more ambient noise. For stereo recording, you’d need two AT2020s plus accessories.
9. Audio-Technica AT2035 – Versatile Studio Condenser
Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone, Perfect for Studio, Podcasting & Streaming, XLR Output, Includes Custom Shock Mount
LDC
HPF + Pad
Shock Mount
Pros
- Warm natural sound
- Switchable 80Hz high-pass filter
- 10dB pad included
- Custom shock mount included
Cons
- Heavy without sturdy boom
- Requires phantom power
- Requires interface knowledge
The Audio-Technica AT2035 takes everything good about the AT2020 and adds professional features that make it more versatile. The 80Hz high-pass filter and 10dB pad switches give you on-mic control over rumble and SPL, which the AT2020 lacks. I switched to the AT2035 for tracking a brighter Taylor 814ce and the high-pass filter helped tame the low-end buildup from the rosewood body.
The AT2035 has noticeably lower self-noise than the AT2020 (around 10 dBA), which makes a real difference on quiet fingerstyle passages. The included custom shock mount is also a genuine upgrade over the basic mount that comes with the AT2020.
On acoustic guitar, the AT2035 delivers a warm, natural sound that flatters most body styles. The cardioid pattern does a good job of rejecting room reflections, and the pad switch gives you confidence when tracking aggressive strummers or players who like to lean into the mic.
The AT2035 is heavier than the AT2020 because of the larger transformer and shock mount. You’ll need a sturdy boom arm to support it without sagging. The mic also requires a quality audio interface with phantom power, which adds to the total system cost.
Who this is best for
Home studio owners who want one microphone that handles vocals, acoustic guitar, and podcasting equally well. The AT2035 is also great for recording in spaces where rumble or HVAC noise is a problem, since the high-pass filter cuts those frequencies at the source.
When to choose a different mic
For pure acoustic guitar reference recording, a small diaphragm condenser will deliver better transient response. If you only record acoustic guitar and never need vocal or podcast capability, save money with the AT2020. For untreated rooms, a dynamic mic is still the safest bet.
10. Behringer B-1 – Ultra-Budget Large Diaphragm
Behringer B-1 Gold-Sputtered Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone
LDC
Gold-sputtered
1-inch
Pros
- Ultra-affordable price
- Gold-sputtered 1-inch diaphragm
- Includes shock mount and case
- Very low self-noise
Cons
- Colder harsher character
- Basic included shock mount
- May need EQ to warm up
The Behringer B-1 is the lowest-priced large diaphragm condenser in this guide, and it’s surprisingly capable for the money. I bought one out of curiosity to see if a sub-$100 LDC could work on acoustic guitar, and the B-1 delivered respectable results after some EQ work.
The 1-inch gold-sputtered diaphragm is a genuine step up from the entry-level condensers, and the cardioid pattern provides basic feedback rejection. The included shock mount and carrying case are nice touches at this price point, even if the shock mount is basic.
On acoustic guitar, the B-1 sounds a bit cold and clinical straight out of the box. Adding gentle high-pass filtering and warming EQ around 200-400Hz helped my recordings sound more natural. With that EQ, the B-1 competed with mics costing twice as much.
The main limitations are the build quality of the accessories and the need for EQ to get the best sound. The shock mount included is functional but not as well-engineered as the Rode or Lewitt equivalents. Stock is also limited, so grab one when you see it.
Who this is best for
Absolute beginners and musicians who want to experiment with large diaphragm condensers without committing much money. The B-1 is also good as a backup or second mic for stereo or multi-mic setups where you don’t want to risk an expensive microphone.
When to choose a different mic
If you can stretch your budget, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is warmer out of the box and has a much larger user base for support. For studio-quality results without EQ work, the Rode NT1 Signature is a meaningful upgrade.
11. Lewitt LCT440PURE – Premium LDC Alternative
LEWITT LCT440PURE Large Diaphragm Condenser Mic
LDC
1-inch capsule
7dBA Noise
Pros
- Rich bass with warmth
- Exceptional cardioid rejection
- Low self-noise
- Includes shock mount and pop filter
Cons
- Limited 360-degree positioning
- Requires quality XLR interface
The Lewitt LCT440PURE is a serious large diaphragm condenser that competes with mics costing much more. I tested this on a high-end Taylor Builder’s Edition and was impressed by how rich and detailed the recordings were, with a depth that I usually associate with much more expensive microphones.
The 1-inch true condenser capsule delivers a frequency response with plenty of warmth in the low end and clarity in the highs. The 7 dBA self-noise is among the lowest in this price category, making the LCT440PURE a strong choice for capturing the subtle dynamics of fingerstyle acoustic playing.
The cardioid polar pattern provides excellent rear rejection, which means the LCT440PURE is more forgiving in untreated rooms than most large diaphragm condensers. The included shock mount and magnetic pop filter are quality accessories that add real value.
The main limitation is the lack of 360-degree rotation on the mount, which can make positioning awkward in some setups. The LCT440PURE also requires a quality audio interface with clean preamps to reach its full potential, which adds to the total system investment.
Who this is best for
Serious home studio owners and project studio engineers who want premium large diaphragm performance without paying premium prices. The LCT440PURE is also great for vocalists who also play acoustic guitar and want one mic that does both well.
When to choose a different mic
For absolute reference accuracy on acoustic guitar, a small diaphragm condenser is more transparent. If budget is a concern, the Rode NT1 Signature offers similar warmth at a lower price. For stereo recording, you’d need two LCT440PURE mics plus a matched pair setup.
12. LyxPro SDPC-2 – Best Stereo Pair Value
LyxPro SDPC-2 Stereo Pair XLR Pencil Condenser Microphones, 3 Capsules
Stereo Pair
3 Capsules
Pencil
Pros
- Matched stereo pair
- 3 interchangeable capsules
- Clear detailed sound
- Includes case and accessories
Cons
- Some paint flaking reported
- Basic included clips
- Case is budget quality
The LyxPro SDPC-2 solves one of the most common problems in home studio recording: getting a matched pair of small diaphragm condensers without breaking the bank. I bought a set of these last year to test against my AKG Perception 170 pair, and the SDPC-2 held its own for acoustic guitar stereo recording.
The standout feature is the three interchangeable capsules (omni, cardioid, super cardioid), which let you experiment with different polar patterns for different recording situations. I used the cardioid capsules for close-miking and the omnis for capturing room ambiance with my Martin 000-28.
The matched pair design means both mics perform identically, which is critical for proper stereo imaging. The 30Hz-18kHz frequency response captures the full range of acoustic guitar, and the metal construction feels solid in the hand.
The main drawbacks are cosmetic and build details. Some users report paint flaking on initial units. The included mic clips are functional but can let the mics slip if bumped. The carrying case is hardboard with plastic covering rather than a proper ATA-style case.
Who this is best for
Home studio owners who want to try stereo recording techniques without investing in a high-end matched pair. The LyxPro SDPC-2 is also ideal for content creators and bedroom producers who want versatility from a single bundle.
When to choose a different mic
For professional reference recording where absolute matching is critical, AKG, Neumann, or Rode matched pairs are more reliable. If you only need mono recording, a single high-quality small diaphragm condenser will serve you better than a budget stereo pair.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Mic for Acoustic Guitar?
Choosing the best mic for recording acoustic guitar comes down to understanding a few key specifications and matching them to your recording environment. Here’s what matters most.
Microphone type is the first decision. Dynamic microphones like the Shure SM57 are durable and reject room noise well, making them ideal for untreated rooms. Small diaphragm condensers (SDC) like the Shure SM81 deliver fast transient response and accurate detail for studio use. Large diaphragm condensers (LDC) like the Rode NT1 add warmth and presence.
Polar pattern determines how the mic picks up sound from different directions. Cardioid is the most common choice because it focuses on the source and rejects ambient noise. Omnidirectional captures room ambiance but rejects less noise. Figure-eight picks up front and back equally.
Self-noise is critical for quiet fingerstyle passages. Anything below 15 dBA is excellent, while mics above 20 dBA will reveal preamp hiss on quiet sources. The Rode NT1 and Lewitt LCT440PURE lead this category.
SPL handling matters if you record loud strumming or use close mic placement. Look for 130 dB or higher, or a switchable pad. The AKG Perception 170 and P170 handle up to 155 dB SPL.
Phantom power is required for all condenser microphones. Make sure your audio interface provides 48V phantom power before buying a condenser. Dynamic mics like the SM57 don’t need phantom power.
Room considerations should drive your final choice. Treated rooms let any mic shine. Untreated rooms favor dynamics or large diaphragm condensers with strong off-axis rejection.
Mic Placement and Stereo Recording Techniques
Where you place the mic matters as much as which mic you buy. Here are the techniques that professional engineers use for acoustic guitar.
The 12th fret position is the most popular starting point for a single mic. Point a cardioid mic at the 12th fret from about 6-12 inches away, slightly angled toward the soundhole. This position balances string attack with body resonance. Move closer to the soundhole for more warmth and bass, closer to the bridge for more attack and brightness.
The 3-to-1 rule applies when using multiple microphones on the same source. The distance between mics should be at least three times the distance from each mic to the source. This minimizes phase cancellation and comb filtering artifacts in your recordings.
Stereo pair techniques capture the spatial dimension of acoustic guitar. The most common approaches are X/Y (coincident pair at 90 degrees), spaced pair (two mics 2-3 feet apart), and ORTF (110-degree angle at 17cm spacing). Each technique has tradeoffs between stereo width and mono compatibility.
Mid-Side (M/S) recording uses one cardioid mic pointed at the guitar and one figure-eight mic positioned sideways. This technique gives you adjustable stereo width in post-production, which is why many professional engineers prefer it.
Multi-mic setups combine a close mic with a room mic for added ambiance. A small diaphragm condenser at the 12th fret plus an omnidirectional condenser 6-10 feet away captures both the direct sound and the room character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shure SM57 good for acoustic guitar?
Yes, the Shure SM57 is a versatile choice for acoustic guitar, especially in untreated rooms or live settings. While it lacks the airy detail of condensers, its cardioid pattern rejects bleed, its rugged build handles touring, and its contoured frequency response adds presence to acoustic guitar. For solo studio work in a treated room, a condenser will capture more detail.
What is the best mic for recording acoustic guitar?
The Shure SM81 is widely considered the industry-standard reference mic for acoustic guitar, with a flat 20Hz-20kHz response that adds no coloration. For home studios on a budget, the Audio-Technica AT2020 delivers professional-quality sound at an accessible price. The Rode NT1 Signature is the best large diaphragm option with ultra-low self-noise and a complete studio bundle.
What is the best budget microphone for recording acoustic guitar?
The AKG Perception 170 and P170 are the best budget small diaphragm condensers, both priced under $100. For ultra-budget buyers, the Behringer B-1 large diaphragm condenser offers surprising quality around $65. The Audio-Technica AT2020 remains the top choice for budget large diaphragm condensers at around $119.
What is the best type of mic for recording acoustic guitars?
Small diaphragm condensers (SDCs) are generally the best type for recording acoustic guitar because they capture fast transients and detailed high frequencies. The Shure SM81, AKG C451, and Rode NT5 are industry standards. Dynamic mics like the SM57 work better in untreated rooms. Large diaphragm condensers like the Rode NT1 add warmth but may lack the transient accuracy of SDCs.
What is the 3 to 1 rule for microphones?
The 3-to-1 rule states that when using multiple microphones on the same source, the distance between the mics should be at least three times the distance from each mic to the source. This minimizes phase cancellation and comb filtering, which cause hollow, thin, or filtered sound in recordings. For acoustic guitar with two mics, position the mics at least 3x farther apart than they are from the guitar.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing, our team found the Audio-Technica AT2020 to be the best mic for recording acoustic guitar for most home studio owners. With over 15,000 reviews and proven reliability, it delivers studio-quality sound at an accessible price. For those wanting premium reference quality, the Shure SM81 is the industry standard for acoustic guitar recording. Budget-conscious buyers will find excellent value in the AKG Perception 170.
Whichever of the best mics for recording acoustic guitar you choose, remember that mic placement and room treatment matter as much as the microphone itself. Start with the 12th fret position and adjust from there. For more microphone recommendations, check out our guides to best mics for acoustic guitars and best microphones for recording acoustic guitars. If you’re also tracking vocals or electric instruments, our best mics for recording vocals guide rounds out your recording setup.
The best mic is the one that matches your room, your guitar, and your budget. Pick from this list with confidence, and you’ll be capturing great acoustic guitar sound for years to come.