Often taken for granted, the microphone is an accessory that every aspiring musician should always intend to have on hand. For singers, they’re indispensable and, some would argue, necessary. Unless you only perform in the smallest and most intimate of clubs, it’s easy for your voice to get lost along the way and fail to reach the entire audience. With a well-chosen microphone plugged into the sound system, you won’t have to worry about stressing your voice or missing the audience, as the microphone will catch it all and make sure everyone hears what you have to say. More than just live performances, however, microphones are also indispensable when recording music, making sure every note, every word and every instrument is picked up and recorded to be enjoyed by old fans and new listeners alike. Beyond the traditional mounted variety, there are microphones designed to fit your every need, from instrument-specific units to wireless mikes that will truly let you explore the stage and engage your audience. With top manufacturers like Sony, Sennheiser and Philips constantly on the cutting edge of microphone innovation, it won’t take much to make sure your voice is heard.