The Best Podcast Mic
Table of Contents
Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Podcast Microphones
Let’s be honest here, there is no single “best podcast mic” for everyone as each person’s (or podcast’s) needs vary from one another, after all. Looking for the best podcasting microphone in between the vast sea of podcast microphones is not an easy task, but don’t lose hope! While the best podcast microphone doesn’t exactly exist, there are several standouts for you to choose from and find the one that suits you best.
We’ve put together a list of the best podcasting microphones available today. Whether you’re starting out or improving your gear, this guide to the best podcast microphones will have something that will suit your needs.
Which is the Top Podcast Mic?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best USB Podcast Microphone |  Most Versatile Podcast Microphone |
Shure SM7BOften hailed as the best podcasting mic, the Shure SM7B is a standout with its superb sound, mid-range levels, and noise elimination. | Shure MV7The Shure MV7 is a flexible USB mic that’s also equipped with XLR connectivity for maximum convenience. | Blue Yeti ProEquipped with 4 polar pattern modes and a simple plug-and-play setup, the Blue Yeti Pro is as versatile as it gets. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Top Podcast Mic
#1: Shure SM7B
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A favorite among the podcast and video community, the Shure SM7B is a microphone that is highly capable of making your voice sound professional. Often dubbed as the gold standard of podcasting microphones and the best microphone for podcasts, the SM7B provides a superb sound that is polished and purified. It emphasizes the mid-range levels, giving it a massive presence boost and a bass roll-off for an authentic feel.
The SM7B also has a wide-range, flat-frequency response that offers clean and crisp reproduction of the human voice. Although it doesn’t come with a mic stand, this is still a standout among dynamic microphones with XLR connections. The SM7B comes with an internal pop-filter and air suspension shock mount technology to reduce plosives, mechanical noise, and breath.
Moreover, it also has electromagnetic shielding that eliminates noise from nearby electronics. With all these features, it’s not a wonder that the Shure SM7B is crowned as the king among voice recording microphones and one of the best microphones out there.
Pros and Cons of the Shure SM7B
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Best microphone in the podcasting world ✔️ Outstanding sound quality ✔️ Solid and durable build ✔️ Internal pop filter and shock mount to reduce noise and plosives | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Has no mic stand |
#2. Shure MV7
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There’s no stopping Shure when it comes to making high-quality microphones. Aside from the incredible SM7B, the Shure MV7 is also quickly gaining fans among podcasters due to its flexibility and voice isolation technology. The MV7 comes with a direct-to-computer USB cable, making it convenient to use for amateurs and professionals alike. Not only does it have a USB cable, but this mic also functions with XLR connectivity and can do so simultaneously.
As a podcasting microphone, the Shure MV7 produces great audio that’s rich, bright, smooth, and clearly defined. Paired up with the ShurePlus MOTIV app, users can further adjust the audio and add sparkle and depth. Aside from that, the MV7 also has an LED-lit touch panel that houses the gain level control, mute option, and levels monitor. While it’s still pricey, the MV7 comes at a more affordable price than the SM7B and can provide you with that premium Shure sound quality without denting your pocket heavily.
Pros and Cons of the Shure MV7
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Has both USB and XLR connections ✔️ Provides a rich sound ✔️ Has a cardioid pickup pattern ✔️ Delivers great vocal quality ✔️ High-end build | ✖️ Pricey ✖️ Does not include a mic stand in the package |
#3. Rode Procaster
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If a high-end, broadcast-quality sound is what you’re looking for in a microphone for podcasting, you may want to consider the Rode Procaster. Specifically designed for podcasting, the Procaster is a high-output dynamic microphone, able to deliver a clear and focused sound. Its cardioid polar pattern makes it ideal for solo recording.
Equipped with XLR connectivity, the Procaster is the best podcast microphone amongst all other XLR podcasting mics. A feature that makes the Procaster one of the best microphones is its switchable high-pass filter that rejects unwanted noise. The Procaster also has an internal pop filter, reducing disruptive plosives. Additionally, this mic has a solid build and pleasing heft to it, all thanks to its full metal construction. With a robust body and a great sound, this mic can deliver pleasant results in any application that involves speech.
Although the Procaster requires phantom power from another power source, the professional quality audio makes all the effort in setting up worth it. The Pro model however is equipped with an advanced setting that allows you to quickly turn on phantom power should you wish for practically the same mic with an easier setup.
Pros and Cons of the Rode Procaster
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Has a built-in pop filter and internal shock mount ✔️ Durable and sturdy ✔️ Cardioid pickup pattern ✔️ Provides broadcast-quality sound | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Needs an audio interface ✖️ Heavy in weight and has to be mounted on a robust stand or boom arm |
#4. Blue Yeti Pro
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The Blue Yeti Pro is perhaps the most popular USB mic around. This mic’s condenser capsules offer great quality and its multiple pickup patterns make it a highly attractive microphone for anyone, whether an amateur or a professional. Despite the Blue Yeti being a USB microphone, it works in 3 other polar pattern modes aside from being an omnidirectional microphone. Its mode can be switched to cardioid, stereo, and bi-directional proving to be a versatile microphone. Such a feature is handy for podcasting microphones as it allows for the user to switch modes depending on recording needs.
The Blue Yeti Pro is also armed with a headphone jack for latency-free monitoring, volume control, and microphone gain control. Aside from those features, the Yeti Pro is also one of the best podcasting microphones that won’t cost you much. Simple, sounds great, easy to use, reasonably priced, and highly versatile, these are exactly what makes the Blue Yeti Pro one of the finest podcast microphones.
Pros and Cons of the Blue Yeti Pro
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ USB condenser microphone ✔️ Has three pickup patterns ✔️ Built-in headphone output for zero-latency monitoring ✔️ Comes with various controls | ✖️ May need a stand mount ✖️ No USB-C connectivity |
#5. Sennheiser MKE 600
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A shotgun microphone such as the Sennheiser MKE 600 is great for recording groups of people and reduces the need for multiple microphones for each speaker. This microphone is lauded as one of the best shotgun mics in the industry. The best podcasting microphones have varying polar patterns to allow recording sound in different areas, and the Sennheiser does not disappoint in this area. With a hyper-cardioid microphone polar pattern, the MKE 600 is highly directional and rejects any unwanted ambient noise that often comes with condenser mics. It provides a sound that’s smooth and natural, making it a good microphone for recording podcasts and most sound sources.
Moreover, the MKE 600 can run on AAA batteries or on phantom power, allowing it to be particularly in a studio and out in the field. For a shotgun mic, it’s also compact and very easy to carry. The MKE 600 is a balanced shotgun condenser with a professional-level sound and touted with a price that’s very friendly for budding podcasters, amateur filmmakers, and the like.
Pros and Cons of the Sennheiser MKE 600
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Includes a windscreen and a shock mount ✔️ Hyper-cardioid pickup pattern ✔️ Portable podcast microphone ✔️ Features a switchable low-cut filter | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Does not include a boom arm |
#6. Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB
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If you’re a beginner podcaster and you’re just starting to build your podcasting gear, you might be wary about buying an expensive mic. Fortunately, Audio-Technica has a good podcast microphone that’s high in quality and won’t break the bank. The ATR2100-USB is a microphone with a cardioid polar pattern that helps minimize background noise and any unwanted sounds while picking your own voice.
This microphone is versatile, allowing you to connect to various sound sources and outputs, such as a desktop, mixed, or sound system. It can connect via USB for home use, plug its XLR cable into a sound system, or use it on a laptop to capture the best sound while on the go. It’s also equipped with various controls, making it a convenient choice for beginners.
Whether you use the XLR connection or prefer it as a USB microphone, the ATR2100 is certainly a great addition to any podcasting setup.
Pros and Cons of the Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Dynamic microphone type ✔️ Features USB and XLR connectivity ✔️ Cardioid pattern ✔️ Great in minimizing background noise | ✖️ Not USB-C |
What Type of Mic is Best For Podcasts?
There isn’t one end-all-be-all answer as to which is the best microphone for podcasting but being able to differentiate them will easily aid you in figuring out the one microphone for you.
USB Microphone
Microphones that are powered by a USB connection have become extremely popular recently due to the huge rise in online content creation. Despite the simplicity, this makes for a great podcasting mic and is becoming a favorite for many content creators and YouTubers. USB-powered microphones operate on a plug-and-play system, meaning all you need to do is to connect the mic to your recording device with a USB port and you’re good to go.
A USB mic is a good choice if you’re looking at using a single mic for your podcast. If you have minimal studio space, a USB mic needs only minimal setup and space on your desk. You can opt to purchase your own stand if you want to give it more stability and height. An alternative is a headset mic, which allows for hands-free miking.
Although not on the list, the Rode NT-USB is a favorite in the USB mics category. Many content creators use the Rode NT-USB because of its key features such as a durable build, sleek design, and most importantly, the quality it gives. The Rode NT-USB is one of the few USB mics that are compatible with other portable devices provided you have the correct adapter for it. In case you would like to know more about USB microphones, then here’s a guide on the best USB mics that we’ve created.
XLR Microphone
This microphone type is the industry standard in the pro audio world. Unlike a USB mic, the XLR mic will require an audio interface or mixer to connect to your device. While the setup of the XLR connector may be slightly complicated, a mic with an XLR connection offers a lot of flexibility and versatility. Widely used in professional recording studios, XLR mics and audio interfaces allow additional audio routing and processing to the recording setup.
Shotgun Microphone
Mostly used in recording sounds on set for film or TV, shotgun microphones can also be used for podcasting, especially if you’re recording on the go. They can also be used in spaces where there may be a lot of ambient noise and still give you cleaner audio compared to other mics.
Shotgun mics usually work well at capturing discussions and snippets from multiple people as they have ample frequency range, can be highly directional, and at the same time, reduce noise coming from the sides. You only need to point the mic in the direction of the speaker and capture nice audio.
What Is the Best XLR Microphone for Podcasts?
Some of the best XLR microphones for podcasting include the Shure SM7B and the Rode Procaster.
While not on the list, the Sontronics Podcast Pro is another great choice. Geared towards the art of spoken word, the Sontronic has a super-cardioid pickup pattern that reduces background noise and other sounds. It connects via USB and XLR and comes with a boom arm in the box.
Is a USB Mic Good for Podcasts?
In recent years, the quality of most USB mics has come a long way, thanks to the demand for online content creation. Microphones that have a USB connection provide the easiest and most convenient setup, making them ideal for podcasting. If you don’t have an audio interface or find them too expensive, USB mics are simpler to set up while still offering impressive audio quality.
They directly connect to the computer’s USB port and often offer direct connectivity to mobile devices as well. You don’t need any additional equipment; just plug them into your device, start up your audio software, and you’re good to go.
Is a Dynamic or Condenser Mic Better for Podcasting?
There are two main types of microphones, and selecting the one to use for your podcast can determine the sound quality. It’s important to know whether to get a dynamic or a condenser mic.
Most podcasters use a condenser microphone because it provides a rich sound and records in a detailed and accurate way. However, since condenser mics are highly sensitive, they tend to pick up background noise. This means that you need a quiet recording area or a sound-proofed room to be able to capture the high quality that condenser microphones offer.
On the other hand, dynamic microphones are used to record loud sounds and a narrower range of frequencies. They’re less sensitive than condensers, meaning that the background noise pick-up is minimal. However, when using dynamic mics, you may lose a bit of richness in your voice tone.
When it comes to choosing between the two, it all comes down to where you record and how you want your sound to be delivered. If you have a recording room that’s quiet, want to have richness in your voice, and small audio details or sound effects are vital to you, then consider using a condenser microphone. If you don’t have a dedicated recording environment but you’re okay with being right up close to the mic while losing a tinge of richness in your voice, then a dynamic microphone is what you should go for.
What Microphone Do Podcasters Use?
For many reasons and personal preferences, there is no universal podcasting mic being used by podcasters. Each host can choose to use a mic for podcasts differently from the others since various mics have their pros and cons.
There are however several things that you have to consider when choosing podcasting mics: connectivity, sensitivity, recording space, and the number of speakers to record.
When it comes to connectivity, you have two options: USB and XLR. A microphone with USB connectivity is pretty much plug-and-play, all you’ll need to do is to hook it up to your device and select the microphone in the input panel of your recording software. Meanwhile, an XLR mic requires additional hardware, either an audio interface or a mixer so you can connect its XLR cable. A mixer essentially acts as an external sound card, lowering the noise floor and giving your recording a professional-quality sound.
As for the sensitivity of the microphone, it’s a toss-up between dynamic and condenser microphones. In general, a dynamic microphone is less sensitive than a condenser and is capable of recording at higher volumes. Dynamic microphones produce a “radio” sound while condensers capture more nuances in the voice, leading to a more natural sound.
Do remember that we’ve mentioned that the trade-off for a condenser’s more detailed sound is that it may pick up unwanted background noise? This is why your recording space is an important matter to consider as well. You can buy a top-of-the-line microphone but if the condition of your recording room isn’t that favorable, it just won’t work and you’ll end up with terrible audio. It’s crucial to ensure that your recording space is full of soft surfaces as they can dampen sound reflections. Installing a microphone stand or boom arm can also help in this regard.
Last but not the least, you should also consider the number of speakers that your podcast will have. To do so, it would be helpful to understand a microphone’s polar patterns. These polar patterns show the directions in which a microphone picks up sound. If you’re a solo podcaster, you should stick to a microphone with a cardioid recording pattern as it records audio directly in front of the mic. Consider looking into cardioid mics such as the Electro Voice RE20, which is also one of the top podcast microphones out there that can also be used for professional recording studio applications.
If your podcast involves two speakers in front and in the back, a bi-directional pattern might be ideal for you. There are also microphones that allow you to effortlessly switch between several polar patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Yeti microphones good podcasting microphones?
Blue microphones have been a top recommendation in the industry for years. Their microphones come at a reasonable price point with incredible audio, making them great to use in podcasts.
In our guide, we’ve included the Blue Yeti mic that allows you to change your sound recording pattern. You can record solo, do two-person recordings, or even do group recordings without having to give each participant their own microphone.
What is the most popular podcast microphone?
The most popular podcast microphone can differ depending on who you ask, but the general answer to this question is the Shure SM7B as even professional broadcasters use it.
However, a close second that can be interchangeable for some would be the Blue Yeti X. Although it is not on the list, this mic is becoming a popular choice amongst online content creators, especially streamers and YouTubers.
What is the best dynamic microphone for podcasting?
While dynamic mics are best for loud environments and live applications, they can still be used for closed studio settings and podcasts. The Rode PodMic may be the best dynamic mic for podcasting as it is designed for speech recording and has an internal pop filter.
What mic has the best audio quality?
Although the quality of a microphone will differ depending on how a user sets it up and uses it, Shure microphones generally have a great reputation among professionals and amateurs for their great audio quality.
Another industry favorite known for superb quality are Audio-Technica microphones. The Audio-Technica AT2020 is one of their well-known models that have star sound performance despite its low price.
Is an iPhone microphone good for podcasting?
Currently, an iPhone’s built-in microphone only provides mono audio, which can be quite limiting if you wish to achieve studio recording standards for podcasting. To attain a higher quality for podcasting, it is still best to look into external microphones.
What is the best budget microphone for podcasts?
If you’re just beginning to dip your toes in podcasting, you may be wary of buying a pricey microphone with all the tech and then finding that it doesn’t mesh well with you. One of the best podcasting microphones for beginners is the Blue Snowball iCE which comes at a very affordable price.
The Snowball iCE has become a new favorite in the industry thanks to its ease of use and its simple plug-and-play mic operation. It syncs with most, if not all desktop programs, allowing you to start recording whenever you want. This mic produces a clean and natural sound, making it a good podcast microphone for anyone who wants great sound at a great price.
What mic does Joe Rogan use?
Joe Rogan uses the Shure SM7B which is often hailed as the best microphone for podcasts.
Is the Shure MV7 worth it?
The Shure SM7B is arguably the best microphone for podcasting but its hefty price is unattainable for many podcasters. If you want that Shure quality without spending an exorbitant amount of money, one you can look into is the MV7. Some of its key features include a cardioid pickup pattern, USB and XLR connectivity, background noise reduction, voice isolation, and ShurePlus MOTIV app compatibility.
Final Note
Starting a podcast doesn’t actually require an enormous investment. However, it helps a lot to have a great microphone in order to produce high-quality content. We hope that our guide to the best podcasting microphones can help you narrow down your choices in a crowded field of electronics. Take your time to consider all the available options so that you’ll yield the best mic for your podcast.
Editor’s Choice
Shure SM7B
If you’re looking for the best microphone for podcasts, search no further for the Shure SM7B has arrived. This podcasting mic is specifically built for vocal recording and delivers superior sound quality. It’s one of the most popular and recognizable podcasting microphones around with the way it handles the human voice.
Based on Shure’s SM7 microphone, the modern SM7B’s key features allow vocals to pop with a well-rounded sound. The SM7B is definitely the gold standard microphone for podcasters and arguably one of the best podcast mics in the market.
