There are a variety of podcast mics on the market for different needs. From the professional-looking XLR broadcast mics that pros use to inexpensive USB podcast mics for casual recording, there are options for everyone.
The PodMic from Rode is designed specifically for broadcasting and offers a cardioid polar pattern that reduces background noise and focusses on the speaker’s voice. It is also durable and comes with a desktop stand.
Cardioid
The Blue Microphones Yeti is a popular choice among podcasters for good reason. It has a great build quality and sound that easily competes with professional microphones. This cardioid mic offers a simple plug-and-play USB connection, and it can be used with both Macs and PCs. This mic also offers the ability to control various recording features directly on the microphone.
When looking for the best podcast microphone, you should aim to find a unidirectional mic with a cardioid pickup pattern. This will help to minimize background noise and pick up the voice clearly. A cardioid mic will also have a higher audio sensitivity, which is important for podcasting.
Another important factor is the frequency response. Choose a microphone with a response between 80 and 20kHz, as this will cover the audible range for human voices. This will ensure that your podcast has a warm and clear sound.
Omnidirectional
Podcasters who record on-the-go or in a more open environment need a microphone with an omnidirectional pickup pattern. Its broader picking range means it’s less sensitive to sound directly behind the mic and is more forgiving of movement, coughs, and other real-time miscues.
For a budget-conscious option, the Blue Yeti is a popular choice among podcasters. This USB microphone uses a plug-n-play connection with most computers and mobile devices, making it simple to use. It also has a host of useful features, such as headphone monitoring and gain control.
While this microphone is great for podcasting, it’s not a good choice for music recording on a Mac. It’s not designed to capture higher frequencies, which can be heard as distortion or static. It’s a good option for beginners who don’t want to spend much time on post-production. A more sophisticated, professional-grade USB mic with a wide frequency response is the Shure MV7. This microphone is a popular choice among musicians and broadcasters for its excellent build quality and high-quality audio.
Bidirectional
Whether you’re a beginner podcaster or a seasoned veteran, you’ll need to find the best podcast microphone for your needs. There are a wide variety of options, with the most common type being USB mics that connect directly to your computer.
If you’re recording multiple people, look for a bidirectional mic that will capture sound from both sides. This type of mic will eliminate background noise and focus on the voices of your guests.
A popular choice is the Rode PodMic, a dynamic microphone designed for broadcast applications like podcasting. It has a cardioid polar pattern that zeroes in on the voice and reduces background noise. It also comes with a pop filter to minimize plosives and vibrations. Its rugged metal construction and built-in shock mount ensure durability, making it a reliable option for long-term use. Its headphone jack output also allows you to monitor your recording without interrupting your guests. A ten year warranty is included.
Stereo
Many podcasters choose to use a stereo mic that can capture two speakers at once. This lets you create a more immersive experience for your audience. It also helps you eliminate echo and background noise by separating the sounds from each speaker.
You’ll want to consider the polar pattern, frequency response range, and sensitivity of your microphone when choosing a stereo microphone for podcasting. For instance, a cardioid microphone is great for recording one-on-one conversations while an omnidirectional mic is ideal for broadcasting and livestreaming podcasts.
You’ll also need to decide whether you prefer a USB or XLR connection type. USB microphones plug directly into your computer for easy setup and operation, while XLR mics require an additional mixer or audio interface. XLR microphones tend to have better sound quality and can be more versatile, but they may not be as portable.