Shure - SM58

A microphone by itself will not work, you need something to connect it (a cable) to the device that is connecting it (an interface) to whatever they are using to record it (a computer). The Shure SM 58 is a good mic, I use it for everything. Last time I bought one they were about $100usd.  This is a thoughtful gift but if you don't know what they are recording with and they don't know, may as well get them a gift card to a music store. 

Grab a cheap, used SM57 or 58. Keep it as a backup when you upgrade someday. It doubles as a hammer in emergencies. Can't kill the damn things and they will always sound "good". Rarely great, never bad, but always good enough.

SM58 for sure. I know it's not typically a recording mic but if you're like me and are in a loud environment or a place where you can't control background noise, I find it more consistent. I use it over my condenser. If you are in an environment where that's not an issue then I'd look for a condenser mic for vocals. But like, you can't go wrong with a 58.

It's a lot about the philosophy in the mic's design. The RE20 was specifically designed for broadcast announcers/commentators/show hosts. It's built so you really can't get close enough to the actual mic to get a lot of proximity effect and its built-in blast protection is excellent. Wide, flat frequency response makes voices sound very natural even when used very close. Mics like the SM57 and 58 have proximity effect but have built-in low-frequency rolloff, so they work well hand-held and very close to the sound source.

Same here. I used my 58's when we were playing live and 57's when I've needed more mics or have been limited on space. I've recently been using my R144 as a room mic for drums. That's the only thing I've ever liked it on. It just doesn't do it for me on vocals. I've thought about trying it paired with a 57 on guitar cabs since I don't have a royer 121, but haven't devoted the time to experimenting yet. Edit: what's the 991 like? I just bought the 990s and not the combo set.

This is truly a buy-once-cry-once scenario. A Shure SM58 and a standalone recording device, will give you infinitely more flexibility, easier simpler workflow, and better results. I personally think you are spending money (that it sounds like you maybe don’t have) on an imperfect solution. I learned this the hard way, but have now recorded nearly 750 hours of podcasts, and would NEVER go back to a USB / laptop kit. I get being on a budget, and I don’t know your situation, but for $250 (SM58 + Podtrak P4), you will have an outstanding beginner kit, with tons of room to grow, and you will be able to upgrade components, without ditching everything.

USED AT, AKG condenser, or buy a brand new SM58 if you don't want to deal too much with room treatment

I agree I’m not a big fan of their vocal mics. Love em on drums & other instruments but I rather have a 58 any day.

For the Roland SP-404MKII, you’ll need a dynamic microphone that plugs straight into the 1/4” jack. Most ultra-compact mics (like mini shotguns or lavaliers) actually require power, which the SP-404MKII doesn’t provide. So, most tiny mics won’t work directly—people usually recommend standard dynamic mics like the Shure SM58 with an adapter, but that’s not exactly “short.” Among the smallest options mentioned on forums, the Saramonic SR-XM1 is worth a try—it’s designed for cameras, but some users have reported it works as a mini mic with the SP. However, there’s no 100% guarantee it’ll work perfectly. Generally, the recommendation is to use a compact dynamic mic (something like the Akai ADM-80/40/60 or similar with a short body), but there aren’t many options that are truly tiny “stubs,” due to the lack of phantom or plug-in power. If you want that OG 404 vibe, the closest option is the Saramonic SR-XM1, or maybe an old-school dictaphone mic with a built-in battery (so it provides power).

I second this!! Sm58 and a Scarlett solo is a great option. 2nd hand you could probably pull it off for around $100. If you want new then probably more like $200.