"[Updated] Recording Quality Unlocked Best Mics"
Recording Quality Unlocked: Best Mics
If you are reading this page, you either have a running podcast or plan to start one. Whatever the case, you may need to invest in a good podcast microphone.
Podcasting is all about audio; a good microphone makes a lot of difference in clarity, sharpness, and recording the last word. So, if you are planning to buy a new microphone for a podcast or upgrade an existing one, this article will be a good read to help you make a wide choice.
- Blue Yeti Nano – Premium Dual Pattern Mic
- Samson Q2U – Best budget podcasting microphone
- Shure MV7 Podcast microphone – Feature-rich mic for serious podcasters
- Samson GTrack Pro: Mic for professional recording
- Rode PodMic – The overall best podcasting mic
- Rode NT USB – Durable and User-friendly mic
- AudioTechnica AT2035 - Entry Level XLR Reliable mic
- Elgato Wave III – Streaming Mic for podcasting as well
- Blue Yeti X - Bigger Yeti version
- HyperX Quadcast - USB Gaming mic
Part 1. The 10 Best Microphones for Podcasting in 2024
The market has decent options regarding microphones, with all of them making tall claims about their features and usability. The real challenge here is to single out an overall best-in-class mic, as everyone’s requirements will differ. So instead, we have shortlisted a few standouts for your consideration.
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1. Blue Yeti Nano – Premium Dual Pattern Mic
It is an excellent mic that is apt for recording and streaming hassle-free. The features and the device’s aesthetics are also cool and make the videos look appealing. The mic comes with Blue Voice vocal effects that let you record in professional quality. Furthermore, this USB microphone supports multiple pick-up patterns and features built-in headphone output.
What you need to know
- Weight: 139lbs (0.63Kg)
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid and Omni pick-up patterns
- Mic type: Dual mic pattern
- Connection type: USB
- Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Price: $99.99
Unique Features
- Two new mic capsules for detailed and exceptional audio presence.
- Support to high-quality 24-bit/48 kHz recording.
- Support for Blue Voice Effects.
- Works with a wide range of apps
Reasons to avoid
- The pricing is high compared to the other models in a similar category.
- Not suitable for users looking for stereo or bidirectional mode.
- We might have compatibility issues with Apple that no longer uses USB 3, and an adapter might be needed in such situations.
2. Samson Q2U – Best budget podcasting microphone
Considering its price and basic features, Q2U can be regarded as the best entry-level podcasting mic. The device uses the cardioid pick-up pattern capable of ignoring the ambient noise and picking up the live recording vocals. In addition, the mic offers both USB and XLR connectors so that it can be used in simple setups and with mixers.
What you need to know
- Weight: 320g
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid Pattern
- Mic type: Dynamic
- Connection type: USB and XLR connection
- Frequency response: 50Hz to 15 kHz
- Price: $59.99
Unique Features
- Good features for the price-point it comes for.
- It looks like a classic dynamic mic
- The bundle pack comes with all podcasting essentials and accessories.
- Offers both USB and XLR connection.
- Features headphone output and volume controls.
Reasons to avoid
- Does not come with a phone and tablet adapter.
- Not apt as a studio microphone.
3. Shure MV7 Podcast microphone – Feature-rich mic for serious podcasters
It is a dynamic device apt for serious podcasters willing to spend a good amount in return for the features. The device offers a USB and XLR connection and comes with Shure’s voice isolation technology, along with Auto Level Mode, which allows for capturing high-quality professional audio. The mic also offers live-signal processing.
What you need to know
- Weight: 1.21lb (0.55Kg)
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid
- Mic type: Dynamic
- Connection type: USB and XLR
- Frequency response:50 Hz to 16kHz
- Price: $224
Unique Features
- It comes with built-in headphone monitoring
- Support Voice Isolation Technology and Auto Level Mode
- Versatile device
Reasons to avoid
- Heavy on pockets, not that portable.
4. Samson GTrack Pro : Mic for professional recording
If you want to focus more on the recording and less on the process, this excellent mic will take care of everything. It is a USB-based device that features instrument input and a mixer. Audio can be recorded in 24-bit/96 kHz so that recordings are clear and high-quality.
What you need to know
- Weight: 3.52 lb(1.6Kg)
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, and omnidirectional.
- Mic type: Plug n Play
- Connection type: USB for Mac and PC devices.
- Frequency response: 50Hz to 20 kHz
- Price: $95
Unique Features
- The audio interface is good for recording the bass, guitar, and other line-level devices.
- The mono/2-Track switch allows the recording mic and instrument to be simultaneous.
- Comes with a full-featured mixer offering Mic and instruments voice control independently.
- With a mute button, it silences the input signals.
Reasons to avoid
- It is quite heavy and would need a sturdy mounting stand.
5. Rode PodMic – The overall best podcasting mic
Don’t judge this mic by its size. Though small, the device is powerful and packed with high-quality audio recording features. Polished and clear sound can be recorded using this device, and that too without much processing. Easy to use and set up, this XLR mic can be great for style, sound, and price point.
What you need to know
- Weight: 2.1 lb (937 grams)
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid
- Mic type: Condenser
- Connection type: XLR
- Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Price: $99
Unique Features
- XLR connection for pro recording.
- Comes with built-in damping and pop filters.
- The mount hinges facilitate flexible movement and positioning.
- A dynamic mic with rugged all-metal construction.
- Offers high-quality and clear sound.
Reasons to avoid
- There are no built-in audio filters.
- It is an XLR device, not apt for beginners.
6. Rode NT USB – Durable and User-friendly mic
This USB-based mic from Rode is solid and durable, capable of recording vocals, games, instruments, and much more in decent quality. Also, the high-power headphone output of the device offers zero latency.
What you need to know
- Weight: 1.14lb (520g)
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid
- Mic type: Condenser
- Connection type: USB
- Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Price: $120+
Unique Features
- Comes with a professional pop filter and tripod.
- Features onboard monitor level and headphone mix controls.
- Allows high-quality audio recording with extended crispiness and responses.
- Good looking premium design.
Reasons to avoid
- The tripod is weak and unstable
- There is no gain knob
- The pricy USB-only device
7. AudioTechnica AT2035 - Entry Level XLR Reliable mic
It will be a good choice if you want an entry-level device with all the needed features. The price point is user-friendly, and this mic with a solid construction offers versatile and quality sound. The mic is apt for recording the vocals as well as instruments.
What you need to know
- Weight: 403gms
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid
- Mic type: Condenser
- Connection type: XLR
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
- Price: $149
Unique Features
- Value for money device.
- Apt for recording vocals as well as instruments.
- Comes with a shock mount.
- It is a great starter package with an XLR cable, a boom arm for desk connection, and headphones.
Reasons to avoid
- Single polar pattern
- There are many other devices available at the price point it comes for.
8. Elgato Wave III – Streaming Mic for podcasting as well
Though this is a streaming mic, it is considered a decent entry-level podcasting device that allows recording good quality sound. Moreover, the retro look of the mic makes it an excellent addition to any studio. The mic works with Elgato Stream Deck, which helps make the sound adjustments live. It is a USB-based mic that comes with a capacitive mute button.
What you need to know
- Weight: 280 g
- Pick-up Patterns: Cardioid
- Mic type: Condenser
- Connection type: USB
- Frequency response: 70Hz to 20kHz
- Price: $159.99
Unique Features
- Multifunction dial for controlling the input and output gain.
- It comes with a pop filter for reducing the plosive noise.
- Support Wave Link software that offers control over the streaming content.
Reasons to avoid
- Lack of versatility.
- More options are available in this price range.
9. Blue Yeti X - Bigger Yeti version
It is one of the best USB version mics available around. The device has four condenser mic capsules that offer rich and warm vocal sounds. In addition, the mic comes with a high-resolution meter for the audio, and the intelligent control knob and its smart and robust build make it popular among users.
What you need to know
- Weight: 2.8lb (1.27 kg)
- Pick-up Patterns: Multi-pattern
- Mic type: Condenser
- Connection type: USB
- Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Price: 169.99
Unique Features
- Multi-pattern support for solid and versatile audio requirements.
- Comes with LED live metering.
- DSP-free.
- The recording software is included.
Reasons to avoid
- There are no pop-filter or adapters for the standard mic stand.
- Expensive than the standard Yeti devices.
10. HyperX Quadcast - USB Gaming mic
If you scroll across the best gaming mic, you will surely come across HyperX Quadcast. The features are also engaging with a strong build, red design, and RGB lighting effects. In addition, the mic comes with a built-in anti-vibration shock mount that allows excellent handling of noises.
What you need to know
- Weight: 254g
- Pick-up Patterns: Multi-pattern
- Mic type: Condenser
- Connection type: USB
- Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Price: $139
Unique Features
- Support multi-polar pattern.
- Attractive and cool-looking design.
- Unique RGB lighting feature.
- The kit includes the built-in pop filter and the shock mount.
Reasons to avoid
- Sample Rate and the Bit Depth are short recordings only at 48kHz/16-bt
- A shock mount is made of plastic
- Title: [Updated] Recording Quality Unlocked Best Mics
- Author: William
- Created at : 2024-07-31 05:38:18
- Updated at : 2024-08-01 05:38:18
- Link: https://extra-skills.techidaily.com/updated-recording-quality-unlocked-best-mics/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.