Do you want to start podcasting? Investing in a good microphone is an essential step. Check out our selection of the best microphones for podcasting and streaming.
Before starting a podcast or streaming adventure, you must have the right equipment to ensure your audience gets the best possible listening experience. In order to begin with confidence, acquiring a good quality microphone is the basis in this field.
The microphone is an essential element for an excellent start to your podcast. However, a number of factors need to be considered beforehand, not least of which is the budget and the specific needs of each individual. What type of equipment will you invest in? What recording format will you use? What kind of microphone best suits you?
There are two types of microphone connections on the market: USB and XLR. Investing in an efficient microphone is the right solution if you are considering a streaming setup. To ensure sufficient sound quality, we recommend investing in a good headset, found in our dedicated guide.
Discover here a selection of the best microphones for podcasting and streaming.
Blue Yeti X USB Microphone for PC
Pros
- Harmonious sound quality
- Four directional modes adjustable
- Extensive software included
Cons
- Labelling of buttons difficult to read
It is one of the leading products in its field. The great strength of the Blue Yeti X is not only its versatility but also its reliability. First, the microphone offers a beautiful construction with a very robust design. You will even find a screw thread to fix the microphone. It also has a micro-USB and a headphone socket.
As far as handling is concerned, the microphone has two buttons. The first button selects the recording mode. There are four different modes, whether alone, in a duo or with several people around the table. The second button provides information about the gain of the voice. If the sound is saturated, the LEDs turn red, and you can simply turn the wheel.
It is also possible to invest in several of the brand’s accessories – although they are quite expensive, they are completely optional. Overall, the audio quality delivered by the Blue Yeti X is good enough for podcasting and streaming.
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone for Broadcast
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Connection via XLR or USB cable
- Many setting options via app
- Easy installation via plug-and-play
Cons
- Price
If you’re looking for the best microphone on the market, look no further. The Shure SM7B is undoubtedly the gold standard for podcasting, streaming and studio recording. But be warned, this is not a product to be placed in everyone’s hands, and for a good reason: it is a bit expensive.
The SM7B is a dynamic microphone with an iconic design. The SM7B is THE product of choice for Twitch streamers and radio presenters. The body of the product is dressed in a beautiful black, and the finishes are good enough to give a rather impressive impression of sturdiness while maintaining a minimalist design.
The XLR cable is also integrated into the microphone design. It will therefore be essential to invest in a good sound card and an amplifier for a high level of sound gain. A necessary investment if you are picky about your sound management. Shure has undoubtedly done a good job of sound management. It even allows for better voice identification.
As you can see, this microphone is a lifetime investment if you are already well into your internet content. The Shure SM7B is an ideal microphone – provided you’ll pay the price.
NEAT Bumblebee II - Professional Cardioid Directional USB Condenser Microphone
Pros
- Transparent sound quality
- Monitor output for headphones
Cons
- No pop shield included
The Bumblebee II from Neat is an exceptionally affordable USB microphone. You get a microphone with no drivers to operate and a simple USB connection for this price. Thanks to the clarity of its voice pickup, it can be used by all streamers, musicians, and podcasters…
The Bumblebee II is a remarkably compact microphone with a solid construction. It comes standard with a solid U-shaped stand but can be attached to any microphone arm on the market. An adapter is included in the box. Using a component is highly recommended, as the base stand has some difficulty isolating shock noise.
This affordable microphone offers excellent quality for its price: the voice is reproduced clearly and warmly, an absolute pleasure. In addition, the capsule is very good at isolating breaths. It is, therefore, particularly suitable for live performances and podcasts.
Shure MV7 USB Microphone for Podcasting
Pros
- Good sound quality
- Connection via XLR or USB cable, headphone connection possible
- Easy installation via plug-and-play
Cons
- Not very robust USB cable
Looking for a versatile product? Shure has several models in its catalogue. Its versatility characterises the MV7: it has a USB socket and an XLR socket. If you use the latter, ensure you have a sound card with the correct input.
In terms of design, the Shure MV7 is sold with no stand and works to its full potential with a stand that can be telescoped. Unfortunately, the accessory does not come with a microphone. A USB port, an audio jack and an XLR socket provide connectivity. This also means the MV7 works with a dedicated PC client and a smartphone application.
The microphone’s audio quality is good, but you can still do some minor editing. Professionals will regret the lack of recording software and will have to turn to third-party solutions. In short, the Shure is excellent, but it’s loaded with extra features that need to be purchased.
RØDE PodMic Broadcast-quality Dynamic Microphone
Pros
- Good, clean sound
- Integrated pop protection
- Very robust construction
- Uncomplicated assembly
Cons
- Low output level
- Relatively high weight
Professional microphones mean high-end equipment. The Rode PodMic is one of the only microphones in our selection with a single XLR plug. When ordering, you can choose between a standard stand or a boom. This will depend on your installation and, above all, on your budget.
Beware, however, that this is a product that should not be used by everyone. Because of its XLR connection, investing in a good sound card is also necessary. If you intend to use this microphone for musical purposes, we recommend investing in the Rode Caster Pro mixer. You may experience some difficulties around the twisting XLR wire when setting up.
The great strength of this Rode PodMic is its audio quality. This dynamic microphone offers great performance, especially for voice recording. Its omnidirectional recording is also ideal for a multi-person podcast. The software is a bit tricky to get used to, but it allows you to manage every element of the sound well.
WHAT ACCESSORIES SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR
As you will have gathered from our selection, most of the selected mics work well independently. However, the addition of accessories is recommended to enhance your use. When it comes to stands, you can choose between a microphone stand and a boom. The Blue boom can do a good job.
It is also possible to improve the sound quality. You can add elements to the microphone head, such as a pop filter. This will prevent mouth noise and also prevent saliva from coming into contact with the microphone.
Finally, the devices in our selection with an XLR connection also require a sound card. However, this is an additional real investment, and it is good to think twice before buying such equipment. For example, an external sound card for the Rode microphone will make it easier to get started.
HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD PODCAST MICROPHONE?
The directionality of a microphone is undoubtedly the most important feature in determining your purchase. In this case, for podcasting and streaming, the cardioid is recommended. It can pick up sound from the front. It is easier to isolate your voice from outside noise with the help of accessories. It is an ideal product for streamers.
The omnidirectional microphone can pick up sound from all sides but with some limitations. These microphones are susceptible to the ambience of the recording room. It is also impossible to isolate one part of the microphone to block out sound from around it. However, on a round table, the microphone will record voices similarly. Perfect for a podcast.
While both types of mics can be suitable for recording podcasts or streaming, it is necessary to detail the differences to help you make a good choice.
Static mics require a power supply and cannot function without one. It is hypersensitive, like a gamer discovering that playing a woman in his favourite video game is possible. Above all, this type of microphone registers the slightest disturbance. If you want to invest in this kind of product, make sure you have a suitable environment.
Widely represented in our selection, dynamic microphones do not need a power supply to operate. They can record in a noisy environment without being affected by noise. They are more affordable in terms of price but also easy to handle. On the other hand, the sound quality is much worse than a condenser microphone.
The omnidirectional microphone can pick up sound from all sides but with some limitations. These microphones are susceptible to the ambience of the recording room. It is also impossible to isolate one part of the microphone to block out sound from around it. However, on a round table, the microphone will record voices similarly. Perfect for a podcast.
