We all know that quality sound is a critical component of your podcast. Fuzziness, echoing, or sounding like you are underwater is going to turn people away quickly.
With so many microphones available that vary dramatically in price, how do you know how to pick the best podcast microphone for your budget?
🎙️ First Things First
First, make sure you know a few things. Will you be recording solo, or are you going to have multiple speakers with you? This will determine if you’re going to need a hook-up for multiple microphones.
Will you be recording on the road, or will your studio stay in one place? This can determine if mobility is an important factor in your decision.
Here are six great options.
Samsung Q2U
The Samsung Q2U is a great starter microphone. You’ll get quality sound, due to its cardioid pickup pattern that captures sound from in front of the microphone, rather than the side and rear. It’s both XLR and USB, which means you can start out by plugging it into your computer, but can also use XLR cables for professional equipment. Check it out it on Amazon here.
Blue Yeti USB Microphone
The Blue Yeti is a popular podcast microphone and is reasonably priced. It has a tri-capsule array, which means you can record in almost any situation. It will give you great quality audio, and it’s simple to use.
You can use a setting for solo recording, two-person recording, and group recording. It also comes with its own stand. Check it out on Amazon here.
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
This is a handheld dynamic microphone that has both USB and XLR capabilities. It’s a great microphone for podcasting due to its smooth, extended frequency response.
It comes with a built-in headphone jack so you can easily listen to the mic’s output without a delay. Check it out on Amazon here.
Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone
This is an XLR dynamic microphone, and it’s a bit pricier than an entry-level microphone, but it’s worth it. It won’t pick up much background noise, giving you a smooth recording. It has an internal shock mounting capsule for low handling noise, and does a great job increasing clarity of sound.
HEiL sound PR-40 Dynamic Studio Microphone
A dynamic mic, this is a good choice for podcasters who don’t work in professional environments. It includes an internal breath blaster so that the vocal range doesn’t have any pops or hisses. It’s more expensive than the Rode, but gives similar results. However, it’s very popular among podcasters because the sound it produces is excellent. It’s worth trying out and comparing.
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
This XLR microphone includes state-of-the-art electromagnetic hum reduction so your computer monitor’s sound won’t be distracting. It comes with a captive stand and detachable windscreen. It works well in both professional broadcasting and podcasting.
It does pick up background noise, so this mic is best for a professional recording studio.
This is a pricey microphone, but among the upper-tier choices, it’s one of the best. It’s not a necessary investment for a beginner, but veteran podcasters may want to make the switch. Check it out on Amazon here.
That's a Wrap!
So which one is the best podcast microphone in 2021? That all depends on how much you want to spend, and what your needs are. We think these options fit most needs and budgets and should help you in your journey to becoming a successful podcaster!
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