Large diaphragm condensers are the go-to mics for recording vocals. They provide sensitivity and clarity that gives a larger-than-life quality to a good vocal performance. Their detailed sound also makes them useful on just about any instrument, and if you use only one mic in your studio project, a large diaphragm design is the way to go. Popular models for home studio use include the Rode NT-1A, Shure KSM-32 and the Audio Technica 3000 and 4000 series.
Small diaphragm condenser mics have similar clarity to their large diaphragm brothers, but with low off-axis coloration. This means that tones at the side of the mic don't vary much from those in front. Most other mics display a shift. Small diaphragm, or small cap, mics are excellent on acoustic instruments, as drum overheads, or even for old-school, one-mic-in-the-middle techniques. While they can be used for vocals, they are very susceptible to popping noises from breath and plosive syllables. Common models are the Samson C02, Shure KSM 141 and the AKG C1000S.
Also called moving coil mics, dynamic microphones are rugged and the first choice for stage use. Dynamics are useful for guitar amps and drums. Though regularly used onstage for vocals, dynamic mics are not the best choice in the studio. Specialty bass drum mics like the Shure Beta 52A and the AKG D112 can be used on bass amps as well. If there is one microphone that can and has done just about everything, Shure's venerable SM-57 would be it. Other respected dynamic mics include the Electrovoice RE20, Sennheiser MD421 and the Shure SM58.
For some studio owners, microphone collecting can become a hobby within a hobby. You can collect cross-bred and specialty microphones like phantom-powered dynamic mics, medium diaphragm condensers and ribbon microphones, a special style of dynamic mic. Companies like Blue specialize in making "oddball" mics that look unique and have specialized uses. Mics that perform well and serve as conversation pieces include Blue's Baby Bottle, Shure Super 55 Deluxe and the Crown PZM-30D.