Our Favorite Podcast Microphones

Our Favorite Podcast Microphones

Testing 1, 2, 3. Is this thing on? Today, we're discussing the attributes of the best podcast microphones. As a podcaster, you have an advantage over the production of other social formats, such as video for example. You do not need to worry if you’re getting the shot, or even deciding on establishing the shot.You do not have to fret about lighting, or framing a scene. Your concern is with sound, and how your voice and those you interview will sound. This concern can be your friend, or your nemesis. In today’s technology market there is no excuse for poor quality when it comes to recording.

With a plethora of gear and applications, I can imagine your head may be spinning right about now. It can all add up in the good ol’ wallet department too, but don’t stress, there are a variety of microphone options to serve your needs.To keep it simple we're highlighting four of our favorite podcast microphones. Hopefully, by checking out this list you will have a better understanding of what you have, what you need, and what you can afford.

Our Favorite Podcast Microphones

The ATR 2100x is both an XLR and USB dynamic microphone that packs a big punch. Don’t be fooled by its price. A perfect mic for podcasters, the ATR2100x-USB captures high-quality sound with its 192kHz sampling rate and low self noise. There's a headphone jack on the mic, so you can directly monitor incoming and outgoing sound.

Features:

  • Connection via XLR or USB

  • High-quality A/D conversion up to 192kHz sampling rate

  • Cardioid polar pattern rejects unwanted noise from the back and sides

  • Built-in headphone jack

  • Desktop stand included

  • Ships with a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-C to USB-A cable

The Shure SM58, the quintessential vocal microphone that can be seen on stages and in recording studios across the world. This microphone does a great job at rejecting background noise and has a frequency response that emphasizes the human voice. It’s also really rugged. It can be dropped and banged around and will still work flawlessly.

Features:

  • Bright midrange that’s tailored to boost the human voice

  • Cardioid polar pattern

  • Low handling noise

  • Rugged

Rode PodMic - Cardioid Dynamic Podcast Microphone 

The Rode PodMic is a broadcast quality microphone that was literally built by Rode for podcasters. One really cool feature is that it has an anti-plosive build, so you don’t have to worry about getting a pop blocker or popping your p’s. The PodMic is designed to enhance your voice and deliver that up close, rich, broadcast tone. 

Features: 

  • Handles loud and quiet sounds

  • All metal construction 

  • Internal shock mounting 

  • Lightweight 

First and foremost, the Shure SM7Blooks badass. You’ve probably seen your favorite podcaster or YouTube personality using this mic. It looks great on camera. With this baby you can capture crisp, upfront vocals that will shine in your mix. Like the Rode PodMic, the SM7B also has a built-in pop filter so you don’t have to worry about buying a pop blocker. This microphone does an excellent job of rejecting outside noise, so you don’t have to worry about that fan of yours or the hum of your air conditioning ruining a good podcast.

Features:

  • Shielding against broadband interference 

  • Flat frequency response

  • Internal shock mount

  • Built-in pop blocker

All four of these are great podcast microphones. Anyone worth their salt in podcasting will know of these microphones and has probably used one of them. Another consideration when purchasing your podcast microphone will be how it connects to the device you are capturing audio in. The microphones above use XLR connectors. The XLR Cable is the 3-pin cable that connects to connectors and audio interfaces.Some dynamic mics can also connect via USB and plug directly into your computer. If you want simplicity, the Rode NT-USB Mini is a rad dynamic mic that will sound solid for recording podcasts.* We review products independently and cover products that we think will add value to podcasters, many of which we personally use. We may receive a small commission if you choose to purchase a product from any of the links above.

  Let's Recap

There are a lot of microphones out there. With this information in mind, take the time to look through the various brands/reviews, how much they cost vs. what you can afford, and how they connect.You are starting out, so don’t be afraid to try something with a lower cost, and then buy something better down the line if you feel you need to. If your wallet says you can afford it, then buy the best one for your needs, and check that worry off your to-do list right away. 

Once you have a good microphone, you can move onto setting up your space, picking the DAW or recorder that works best for you, and actually record your show. You’re on your way to getting your words, your message, and your podcast out there to the masses. Now pass the drumsticks. 

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