Are Dynamic Microphones Good for Recording Vocals?
Yes, dynamic microphones are good for recording vocals, and they're often the better choice in an untreated home room. Engineer Bruce Swedien used a Shure SM7 on most of Michael Jackson's lead vocals, including "Billie Jean" on Thriller, according to Shure's SM7B history.
Shure's same article lists John Mayer, Billy Idol, and Metallica's James Hetfield among artists reported to use the SM7B live or in the studio. Can you record vocals with an SM57 covers the SM57's vocal history.
Why they work at home
1 to 6 in
Shure's SM7B distance. Sing close and the room stays quiet in the recording.
What they need
60+ dB
SM7B guide: use a booster if your preamp has no more than 60 dB of gain.
Both figures are from the Shure SM7B user guide, which rates it at minus 59 dBV/Pa (1.12 mV). If your interface falls short, see do I need a preamp to record vocals.
What you give up is detail at a distance. In a quiet, treated room, a condenser captures more air and works from farther back. The full comparison is in condenser vs dynamic microphone, and you'll find picks for both types in the microphones for home recording hub.
Related questions
Can you record vocals with a dynamic mic?
Yes. Sing 1 to 6 inches from the mic, as Shure recommends for the SM7B, and give it enough preamp gain.
Can you use a dynamic mic to record vocals in a bedroom?
Yes, and it's often the better choice. Up close, a cardioid dynamic picks up mostly your voice and little of the untreated room.
Do dynamic mics need a preamp booster?
Some do. Shure says to add an inline booster for the SM7B if your preamp has no more than 60 dB of gain.
More answers: Home recording FAQ