The best saxophone microphone is determined a number of factors. The most important consideration is whether the mic will be used primarily for live or studio applications. Certain microphones are more practical and durable for stage use, but they do not perform well in the studio. Price and quality are, of course, important factors to consider. Choosing a saxophone microphone is a highly subjective and individual decision based in large part on what sounds best to the musician’s ears.
Engineers in a recording studio must be more concerned with removing room ambience and “bleed” from other instruments picking up on the saxophone microphone. As a result, cardioid microphones are preferred over omnidirectional and figure-of-eight microphones. Because the saxophone’s range and tonal characteristics are so similar to the human voice, most studio engineers agree that any good vocal microphone will work well for recording sax. Most of the time, deciding which mic sounds the best is a matter of personal preference.
Condenser microphones are more expensive than dynamic microphones, but they provide a more accurate sound reproduction and more flexibility. Most studio condensers can switch from cardioid to omnidirectional or combine patterns. If you’re working in a home studio and can’t afford a high-quality condenser mic, you can still get a perfectly acceptable sound from a dynamic microphone.
Gigging saxophonists almost always prefer dynamic microphones for live sound reinforcement. This is due to the fact that dynamic microphones are more resistant to feedback, do not require phantom power, and are more durable than condenser microphones. Onstage, a sax mic is likely to take a lot of knocks, so a tough mic might be a good idea.
The use of clip-on microphones is controversial. While some consider them practical because they allow more freedom of movement, many saxophonists are disappointed with the sound quality of a clip-on saxophone microphone. Because saxophones produce sound from the keyholes, not just the bell, an external mic placed about a foot away from the horn captures the true sound of the entire instrument. Another reason why some musicians and engineers dislike using clip-ons or putting a mic inside the bell is that a saxophonist, like a vocalist, needs to be able to step back and work the microphone during loud passages and move in closer when playing at a lower volume.