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Why it is Important to Get the Best Reflection Filter for Recording Vocals?

Best Reflection Filter for Recording VocalsReflection filters are a must if you intend to limit background noise while recording at home or in a studio.

This will make the recording clearer and of better quality.

As the name suggests, these devices work by absorbing background noises and reflections during a recording session and are usually placed behind the mic.

Initially, these filters were often flat and only succeeded in absorbing reflections coming from behind the mic.

However, with modern acoustic technology, reflection filters now spot a curved design. This makes it more effective in absorbing sound reflections coming from both sides of the mic as well as behind it.

Some designs go the extra mile to ensure that all five sides of the mic (top, bottom, sides, and back) are shielded from reflections. The result is an incredibly sharp vocal that’s free of noise.

Now you know its importance, it all comes down to choosing the best reflection filter. Some of the things to consider when doing this are; weight, size, and compatibility. All of this will be discussed in detail later.

Top pick

Aston Microphone Halo Shadow

  • Radically improved isolation
  • 360 Degree Filtering
  • Much Bigger Surface Area (approx. 40% bigger)
  • More Linear Absorption
  • Incredibly lightweight

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We’ve tested 4 reflection filters and the winner is above!

Reflection Filters Comparison Chart

The table below highlights the four best reflection filters. Much emphasis will be laid on the accessories and unique features that each product has to offer.

The purpose of this is to help our readers decide on which product best fits their needs by easily comparing them.

Aston Microphone Halo Shadow

Aston Microphone Halo Shadow

Rhode NT1-A RONT1ACRSKIT2-1

Rhode NT1-A RONT1ACRSKIT2-1

sE Electronics RF-X

sE Electronics RF-X

Marantz Professional Sound Shield

Marantz Professional Sound Shield

Number of Panels

1

5

1

5

Material

Patented PET Felt

Foam

Foam & Wool Fabric

EVA Foam

Dimensions

23 x 13 x 20 inches

37.1 x 16.9 x 16.1 inches

18 x 13 x 8 inches

12.8 x 14.6 x 17.9 inches

Weight

9 pounds

9.5 pounds

5.2 pounds

6.61 pounds

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4 Best Reflection Filters (as of March, 2024):

1. Aston Microphone Halo Shadow Reflection Filter Review

Aston Microphone Halo ShadowThis Aston Microphone Halo Shadow reflection filter has a futuristic design capable of providing a 360o shield from noise and reflections.

The design is patented and focused on green manufacturing without compromising on quality.

Built with sturdy and recyclable materials, the halo shield offers amongst the best acoustic effects in the market.

Weighing about 9 pounds, this filter can be used with just about any mic stand and shock mount without being too heavy.

The main selling point of this product is its artistic and efficient design which delivers great sound quality as attested by users.

Aston Microphone Halo Shadow Review, Pros and Cons.

Aston Microphones Halo Portable Microphone Reflection Filter

Via: @larslyd

What users think

Below are some of the pros and cons associated with this product according to users.

Aston Microphones Halo Portable Microphone Reflection Filter

Via: @chloeboultonuk

Main Features

  • Hi-Tech construction with patented PET felt
  • Patented design, enhanced performance
  • Radically improved Isolation
  • Filtering top and bottom (not just horizontally)
  • Much bigger surface area and depth of acoustic treatment
  • More linear absorption and diffusion
  • Incredibly Lightweight Proprietary ‘easy-mount’ hardware
  • Microphone and Stand not included
PROS:
  • Sturdy build
  • Durable and quality materials
  • Easy to setup
  • Excellent performance
  • Beautiful design without compromising the effectiveness

CONS:
  • It doesn’t come with additional accessories
  • It is sometimes selective of the type of mic used

Verdict

From its impeccable aesthetics to outstanding performance, the Aston filter is years ahead of the competition.

Introducing Aston Halo:

Aston Halo – Reflected Glory:

2. Rhode NT1-A RONT1ACRSKIT2-1 Reflection Filter Review

Rhode NT1-A RONT1ACRSKIT2-1Rhode NT1-A RONT1ACRSKIT2-1 is the complete package.

From the box, this near perfect product comes equipped with a mic, tripod stand, shock mount with a pop filter, an XLR cable for connection to audio instruments and a reflection filter that’s mounted on the stand.

Although it packs a hefty price tag, this is understandable because it has everything needed for the perfect mic setup.

One advantage of this is that there should be no issues of incompatibility, which occurs mostly when products from different manufacturers are to be assembled together.

Also, you stand to save some bucks compared to buying each equipment separately.

Each item is durable yet light and comes in a box, making it possible to be carried around. This is useful to those who intend to move around often.

Rhode NT1-A RONT1ACRSKIT2-1 Review, Pros and Cons.

What users think

Users who purchased this product expressed overall satisfaction in its performance and quality. Also, it was considered to be portable, easy to carry and set up both within and outside the studio.

Rode NT1-A

Via: @nairobi_studio_equipment

Main Features

  • Compact Microphone Isolation Solution
  • Absorbs Unwanted Room Noise & Reflections
  • 5-Panel Perforated Aluminum Screen
  • Adjust Side Panels for Varied Isolation
  • High Density Pyramidal Acoustic Foam
  • Mounts to Straight or Boom Mic Stand
  • Adjust Side Panels for Varied Isolation
  • Can Also Be Set on Desktop or Table
PROS:
  • Great sound quality
  • Good value for money
  • Strong build with quality materials
  • Easy to setup

CONS:
  • Heavy – after setup, the top seems heavy and the stands must be carefully adjusted

Verdict

Although the Rhode NT1-A comes loaded with accessories, this may limit its compatibility with third-party accessories.

This is most likely to occur because each part of the product will be tailored specifically to fit with each other. Apart from this, it is a great product to have.

3. sE Electronics RF-X Reflection Filter Review

sE Electronics RF-XThis is a simple, sturdy and less pricey alternative that still gets the job done.

The sE Electronics RF-X filter is light, with a multi-layered design that is assembled by hand.

Its design enables noise to be filtered across a wide spectrum to produce excellent sound qualities.

Built with recent advancement in acoustic technologies, this multi-layered design comprises of four layers; an outer vented composite panel, a wool fabric layer, an air gap layer, and an inner acoustic foam layer.

Also, the product features a thread adapter that improves its compatibility with both US and European Mic stand thread. Let’s head over to the reviews and see what users are saying.

sE Electronics RF-X Review, Pros and Cons.

What users think

This is a great product that offers flexibility and convenience. According to the reviews, most users applauded the product for “getting the job done”.

RF-X SE Electronics Portable Vocal Booth

Via: @ricehero27

It was generally agreed that the sound production although great for small projects is not good enough for professionals.

RF-X SE Electronics Portable Vocal Booth

Via: @36statesmusic

Main Features

  • 4-layer design gives your tracks near-zero sonic coloration
  • Unwanted audio ambience may be generated if working in ‘untreated’ acoustic environments
  • Outer vented composite panel, a wool fabric layer, an air gap layer and an inner acoustic foam layer
  • Rugged enough to stand up to the most demanding work environments
  • Lightweight body and clamp assembly for easy, streamlined operation
PROS:
  • Great compatibility
  • Light and easy to move around
  • Quality build
  • Good sound production albeit not at a professional level
  • Great price

CONS:
  • Requires additional purchase before setup

Verdict

The RF-X SE reflection filter is suitable for everyday use. It scores among the top filters because of its excellent compatibility. This means you shouldn’t experience difficulty setting it up with third-party accessories.

sE Electronics RF-X Setup Video:

sE Electronics Reflection Filter X: Does it Work?:

4. Marantz Professional Sound Shield Review

Marantz Professional Sound ShieldMarantz Professional Sound Shield is a multipurpose sound shield designed to be used while recording on a desk or mic stand.

Its multilayered design backed up by studio grade EVA acoustic foam which guarantees production at a professional level.

The product also features 2 foldable arms which can easily be adjusted around the mic.

This creates a focused environment tailored to meet specific needs.

The threaded support is compatible with most mics and shock mount assembly improving the versatility of this compact yet sophisticated product.

It is obvious that the manufacturers had put in significant thought into its design. In addition to its lightweight, it is very flexible and can be used for both indoor and mobile scenarios.

Marantz Professional Sound Shield Review, Pros and Cons.

What users think

Despite its sophistication, most users do not seem to agree on the sound quality. Several complaints were also made regarding the poor quality assurance due to the presence of certain design flaws and manufacturers errors.

Marantz Professional Sound Shield

Via: @jessica_von_krolock

It was also noted that some accessories (such as the aluminum feet) are sold separately depending on the unit purchase. Below are some of the things to consider.

Main Features

  • Portable live-source recording baffle that reduces ambient noise
  • Consists of 5 high-quality perforated metal panels (3 stationary, 2 foldable)
  • Can be used directly on recording desk or fastened to a microphone stand
  • Professional EVA acoustic foam
PROS:
  • Good sound quality
  • Good value for money

CONS:
  • Front heavy after setting up on a mic stand
  • Selective compatibility
  • Sound quality could be better
  • Not so durable

Verdict

The ease of switching easily from mic stands to a table top is really helpful. However, there were some complaints concerning the durability and quality of the product.

Although this was mostly due to manufacturers error on selected products, the overall impression is quite bad.

Best Reflection Filter for Recording Vocals – Buyers Guide

Although these products made it to our list, they are not without their limitations. Before you set out to get one of these, you must consider a few things such as: environment, budget, compatibility, price, weight and size.

Your environment

Knowing where you intend to use these filters plays a great role in determining what type you go for.

Best Reflection Filter for Recording Vocals

For indoor recording, constant movements may not be required but for situations that demand constant movement, you have to consider the weight and compatibility of the product.

Your budget

Since all the products come at different prices depending on its features or technology used, it is important to know how much you are willing to spend.

This will give you an idea of what to expect and with a little research, you will definitely find the best fit for your needs without stretching your budget.

Compatibility

To a great extent, your experience with any of the listed reflection filters will depend on its compatibility with other equipment in your studio. This issue is slightly reduced for products like the Rhode NT1-A that comes with complete accessories.

One thing to look out for is the presence of threaded support. Filters with this feature can be used with most mic and shock mounts sold in the market. The absence of threaded support could make the filter very selective and difficult to set up.

Price

Sometimes even with a budget in place, you can always decide to go for something a bit pricey yet serves your needs. Before you do this, ensure you do a little research to determine if the manufacturers’ claims are true.

One way of knowing this is by reading the reviews of people who have actually used the product. Howbeit, be sure those reviews are from a reputable store or site like Amazon. With this, you will know if such a product is correctly priced or not.

Weight and Size

When it comes to reflection filters, excessive weight is bad. One reason for this is because most filters are attached to a vertical mic stand. If the filter is too heavy the stand become unstable since all of this weight will be concentrated at the top.

This weight will need to be counterbalanced by applying a load on one leg of the mic stand. Most users had these experiences with the Rhode NT1-A and the Marantz Professional Sound Shield.

For size, go for something that provides just enough room to contain the speaker and shock mount. If the size is too small, then you have a problem fitting your mic into the space available.

Most reflection filters are now designed using sturdy but lightweight material (such as the Aston Microphone reflection filter) which can be large in size yet still remain very light.

Conclusion

After reviewing all four reflection filters, it is genuinely difficult to consider one better than the other. This is because they all exhibit strength in different areas. Some are heavy yet have complete accessories, others are light and require additional purchase.

However, if the user is unfazed by the price then I will suggest the Aston Microphone Reflection Filter. Its unique design is very effective and gets the job done.

This is because its design allows it to reflect sound waves and absorb noise coming from all sides of the mic. Most other reflection filters are only capable of securing the back and sides of the mic, leaving the top open. This is one area the Aston filter stands out.

Best Reflection Filter for Recording Vocals

10 Comments
  1. I love the Aston Mic Reflection filter. It works very well with my MXL 4000 condenser mic and it does a great job at eliminating any background noise. When I compare it to my Dragonpad Pop filter, I have to say its much better. My recordings are always superb.

    It is easy to set up, lightweight, and sturdy. It looks good and it has an ergonomic design. The only problem I had with the product is the size of the screw holes. This mic is made in the United Kingdom and my mic is from the United States. So the part of the filter where you screw in the mic was a bit small. I fixed the problem by using a threaded screw adapter and it fit.

    Since I set it up, I have not had any problems with it. Although expensive, I highly recommend this filter to anyone looking for a high-quality reflection filter.

  2. My son has used the Rode NT1-A mic and he loves it. He decided to buy the Rode NT1-A kit with huge expectations, but alas, things did not go as expected. The reflective filter is fantastic, but the female threads of the filter could not fit the mic stand. The stand itself is super solid and sturdy. But we had to return the kit and order another one.

  3. The RF-X SE Electronics Portable Vocal Booth is great. But don’t have very high expectations particularly if you plan on recording loud and aggressive vocals into a super-sensitive mic in a room that has other musical instruments. It does not kill all the sounds reflection, but it does get rid of the worst ones improving the vocal sounds.
    One small issue – it does not come with the instruction manual on how to put it together. But if you go to Youtube, you are going to find short videos on how you can go about it and you will find that it is extremely easy. The booth is not heavy, but you do need a good mic stand for it. I would not recommend getting a cheap stand as they are not very steady particularly if you are mounting a condenser mic.

  4. I’m happy with the Marantz reflection filter. It does improve voiceovers. I have set it up in a room that does not have carpeting which is not the best for voice recordings, but the filter still works great.

  5. I have always wanted to own an Aston Halo but the purple color was not really working for me. I know, its sounds lame, but whatever. When I saw the limited edition black, I did not hesistate to buy it. It is much bigger than the SE Project Studio Filter I have and the black color looks amazing.

    I’m yet to record anything wth it, but I’m confident that this filter will perform extremely well. Also, it is ligtweight, which is a huge plus because it is quite large.

  6. A few years back, I purchased the older version of the sE Electronics reflection filter. It was rather difficult to attach it to my mic stand and extremely hard to keep it balanced. It also cost more than the sE. So after using it just two times, I dumped it.

    The sE electronics reflection filter is smaller and lighter. It also easy and fun to use. So if you are considering getting this filter, well just get it. It works great and it is super easy to use.

  7. I have been researching condenser mics and I have seen that some of them come with reflective filters. I get the vocal booth is great. But that said, do I need a reflective filter?

    • I was doubtful at the beginning when I bought one for my sE Titan mic. And surprisingly, it worked very well. The vocals are clean and clear.

      The one I bought was the sE project reflection filter and it is amazing.

  8. When i bought the Rode-NT1 mic, I wanted to add it to my setup which included an XLR cable and shock mount. When you pair the mic with a good preamp, that’s money well spent. The vocals are crisp and clear.

    Its been two years since I bought the mic and I have not had any problems. I’m happy with the sounds. Althought the Neumann mic does a much better job, this one is still worth buying.

  9. I do voiceovers for documentaries and commercials and I needed a good filter for my Rode NT1-A mic. So I got the sE electronic reflection filter for my Rode NT1-A mic, unfortunately the darn thing did not work as I had hoped. I had to add foam paneling in my tiny closet where my setup is to block the noise.

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