Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic M 88
Best versatile dynamic microphone for professional studio and stage vocalists.
The Beyerdynamic M 88 is a professional dynamic microphone, meticulously handcrafted in Germany, designed for exceptional performance on vocals, instruments, and drums. Its hypercardioid polar pattern ensures superior noise rejection and high gain before feedback, focusing sound capture precisely. Featuring a wide frequency response with detailed bass and a high-output dynamic element, it delivers crystal-clear audio even at high sound pressure levels. Built with a robust brass housing for durability in demanding studio and stage environments, it includes a protective hard-shell carry case for transport.
$444.00
More M Series Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
11
/ 3337
#11 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-13%
Below average
Type
Dynamic (moving coil)
/ Dynamic (moving coil)
Who it's for
- Engineers needing clean isolation in dense live mixes
- Producers capturing punchy kick drums and bass cabinets
- Touring professionals requiring rugged gear for high-volume stages
Who should skip it
- Vocalists who prefer handheld performance without shock mounts
- Beginners struggling to manage low-end frequency buildup
- Budget-conscious home recordists seeking entry-level pricing
Performance breakdown
SPL Handling
Handles extreme sound pressure levels without distortion or capsule clipping.
Off-axis Rejection
Hypercardioid pattern isolates sound sources with surgical precision on loud stages.
Build Integrity
Rugged brass housing survives years of heavy touring and studio abuse.
Frequency Range
Captures deep, resonant lows and crisp highs with impressive dynamic range.
Noise Suppression
Integrated humbucking coil effectively eliminates electromagnetic interference in noisy environments.
Versatility
Equally capable of capturing delicate vocals or aggressive kick drum transients.
Key Specs
Type
Dynamic (moving coil)
Frequency Response
30 Hz-20 kHz
Polar Pattern
Hypercardioid
Nominal Impedance
200 ohms
Sensitivity
-51 dBV/Pa
Dimensions
1.91" Head Diameter, 1.0" Shaft Diameter, 6.81" Length
Weight
11.68 oz.
Connectivity
3-pin male XLR
Features
- High-output dynamic performance
- Hypercardioid pattern for noise rejection
- Wide frequency response with detailed bass
- Neodymium magnet for high sensitivity
- Humbucking coil eliminates background noise
- Durable brass housing
- Handmade in Germany since 1963
- Includes protective carry case
What customers say
The Beyerdynamic M 88 is celebrated for its exceptional sonic versatility and detailed performance, often rivaling condenser clarity while maintaining dynamic ruggedness. Users consistently praise its ability to capture accurate attack and deep resonance on kick drums, making it a studio standard. It also excels on bass cabinets and brass instruments, delivering a full midrange and smooth top end. Reviewers frequently note its tank-like build quality, confirming its reputation for long-term reliability. While it may require a quality pop filter for vocals and ample preamp gain, these minor considerations are easily outweighed by its superior, professional-grade results across diverse sound sources.
Know before you buy
The M 88 is a classic choice for kick drums because it handles high sound pressure levels without distorting and features a wide frequency response that captures both the low-end thump and the high-end 'click' of the beater.
The hypercardioid pattern is very directional, meaning it is excellent at rejecting sound from the sides. You will need to position it precisely toward your sound source, but it provides superior isolation in noisy environments or on crowded stages.
No, the M 88 is a dynamic microphone and does not require phantom power. You can plug it directly into any standard XLR input on your audio interface or mixer.
The humbucking coil is designed to cancel out electromagnetic interference, such as hum from nearby power cables or electronic equipment. This ensures your recordings remain clean and free of unwanted background noise.
Yes, it is a versatile performer for vocals. Its detailed frequency response and high sensitivity make it a great alternative to condenser microphones if you are recording in a room that isn't perfectly sound-treated, as its tight polar pattern helps focus on the voice.
The M 88 features a robust brass housing designed to withstand the rigors of professional stage use. It also comes with a protective hard-shell carry case to keep the microphone secure during transport.
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