The Ultimate Guide to the Best Microphones for Podcasting

Podcasting is a dynamic way to share stories, insights, and expertise with an audience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your setup, the microphone you choose can make a significant difference in sound quality. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best microphones for podcasting, tailored to different budgets and needs.

Why Your Microphone is so Important

Sound quality is crucial in podcasting. A great microphone can elevate your content and keep listeners engaged, while a poor-quality mic can lead to frustration and disinterest. Factors like background noise reduction, frequency response, and ease of use should all be considered when selecting your microphone.

Best Microphones for Podcasting

Budget-Friendly Options

• Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone 
• Price: $99.00
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: XLR
• Why We Love It: This versatile microphone is perfect for podcasting and at an affordable price. Its cardioid pickup pattern and built in pop filter helps minimize background noise, making it ideal for home studios.
• Cons: Since this is an XLR connection you would need to purchase an audio interface as well as XLR connections cannot go directly into your computer. 
• Tascam TM-70 Dynamic Microphone
• Price: $99.00
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: XLR
• Why We Love It: The Tascam TM-70 microphone has a super cardioid polar pattern which adapts to the environment so the voice is more clear and prominent for an easier mix. GIving you more of your voice and less of the room and background noise that goes with it. 
• Cons: Since this is an XLR connection you would need to purchase an audio interface as well as XLR connections cannot go directly into your computer. 

Mid-Range Marvels

• Shure MV7+
• Price: $279
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: USB/XLR
• Why We Love It: Inspired by the legendary SM7B, the MV7+ offers both USB and XLR options and is a dynamic microphone built for discerning podcasters. This updated microphone offers USB-C and XLR outputs, an improved Auto Level Mode, as well as a new digital built in pop filter, real-time Denoiser and reverb effects. 
• Cons: In our opinion none!
• Rode PodMic USB Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
• Price: $199
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: USB/XLR
• Why We Love It: The PodMic USB is an ultra-versatile dynamic microphone ideal for podcasting. It delivers rich, full-bodied sound and features both an XLR and USB output for connecting to an audio interface or mixer like a classic broadcast microphone, or directly to a computer for plug-and-play recording. The digital USB output features RØDE’s ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp™ and powerful APHEX® digital signal processing for capturing studio-quality sound with ease.
• Cons: Does not come with XLR cables if you do want to use the XLR connectivity 

Professional Powerhouses

• Shure SM7DB
• Price: $499
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: XLR
• Why We Love It: The Shure SM7DB has the renowned Shure sound but with the addition of a built in preamp. This provides up to 28 dB of low-noise, flat, transparent gain ideal for almost any podcast set up. 
• Cons: Since this is an XLR connection you would need to purchase an audio interface as well as XLR connections cannot go directly into your computer.
• Shure SM7B
• Price: $399
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: XLR
• Why We Love It: The SM7B is a favorite among professionals for a reason. Its warm sound and excellent background noise rejection make it ideal for podcasting. While it requires a quality audio interface or mixer with sufficient gain, the sound quality is worth the investment.
• Heil PR40 Microphone
• Price: $349-$399
• Type: Dynamic
• Connectivity: XLR
• Why We Love It: This microphone offers a wide frequency response and excels in capturing voice without unwanted background noise. It’s robust and designed specifically for professional-grade audio. It also comes in multiple colors to allow your Podcast personality to really shine!
• Cons: Does not come with XLR cables if you do want to use the XLR connectivity 

Tips for Choosing the Right Microphone

• Assess Your Environment: Consider where you’ll be recording. If you’re in a noisy space, a dynamic microphone with a cardioid pattern is your best bet. In addition it may be beneficial to add some acoustic panels to your space to capture and absorb unwanted sounds and to ensure a more seamless experience for your audience.
• Think About Your Setup: If you want plug-and-play convenience, USB mics are great and allow you to just plug straight into your computer. If you’re aiming for a professional setup, opt for XLR mics. Just remember that you will need an audio interface to collect the sound and deliver it to your computer. 
• Don’t Forget Accessories: Pop filters, shock mounts, and boom arms can enhance your recording quality, so factor these into your budget.

Conclusion

Choosing the right microphone for your podcast can transform your audio quality and overall listener experience. From budget-friendly options like the Rode PodMic to professional-grade mics like the Shure SM7db, there’s something for everyone. Assess your needs, do your research, and invest in a microphone that will help your podcast shine. Happy podcasting!