The Best Microphones for Acoustic Guitar

The best microphone for acoustic guitar captures the instrument’s natural balance — crisp string detail and warm body resonance — without harshness or boom. For most home recordists, a small-diaphragm condenser is the go-to, but large-diaphragm condensers and stereo pairs each have a place depending on the sound you want.

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Quick answer: A small-diaphragm condenser like the Rode NT5, sE Electronics sE8 or Neumann KM 184 is the classic choice. For a fuller sound, a large-diaphragm Rode NT1 or AKG C214 works well; a matched stereo pair gives the most spacious result.

What to look for in a microphone for acoustic guitar

Acoustic guitar is detailed and transient-rich, so accuracy and transient response matter.

• Condenser is standard: Condensers capture the fast pick attack and shimmer that define a good acoustic sound. See condenser vs dynamic microphones.
• Diaphragm size: Small-diaphragm condensers excel at accurate transients and detail; large-diaphragm models add warmth and body. Our diaphragm size guide compares them.
• Polar pattern: Cardioid is most common; if your room is good, omni can sound very natural. See polar patterns explained.
• Phantom power: Condensers need 48V — see what phantom power is.

Best small-diaphragm condensers (the classic choice)

These “pencil” mics are the studio default for acoustic guitar because of their accuracy and detail.

• Rode NT5 / NT55: Affordable, available as a matched pair, and a reliable workhorse for acoustic.
• sE Electronics sE8: Clean, detailed and even-handed; excellent value for serious home recordists.
• Neumann KM 184: A studio reference for acoustic guitar — refined, natural and detailed if your budget allows.

Large-diaphragm and ribbon options

• Large-diaphragm condensers like the Rode NT1 or AKG C214 add warmth and a fuller low-mid body — useful for solo fingerstyle or a more intimate tone.
• Ribbon mics such as the Royer R-121 tame brightness and sound smooth on overly zingy guitars, though they need plenty of clean gain.

Mic placement is half the sound

Where you point the mic matters as much as which mic you use.

• Start at the 12th–14th fret, about 15–30 cm away, angled slightly toward the body. This gives a balanced tone.
• Avoid pointing straight at the soundhole — it’s boomy and bass-heavy.
• For stereo, use a matched pair in X/Y at the 12th fret, or one mic at the neck and one at the bridge/body for a wide image.
• Treat the room so reflections don’t muddy the recording — see acoustic treatment for home studios.

For a full walkthrough, read our guide to how to record acoustic guitar, and browse the microphones hub for more options.

Frequently asked questions

Small-diaphragm or large-diaphragm condenser for acoustic guitar?

Small-diaphragm condensers are the classic choice for accuracy and detailed transients. Large-diaphragm condensers add warmth and body, which can suit solo or intimate playing. Many engineers keep both and choose by song.

Can I record acoustic guitar with a dynamic mic?

You can, but dynamics generally miss the high-frequency detail and air that make acoustic guitar sparkle. A condenser is strongly recommended for natural results.

Where should I place the microphone on an acoustic guitar?

Aim around the 12th to 14th fret, roughly 15–30 cm away, rather than at the soundhole, which is too boomy. Adjust distance and angle to taste while listening on headphones.