Best Podcast Microphones of 2023

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Shopping for the right microphone can an exciting, and nerve-wrecking, experience.  Personally, I feel like an 8 year-old every time I start shopping for new gear. Recording quality audio is an vital part of almost all content creation – but this is especially true for a podcast. Having the right tools is a must. But with so many options on the market, finding the right microphone for your podcast setup can be an overwhelming task. We did a little research to help you narrow your list and find the right match.

Whether you’re an experienced podcaster or just starting your journey, the Shure SM7B, Blue Yeti, Rode PodMic, Audio Technica ATR2100x, and the Scarlett Focusrite 2i2 bundle are excellent options. These five models can accommodate any kind of buyer, regardless of skill level, budget, or technical limitations. As you look through the list of microphones, try to think about what you need for your unique situation and use that as a guide to further explore one of these options.

Table of Content:

Best Overall Podcast Microphone – Shure SM7B

Best Beginner Podcast Microphone – Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti

Best Budget Podcast Microphone – Audio Technica ATR2100x

Best USB Podcast Microphone – Rode PodMic

Best Podcast Equipment Bundle – Scarlett Focusrite 2i2 Bundle

Best Podcast Microphone For Beginners

Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti

The Blue Yeti is a popular choice among podcasters, streamers, and content creators. This condenser USB microphone is the perfect choice for someone who wants a simple “plug-and-play” recording set-up. This option is also great for beginners who may not be as well versed with audio hardware. The Blue Yeti comes in a variety of colors for you to choose from.

The microphone comes with a pop filter to help you with those words with heavy plosives. For those wondering what a plosive is, it’s basically a word that produces a lot of air and a “popping” sound that can be harsh on your audio when you record. Pop filters basically help smooth out your audio from some of the natural imperfections that are bound to happen. 

Pros: Simple, affordable, a variety of color options

Cons: Can be sensitive to background noise

Best Budget Podcast Microphone

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

For our readers looking for a budget-friendly option, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is an excellent choice. This dynamic microphone offers a USB and XLR output, allowing you to plug your mic directly into your computer or an audio interface. The ATR2100x-USB does a great job with minimizing unwanted background noise. It also includes a built-in headphone jack for real-time monitoring, ensuring precise audio control while you record. This is also a great options for creatives looking to record interviews/content on-the-go.

With its solid build and plug-and-play option, the ATR2100x-USB is a reliable, durable, and user-friendly microphone for all experience levels. Although the microphone is a great investment, the stand that it comes with is not the best. You may want to consider purchasing a different stand depending on your recording needs.

Pros: Most affordable option, durable, adaptable

Cons: Accompanying mic stand needs improvement

Best USB Podcast Microphone

Rode PodMic

Although it was made specifically for podcasting, Rode’s PodMic can deliver quality sound for any audio project. This dynamic USB microphone is highly regarded by creators for the extremely crisp vocals and affordable price. With both USB and XLR outputs, you can plug into your computer or an audio interface with ease.

Additionally, the PodMic also has an internal pop filter that effectively reduces plosive sounds. The weight of this one will impress you, and though we pray you never drop your mic, you can feel a little safer knowing that it has a durable, all-metal build. 

Pros: Simple, Sturdy build

Cons: The built-in shock mount could be better

Best Podcast Equipment Bundle

Scarlett Focusrite USB Audio Interface Bundle

Scarlett Focusrite Audio Interface Bundle is perfect for the creator that is looking to build a home studio on a budget. This comes with Focusrite’s beloved 2i2 Audio Interface, their CM25 MkIII mic, SH-450 headphones, and the required USB and XLR cable. The audio interface has two inputs/outputs, which is ideal for musicians looking to sing and play at the same time.

Above all, this is a user-friendly option for podcasters looking to step up from USB microphones. This was the first bundle that I purchased as a college student and it gave me everything that I needed to record (music) in my dorm room. Not to mention it was incredibly easy to set-up and break down. I actually still have the entire set-up except for my headphones, which only recently died on me after almost a decade of excessive use. The only other items that you would need to complete your home studio are a stand and a pop filter

Pros: Incredible value, studio in a box, Excellent interface

Cons: None

Best Overall Podcast Microphone

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone favored by professional musicians, podcasters, and streamers. This mic is loved by many for its warm and rich sound. This microphone can accommodate a wide range of vocal tones, making it a great match for anyone wanting to improve the quality of their audio.

Admittedly, this is also the microphone that I use for my content. I’ve had it since January and I absolutely love it. Although it requires an audio interface and XLR cable, this has a plug-and-play feel to it and produces a rich tone that I haven’t found any microphone that I’ve bought in the past. Although the price tag is seems steep compared to the other options – the value is certainly worth the money if your budget allows it. There’s a reason this microphone has become the standard for so many podcasters.

Pros: Rich sound, trusted brand, sturdy build

Cons: Price

What are the different types of microphones?

The most common terms you’ll probably come across are “dynamic” or “condenser” microphones.

Do I need different mics for different things?

Yes and no. If you plan to use your microphone live setting and in different environments, you may want to consider a dynamic microphone. They’re adaptable and can be used for a ton of things.

If you plan to put your microphone in a studio space and record music or vocals, we would recommend going with a condenser microphone. These are more sensitive to the voice, but need to be used in controlled environments. We’ll explain that more in another blog.

What makes a microphone “good”?

This is going to vary from person to person. Everyone has different needs.

We selected these microphones based off of the options that offered the best quality and value. 

What other items will I need with my microphone?

You’ll need a mic stand, headphones, an audio interface (if you’re not using a USB microphone), and a pop filter to help you with those plosive words that we mentioned earlier. You may also want to consider purchasing a filter for vocal isolation if you’re recording in a space like a dorm room.

I found the right mic for me! How can I take care of it?

You can follow simple steps to take care of the equipment that you’ve invested your money in. First, keep liquids away from your equipment. Dust can affect your microphone’s audio quality. So if you anticipate an extended period of time passing in-between recording sessions, consider packing your equipment away. 

I hope this list helps you find the right microphone for you! At the end of the day – the best microphone won’t help a bad podcast. If you have taken the steps to produce a solid show, then good equipment (and a little technical knowledge) will simply help elevate your final product.

For more reviews, tips, and other resources check out our blog!

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