What Microphone Does Taylor Swift Use?

Studio Gear

Feb 26

*Vocal Arsenal: Taylor Swift's Mic Journey*

In the realm of music, few names shine as brightly as Taylor Swift's. With a career spanning over a decade, Swift has captivated audiences worldwide with her heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and unmistakable voice. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of her success, one question often arises among fans and aspiring musicians alike: What microphone does Taylor Swift use?

Delving into the annals of Swift's career unveils a fascinating journey marked by evolution, experimentation, and the quest for sonic perfection. From humble beginnings to stadium-filling performances, Swift's choice of microphone has played an integral role in shaping her iconic sound and delivering her emotive performances with clarity and depth.

Join us as we embark on a sonic exploration, tracing the footsteps of Taylor Swift's vocal journey and uncovering the microphone choices that have accompanied her every step of the way. From the intimate confines of her early recordings to the grand stages of her global tours, each microphone tells a story of innovation, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence in sound.

Join us on this sonic odyssey as we unravel the mysteries behind Taylor Swift's microphone selection and discover the magic behind the voice that has captured the hearts of millions around the world.

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Summary:

Below we summarize what microphones Taylor Swift has used throughout her career.

Microphones Used By Taylor Swift:

Early Career: Avantone CV-12 - Used to record Fearless (2008), Speak Now (2010), and Red (2012).
1989: Neumann M49 - Used to record 1989 (2014).
Present Day: Telefunken U47 - A staple in Taylor’s studio since switching record labels in 2019.

Avantone CV-12 (Early Career)

Avantone's CV-12 microphone stands as a testament to the notion that exceptional sound quality doesn't have to come with an exorbitant price tag.

With its roots tracing back to the iconic European tube mics of yesteryears, the CV-12 combines vintage charm with modern craftsmanship to deliver outstanding performance across various recording applications.

Used On

Taylor Swift’s producer Nathan Chapman used an Avantone CV-12 to record several of Taylor’s first studio albums including Fearless (2008), Speak Now (2010), and Red (2012). Source

Design and Build Quality

At first glance, the CV-12 exudes elegance with its precision-milled brass hull, woven metal grill, and accents of polished nickel.

The meticulous attention to detail in its construction not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and reliability, making it a worthy investment for both seasoned professionals and aspiring musicians alike.

Performance

Equipped with a large diaphragm tube-based condenser, the CV-12 harnesses the warmth, clarity, and richly organic sound reproduction capabilities reminiscent of its legendary predecessors.

With nine polar patterns to choose from, including omni, cardioid, and figure-8, as well as versatile features like a -10dB pad and high-pass filter, this microphone proves to be a versatile tool suitable for vocals, strings, piano, drum overheads, and more.

Real-World Applications

In the realm of vocal recording, the CV-12 shines brightly, effortlessly capturing the nuances and dynamics of any performance.

Whether it's the soft, angelic tones of a delicate ballad or the powerful, soaring vocals of an anthemic chorus, this microphone delivers with pristine clarity and balanced warmth.

Its ability to handle a wide range of vocal styles makes it a go-to choice for artists seeking to emulate the signature sound of Taylor Swift during her early career albums.

Instrument Recording

Beyond vocals, the CV-12 proves its versatility in instrument recording, particularly with electric guitars. From gritty crunch to creamy leads, this microphone faithfully translates the essence of the amp's tone with remarkable detail and dynamic response.

Additionally, its performance on percussion instruments, such as shakers, demonstrates its ability to capture the crispness and dynamics essential for a well-rounded mix.

User-Friendly Features

The CV-12's thoughtful design extends to its user-friendly features, including a sturdy aluminum briefcase for convenient transport and storage, a shock mount for secure positioning, and a dedicated power supply with multiple tube options for customizable tonal characteristics.

Setting up the microphone is a breeze, allowing artists to focus on their craft without technical distractions.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Avantone CV-12 microphone embodies the perfect marriage of vintage aesthetics and modern performance.

Whether you're a professional producer seeking a reliable workhorse for the studio or a budding musician looking to capture studio-quality recordings at home, the CV-12 delivers on all fronts.

With its exceptional construction, versatile features, and affordable price point, this microphone stands as a testament to Avantone's commitment to democratizing quality audio equipment without compromise.

Document
       Pros

       Affordable
Sturdy construction for durability and reliability
Versatile polar patterns and features cater to wide range of recording applications
Captures vocals with pristine clarity and balanced warmth
5 year warranty

       Cons

       Requires 15-30min to "warm-up", typical of tube mics

Check Price

Neumann M49

The Neumann M49 microphone stands as a beacon of timeless elegance, encapsulating the essence of classic studio recording while embracing modern advancements in precision engineering.

Originally introduced in 1949, the M49 quickly became renowned for its revolutionary continuously variable polar pattern, setting a new standard in microphone design and craftsmanship.

Fast forward to the present day, and Neumann's meticulous reissue of the M49 pays homage to its illustrious heritage while delivering unparalleled performance fit for the demands of contemporary recording.

Used On

With her last 3 studio albums reaching #1 in the United States charts, Taylor had a much larger budget to work with for her next hit, 1989, released in 2014.

She used a Neumann M49 because “it just sounded better than everything else.” (@12:26 https://youtu.be/SVGbjszns3A)

Authenticity Reinvented

While vintage M49 microphones command astronomical prices in today's market, Neumann's reissue offers a compelling alternative with no compromise on authenticity or quality.

Crafted in Germany to original specifications using archived documentation, the M49 reissue embodies the spirit of its predecessor while incorporating modern technical improvements for enhanced reliability and longevity.

From its handcrafted construction to its faithfully replicated design, every aspect of the M49 reissue exudes the same elegance and sophistication that made the original a legendary recording tool.

Unrivaled Sound Quality

At the heart of the M49 reissue lies its exceptional sonic capabilities, faithfully reproducing male and female vocals with unparalleled clarity and warmth.

Versatile enough to capture a wide range of instruments with precision and finesse, this microphone transcends genres and recording environments with ease.

Whether it's the intimate nuances of a solo performance or the dynamic energy of a full band arrangement, the M49 reissue excels in delivering the coveted sonic qualities that have made Neumann microphones the industry standard for nearly a century.

Modern Innovation, Timeless Design

While staying true to its vintage roots, the M49 reissue incorporates modern innovations to meet the demands of today's recording professionals.

With a newly designed power supply/polar pattern control unit that automatically adapts to mains voltage worldwide, this microphone offers unparalleled convenience and versatility in any studio setting.

Moreover, Neumann's meticulous attention to detail extends to every aspect of the M49 reissue, from its robust construction to its intuitive user interface, ensuring a seamless recording experience from start to finish.

Unparalleled Performance

In practical terms, the M49 reissue delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of recording applications. Whether capturing delicate vocals, expressive instruments, or atmospheric ambience, this microphone consistently exceeds expectations with its pristine sound quality and unparalleled reliability.

With its versatile polar pattern control and precise frequency response, the M49 reissue empowers artists and engineers to unleash their creativity and achieve professional-grade recordings with ease.

The Ultimate Recording Tool

In conclusion, the Neumann M49 microphone reissue represents the pinnacle of microphone design and craftsmanship, offering a rare opportunity to experience the timeless elegance and sonic excellence of a classic recording icon.

With its meticulous attention to detail, unrivaled sound quality, and modern convenience features, the M49 reissue stands as a testament to Neumann's commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio technology while honoring its rich heritage.

The M49 reissue is the ultimate recording tool for capturing moments of musical magic with unparalleled clarity and finesse.

       Pros

       Meticulous recreation of the classic M49
Exceptional sound quality
Versatile polar pattern control and precise frequency response
Only takes ≈1min to warm-up

       Cons

       Expensive

Check Price

Telefunken U47 (Present Day)

The Telefunken U47 microphone stands as a testament to timeless craftsmanship and sonic excellence, faithfully recreating the iconic sound that has defined countless hit records for over 70 years.

From Taylor Swift's captivating vocals to the intricate details of orchestral and chamber recordings, the U47 excels in capturing every nuance with unparalleled clarity and precision.

With its classic punchy mid-range, extended low-frequency response, and versatile polar pattern selection, this microphone offers a level of sonic versatility that is unmatched in the world of professional recording.

Used On

Since switching record labels from Big Machine to Republic, her new producer Jonathan Low used a modern Telefunken U47 to capture Taylor's vocals.

This mic is featured on all of Taylor's albums from 2019 to present including Lover, Folklore, Evermore, Midnights, and The Tortured Poets Department. (Source)

*Taylor with her Telefunken U47 in her home studio.*

Authentic Recreation

The Telefunken U47 microphone is a faithful recreation of the legendary original, down to the smallest detail. From the historically accurate BV8 output transformer to the meticulously crafted M7 center-terminated capsule, every component of the U47 pays homage to its iconic predecessor.

The result is a microphone that not only looks the part but also delivers the same rich and vibrant tone that has made the original U47 a staple in top-tier recording studios around the world.

Exceptional Sound Quality

At the heart of the U47's sonic prowess lies its legendary extended low-frequency response and authoritative mid-range, which combine to deliver a sound that is both powerful and transparent.

Whether capturing Taylor Swift's emotive vocals or the thunderous roar of a grand piano, this microphone excels in reproducing every detail with stunning clarity and fidelity.

The choice between cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns further enhances its versatility, allowing artists and engineers to tailor the microphone's response to suit any recording environment.

Timeless Design, Modern Performance

While the Telefunken U47 stays true to its vintage roots, it also incorporates modern advancements to meet the demands of today's recording professionals.

The inclusion of the Telefunken Elektroakustik VF14K vacuum tube ensures optimal performance and reliability, while the point-to-point wiring in the USA stays true to the original design.

Additionally, the microphone comes complete with an American-made vintage-compatible cable and fully regulated power supply, ensuring a seamless recording experience from start to finish.

Technical Specifications

The Telefunken U47 microphone boasts impressive technical specifications, including a frequency range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz, a sensitivity of 24.5 mV/Pa, and a maximum SPL of 127 dB. With a self-noise level of just 9 dBA and a signal-to-noise ratio of 85 dBA, this microphone delivers exceptional clarity and transparency, even in the most demanding recording situations.

Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and set up in any studio environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Telefunken U47 microphone is a true masterpiece of audio engineering, combining vintage elegance with modern performance to deliver a recording experience like no other.

The U47 offers a level of sonic excellence that is second to none.

       Pros

       Faithful recreation of the legendary U47
Exceptional sound quality
Versatile polar pattern options
Compact design
Fast warm-up time of ≈1min

       Cons

       Very Expensive

Check Price

Headphones Used by Taylor Swift

Throughout the years, Taylor Swift has been seen wearing Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro and Shure 840 headphones while recording her vocals (see below photos).

Both options are professional-level studio monitors capable of reproducing a highly accurate mix.

I purchased a pair of Shure 840s back in 2011 and still love and use them regularly. The faux leather headband has some pretty serious flaking, and I replaced the earpads once (they come with an extra set).

Other than that, they sound great and are the only headphone I’ve found comfortable for extended listening sessions.

*Taylor wearing Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro headphones.*

Conclusion:

In the ever-evolving landscape of music production, the role of the microphone cannot be overstated. As we've journeyed through the vocal history of Taylor Swift, we've witnessed the transformative power of these humble devices in capturing the essence of her voice and elevating her music to new heights.

From the early days of her career, where the Avantone CV-12 microphone lent its warmth and clarity to albums like "Fearless" and "Red," to the sophistication of the Neumann M49 that adorned the sessions for "1989," and finally, to the modern Telefunken U47 that resonated with her vocals on "Lover," "Folklore," "Evermore," "Midnights," and "The Tortured Poets Department," each microphone has left an indelible mark on Swift's sonic landscape.

As we reflect on Swift's journey, we're reminded that behind every iconic voice lies a carefully chosen microphone, a silent partner in the creation of musical magic.

Thanks for reading.