Best Microphones for Podcasting

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Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Cardioid Dynamic Microphone (ATR Series)USB and XLR Outputs

This is the mic to start with if you’re on a budget. It’s even great to get an extra for mobile use!

The ATR2100x-USB is a dynamic, cardioid microphone that can connect directly to your computer via USB. It can also (and simultaneously) connect to professional audio equipment via XLR.

Here are some of the standout features of the ATR2100x-USB:

  • Strong output signal: loud enough so you don't have to push the gain so much (about 13 dB louder than the previous non-X version)
  • Zero-latency, full-volume headphone monitoring: your own voice won't sound robotic and you'll hear yourself no matter how you adjust volume on your USB device
  • USB-C connectivity: an easier-to-use and future-friendly USB-C port, letting you connect to computers, tablets, and smartphones (with adapter, if necessary)
  • Affordable price: usually around $79 (USD) and sometimes drops as low as $59
  • Lifetime warranty: better than all the competitors!

Where to buy the ATR2100x-USB

B&H
Sweetwater
Adorama
Amazon

Recommend accessories

Shure MV7

Shure MV7 USB Microphone for Podcasting, Recording, Live Streaming & Gaming, Built-in Headphone Output, All Metal USB/XLR Dynamic Mic, Voice-Isolating Technology, TeamSpeak & Zoom Certified – Black

The Shure MV7 merges some of the quality and physical design of the SM7B, but offers connectivity over XLR and USB!

The best features come when you pair this with the Shure MOTIV app for control over the microphone's built-in equalization, compression, and more!

Where to buy the MV7

B&H
Sweetwater
Adorama
Amazon

Electro-Voice RE320 studio mic

Electro-Voice RE320 Large Diaphragm Dynamic Vocal Microphone

For fantastic audio quality and a natural sound, I recommend the Electro-Voice RE320 dynamic, cardioid microphone. This mic connects to professional audio equipment via XLR. It’s more sensitive than its competitors, and that means you don’t have risk introducing hiss in your audio by turning up the gain on your preamp.

Where to buy the RE320

B&H
Sweetwater
Adorama
Amazon

Recommended accessories

Electro-Voice RE50 handheld interview mic

Electro-Voice RE50N/D-L Handheld Interview Omnidirectional Microphone with N/DYM Capsule and Long Handle, 80-13000Hz, 9.5' Length, Semi-Gloss Black Finish

For video interviews or handheld-microphone recordings, the Electro-Voice RE50 is a fantastic choice! The RE50 is designed for hand-holding with internal shock protection and a durable design. The dynamic mic capsule is omnidirectional, which is far more forgiving when you might accidentally be off-axis from the mic.

The RE50 comes in a few variations (RE50/B, RE50N/D-B, and RE50N/D-L), but I recommend the RE50N/D-L because it requires less gain and the long handle makes it more comfortable to hold.

Where to buy the RE5ON/D-L:

B&H
Sweatwater
Amazon

Pro Lavalier Lapel Microphone JK MIC-J 044

J K Pro Lavalier Lapel Microphone MIC-J 044 Compatible with Sennheiser Wireless Transmitter - Omnidirectional Condenser Mic

This lavalier microphone is surprisingly good for its low cost.

Where to buy the JK MIC-J 044

Amazon.com
Created by Daniel J. Lewis

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