According to information released by Apple at the WWDC in June 2018, there are more than 550,000 podcasts out there for people to listen to and it continues to grow.
The growth of podcasts has given anybody a medium to tell their stories, build a community and connect with other people with similar interests in ways that traditional radio never could.
If you have an interest in starting a podcast or even a YouTube channel, you are obviously going to need some equipment to get started. The first major piece of hardware is going to be a microphone, without one of these, your podcast is going nowhere fast.
To help get you started, we wanted to look at some of the podcast microphones available today and highlight the ones that we thought offered the best value and the best quality for the price. First, though, we’re going to start with what you should consider first before buying anything.
If you’re ready, hit that record button and let’s get started.
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What to Consider Before Buying a Podcast Microphone
Directional Capability
The directional capability of a microphone explains how the microphone can pick up sounds from any direction. In other words, it means that they can pick up any unwanted sounds that you might not want to show up on your podcast. Now while there are some that can pick up sounds from any direction, there are others that will only pick up sounds from certain directions. Let’s look at the differences.
- Omni-directional -The Omni part of omnidirectional refers to the fact that these types of microphones can pick up sound from virtually any direction and can easily pick up unwanted noises. These types of microphones are best for reporting or broadcasting and not for a podcast.
- Bi-directional– Bi-directional podcast mics are those that can pick up sounds from different sides. These types of microphones can be very popular with podcasts, especially those doing interviews but not especially popular with those doing amateur music recording. These types of microphones can cost hundreds of dollars but remain one of the most expensive microphones out there today.
- Cardioids – Cardioid microphones are heart-shaped and only pick up sounds from the front direction and can also capture some sounds from the sides. These types of podcast microphones continue to be one of the most popular types for recording music. This type of podcast microphone is a Condenser-USB type of podcast mic.
- Shotgun – A unique microphone because these types of mics feature a cardioid polar pattern that is highly directional and can yield great attenuation at the sides of the mic while maximizing the sounds that are captured at the front. Many videographers will use these types of microphones and mount them on to a DSLR. A shotgun mic comes with the best ratio for signal-to-noise as well as producing the most accurate sound that is captured by the front of the mic.
Microphone impedance
Referring to the receptiveness ability of the microphone, especially when it comes to a sound signal or AC current. This is measured in Ohms and a podcast microphone with an impedance rating of 600 Ohms or lower is what you want to look for. These will have better audio retaining capabilities. You want to make sure you pay attention to this rating because a higher rating could indicate that the other components in the microphone may be of lesser quality.
Frequency response
Many manufacturers of podcast mics will clearly label on the packaging the frequency response of their products. The frequency response Is the range of frequencies at which the mic can detect and pick up audio sounds. Knowing what frequency response pales in comparison to knowing the specific frequencies at which your mic will capture sounds. Because of this, when you buy a microphone, consider what you are recording. You should choose a mic with a mid or high-frequency response if you are recording vocals and guitars but choose a low-frequency option if you are recording for bass.
Durability
With just about any product that you purchase regardless if it’s for your business or your home, you want the product to be durable and last for a good amount of time. Condenser-USB mics tend to be complexly designed and any shocks or drops might damage the mic. If you’re prone to dropping or abusing mics, you may want to choose a Dynamic podcast microphone as they tend to be more durable.
Price
With podcast microphones, dynamic mics provide great value and have sturdy construction and can last for several years. The only downside is that once they have been damaged, it can be hard to get replacement parts. Conversely, USB-Condenser microphones can be fragile and get damaged easily, but some shops may carry parts for them, keeping you from having to replace it.
Types of Podcast Microphone
When you go shopping for a podcast mic, there can be a couple of options for you to choose from and unless you know what each is and how to use them, it can get confusing. We wanted to highlight theses quickly to give you the information you need.
USB – A USB microphone works no differently than any other USB-enabled device that you plug into your computer or laptop. Once you take it out of the box and plug it in, with a recording software such as Audition or Audacity, you can get started right away.
XLR – These types of microphones use an XLR cable to plug into an audio interface, which is a hub that allows you to plug XLR cables into it and then the interface hooks up to your computer via USB. For someone who might just be starting out, you may want to keep things more simple with a USB mic. However, those looking for superior sound quality may want to invest in this type.
Best Podcast Mics for Starting a Podcast or YouTube Channel in 2019
The best podcast microphone is a combination of value, performance, and ease of use.
For our list of the Best Podcast Mics for Starting a Podcast in 2019, we wanted to shine a spotlight on those that had a combination of all three that you can use to start your podcast right away. There is a microphone for any budget, ranging from $270 to under $50!
- PR-40 Dynamic Studio Recording Microphone by Heil $270
- NT1-A Condenser Microphone by RODE $220
- PROcaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone by RODE $230
- Yeti USB Microphone by Blue Microphones $97
- HyperX Quadcast Microphone by HyperX $140
- Samson Go Portable Microphone by Samson $37
- Razer Seiren Elite by Razer $180
- ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamics USB XLR by Audio-Technica $63
- Snowball IiCE Condenser Microphone by Blue Microphones $30
- AT2020 USB Plus by Audio Technica $130
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PR-40 Dynamic Studio Recording Microphone by Heil
If you were to ask many of the more popular podcasters out there, many of them would tout the PR-40 by Heil as their go-to podcast recording microphone. Many of these people hype up the sound quality that this mic can deliver, and while the quality is good, it seems that popularity has overhyped this mic. A dynamic microphone, it is a great fit if you are recording in a non-professional environment and is certainly worth a try but if you’re just starting out, can be expensive. If you can afford it, give it a go and decide if it’s right for you.
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- Generating element: Copper-wound dynamic with neodymium magnet structure
- Body: Steel body with zinc die-cast bottom ring
- Frequency response: 28Hz to 18kHz
- Impedance: 600 ohms balanced
- Output level: -53.9dB @ 1,000 Hz
NT1-A Condenser Microphone by Rode
An XLR microphone, the NT1-A from Rode has super-low noise and rich sound. Featuring a large 1” capsule with a gold-plated diaphragm, wide dynamic range, and cardioid polar pattern, the quality shines through. When compared to some of the other professional level podcast mics out there, the reasonably-priced NT1-A is a good choice for those who may have been running a podcast as an amateur but are now looking to go pro. With this mic and a mixer/interface to plug it into, you could be sounding like a pro in no time.
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- Amazon as the seller is the ONLY authorized Fulfilled by Amazon Dealer, and purchases from unauthorized dealers carry No Warranty
- Delivers a warmth, extended dynamic range, and high SPL capability typical of more expensive offerings
- An incredible self-noise level of only 5dBA makes this an extremely quiet studio microphone
- The low noise makes it an ideal vocal microphone as well as perfect for recording guitars and percussion
- Includes everything you need to get a truly professional vocal recording and is ideal for home studio recording
PROcaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone by Rode
With its robust, all-metal construction, the PROcaster microphone by Rode has the features that any podcaster could want including broadcast sound quality, a high output dynamic capsule, an internal shock mounting of the capsule for low handling noise and an internal pop-filter in order to reduce plosives. Designed and built for podcasting, the quality that the PROcaster offers can come at a price, but it is one of the best microphones available.
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- Featuring a tight polar pattern and tailored-for-voice frequency response
- Perfect for every application where a great sounding, rugged microphone with superior ambient noise
- Internal shock mounting of capsule for low handling noise
- Internal pop-filter to reduce plosives
- Includes stand mount, 3/8 inch adaptor and zip pouch
Yeti USB Microphone by Blue Microphones
The Yeti Microphone is one of the most popular podcasting microphones available today. Whether you’ve been podcasting for a year or a week, the Yeti is one of the easiest out-of-the-box and press record options out there. Features that allow you to record in a variety of situations thanks to the three different condenser capsules in one, and the option to either use the microphone while plugged into your computer via USB or you can upgrade and use the XLR output for better sound quality. These features along with a reasonable price will make this a popular option for a long time to come.
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- Tri-capsule array - 3 condenser capsules can record almost any situation
- Multiple pattern selection - cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
- Gain control, mute button, zero-latency headphone output
- Perfect for vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, conference calls
- Compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8 (including 8.1), Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP (Home and Professional), and Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher), and requires a minimum of 64 MB of RAM(remove...
HyperX Quadcast Microphone by HyperX
In podcasting, plosive sounds such as when you say words with p, pf and others can cause an issue with the audio, which why many podcasters will use a pop filter to reduce their effect. With the HyperX Quadcast Microphone by HyperX, there is no need for a pop filter as the mic has a form-like material behind the grill reduce the effects those plosive sounds cause. With a grill that lights up, you’ll always know when the mic is on and a touchpad at the top of the mic will mute it, which can be handy especially if you live with other people or want to say something “off-air”.
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- Anti-vibration shock mount
- Tap-to-mute sensor with LED indicator
- Four selectable polar patterns
- Mount adapter included
- Convenient gain control adjustment
Go Portable Microphone by Samson
Depending on the type of podcast you’re doing, you may not always be able to sit in your home studio and record an episode or invite a guest over. You might have to interview them when at their office or in public. In these cases, microphones like the Go Portable Microphone by Samson are perfect to add to your bag on your way out the door. With a cardioid polar pattern for the up close recording of interviews and an omnidirectional polar pattern for recording in a large area such as a keynote speaker. The compact, handheld little device is relatively inexpensive that should be in every podcaster’s arsenal.
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- Compact and portable USB studio condenser microphone
- Unique, fold up design with integral clip makes the microphone extremely portable and ideal for most recording solutions, especially for mobile laptop recording
- Selectable Dual pickup patterns (cardioid and omnidirectional) make it ideal for recording voice, conferences, acoustic instruments and for just about any other sound source
- The onboard headphone amplifier allows you to listen to your recording directly from the microphone, plus you can use the output to connect powered speakers
- Computer controlled analog input gain with peak LED makes it easy to set the proper level and get a clean signal
Razer Seiren Elite by Razer
Razer, a company that is better known as a manufacturer of PC mice and keyboards for gamers, takes a step further into their product offerings with the Seiren Elite, a quality microphone for podcasters. With a cardioid pattern, this dynamic mic has a frequency range of 50 to 20kHz and a high pass filter to make the sound quality much better than their previous entry. With an onboard gain and volume control, as well as a mute button, the Seiren Elite is a streaming mic that podcasters should start taking notice of.
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- Professional Grade - Single dynamic capsule ensures minimal electronic interference for a richer, warmer and true to life broadcasting experience
- Built in High-Pass Filter - Cuts out unwanted low-frequency vibrations (footsteps or the rumbles of an air conditioner) to provide only the cleanest recording signals
- Digital/Analog Vocal Limiter
- 16-bit/48kHZ Resolution
- Zero Latency Monitoring
ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamics USB/XLR by Audio-Technica
The heart-shaped (cardioid) polar range helps this handheld microphone eliminate any unwanted noises in the background from behind you and from the sides that may ruin your recording. The ATR2100 is an affordable podcasting microphone for those just getting started and comes with a built-in headphone jack so you can listen back to the output from the mic without any delays. While the polar range will give you the clarity you may be searching for, because it’s a dynamic mic, the warmth will not be there.
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- Handheld dynamic microphone with USB digital output and XLR analog output
- USB output connects to your computer for digital recording, while the XLR output connects with your sound system conventional microphone input for use in live performance
- Smooth, extended frequency response ideally suited for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, voiceover, and on-stage use
- Built-in headphone jack allows you to directly monitor your microphone output without audible delay
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear. System requirements- Macintosh MAC OS X, USB 1.0 or 2.0, 64 MB RAM minimum, Windows XP/Vista/Windows 7, USB 1.0 or...
Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone by Blue Microphones
For many podcasters, having a mic not only lets them record a podcast episode but also allows them to conduct interviews through real-time chatting services like Skype and Google Hangouts with crystal clear audio. The Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone by Blue Microphones has a custom condenser that helps that audio sound as good as possible. A USB mic, you can easily plug it in and start recording. The best part is that this quality podcast microphone won’t break your budget, making it a great first or even back up option.
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- Custom condenser capsule offers crystal clear audio for Skype, Messages and FaceTime
- Record vocals, create podcasts, and add narration to your home movies
- Add crystal clear audio to recordings for YouTube. Frequency Response: 40 -18 kHz
- Easy plug and play directly to your Mac or PC-no drivers to install
- Snowball iCE is a USB 2.0 device (USB 3.0 compatible as per USB 3.0 backward compatibility specification).Sample/word Rate: 44.1 kHz/16 bit
AT2020 by Audio Technica
Favored by many podcasters out there, the AT2020 by Audio Technica is a perfect podcasting microphone if you are recording from your home studio as it has high SPL handling and unmatched versatility with its wide dynamic range. It isolates background noise from the desired source with its cardioid polar pattern, reducing noise from the sides and the rear of the mic. A custom engineered low-mass diaphragm also helps to provide an extended frequency response as well as superior transient response making it no wonder why it is favored so much.
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Latest Price on Amazon:
- Condenser microphone with USB output for digital recording
- High quality A/D converter with 16 bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling rate for superb audio
- Headphone jack with volume control allows you to monitor the microphone signal with no delay
- High-output internal headphone amplifier delivers superior clarity and musical detail as well as mor
- Tripod desk stand with folding legs for secure and easily portable tabletop use
Best Mic for Starting a Podcast or YouTube channel 2019
When you decide to start a podcast, it can be a bit daunting when you first look around at the equipment that is available. Luckily, we wanted to help you out and provide you with a list of our choices of podcast mics you should consider.
There are a lot of options out there that we didn’t cover.
Here they are summarised again:
- PR-40 Dynamic Studio Recording Microphone by Heil $270
- NT1-A Condenser Microphone by RODE $220
- PROcaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone by RODE $230
- Yeti USB Microphone by Blue Microphones $97
- HyperX Quadcast Microphone by HyperX $140
- Samson Go Portable Microphone by Samson $37
- Razer Seiren Elite by Razer $180
- ATR2100-USB Cardioid Dynamics USB XLR by Audio-Technica $63
- Snowball IiCE Condenser Microphone by Blue Microphones $30
- AT2020 USB Plus by Audio Technica $130
Do you have a podcast? What mic do you use with your podcast? Let us know in the comments below!
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