What Is A Supercardoid Microphone? (10 Most Popular 2021)
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Supercardioid microphone is a variation of a cardioid mic that picks up sound from certain angles.
Every microphone is tuned to sound coming from a specific direction.
While some pick up sounds that come from all directions (omnidirectional microphones), others can pick up sound only from one single direction (unidirectional) or from more than one direction.
For instance, the bidirectional microphone will pick up sound from two opposite directions.
There are many different types of microphones commonly used and the biggest difference between them rests on the technology they use and their directionality.
However, microphones other characteristics that you need to consider.
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Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What is a Supercardioid Microphone?
When it comes to cardioid microphones, they pick up sound in the shape of a heart; they pick up sound coming from the front and, also, although to a lesser extent, the sound coming from the sides.
Generally, cardioid microphones are versatile and there are several types of these microphones.
Most handheld mics are cardioid.
Therefore, before purchasing a microphone, it is extremely important to know your needs and in which circumstances you will be using it.
With microphones, the one-size-fits-all is not an option.
A supercardioid microphone also has a heart-shaped directionality.
It is sensitive to on-axis sounds (the direction that the microphone faces) with null points at 127° and 233° and a rear portion of sensitivity.
In other words, the angles of sound rejection are at 127° and 233° from the on-axis region, and so the microphone discards or severely reduces the sound inputs coming from these directions.
In contrast, regular cardioid microphones are more sensitive to sound coming from the front, although their sound reception extends to the sides, up to -90 to +90 degrees off-axis.
In this article, we have prepared a list of the 10 best supercardioid microphones.
Let’s check it out!
1. Rode NTG4
- Broadcast sound quality; Low noise circuitry
- Rugged metal construction
- Convenient digital switching
- High Frequency Boost
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rode NTG4 is one of the latest shotgun super-cardioid microphones that come with numerous features.
Whenever you purchase this microphone you can find some of the best accessories for microphones, such as foam windshields, microphone clips, and leatherette pouches.
This model comes with a USB charging cable.
It produces a well-balanced sound and rejects all noise interruptions from the surroundings, especially wind.
The sound quality always depends on the proximity of the microphone directed towards the user’s mouth.
This model has a 135dB maximum sound pressure.
Rode NTG4 has a very narrow pickup and perfect rejection ability, which makes it good for outside or outdoor use.
This microphone has a lithium rechargeable battery.
The microphone remains fully functional for over six days with only a one-time battery charge.
It can also last for a month without charge if only you use it for five hours a day.
A USB cable and an XLR cable connector are included in the package.
Pros & Benefits:
- Internal rechargeable battery
- Flexible
- Affordable
- Produces natural, high-quality sound
- Decent noise rejection
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2. Rode NTG3B
- Designed to withstand adverse environmental conditions
- 50% less self-noise than the majority of shotgun microphones
- True condenser (externally RF biased)
- Extremely low handling noise; High level of immunity to radio frequency broadcast
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Rode NTG3B comes with a carrying case, a standard microphone adaptor, a foam windshield, and an aluminum carrying case that acts as a weather protector.
It also comes with a very tight Rode RM5 microphone clip.
This microphone is solidly built and there are no switches or buttons on the microphone which makes it a simple microphone, easy to use.
The sound quality is good and well balanced and can reject radio interference noises from the surrounding electronic devices such as cell phones.
It has an 81dB maximum sound pressure level.
Its frequency responses are flat and, with added brightness, the sound produced will be enriched.
Another exciting feature of this microphone is that it can handle more extensive sound effects.
This condenser microphone requires a 48-volt phantom power.
You’ll have to purchase an XLR cable or mount.
Pros & Benefits:
- Professional sound quality
- Clean highs
- Perfect sensitivity, low noise
- A rugged waterproof case
- Excellent for humid areas
- Affordable
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3. Audio Technica AT875R
- Designed for video production and broadcast (ENG/EFP) audio acquisition
- Excellent sound rejection from the sides and rear of mic
- Extremely short length (under 7") ideal for use with compact digital cameras
- Operates on phantom power only
- Provides the narrow acceptance angle desirable for long-distance sound pickup
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Audio Technica AT875R is a shotgun supercardioid microphone small in diameter.
It has one of the best directional characteristics that enable it to reject sounds from a distance.
This is a short and durable microphone that can withstand harsh use.
It uses an XLR output and requires phantom power, which relieves the user the stress of having to use cables or cables or worrying about uncharged batteries.
The package includes a standard foam windscreen, stand clamp, and a mounting adaptor for threaded stands.
You’ll also have to buy a wire for the XLR microphone.
Audio Technica AT875R has an outstanding dynamic range and produces very rich sounds with high clarity.
It has a fixed 12dB/octave roll-off.
With this type of frequency, it has the ability to eliminate low-frequency noises, common for directional microphones.
Overall, this is a budget-friendly microphone, great for outdoor videographers, lecturers, and conference meetings.
Pros & Benefits:
- Value for the money
- Great sound quality
- Compact
- Sturdy
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4. Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3
- Increased directivity due to interference tube principle
- Rugged, suitable for adverse climatic conditions
- Equivalent noise level weighted as per CCIR 468 3: 24 decibel
- Current consumption: 2 megaAmphere
Last update on 2021-05-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Midrange flat, the sound quality of Sennheiser MKH416-P48U3 is top-notch; it’s neither too bright nor too dull.
The hyper-cardioid polar pattern enables it to produce tight recordings that disseminate all unnecessary background noises.
Its frequency pattern has been tailored with precision.
Therefore, the sound produced is very clean, without blemishes but so long as you don’t go too much off-axis.
It also offers rich low ends.
Its rejection capability good, as it eliminates surrounding unnecessary noises.
It is a good choice for indoor or outdoor use, such as most documentaries, tv shows, and filmmaking.
This is a phantom-powered microphone that doesn’t require batteries.
Overall, the MKH 416’s short interference tube, high immunity to humidity due to its RF condenser design, high directivity, low self-noise, high consonant articulation, and feedback rejection, make it a real pearl.
What’s more, MKH 416 can handle difficult conditions without any difficulty.
Pros & Benefits:
- Great for voiceovers and videos
- Clean high-quality sound
- Fairly priced
- Very durable
- An industry-standard microphone
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5. Shure Beta 87A
- Smooth frequency response with gradual presence rise
- Highly consistent super cardioid polar pattern provides superior gain before feedback
- Electronic low-frequency roll off compensates for proximity effect
- Wide dynamic range (117 dB) and low distortion characteristics
- Built in pop filter reduces undesirable wind and breath sounds
Last update on 2021-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Shure Beta 87A is a supercardioid microphone that produces high-quality sound with details and clarity.
Its dynamic range is very wide; it can handle weak and powerful or extensive sounds without any distortion.
It’s a highly versatile unique microphone that doesn’t require any sophisticated setup, unlike other studio microphones.
The microphone’s capsule can provide low noise preamplified sounds and electrical stuff.
Its internal shock protection reduces background noises, while meshes act as a windscreen and an effective pop filter.
It can record sounds from a high-pressure environment.
To get a very brittle sound, if your voice is thin, you’ll have to lower the microphone.
The frequency response is about 10kHertz.
Pros & Benefits:
- Natural, clear, and detailed sounds
- A balanced frequency response
- Perfect noise-reduction system
- Durable
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6. Sennheiser E945
- Metal construction: Rugged and reliable
- Shock-mounted capsule: Low sensitivity to impact and handling noise
- Supercardioid pickup pattern: Insulation from other on-stage signals
- Neodymium ferrous magnet with boron: Keeps microphone stable regardless of climate
- 10 year warranty
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sennheiser E945 is one of the best super-cardioid microphones that works well with vocals.
It delivers perfect stability regardless of the weather or environment.
This supercardioid microphone features finely calibrated, defined, and dynamic natural sound.
Likewise, it offers insulation from other on-stage signals.
Excellent sound quality, superior feedback rejection, and reliability are also features of this microphone.
For that reason, the manufacturer offers a 10-year warranty on the product.
Overall, according to users, the microphone produces a clean and clear sound, while breathing noises are most often completely eliminated.
Thus, post-processing becomes reduced to removing mistakes.
For that reason, supercardioid Sennheiser microphones should be every podcaster’s first choice!
Yet, this microphone is also perfect for onstage performances.
Pros & Benefits:
- Clear and professional sound
- Perfect noise reduction
- Affordable price for its quality
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7. Electro-Voice 767A
- Designed specifically for lead vocalists
- Ideal for both live performance and in the recording studio
- Large diaphragm N/DYM transducer for condenser-like sensitivity and frequency response
- Superior multistage shock mount for unmatched low handling noise
- Includes gig bag and stand mount adapter
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Electro-Voice is singers’ first choice.
It offers amazing vocal clarity on the stage.
Besides, the supercardioid pickup pattern limits interference from other onstage sound sources.
Thus, a performer can take it off the stand without the audience hearing it or noticing a difference.
For that reason, this microphone is just the right choice for every singer.
Designed for lead vocalists, it works equally well on stage and in the recording studio.
The large-diaphragm dynamic capsule produces a rich and detailed frequency response while minimizing handling noise.
Pros & Benefits:
- High-quality sound
- Good price for value
- Excellent on stage and in studio
- Great gain before feedback
- Amazing vocal clarity
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8. Sennheiser MKH50 P48
- Pressure gradient microphone with super-cardioid pick-up pattern
- High rejection of lateral sounds
- Constant directivity over the whole frequency range
- Exceptionally low inherent self-noise
- High sensitivity
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sennheiser MKH 50 P48 is a supercardioid professional condenser microphone designed for spot capturing in recording and sound reinforcement.
It is specifically designed for soloists or applications that need a high degree of side-borne sound muting and feedback rejection.
Actually, it’s great for capturing vocals and instruments.
It has frequency-independent directional characteristics.
Its wide frequency response and high sensitivity produce pristine audio sharpness, regardless of the source.
Additionally, Sennheiser MKH 50 P48 has a low-frequency roll-off switch to minimize noise and a pre-attenuation switch that prevents distortion if you decide to place the microphone near high transient signals.
This model requires +48V phantom power,
It has the very least amount of off-axis coloration and the sounds produced are more natural and less distorted.
Not only it maintains the clarity of high sounds but also keeps the high-quality audio output of lows.
Pros & Benefits:
- Amazing sound quality and tonal accuracy
- Frequency-independent directional characteristics
- Rich low end and linear response
- Low-frequency roll-off switch
- RF-biased works in high humidity
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9. AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Microphone
- CUTS THROUGH AN AUDIO MIX - The AKG D5 Dynamic Microphone uses AKG's patented laminated Varimotion diaphragm to...
- BLOCKS OFF AMBIENT NOISE - D5 utilizes a super-cardioid polar pattern to pick up sounds in front and at the rear of...
- ENSURES NOISE-FREE PICKUP - The microphone's dual shockmount removes any kind of mechanical noise and delivers...
- WORKS WELL WITH VOCALS AND INSTRUMENTS - D5 handles up to 147-156dB SPL. It perfectly captures your live...
- INCLUDES - AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Microphone. SA61 Stand Adapter. Mic Bag. Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cable...
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
AKG D5 Supercardioid Dynamic Microphone is a budget-friendly microphone.
Nonetheless, it has all the features present in much more expensive models and works just as well.
With an integrated pop filter that reduces noise, pops, and wind, it is great for lead and backing vocals, as well as musical instruments such as guitars, horns, and string instruments.
It produces clear and crisp sounds as its supercadioid polar pattern and dual shock mount suppress high feedback and handling noise.
AKG D5 uses a supercardioid polar pattern to pick up sounds in front and at the rear of the microphone while offering great feedback resistance and better background sound rejection than a cardioid mic.
The package comes with an XLR connector, SA61 stand adapter, and a microphone bag.
However, the bundle also includes a Blucoil 10-FT balanced XLR cable that connects the microphone to an audio interface, mixer, or preamp.
The Bluecoil is protected with a high-density PVC jacket, which preserves the audio signal, while the OFC wire guarantees the best possible conductivity.
Additionally, a Blucoil pop filter windscreen blocks the air from the user’s mouth and scatters the remaining air pressure.
Its unique design reduces the energy of plosives/hard consonants such as p and b.
Consequently, by the time the recorder has captured a performer’s vocals, the audio output remains without hisses or popping sounds.
Overall, AKG D5 is a really good and budget-friendly microphone suitable for on-stage performances and in-studio recordings.
Pros & Benefits:
- Budget-friendly
- Balanced frequency response
- Decent overall sound
- Excellent gain before feedback
- Easily cuts through the mix
- Durable
- Comes with accessories
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10. Shure Beta 58A
- Frequency response tailored for vocals, with brightened midrange and bass roll off to control proximity effect
- Uniform supercardioid pattern for high gain before feedback and superior rejection of off–axis sound
- Neodymium magnet for high signal–to–noise output
- Hardened steel mesh grille that resists wear and abuse
- Advanced pneumatic shock mount system that minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration
Last update on 2021-06-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This Shure Beta 58A supercardioid microphone has a frequency response tailored for vocals.
It has brightened midrange and bass roll-off to control proximity, a uniform pattern for high gain before feedback, and superior rejection of off-axis sound.
Its hardened steel mesh grille, great for on-stage performances, resists wear and abuse, while the superior shock mount system reduces the transmission of mechanical noise and vibration.
This microphone is designed for professional sound production and studio recording, which makes it a great choice for vocalists and professionals.
Also, the package contains an A25D adjustable stand adapter that features slip-in microphone mounting.
The stand is unbreakable and adjustable through 180 degrees with standard 5/8″-27 thread.
a 95A2050 5/8” to 3/8” thread adapter, and a 26A21 storage bag.
In other words, this is a really good, sturdy, and high-quality supercardioid microphone.
Pros & Benefits:
- Excellent gain before feedback
- Good versatility
- Clear vocals
- Great performance
- Quality build, reliable
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Final Thoughts
In this article, we have explained the directionality of microphones.
Also, we have mentioned the difference between cardioid and supercardioid microphones.
However, to reiterate, a supercardioid microphone has a directional pick up pattern, while the angles of sound rejection are at 127° and 233° from the on-axis region.
Contrarily, regular cardioid microphones pick up sound from the sides, up to -90 to +90 degrees off-axis.
Therefore, the typical pickup angle on a supercardioid mic is around 115 degrees.
Generally, most handheld microphones are cardioid microphones, and they have a versatile use.
In this article, we have also reviewed the 10 best supercardioid microphones.
Check them out and let us know what you think in the comment section below.
