Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium for sharing information and entertainment.
Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, having the right microphone can make all the difference in the quality of your recordings.
The best microphone for podcasting is one that captures clear, crisp audio while minimizing background noise.
When shopping for a podcasting microphone, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the type of microphone you need. There are several options on the market, including dynamic, condenser, and USB microphones.
Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Another important consideration is the microphone’s polar pattern, which refers to the directionality of the microphone.
Some microphones are designed to capture sound from all directions, while others are more directional and only pick up sound from specific angles.
The right polar pattern will depend on your recording environment and the type of content you’re producing.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various podcasting microphones to identify the ones that offer the best combination of sound quality, ease of use, and value.
Whether you’re a solo podcaster or recording with guests, we’ve got you covered.
Table of contents
Best Microphones for Podcasting
If you’re starting a podcast, one of the most important investments you’ll make is in a quality microphone. The right microphone can make all the difference in the clarity and professionalism of your audio.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best microphones for podcasting.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your setup, we’ve got you covered.
Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone
If you are looking for a reliable and industry-standard microphone for your podcasting needs, the Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a great choice.
Shure SM58 Cardioid Pros
- Exceptional vocal performance with tailored frequency response and brightened midrange for clear and present vocals.
- Uniform cardioid polar pattern that isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise.
- Rugged construction, proven shock mount system, and steel-mesh grille ensure consistent performance even with rough handling.
Shure SM58 Cardioid Cons
- The SM58 does not come with a cable, which you will have to purchase separately.
- The microphone is heavy and bulky, which may not be suitable for mobile podcasting setups.
- The cardioid polar pattern may not be suitable for recording multiple voices or sounds.
The Shure SM58 is a classic and reliable microphone that has been the go-to choice for performers and professionals worldwide. With its exceptional vocal performance and durable construction, you can expect consistent and high-quality sound for your podcast recordings.
The SM58’s tailored frequency response and brightened midrange make it an excellent choice for clear and present vocals, while its uniform cardioid polar pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. This makes it perfect for solo podcasters or those recording in noisy environments.
The microphone’s rugged construction, proven shock mount system, and steel-mesh grille ensure consistent performance even with rough handling, making it a reliable choice for those who travel frequently or record in different locations.
However, the SM58 does not come with a cable, which may be an additional expense for some users. The microphone is also heavy and bulky, which may not be suitable for mobile podcasting setups.
Additionally, the cardioid polar pattern may not be suitable for recording multiple voices or sounds, which may limit its versatility.
Overall, the Shure SM58 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone is an excellent choice for podcasters who value reliability and exceptional vocal performance.
Whether you are a solo podcaster or recording in a noisy environment, the SM58 will deliver consistent and high-quality sound for your podcast recordings.
Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone
If you’re looking for a professional-quality XLR dynamic microphone for podcasting, the Shure MV7X is a great choice.
It features Voice Isolation Technology that ensures the microphone captures your voice clearly and rejects any unwanted background noise.
Shure MV7X XLR Pros
- The dynamic cartridge, cardioid pick-up pattern, and shock mount combination ensures your voice is the main focus of the recording.
- The all-metal design is durable, and the adjustable yoke can be mounted onto various microphone stands for flexible placement options.
- The XLR output makes it easy to connect to all professional interfaces without the need for an in-line pre-amp for additional gain.
Shure MV7X XLR Cons
- The microphone is sensitive, and you may need to adjust the gain settings to avoid picking up background noise.
- The microphone is not compatible with USB, so you’ll need an XLR cable and an audio interface to use it.
- The microphone is heavier than some other options, so it may not be suitable for handheld use.
The Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone is a great choice for podcasters and vocalists who want high-quality audio recordings.
The microphone is designed with podcasters in mind and modeled from the legendary SM7B for integration into any podcasting setup and workflow.
The Voice Isolation Technology ensures that the microphone captures your voice clearly and rejects any unwanted background noise, making it perfect for recording in imperfect rooms.
The all-metal construction is durable and looks great, and the adjustable yoke can be mounted onto various microphone stands for flexible placement options.
One thing to keep in mind is that the microphone is sensitive, so you may need to adjust the gain settings to avoid picking up background noise.
Additionally, the microphone is not compatible with USB, so you’ll need an XLR cable and an audio interface to use it.
Finally, the microphone is heavier than some other options, so it may not be suitable for handheld use.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality XLR dynamic microphone for podcasting or vocal recording, the Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone is an excellent choice.
Shure MV7 USB
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone for podcasting, the Shure MV7 USB Microphone with Tripod is an excellent choice.
Shure MV7 USB Pros
- The dual USB/XLR output allows for digital or analog recording, giving you flexibility in how you use the microphone.
- The intuitive touch panel controls make it easy to adjust the gain, monitoring volume, headphone mix, and mic muting.
- The optimized frequency response provides rich and natural vocal reproduction, making your voice sound clear and professional.
Shure MV7 USB Cons
- The microphone is not cheap, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.
- Some of the features are only accessible through the ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop Application, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The microphone is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to travel with.
The Shure MV7 USB Microphone with Tripod is a professional-quality microphone that is ideal for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and more.
The microphone has a touch panel interface that provides control over microphone gain, headphone level, monitor mix, and muting, making it easy to adjust the settings to your liking.
The ShurePlus MOTIV Desktop Application allows users to save their own presets or enable auto-gain, compression, and EQ presets for easy real-time audio processing.
One of the best things about the Shure MV7 USB Microphone with Tripod is its all-metal construction, which provides outstanding reliability and durability.
The adjustable integrated yoke makes it easy to position the microphone on standard 5/8″-27 threaded stands or booms, giving you flexibility in how you use the microphone.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality microphone for podcasting, the Shure MV7 USB Microphone with Tripod is an excellent choice. It provides outstanding sound quality, is easy to use, and is built to last.
Cherry UM 9.0 RGB PRO
If you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for podcasting, streaming, or recording, the Cherry UM 9.0 RGB PRO is definitely worth considering.
Cherry UM 9.0 Pros
- The 192 KHz and 24 bit sampling rate ensures clear and distinct audio recordings.
- The touch mute feature is convenient and helps avoid accidental recordings.
- The solid metal stand and shock mount guarantee stability and clear sound with no unwanted vibrations.
Cherry UM 9.0 Cons
- The microphone is a bit heavy, weighing in at 2.7 pounds.
- Some users have reported issues with the included USB cable.
- The price point is a bit high, but the quality justifies it.
In terms of sound quality, the Cherry UM 9.0 RGB PRO is top-notch. The 192 KHz and 24 bit sampling rate ensures that your recordings will sound clear and professional. The touch mute feature is also a nice touch, making it easy to avoid accidental recordings with just a touch of the top of the microphone.
The solid metal stand and shock mount are also great features. The three-legged stand is made of solid metal, which guarantees stability and no unwanted vibrations. The microphone is completely decoupled from the metal stand by specially designed rubber bands, ensuring clear sound.
However, the microphone is a bit heavy, weighing in at 2.7 pounds. Some users have also reported issues with the included USB cable, so you may want to consider purchasing a higher-quality one separately. Additionally, the price point is a bit high, but the quality of the microphone justifies it.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality USB microphone for podcasting, streaming, or recording, the Cherry UM 9.0 RGB PRO is definitely worth considering.
Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone
If you want a professional-grade microphone for your podcast, music, or streaming, you should consider the Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone.
Yeti USB Microphone Pros
- Produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for various applications
- Offers advanced Blue VO!CE software for enhanced broadcast vocal effects and HD audio samples
- Features four pickup patterns for flexible recording and streaming
Yeti USB Microphone Cons
- The mic is relatively large and heavy
- The stand is not adjustable
- The mic’s sensitivity can pick up background noise
The Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a versatile microphone that can produce high-quality sound for various applications.
Whether you’re recording a podcast, streaming games, or having a Zoom meeting, this microphone can deliver clear and powerful sound.
Moreover, the advanced Blue VO!CE software can enhance your vocal effects and HD audio samples to entertain your audience.
This microphone also features four pickup patterns, including cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo, which can accommodate various recording and streaming situations. You can easily switch between these patterns to capture vocals, instruments, or podcasts.
Additionally, the onboard audio controls allow you to adjust the headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain to fine-tune your recording and streaming process.
However, the mic’s size and weight may not be suitable for all users, especially if you have limited desk space. Additionally, the stand is not adjustable, which may limit your flexibility in positioning the mic.
Finally, the mic’s sensitivity can pick up background noise, so you may need to adjust your recording environment or use a noise gate to minimize unwanted sounds.
In summary, the Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone is a powerful and versatile microphone that can deliver professional-grade sound for your podcast, music, or streaming.
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that can accommodate various recording and streaming situations, you should consider the Logitech for Creators Yeti USB Microphone.
Tula Mic
If you’re looking for a portable and versatile microphone that delivers studio-quality audio, the Tula Mic is a great choice for podcasters, YouTubers, and vloggers who are always on the go.
Tula Mic Pros
- The Tula Mic is a fully portable microphone with 8GB of internal memory that records up to 14 hours of continuous studio-quality recording per charge. It’s perfect for recording anywhere you go and fits perfectly in your pocket!
- The noise cancelling system called Brusfri, by Swedish software company Klevgrand, will take a normal sounding room and make it sound like a well-treated recording studio. This feature is especially useful for podcasters who record in noisy environments.
- The Tula Mic features both cardioid and omni capsules as well as Burr Brown op amps, giving you great audio quality with an extremely low noise floor. The headphone jack doubles as an audio input which can be used with any TRRS lavalier microphone.
Tula Mic Cons
- The Tula Mic’s background noise reduction works well for low noise levels such as desktop computer fans, refrigerators and outside noises with windows closed. However, it only slightly suppresses desktop keyboard thumping.
- The Tula Mic is more expensive than other portable microphones on the market.
- The Tula Mic requires a firmware update for optimal use. Outdated firmware can result in performance issues.
The Tula Mic is a great option for podcasters who are always on the go and need a portable microphone that delivers high-quality audio.
With its noise-canceling system and versatile capsules, you can record in almost any environment.
However, if you’re on a budget or don’t need a portable microphone, there are more affordable options available.
Neumann TLM 102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone for your podcasting needs, the Neumann TLM 102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone might be the perfect choice for you.
Neumann TLM 102 Pros
- The genuine Neumann large diaphragm capsule ensures excellent sound quality and clarity.
- The transformerless circuitry allows for high SPLs without distortion, making it suitable for recording loud instruments like drums.
- The gentle treble lift provides silky highs, which is ideal for capturing vocals and acoustic guitars.
Neumann TLM 102 Cons
- The microphone is quite expensive, which may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
- It requires an XLR cable and phantom power, which may not be suitable for beginners who are not familiar with audio equipment.
- It is a cardioid microphone, which means it picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the back and sides, so it may not be suitable for recording multiple speakers or instruments simultaneously.
The Neumann TLM 102 is a compact microphone that delivers excellent sound quality, making it ideal for professional podcasting and recording needs.
The microphone’s large diaphragm capsule ensures that your voice or instrument is captured with clarity and precision, while the transformerless circuitry allows for high SPLs without distortion.
The gentle treble lift provides silky highs, which is perfect for capturing vocals and acoustic guitars.
However, the microphone is quite expensive, which may not be suitable for those on a tight budget. Additionally, it requires an XLR cable and phantom power, which may not be suitable for beginners who are not familiar with audio equipment.
Lastly, it is a cardioid microphone, which means it picks up sound from the front and rejects sound from the back and sides, so it may not be suitable for recording multiple speakers or instruments simultaneously.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that delivers excellent sound quality and clarity, the Neumann TLM 102 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is an excellent choice.
Elgato Wave:3
If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone for podcasting, streaming, or gaming, the Elgato Wave:3 is a great choice.
Elgato Wave:3 Pros
- The cardioid condenser capsule captures speech with clarity and detail.
- The Wave Link app allows you to control Wave:3 and up to eight other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes.
- The 24-bit/96kHz analog-to-digital converter provides professional broadcast audio quality.
Elgato Wave:3 Cons
- The microphone is a bit heavy, which may make it less portable than some other options.
- Some users have reported issues with the software over two different computers.
- It may not be the best option for beginners who are just starting out with podcasting or streaming.
The Elgato Wave:3 is a premium microphone and digital mixing solution that fuses plug-and-play convenience with broadcast-grade circuitry.
It features proprietary anti-distortion technology that makes distortion virtually impossible and superior circuitry that ensures seamless sonic transmission throughout the entire signal chain.
The microphone also comes with a range of features that make it ideal for podcasting, streaming, and gaming.
The cardioid condenser capsule captures speech with clarity and detail, while the Wave Link app allows you to control Wave:3 and up to eight other audio sources, plus create two independent mixes.
Additionally, the 24-bit/96kHz analog-to-digital converter provides professional broadcast audio quality.
While the Elgato Wave:3 is a great choice for those who are serious about podcasting, streaming, or gaming, it may not be the best option for beginners who are just starting out.
Additionally, some users have reported issues with the software over two different computers, which may be a concern for some users.
However, if you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that delivers great sound and is packed with features, the Elgato Wave:3 is definitely worth considering.
HyperX QuadCast S
If you’re in the market for a high-quality microphone for podcasting, streaming, or gaming, the HyperX QuadCast S is definitely worth considering.
With its stunning RGB lighting and customizable effects, this mic looks as good as it sounds.
HyperX QuadCast S Pros
- Personalize stunning RGB lighting and dynamic effects for an eye-catching shot of customizable style.
- Isolate the mic and suppress the sound of unintentional rumbles and bumps with the elastic rope suspension.
- Choose between four polar patterns (stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional) to optimize your broadcast setup and keep the focus on the sounds you want to be heard.
HyperX QuadCast S Cons
- The price point may be a bit high for some buyers.
- The included mount adapter may not work with all mic stands.
- The RGB lighting may be distracting for some users.
With its anti-vibration shock mount and built-in pop filter, the HyperX QuadCast S does an excellent job of minimizing unwanted noise and delivering clear, professional-quality audio.
The tap-to-mute sensor and LED status indicator make it easy to avoid broadcasting accidents, and the gain control dial allows you to quickly adjust input sensitivity.
Whether you’re connecting to a PC, PS4, or Mac, the QuadCast S is multi-platform compatible and works with major streaming platforms like Streamlabs OBS, OBS Studio, and XSplit.
Plus, it’s certified by Discord and TeamSpeak, so you can be sure your microphone is broadcasting loud and clear for all your followers and listeners.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality microphone that both looks great and sounds great, the HyperX QuadCast S is an excellent choice.
TONOR USB Microphone
If you’re in the market for an affordable yet high-quality microphone for podcasting, streaming, or recording, the TONOR USB Microphone is an excellent choice.
TONOR USB Microphone Pros
- The TONOR USB Microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern that captures clear, smooth, and crisp sound in front of the microphone while suppressing unwanted background noise.
- This mic is incredibly easy to install; all you need to do is unfold the three-legged stand and adjust the position of the pop filter.
- The shock mount can be unscrewed and attached to a boom stand with a 5/8” threaded insert directly, making it incredibly versatile.
TONOR USB Microphone Cons
- Some users have reported that the mic can distort out of the box, but this can be fixed by lowering the input volume to 80.
- The mount springs can pick up vibration, which can be a problem for some users.
- The TONOR USB Microphone does not pick up lows from the voice that well, which may require VST or post-processing.
The TONOR USB Microphone is an affordable and easy-to-use option for those looking for a high-quality microphone for podcasting, streaming, or recording.
The cardioid pickup pattern ensures that your voice is captured clearly and smoothly, while the pop filter helps to suppress unwanted background noise. The shock mount is versatile and can be attached to a boom stand with a 5/8” threaded insert directly.
Overall, the TONOR USB Microphone is a great option for those looking for a high-quality microphone without breaking the bank.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best microphone for podcasting, there are a few factors you should consider.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you make your decision:
Type of Microphone
There are several types of microphones to choose from, including dynamic, condenser, and ribbon.
Dynamic microphones are durable and can handle loud sounds, making them a good choice for recording in noisy environments.
Condenser microphones are more sensitive and offer a wider frequency response, making them a good choice for recording vocals and acoustic instruments.
Ribbon microphones are known for their warm, natural sound and are often used in professional recording studios.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern of a microphone refers to the direction in which it picks up sound. Some common polar patterns include cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional.
Cardioid microphones pick up sound from the front and reject sound from the sides and rear, making them a good choice for recording a single person or instrument.
Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound from all directions, making them a good choice for recording a group of people or a room.
Bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and rear and reject sound from the sides, making them a good choice for recording a conversation between two people.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone refers to the range of frequencies it can pick up.
A microphone with a wider frequency response will be able to capture more detail in the sound, while a microphone with a narrower frequency response may sound more focused.
Look for a microphone with a flat frequency response, which means it picks up all frequencies evenly, for the most natural sound.
Other Features
Other features to consider when choosing a microphone for podcasting include:
- Sensitivity: A more sensitive microphone will pick up more detail in the sound, but may also pick up more background noise.
- Impedance: The impedance of a microphone should match that of your recording equipment for the best sound quality.
- Connectivity: Consider whether you need a microphone with a USB or XLR connection, depending on your recording setup.
- Accessories: Look for a microphone that comes with a stand, shock mount, and/or pop filter to improve sound quality and reduce noise.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best microphone for your podcasting needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of microphone is best for podcasting?
The type of microphone that is best for podcasting is a dynamic microphone. It is designed to capture sound from a close distance and eliminate background noise.
This type of microphone is ideal for recording speech and can provide clear and crisp sound quality.
What is the microphone that Joe Rogan uses?
Joe Rogan uses the Shure SM7B microphone for his podcast. This microphone is a dynamic microphone that is known for its ability to capture high-quality sound.
It is a popular choice among podcasters and is considered one of the best microphones for podcasting.
What is the best microphone for two people podcast?
The best microphone for a two-person podcast is the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+. This microphone is a condenser microphone that is designed to capture sound from multiple sources.
It is also equipped with a headphone jack, which allows both speakers to monitor their audio levels.
Is Blue Yeti Mic good for podcasts?
The Blue Yeti microphone is a popular choice for podcasting, but it may not be the best option for everyone.
While it is a versatile microphone that can capture sound from multiple directions, it may also pick up background noise.
If you are recording in a noisy environment, a dynamic microphone may be a better choice.
Which are the best podcasting microphone brands?
Some of the best podcasting microphone brands include Shure, Audio-Technica, Rode, and Blue.
These brands offer a range of microphones that are designed specifically for podcasting and can provide high-quality sound.
How much should I spend on a podcasting microphone?
The amount you should spend on a podcasting microphone depends on your budget and your needs.
While there are microphones available for less than $100, investing in a higher-end microphone can provide better sound quality and durability.
A good quality podcasting microphone can range from $200 to $500.
