Podcasting is a great way to share your thoughts and ideas with the world; having the right equipment can make all the difference. This includes choosing the best podcast microphone, especially when you’re just starting out.
Nothing turns off a listener more than poor audio. But with so many microphones and options to choose from, know which one to get can be daunting.
Fear not – in this article we will cover the best microphones for podcasting and give you tips for choosing the right one.
Before we jump in, here’s a quick overview of each microphone we’ll cover:
| Model | Cost | Type of Connection | Type of Microphone | Polar Pattern | Special Features |
| Samson Q2U | $69.99 | USB/XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Plug-and-play, no driver installation requiredComes with mic clip, tripod stand, tripod stand extension, foam windscreen, USB cable, and XLR cable |
| Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | $79 | USB/XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Built-in headphone jack so you can monitor from the microphone directlyComes with tripod desk stand, stand clamp, and three cables (USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A, and XLRF to XLRM) |
| Rode PodMic | $99 | XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Includes integrated swing mount, internal pop filter, and shock mount Robust all-metal construction |
| Shure MV5 | $99 | USB | Condenser | Cardioid | Includes presets for recording customization: vocals, instruments, or flat Plug-and-play and offers design portability |
| Shure SM58 | $104 | XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Minimizes transmission of mechanical noise and vibration through the advanced pneumatic shock mount Has built-in pop filter that reduces undesirable wind and breathe noise |
| Samson Q9U | $119.99 | USB/XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Mute button controls both USB and XLR outputs Solid, die-cast construction with integrated yoke mount |
| Samson G-Track Pro | $119.99 | USB | Condenser | Multi-pattern: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional | All-in-one professional USB microphone with audio interface Die-cast zinc construction with heavy gauge mesh grille |
| Blue Yeti | $129.99 | USB | Condenser | Multi-pattern: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo | Has multiple pattern selection feature Rugged overall structure |
| HyperX QuadCast S | $159.99 | USB | Condenser | Multi-pattern: Stereo, Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional | RGB Lighting Tap-to-mute sensor with LED indicator |
| Neat King Bee II | 169.99 | XLR | Condenser | Cardioid | Custom-designed shock mount and pop filter Custom Class A discrete electronics that provide exceptional clarity and depth |
| Rode Procaster | $171.10 | XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Internal pop filter to control plosives Robust all-metal construction |
| Rode Podcaster | $174.19 | USB | Dynamic | Cardioid | Internal capsule shock mount and pop filter High-quality headphone output for zero-latency monitoring |
| Rode NT1-A | $199 | XLR | Condenser | Cardioid | Internal capsule shock mounting Ultra-low self-noise |
| Aston Stealth | $229.95 | XLR | Condenser | Cardioid | Low handling noise due to internal shock mount system Built-in Class A mic preamp |
| Shure MV7 | $249 | USB/XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Touch panel for control over gain, headphone mix, mic muting, and monitoring volume Selection of Auto Level Mode (select your preferred voice tone and distance from the microphone, and let the microphone adjust your level in real time for a consistent output) and Manual Mode (have full control over your sound and adjust mic gain, monitor mix, EQ, limiter, compressor and more) |
| Apogee HypeMiC | $349 | USB | Condenser | Cardioid | Has built-in analog compressor for studio-quality recording Offers Blend feature for zero latency listening and recording |
| Shure SM7B | $398 | XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Defeats hum from computer monitors and other studio equipment through advanced electromagnetic shielding Air suspension shock isolation and pop filter that eliminate both mechanical noise and breathiness |
| Electro-Voice RE20 | $449 | XLR | Dynamic | Cardioid | Variable-D design for minimal proximity effect Includes steel case and hum-bucking coil that provides exceptional magnetic shielding and guards against line hum |
Features to Consider Before Buying a Podcast Microphone
When purchasing a podcasting microphone, there are a few key things you need to consider. This includes features such as connection type, type of microphone, and polar pattern.
Type of Connection: USB vs. XLR
It is crucial to consider the type of connection when buying a microphone as it determines which microphone you can use with your device.
Source: micreviews.com
The two most common connectors are USB and XLR. Here are the differences between each type:
- USB. USB microphones are growing in popularity for podcasters. They are easy to use as they plug directly into your computer’s USB port and don’t require any additional equipment. They are also typically less expensive than XLR microphones.
- XLR. XLR microphones are still the most popular option for professional podcasters. They offer better sound quality than USB microphones, and you can use them with a broader range of audio equipment. However, you’ll need an XLR to USB interface device or mixer if you want to connect an XLR microphone to your computer.
Type of Microphone: Dynamic vs. Condenser
There are two main types of microphones: dynamic and condenser.
Dynamic or condenser mic refers to how microphones function in picking up a range of frequencies. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, which means one type might be better for certain people or applications than the other.
Source: headlinemagazine.net
Here is a comparison between the two types:
- Dynamic. Dynamic microphones are typically used in live settings. They pick up a smaller range of frequencies, which means they are less sensitive to feedback. They are more durable than condenser microphones and can handle much sound pressure without distorting the sound, but they don’t usually produce as high-quality sound as condenser microphones.
- Condenser. Condenser microphones are often used in recording studios. They pick up a more comprehensive range of frequencies, which means they are more sensitive to environmental noise and can be prone to feedback. They have a higher quality of sound than dynamic microphones, but they’re also less durable and require phantom power to operate.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the shape of the area from which the mic will pick up sound. This means the microphone will pick up sounds from specific directions more clearly than others. This can be helpful when you are recording a podcast and want to ensure that your voice is picked up the way you want.
There are several different polar patterns to choose from, so be sure to select the one that will work best for your needs.
Here are three of the most common polar patterns and their distinctions:
- Omnidirectional. This polar pattern picks up sound equally from all directions, making them ideal for interviews or panel discussions. They can also pick up unwanted background noise, so they may not be the best choice for solo podcasts but can be the best microphone for podcast interviews.
- Bidirectional (Figure-of-8). This polar pattern picks up sound mainly from the front and back and rejects sound from the sides. This makes them ideal for recordings with two people talking into the mic simultaneously. These can also be used for interviews, but you’ll need to be careful to avoid clipping either person’s audio.
- Cardioid (Unidirectional). This polar pattern picks up sound mainly from the front and rejects sound from other directions. This is ideal for solo podcasts, as you want your voice to be the predominant sound in the recording.
Aside from these features, there is one more thing you need to consider and that is your budget.
Some of these great podcast microphones can be costly, so we categorized each one based on its price. Budget-level podcasting microphones cost less than $100. Mid-range level podcasting microphones cost between $100 and $200. And premium podcasting microphones cost more than $200.
Best Budget Level Podcast Microphone
Source: samsontech.com
Samson Q2U
The Samson Q2U is the best beginner podcast microphone, so if you’re thinking of starting a podcast of your own, this is for you.
With its very affordable price, it offers a lot of features and excellent sound quality. It is a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern, making it perfect for podcasting.
The pride of this mic is its dual connectivity, which you can use to your benefit. If you’re just starting and don’t have an external recording interface, its USB output is available. If you come to the point that you finally invest in additional audio equipment, you can use its XLR output for better sound quality.
Pricing
- $69.99
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- Dual connectivity: USB output to directly connect it to a computer and XLR output to connect it to any audio equipment
- Has on/off switch that controls both USB and XLR output
- Plug-and-play, so it doesn’t require driver installation
- For zero-latency monitoring, a 1/8″ stereo headphone output with level control is provided
- Has dual-color power/clip LED and solid, die-cast construction with heavy gauge mesh grille
- Majority of computer-based digital audio workstation software is supported
- Perfect for podcasting, music recording applications, and live sound
- Inclusions: tripod stand, tripod stand extension, mic clip, foam windscreen, USB cable (2.25m), and XLR cable (3m)
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Excellent audio quality
- Versatile due to its USB/XLR output
- Easy to use and setup since it’s plug-and-play
- Includes all accessories necessary for recording
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- No adaptor included for phone and tablet use
Source: audio-technica.com
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is one of the best podcast mics for anyone who wants to start their own podcast as it has an affordable price and offers dual connectivity. It also has a built-in headphone jack which allows you to monitor your audio directly from the microphone as you record.
This podcasting microphone delivers clear, high-quality sound, so you can create professional-sounding podcasts that will impress your listeners.
Pricing
- $79
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid polar pattern
- Dual connectivity: USB-C digital output and XLR analog output
- Has on/off switch which controls USB/XLR audio output
- Has built-in headphone jack and a dial on the bottom of mic for easy adjustment of headphone volume
- Offers high-quality A/D converter with 24-bit, up to 192 kHz sampling rate
- Compatible with both Windows and Mac
- Has low-mass diaphragm that provides great frequency response
- Durable metal construction
- Ideally suited for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, voiceover, and other content creation applications that require a smooth, extended frequency response
- Inclusions: tripod desk stand with folding legs, threaded stand clamp, and three cables (USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A, and XLRF to XLRM)
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Amazing sound quality
- Easy to use and setup
- Versatile due to its USB/XLR output
- Allows recording two devices at once
Cons
- The stand isn’t sturdy
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
Source: rode.com
Rode PodMic
In wanting to make a good podcast, a quality microphone is important. Rode Podmic is one of those quality microphones that produces crisp and sharp audio recordings. It also has an internal pop filter that reduces plosives and a shock mount that keeps vibration from interfering with your audio.
Pricing
- $99
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid polar pattern
- XLR mic
- Broadcast-quality with a rich and detailed sound that is perfect for podcasting, livestreaming, and other speech applications
- Has integrated swing mount, built-in pop filter, and shock mount
- Sturdy all-metal build
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Promising sound quality
- Great overall build
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues as it only has XLR output
Source: shure.com
Shure MV5
With its plug-and-play connection and ball-like design, the Shure MV5 microphone promises the capability to travel with your phone or laptop. It gives pristine sound quality to your recording and has good dynamic range.
With its affordable price, the Shure MV5 provides a number of helpful and impressive features.
Pricing
- $99
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with cardioid polar pattern
- USB mic
- Has 3 preset modes: vocal, instrument, flat
- Includes built-in headphone output for real-time recording
- Plug-and-play, so it doesn’t require driver installation
- Compatible with tripod and has a removable stand
- Offers onscreen control with ShurePlus MOTIV app
- Inclusion: Angle-adjustable desktop stand and integrated 1/4″ thread mount compatible with any standard camera tripod thread
Pros
- Excellent audio quality for its low price
- Provides flexibility in terms of setup
- Stylish design that offers portability
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues as it only has USB output
Best Mid-Range Podcast Microphone
Source: shure.com
Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 microphone is commonly used by celebrities and musicians as it is handheld and durable. It is also perfect for podcasters since it delivers clear, rich sound that’s great for voice-over work.
Shure SM58 has an internal shock mount that minimizes the sound of vibrations and other noise.
Pricing
- $104
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid polar pattern
- XLR mic
- Has integrated on/off switch
- Has a custom frequency response shaped for vocals with brightened midrange and bass roll-off to manipulate proximity effect
- Includes advanced pneumatic shock mount system that reduces vibration and noise, plus a built-in pop filter that reduces breathe and wind noise
- Resists wear and abuse with its steel-mesh grille and enamel-coated metal construction
- Inclusion: A25D swivel stand adapter and storage bag
Pros
- Great audio quality
- Has promising durability
- Excellent at filtering out background noise
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues as it only has XLR output
Source: samsontech.com
Samson Q9U
The Samson Q9U makes audio production easier for podcasters. It is a newer version of Samson Q2U. It’s a bit more expensive than the latter as it has additional features that Samson Q2U doesn’t offer, such as buttons for controlling multiple elements of your audio. It also provides better sound quality.
Pricing
- $119.99.
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- Capsule has a humbucking coil and neodymium magnet
- Dual connectivity: XLR analog output and USB-C digital output with 24-bit/96kHz resolution
- Has mute button controls for both outputs
- 1/8″ output zero-latency headphone monitoring
- Includes low cut filter and mid-presence boost
- Has dual layer windscreen and solid, die-cast construction with integrated yoke mount
- Plug-and-play, so it doesn’t require driver installation
- Inclusion: USB cable
Pros
- Versatile due to its USB and XLR connection
- Easy to use and setup since it’s plug-and-play
- Amazing audio quality
- Solid overall build
Cons
- Does not include mic stand or bag
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern, so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
Source: samsontech.com
Samson G-Track Pro
The Samson G-Track Pro is perfect for professional podcasters. It has a heavy, sturdy build with excellent sound quality and versatility due to the multiple pickup patterns this product offers.
Its 1/4″ jack input allows you to plug in an additional instrument or audio source, which you can use with the Mono/2 Track switch feature, depending on your needs.
The Mono records mic and instrument into one single track, whereas 2 Track records it into two separate tracks, so editing through any recording software will be easy.
Pricing
- $119
Key Features
- Condenser mic with multiple pickup patterns (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional)
- Has dual 1″ (25mm) condenser capsule, USB output, and 24-bit resolution
- Smooth, flat frequency response of 50Hz–20kHz
- Can record mic and instrument input simultaneously
- Includes 3-color Power/Clip/Mute LED, integrated desktop base, and die-cast zinc construction with heavy gauge mesh grille
- Plug-and-play, so it doesn’t require driver installation
- Supports majority of computer-based digital audio workstation software
Pros
- High-quality voice recording
- Easy to use and setup since it’s plug-and-play
- Able to record vocals and instrument input at once
- Versatile due to its multiple polar pattern
Cons
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
- Heavy, so a bit difficult to move and needs sturdy mic stand to support it
Source: bluemic.com
Blue Yeti
Blue Yeti is one of the most popular podcast mics among podcasters as it does not only offer versatility but also provides durability and superb quality. It is mostly known for its multiple polar pattern feature you can choose from.
With its price and promising features, this podcast mic is the best podcasting microphone option for podcasters of any level.
Pricing
- $129.99.
Key Features
- Condenser mic with multiple pickup pattern (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo)
- USB type of connection
- Has 3 condenser capsules
- Has enhanced Blue VO!CE broadcast vocal effects
- Includes onboard audio controls for headphone volume, pattern selection, mute button, and mic gain
- Headphone output with zero latency recording
- Plug-and-play, so it doesn’t require any configuration
- Ideal for podcasting, streaming, conference calls, interview, voice-overs, musical recordings, and more
Pros
- Versatile due to its multiple polar patterns
- Excellent sound quality
- Plug-and-play so it is easy to use and setup
- Affordable for its features
- Durable overall structure
Cons
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
- Tends to pick up background noise due to its extreme sensitivity
Source: hyperx.com
HyperX QuadCast S
The HyperX QuadCast S is a professional microphone that’s perfect for podcasting, gaming, and streaming. It features four selectable polar patterns so that you can choose the ideal setting for your recording environment.
Its RGB lighting provides a stylish appearance, which you can customize with HyperX NGENUITY Software. This is useful when you’re into video podcasting and want some aesthetics on your screen.
With its sleek appearance and durability, it is the best mic setup for podcasting.
Pricing
- $139.99
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with four selectable polar patterns (cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo)
- USB mic
- Customizable RGB lighting through NGENUITY Software
- Has tap-to-mute sensor with LED indicator and anti-vibration shock mount
Pros
- Convenient gain control adjustment
- Excellent audio quality
- Sleek appearance
- Versatile due to its multiple polar pattern
Cons
- Availability of NGENUITY Software is only limited to PC
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
- Heavy, so a bit difficult to move and needs sturdy mic stand to support it
Source: neatmic.com
Neat King Bee II
Neat King bee II is a top-of-the-line microphone that offers great audio quality for your podcasts. It showcases stylish design (which will also be useful if you use podcast hosting platforms that offer video podcasts) and provides great features. It has a built-in pop filter to minimize plosives and presents amazing sound clarity and depth.
Pricing
- $169.99
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- Has 34mm large diaphragm gold-sputtered true condenser capsule and XLR output
- Excellent audio for voice recording, broadcast, and streaming use
- Stylish modern design
- Includes custom Class A discrete electronics provide amazing clarity and depth
- Has custom Beekeeper shock mount and Honeycomb pop filter to control plosives
Pros
- Low self-noise
- Exceptional sound quality
- Aesthetic design
- Good price for its features
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern, so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has XLR output
- Heavy, bulky, and fragile design
Source: rode.com
Rode Procaster
The Rode Procaster is suitable for podcasters as it is designed explicitly for vocal recording. It has a tight polar pattern that rejects unwanted ambient noise, so your audio will still sound crystal clear even when you are in unquiet surroundings.
Pricing
- $171.10
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- XLR mic
- Ideal for podcasting, radio production, and voice-overs
- Has internal pop filter and shock mount
- Sturdy all-metal construction
- Inclusions: stand mount, 3/8 inch adaptor, and zip pouch
Pros
- High-quality audio
- Handles background noise significantly
- Rugged build
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has XLR output
Source: rode.com
Rode Podcaster
The Rode Podcaster is a high-quality microphone perfect for vocal recording. It offers the same audio quality as Rode Procaster, but Rode Podcaster is easier to use and more convenient due to its USB connectivity.
Pricing
- $174.19
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- USB mic
- Has tight polar pattern that provides excellent room noise rejection
- Includes internal capsule shock mount and pop filter
- High-quality headphone output for zero-latency monitoring
- Inclusion: stand mount and USB cable
Pros
- Amazing audio quality
- Rejects ambient noise significantly
- Excellent overall build
- Easy to use and set up
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
Source: rode.com
Rode NT1-A
The Rode NT1-A is a quality microphone that is popular among podcasters. It features a large-diaphragm condenser capsule for an extended dynamic range that delivers clear and detailed audio.
Pricing
- $199
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- XLR output
- Includes large-diaphragm 1” gold-sputtered capsule
- Has ultra-low self-noise (5dBA) and wide dynamic range
- Has Rode SM6 shock mount, pop filter, and dust cover
Pros
- Durable build
- Excellent sound quality
- Low self-noise
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
Best Premium Podcast Microphone
Source: astonmics.com
Aston Stealth
The Aston Stealth is a high-quality microphone that is perfect for podcasting. It produces excellent sound quality and offers impressive features, such as four switchable voices, a built-in Class A mount preamp, and a 48V autodetect function.
Pricing
- $229.95
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- XLR output
- Has active and passive modes with auto-detect function and built-in Class A mount preamp
- Includes unique Sorbothane internal shock mount
- Has excellent off-axis rejection and built-in acoustic foam pop shield to eliminate background noise and plosives
- Inclusion: Custom stand mount and eco-friendly packaging
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Versatile with four selectable voicing options
- Incredibly low handling noise
- Sleek matt black design
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern, so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
Source: shure.com
Shure MV7
Shure MV7 is a good microphone for the podcast as it has excellent sound quality and unique features. It might even be the best computer microphone for podcasting because it has dual connectivity.
You can access these additional features through the Shure MOTIV app, wherein you can choose to activate Auto Level Mode or Manual Mode. There is also a feature where you pick a voice tone (dark, natural, or bright) depending on your liking.
Pricing
- $249
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- Dual connectivity: USB and XLR output
- Ideal for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and more
- Has intuitive touch panel for control over gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and mic muting
- Includes built-in headphone output that allows for direct headphone monitoring while recording
- Has optimized frequency response for natural vocal reproduction
- Sturdy and professional all-metal construction that provides outstanding reliability
- Includes adjustable integrated yoke for easy positioning on standard 5/8″-27 threaded stands or booms
- Inclusion: detachable close-talk windscreen and switch cover plate
Pros
- Versatile due to its USB/XLR output
- Easy to use
- Excellent audio quality
- Expanded functionality with the Shure MOTIV app
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
Source: apogeedigital.com
Apogee HypeMic
The Apogee HypeMic is perfect for podcasters as this offers three compression settings that you can adjust to your liking. To achieve a broadcast-ready recording, it balances audio dynamics for improved clarity.
Apogee HypeMic also provides a plug-and-play connection that is compatible with Mac, PC, and any iOS app.
Pricing
With its promise of excellent sound quality and unique features, the Apogee HypeMic is priced at $349.
Key Features
- Condenser microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- USB Mic
- Has built-in analog compressor for studio-quality audio
- Pristine sound quality of up to 24-bit/96kHz
- Includes Blend feature on headphone output that offers zero latency recording
- Has three compression settings of low, medium, and high
- Plug-and-play so it doesn’t require any configuration
- Inclusion: premium accessories kit containing a tripod, pop filter, and carrying case
Pros
- Studio-quality recording
- Provides control for three levels of compression
- Easy to use so it’s perfect for new podcasters
- Includes premium accessories that are useful in recording
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Can be pricey
Source: shure.com
Shure SM7B
One of the best microphone setups for podcasts is the Shure SM7B. It has become one of the most popular and recognizable microphones for podcasting.
Shure SM7B has an amazing sound quality due to its warm sound and ability to reduce distortion from loud sources. This is because of its bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis controls.
It features an air suspension shock isolation and pop filter to eliminate both mechanical noise and breathiness.
This is the mic that professional podcasters like Joe Rogan use. So if you are at the point that you’re serious in podcasting and decide to monetize it, investing in a microphone like Shure SM7B is a good choice.
Pricing
- $398
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- Dual connectivity: USB/XLR output
- Able to reduce distortion from loud sources
- Has bass roll-off and mid-range emphasis controls with graphic display of response setting
- Offers dynamic cartridge with flat, wide-range frequency response
- Useful for warm and smooth full-frequencies close-miking instruments
- Sturdy construction for securing the microphone cartridge
- Inclusion: detachable close-talk windscreen and switch cover plate
Pros
- Clear and crisp vocal recording
- Superior sound quality
- Solid and durable overall build
- Versatile microphone due to its USB/XLR output
- Easy to use
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Can be expensive for starters
Source: electrovoice.com
Electro-Voice RE20
The Electro-Voice RE20 is a high-end microphone optimized for vocal recording. It may be pricey, but its rich sound and fantastic features justify the cost.
The pride of this mic is the Variable-D response feature that reduces the proximity effect, which means it gives the same volume of sound regardless of your distance to the microphone.
Pricing
- $449
Key Features
- Dynamic microphone with cardioid pickup pattern
- XLR output
- Has the classic sound of FM radio voices
- Smooth, natural, and controlled sonic character
- Offers Variable-D for minimal proximity effect and a voice tailored frequency response
- Includes true cardioid with no coloration at 180-degrees off-axis
- Has studio condenser-like performance and large diaphragm dynamic element
- Includes humbucking coil guards against line hum and mid-bass tone-shaping switch
Pros
- Minimal proximity effect
- Exceptional sound quality
- Rugged overall build
Cons
- Limited to cardioid pickup pattern so you will need several mics if doing multiple-people podcast format
- Versatility issues in terms of connectivity as it only has USB output
Final Thoughts
Podcast microphones come in all shapes and sizes. The best podcast microphones listed here are great for podcasting, but each has its own benefits and drawbacks. There is no perfect microphone for podcasting. It all depends on your budget, needs, and preferences.
Whatever your budget and level of podcasting are, there is a quality podcast mic that will suit your needs. If you want the best possible sound quality, you may want to consider investing in a higher-end model. If you are just starting, there is a more affordable option.
No matter what type of podcast mic you choose, do your research and read reviews to ensure that you’re getting the best product for your needs.
What are your thoughts on podcast microphones? Let us know in the comments below!
