Venturing into the world of podcasting can be an exhilarating yet daunting experience, especially when it comes to choosing the right microphone to be your trusted companion on this journey.
The mic you select serves as the critical conduit for your voice to reach the ears and hearts of your listeners. Fret not, though, as this guide, expertly curated for teachers and indeed anyone stepping onto the podcasting stage, aims to empower you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about the best podcasting microphones on the market.
The microphones highlighted in this guide bring with them a suite of powerful and user-friendly features. From the ability to seamlessly adjust your recording volume to match your environment, to noise cancellation technologies perfect for outdoor recordings – these mics ensure quality audio with minimal post-production adjustments.
However, quality often comes with a price. Some of these microphones, such as the highly revered Heil PR 40, laden with professional features, fall into a higher price category. Yet, whether you’re operating on a shoestring budget or have a little more to spend, this guide will help you navigate the choices and identify a microphone that aligns with your needs, budget, and the unique voice of your podcast.
Best Mic for Podcasting
Here are our picks for the best mic for podcasting
Best mics for podcasting:
Comparison table
Please note that the features have been summarized for the purpose of the table, and more detailed information can be found in the full descriptions under the tables. Prices are as per the time of publication.
| Product | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Heil Sound PR40 Studio Microphone | Dynamic microphone with large element, wide dynamic range, low mass, efficient NdFeB magnet structure, steel body and internal hum bucking coil, Sorbothane shock mount, and 4 rear ports | $676 |
| 2. Logitech for Creators YETI | Advanced multi-pattern USB microphone with THX Certification, Blue’s innovative triple capsule array, four pickup patterns, onboard audio controls, and a unique positionable design | $179.88 |
| 3. Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone | Handheld dynamic microphone with USB and XLR output, smooth extended frequency response, built-in headphone jack, and cardioid polar pattern | $109.99 |
| 4. Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone | Desktop mini single-capsule condenser microphone with unidirectional pick-up pattern, USB connectivity, and 3-legged adjustable desktop stand | $66 |
| 5. MXL Instrument Condenser Microphone, XLR Connector, Champagne (MXL-990) | Condenser microphone with a large diaphragm, a frequency response of 30Hz to 20kHz, and included accessories like a carrying case, clip, and shock mount | $163.68 |
| 6. Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone | One microphone for all applications (studio recording, home recording, podcasting & streaming), dynamic cartridge, advanced electromagnetic shielding, professional XLR connection, cardioid pattern, and added accessories | $539 |
1.The Heil PR 40 Dynamic Studio Recording Microphone
The Heil Sound PR40 Studio Microphone is a robust, high-performance dynamic microphone designed for voice-over applications and talk-show hosting. It features a large dynamic element that offers a natural midrange with a smooth response. Coupled with a low-mass, efficient NdFeB magnet structure, this microphone is capable of capturing a wide dynamic range and high Sound Pressure Levels (SPLs), making it a versatile option even for kick drum recording.
The PR40 stands out for its noise rejection capabilities, with 4 rear ports designed to ward off off-axis noise. This results in a tight super cardioid pickup pattern with reduced proximity effect. Its steel body and internal hum bucking coil shield provide safety for use near video monitors and noisy lighting fixtures, effectively reducing interference.
The microphone also comes with an internal Sorbothane shock mount that separates the dynamic element from the body, minimizing handling noise. It is compatible with a variety of devices, including laptops, PCs, and smartphones. The PR40, constructed with alloy steel, is powered through a corded electric source, and weighs around 382 grams. As of this review, the price is set at $676.
2.The Blue Yeti USB Microphone
The Logitech Yeti is a sophisticated, versatile USB microphone, designed to provide exceptional sound and performance for various recording needs. It incorporates a unique three-capsule array and offers four distinct pattern settings, making it a versatile tool for capturing high-quality audio directly onto your computer. Whether you’re recording for YouTube, streaming games, podcasting, or attending Zoom calls, the Yeti can capture it all with enhanced clarity.
This microphone stands out for its THX certification, ensuring exceptional sound performance. It also features Blue VO!CE Software, allowing users to craft perfect broadcast vocal sounds, and entertain their audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation, and high-definition audio samples.
For maximum flexibility, the Yeti offers four pickup patterns – cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo – enabling recordings that would usually require multiple microphones. This coupled with onboard audio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain allows for comprehensive control over the recording and streaming process.
The Yeti’s design is as unique as its features, with a positionable design that lets you adjust and pivot the microphone for optimal sound quality. It’s a plug ‘n play device, ensuring quick setup with the included desktop stand, or you can connect directly to a mic stand or boom arm. Compatibility extends to personal computers, headphones, and amplifiers.
The Yeti USB microphone is available in a sleek silver color, and at the time of publication, it is priced at $179.88.
3. Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB
The Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB is a dynamic cardioid microphone that offers both USB digital output and XLR analog output, providing versatile connectivity options for various recording and performance settings. Recommended for uses including video conferences, singing, and karaoke, this handheld microphone is a reliable solution for quality sound capture.
One standout feature of the ATR2100-USB is its dual output. The USB output is perfect for digital recording directly onto a computer, while the XLR output can be connected to a traditional microphone input for live performances. This combination of functionality allows it to seamlessly transition between home studio recording, field recording, podcasting, voiceover work, and on-stage use.
The microphone offers a smooth, extended frequency response, contributing to superior sound quality. A built-in headphone jack provides the option for direct monitoring of your microphone output without an audible delay, enhancing real-time editing capabilities. Moreover, its cardioid polar pattern reduces the pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, resulting in cleaner, clearer audio.
Included with the microphone are several accessories such as a stand clamp for 5/8″-27 threaded stands, a 10′ XLR to XLR cable, a tripod desk stand, and a 6.6′ mini USB cable. The ATR2100-USB comes in a silver color and weighs approximately 771 grams. It’s also backed by a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term support.
At the time of publication, this dynamic microphone is priced at $109.99. With its feature-rich design and competitive price, the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB is a compelling option for those looking to upgrade their recording equipment.
4. The Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone
The Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone is a cost-effective, easy-to-use audio recording solution suitable for a variety of applications. Its design centers on a single-capsule condenser microphone with a unidirectional pick-up pattern, ensuring clear, focused audio capture.
This desktop microphone is optimized for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, home movies, and more. Its unidirectional polar pattern is effective in achieving excellent sound quality by focusing on the sound source and minimizing unwanted background noise. The microphone works seamlessly with Skype, Messages, FaceTime, Twitch, and YouTube, making it ideal for vloggers, podcasters, and online streamers.
The Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone offers plug-and-play USB connectivity, requiring no drivers for operation. It comes with a 4.9-foot USB cable and a three-legged adjustable desktop stand for easy setup and optimal positioning. Compatibility extends across various operating systems, including Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP; Mac OS; and Linux.
Available in a sleek black color, the microphone is packaged with a warranty card and a USB cable. It weighs a light 227 grams and requires one Lithium-Ion battery for operation. The product also carries an AmazonBasics limited 1-year warranty, offering buyers some peace of mind.
With a price of $66 at the time of publication, the Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable, no-frills microphone for their recording needs.
5. MXL 990
The MXL 990 Instrument Condenser Microphone is a professional-grade audio device that offers good sound quality for a range of uses. Sporting a sleek champagne finish, this large-diaphragm condenser microphone is ideally suited for streaming and singing applications.
A standout feature of the MXL 990 is its wide frequency response of 30Hz to 20kHz. This allows for the capture of a broad range of tones, from low-frequency bass sounds to high-frequency treble notes. The large diaphragm size aids in capturing sound with more detail and accuracy, resulting in a more authentic and natural recording.
The microphone connects via an XLR connector, ensuring high-quality, lossless audio transmission. This makes it ideal for use with professional audio equipment and recording software. It is compatible with a range of devices, including televisions, personal computers, radios, and headphones, making it a versatile addition to any recording setup.
The MXL 990 package includes a range of useful accessories, such as a carrying case for easy transportation and storage, a clip for secure attachment, and a shock mount for reducing handling and vibration noise. This makes it a convenient and value-packed choice for beginners and professionals alike.
The product dimensions are 29.9 x 18.5 x 8.9 cm and it weighs in at 544 grams. It is designed for corded electric power source, making it a reliable choice for studio or live recording sessions where constant power is required. With a price tag of $163.68 at the time of publication, the MXL 990 offers a balance of quality, performance, and affordability, making it an attractive choice for anyone serious about their sound.
6. Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone is a versatile audio device renowned for its high performance in professional environments. This microphone is ideal for a wide range of applications, from studio and home recording to podcasting and live streaming.
Equipped with a dynamic cartridge, the SM7B delivers a smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response that results in a clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech. The microphone’s frequency response ranges from 50 to 20,000 Hz, which captures the full audible spectrum to deliver a rich and detailed sound.
Unique to the SM7B is its air suspension shock isolation and pop filter, which work in conjunction to eliminate mechanical noise and breathiness, ensuring a crisp and clear audio capture. These features make the microphone a popular choice in top podcasting studios globally and have helped it establish a solid reputation for its live streaming abilities.
In terms of connectivity, the SM7B features a professional-grade XLR connection that, when paired with an audio interface, provides greater control over the sound, enhancing the overall sound quality. The cardioid pickup pattern is designed to reject off-axis audio, enabling you to record at a comfortable angle while minimizing sound coloration.
Another standout feature is the microphone’s advanced electromagnetic shielding, designed to combat hum from computer monitors and other studio equipment. This ensures that your recordings are free from any unwanted electrical noise.
The SM7B comes with a close-talk windscreen, foam windscreen, and a locking yoke mount. It weighs 765.4 grams and has a sleek black appearance. With a price tag of $539 at the time of publication, the Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone is an investment in high-quality, professional-grade sound.
