What is the best microphone for recording vocals at home under $200?

Audio-Technica AT2035 Large Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone

Designed for critical home projects, professional studio applications and live performance, the AT2035 delivers exceptional detailand low noise. With it's extended low-frequency response, the AT2035 provides rich, full sound reproduction and handl... read more...

I would suggest going with this Audio-Technica... although the AKG that Lance suggested is also good. I've been using this mic for a couple years, mostly for vocals. Awesome mic.
It's an LDC (large diaphragm condenser) and it is incredibly responsive. I love it, and recommend it from the beginner to the pro level. You will be ver happy with the sounds you get!

✔ Highest voted answer

Reply · Send thanks · posted 170 days ago · 3 people agree

AKG PERCEPTION 220 Professional Studio Microphone for general purpose with one inch true condenser large di...

AKG’s Perception microphones have built a strong following among musicians and engineers, proving to be among the best high-value true condenser microphones on the market today. The AKG Perception Series includes the P 120, P 170, P 220, P 420 and... read more...

I big time recommend this mic. AKG's are wonderful microphones, and the cost to performance ratio is awesome.
I can't tell by the Amazon description if it comes with the case and shock mount, but you will at least want the shock mount (and a pop filter) so pick one up if needed.
I use this mic to record vocals and guitar mostly. It has a decently large diaphragm, so it's able to accurately capture a wide range of frequencies... like my vocals sound equally as clear as my guitar.
Since it's an AKG it actually comes with some professional features, like a switchable bass cut filter and preattenuation pad, so you can have control even with loud sound sources.
I also want to mention the solid build. The body is all metal, so if you had to travel with it it would survive no problem.
I think you will be very happy with this thing! Check it out!

Reply · Send thanks · posted 170 days ago · 1 person agrees

Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Microphone Package

The NT1A Anniversary Model is a complete redesign of the now legendary NT1 classic studio microphone. From the new nickel plated body to the state of the art surface mount electronic circuitry, the NT1A will leave you asking "how can RODE offer a ... read more...

I don't know if you've ever heard of this brand before, but you wil find these a lot in studios across the country...not super high-end studios, but personal or local studios. The reason why is they are excellent studio mics, especially for the price.They are very versatile... I have found they capture guitar, vocals, and even overhead drums equally well.
Like they advertise, is is a VERY low-noise mic. I really appreciate this for the type of music I record. I record lots of jazz/folk/pop in my at-home studio and this is the main mic I use. Very happy with the results across the board. This little kit is nice, too. You get a shock mount AND a pop filter with it.
You won't really find a better deal as far as I'm aware of!
Highly recommended based on my experiences!

Reply · Send thanks · posted 170 days ago

I just want to say, Cassandra, that both the AKG and the Audio-Technica are great microphones. I've used the Audio-Technica a bunch (my roommate had that exact one and we used to record stuff all the time together when we were in music school) and it's awesome. I haven't used the AKG Perception, but I have used other AKG's and they are also very high quality.
Just want you to know that either way, you're gonna get a great mic.
Good suggestions, guys!