Below we’ve outlined the best podcast mics and microphone stands starting as low as $20 to help you record a quality podcast.
Why is a Good Microphone Essential for Podcasting?
Having a good microphone when recording a podcast is essential in connecting with your audience to achieve a professional sound. A lot of podcast listeners judge the podcast within the first few seconds based on the sound quality. If the sound is poor, more times than not those people won’t want to listen to the entire podcast, even if they’re interested in the topic. High quality sound keeps your audience engaged and shows that you truly care about the product you are putting out. Top quality audio doesn’t have to break the bank; you just need a good recording space and a good microphone.
Why Do You Need a Good Recording Space for Podcasting?
Even the quietest background noises are noticeable on a recording, so it is important to make sure that the space is ventilated, quiet, and lacks excess noise. It helps if the space is soundproofed, but that is not completely necessary to make a good podcast recording. Moving closer to your microphone can help make your voice louder in relation to the other noises around you. Upgrading to a higher-quality microphone can also help eliminate background noise.
Best Wireless Microphones
- Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
- $79
- Designed for content creation
- Has two outputs: one to connect to a computer for digital recording and another to connect to a sound system for live performance use
- Versatile, easy to use, and can capture both high and low frequencies
- Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
- $399
- Smooth audio in close proximity
- Best sound quality regardless or noise level without distorting your voice
- Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone
- $32 – $50
- Small yet versatile, perfect for on-the-go use
- Powerful enough to capture clear audio regardless of its size
- Rode Wireless GO
- $200
- Smallest of all the options, still produces great sound quality
- Can clip on the front of a shirt for close-range sound
Best Affordable Podcasting Microphones
- Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone
- $32-50
- Blue Snowball iCE USB Microphone
- $39
- HyperX SoloCast – USB Condenser Gaming Microphone
- $49
- Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
- $79
- Elgato Wave DX
- $99
- Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
- $99
- Rode NT-USB Mini USB Condenser Microphone
- $99
- Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone with Cardioid Plug and Play
- $99
- Blue Yeti USB Microphone
- $103
- Elgato Wave3 Studio Quality USB Condenser Microphone
- $119
Best Premium Podcasting Microphones
- Shure MV7 USB Microphone
- $249
- Blue Sona Active Dynamic XLR Broadcast Microphone
- $279
- Electro-Voice RE320
- $299
- Shure SM7B
- $400
- Electro-Voice RE20
- $450
- Neumann TLM 103
- $1,195
- Neumann U 87 Ai
- $3,695
Best Microphone Stands for Podcasting
- InnoGear Adjustable Desk Microphone Stand
- $27
- Gator Frameworks Deluxe Desktop Microphone Stand with Adjustable Height
- $34 for 6” Base or $14 for 5” Base
- Elgato Wave Mic Arm
- $99
- Gator Frameworks Deluxe Desk-Mounted Broadcast Microphone Boom Stand
- $129
- Rode PSA1 + Desk-mounted Broadcast Microphone Boom Arm
- $129
Which Microphone is Right for You?
So, which microphone is the best for you? Are you looking for a versatile microphone that is easily accessible and can fit everywhere? Or are you looking for the top of the line product that will make you sound like a professional? When it comes to podcasting, producing the best sound possible should be the number one priority. Your listeners want to hear the best sounding podcasts, always. When it comes to a microphone, it boils down to your preferences, needs and budget.
