As the podcast industry grows, with 584.1 million listeners and $39.63 billion in revenue projected by 2025 (Source), audio quality plays a critical role in success. Studies show that poor sound can harm a speaker’s credibility, affecting listener engagement. For podcasters, investing in a high-quality microphone is no longer optional — it’s a must.
Laptop Built-In Mic or iPhone Built-In Mic? Not Good Enough!
Before you dive into the world of podcasting microphones, let’s quickly address something: using your laptop or iPhone’s built-in microphone is a no-go for quality audio.
Why Not?
- Poor Sound Quality: Built-in mics are designed for basic tasks like casual phone calls or video conferencing. They aren’t engineered to capture the depth and clarity that podcasts require. As a result, your voice may sound muffled, distant, or tinny, leading to a poor listening experience for your audience.
- Excessive Background Noise: These mics pick up everything around you, from keyboard typing to street noise, making your podcast sound unprofessional. They lack the noise isolation features found in specialized podcast microphones, which means all those unwanted sounds will creep into your recording.
- Limited Control: Built-in mics offer zero control over important aspects like gain or frequency response. In podcasting, you need the ability to adjust your mic’s sensitivity to capture clear, distortion-free sound, especially in dynamic settings or when speaking at different volumes.
In short, built-in mics simply don’t meet the needs of a podcast. They may be fine for casual use, but for professional-quality audio and an engaging listener experience, you’ll need a dedicated podcast microphone that offers higher sound quality, noise isolation, and better control over your audio.
Types of Podcasting Microphones
When it comes to choosing the best podcast mic, you have several options. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of mics and interfaces that work best for podcasting.
By Interface
XLR-Only Microphone:
XLR microphones are a favorite among professionals, and for good reason. Technically speaking, these mics are known for their high-fidelity audio and robust performance. The XLR connection allows for a more reliable, higher-quality signal compared to USB, making them perfect for capturing intricate details in voice and music.
However, they do come with some added complexity: you’ll need an audio interface or a mixer to connect them to your computer or recording equipment, which means more gear and setup time.
USB + XLR Microphone:
Now, if you want the best of both worlds, USB + XLR microphones are where it’s at. These mics give you the flexibility of USB connectivity for quick and easy recording, but they also allow you to switch to XLR mode when you need to integrate with a professional audio interface or mixer.
This hybrid option is fantastic for podcasters who are starting out with basic setups but want to scale up over time. With USB connectivity, you can connect your mic directly to your computer and get started without any extra gear.
USB-Only Microphone:
For those who need a simple, no-fuss solution, USB-only microphones are the way to go. These mics are perfect for podcasters who want to get up and running as quickly as possible without having to buy additional gear like an audio interface or mixer. USB mics connect directly to your computer, so you can simply plug it in and start recording right away.
But USB-only mics are usually less flexible than their XLR counterparts when it comes to multiple-person setups. They’re generally designed for solo podcasters.
To sum it up:
- XLR-only microphones are great for professionals and podcasters who want the best sound quality and flexibility, but they come with a steeper learning curve and more equipment.
- USB + XLR microphones offer the most versatility, allowing you to start simple with USB and move to XLR setups as your podcast evolves.
- USB-only microphones are perfect for beginners or those looking for a convenient, budget-friendly solution, though they lack the flexibility of XLR models.
By Mic Type
Condenser Mic:
Condenser microphones are highly sensitive and capture rich detail, making them ideal for solo podcasting and voiceovers. They excel in quiet, controlled environments and provide excellent clarity.
Dynamic Mic:
Dynamic mics are less sensitive than condenser mics, making them better for noisy environments, like live events or recording in untreated rooms. They’re also a bit more durable and are the go-to option for live streaming or outdoor recordings.
Condenser Mic vs Dynamic Mic
To summarize:
- Condenser mics are best for controlled environments like home studios, as they capture fine details and produce crystal-clear audio.
- Dynamic mics are better for noisy environments or live recording situations, where they provide clarity while rejecting unwanted background noise.
By Connection Type:
Wired Microphones
Wired microphones (XLR or USB) offer stable connections and consistent sound quality. Ideal for podcasters who stay in one spot during recording, wired mics eliminate concerns like battery life or signal loss.
Advantages:
- Stable sound quality without interference
- No need for charging or pairing devices
- Reliable and hassle-free
Ideal for: Podcasters in a fixed studio or controlled environment.
Wireless Podcast Microphones
Wireless podcast mics offer mobility and flexibility, perfect for interviews or podcasts where you move around. They transmit audio via Bluetooth or RF signals, allowing for a cleaner, wire-free setup.
Advantages:
- Freedom to move without cables
- Cleaner, more streamlined setup
- Ideal for flexible recording situations
Perfect for: Podcasters who need mobility or remote setups.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for versatility, the USB + XLR microphone is your best bet. It works well with both solo setups and group podcasting, while offering excellent sound quality and future-proofing your podcasting journey.
Best Podcast Mic Under $100
When you’re starting out with podcasting, having the right equipment doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Several podcast microphones under $100 can provide professional sound quality without requiring a large investment. Here’s a look at some of the best podcast mics under $100 that pack value, quality, and versatility into a budget-friendly package.
1. Rode Pod Mic
- Price: $99
- Key Features:
- Broadcast-quality dynamic microphone
- Optimized for podcasting, livestreaming, and speech applications
- Internal pop filter, shock mount, and integrated swing mount
- Rugged, all-metal construction
The Rode Pod Mic is a dynamic microphone, designed to deliver rich, detailed sound, making it an excellent choice for podcasters on a budget. While the mic doesn’t offer the same “plug-and-play” experience as USB mics, it does provide superior sound clarity when paired with an audio interface or mixer.
- Technical Specs:
- Type: Dynamic
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid (picks up sound from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear)
- Frequency Response: 50Hz - 13kHz
- Max SPL: 115 dB
- Impedance: 320 Ohms
- Pros:
- Great build quality with a durable metal body.
- Clear, professional sound optimized for voice-heavy recordings.
- Cons: Requires an audio interface or mixer for full functionality, which may be an additional cost for beginners.
2. NearStream AM25X
- Price: $73.95 (on sale now)
- Key Features:
- USB & XLR Connectivity (Dual-mode, providing flexibility)
- Supercardioid Pattern for focused sound capture with reduced background noise
- Built-in Desk Stand for convenience and ease of setup
The NearStream AM25X is an excellent all-in-one condenser mic that offers a great balance between quality and affordability. Its supercardioid polar pattern ensures superior noise rejection, which is ideal for podcasting in less-than-perfect acoustic environments.
- Technical Specs:
- Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Supercardioid (optimized for solo voice capture, rejects sound from the sides and rear)
- Max SPL: ≥125 dB without distortion
- Monitoring: 3.5mm jack for real-time monitoring (USB only)
- Supported Systems: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Chrome OS
- Pros:
- Dual USB/XLR connectivity makes it versatile for different recording setups.
- Compact, built-in desk stand with sturdy construction for durability.
- Clear and detailed sound, ideal for voice recordings.
3. Logitech Blue Yeti
- Price: $109.99
- Key Features:
- Multiple Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo
- Three 0.55” Condenser Capsules for detailed sound capture
- High SPL (120 dB max) to handle loud sound sources
The Blue Yeti is one of the most popular USB microphones in the podcasting world. It’s plug-and-play, making it incredibly easy to use with your computer, without the need for extra gear. However, the downside is that it can pick up background noise, so it’s best used in a quiet environment.
- Technical Specs:
- Type: Condenser
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz
- Bitrate: 16-bit
- Sample Rate: 48 kHz
- Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo
- Weight: 1.94 lbs (with stand)
- Impedance: 16 Ohms
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 100 dB
- Pros:
- Versatile polar pattern options make it suitable for a variety of recording setups (solo, interviews, group).
- Excellent sound quality for the price.
- USB plug-and-play, no need for additional audio equipment.
- Cons: Prone to picking up ambient noise, not ideal for untreated or noisy environments.
4. Samson Q2U
- Price: $79.99
- Key Features:
- USB & XLR Connectivity for versatility
- Handheld dynamic microphone designed for podcasting, live sound, and music
- On/Off Switch for both USB and XLR outputs
The Samson Q2U is one of the most affordable dynamic microphones with both USB and XLR connectivity, making it an ideal choice for podcasters who need flexibility. It also features a zero-latency headphone output, allowing you to monitor your audio without any delay.
- Technical Specs:
- Type: Dynamic
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 50Hz - 15kHz
- Max SPL: 144 dB
- Impedance: 250 Ohms (XLR), 16 Ohms (USB)
- Pros:
- Dual connectivity allows for easy setup, even for beginners.
- Low self-noise, making it ideal for quieter, controlled environments.
- Cons:
- Not as sensitive as condenser mics, which means it might not capture as much detail in certain applications.
| Microphone | Price | Type | Polar Pattern | Max SPL | Key Features | Pros |
| Rode Pod Mic | $99 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 115 dB | Broadcast-quality dynamic mic, internal pop filter, shock mount, and swing mount, rugged metal body | Durable build quality, professional sound optimized for voice-heavy recordings |
| NearStream AM25X | $73.95 (sale) | Condenser | Supercardioid | ≥125 dB | USB & XLR dual-mode, supercardioid pattern, built-in desk stand, 3.5mm jack for real-time monitoring | Dual USB/XLR connectivity, noise rejection, clear and detailed sound, convenient built-in stand |
| Logitech Blue Yeti | $109.99 | Condenser | Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo | 120 dB | Multiple polar patterns, three 0.55” condenser capsules, plug-and-play USB | Versatile polar patterns, excellent sound quality for the price, plug-and-play |
| Samson Q2U | $79.99 | Dynamic | Cardioid | 144 dB | USB & XLR connectivity, handheld dynamic mic, zero-latency headphone output, on/off switch for USB/XLR | Dual connectivity options, low self-noise, great for controlled environments |
How to Use Your Podcast Microphone
Setting up your podcast microphone correctly is key to getting the best sound. Here’s how you can optimize your setup with some popular tools.
Zoom
Enable Raw Audio for 48kHz Sample Rate:
Zoom is one of the most popular platforms for remote podcasting and interviews, especially for podcasters who need to connect with guests virtually. However, if you want the best sound quality during your podcast recordings, it’s crucial to adjust the settings to capture high-definition audio.
Here’s how to optimize Zoom for podcasting:
- Go to Audio Settings: In Zoom, head to the “Settings” section, and click on the “Audio” tab.
- Enable “Raw Audio”: Look for the option to enable raw audio in the settings. This setting ensures that Zoom doesn’t compress or degrade your sound quality during recording.
- Set Sample Rate to 48kHz: Make sure the sample rate is set to 48kHz. This is the industry standard for podcasting and will allow for crystal-clear audio recordings without any loss of quality.
Why it Matters:
By enabling raw audio, you avoid compression artifacts that Zoom might apply automatically to save bandwidth. Compression can introduce unwanted noise, making your voice sound muffled or distorted. A 48kHz sample rate also ensures that the audio is high-definition, maintaining the integrity of your voice or guest’s speech throughout the podcast.
Riverside
Riverside is a powerful tool that has become a favorite for podcasters, especially those who do remote recordings with guests. One of the reasons Riverside stands out is its ability to capture high-quality audio at recording resolution, with no loss of fidelity—even for remote guests.
Here’s how Riverside works:
- Plug-and-Play Setup: Riverside is easy to set up. You don’t need to install complicated software or worry about configuring interfaces. Just plug in your USB podcast mic (like the NearStream AM25X) into your computer, and you’re ready to record. Riverside will automatically detect your microphone and optimize it for recording.
- Subscription Features: While Riverside does offer a free plan, to access its premium features such as unlimited recording time, remote guest interviews, and the ability to record in separate tracks for each participant (ideal for post-production), you’ll need a subscription. This is especially useful for interview-based podcasts or podcasts with multiple guests.
Why it Matters:
Riverside is particularly beneficial for podcasters who want to ensure studio-quality audio even when recording remotely. The platform records locally on each participant’s device, meaning the audio isn’t affected by internet connection issues, ensuring that the final product is clear and consistent. The separate tracks feature also makes it easier to edit each participant’s audio individually, which is a huge advantage for post-production.
Podcast Mic Stand: Why You Need One
With a mic stand, the microphone remains securely in place, allowing for consistent sound capture and minimizing any external noises. This ensures that your voice remains the focal point of the recording, providing a clearer, more professional audio experience for your listeners. Whether you’re recording in a quiet room or a more dynamic space, a mic stand keeps the sound clean, enhancing the overall quality of your podcast.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best podcast mic comes down to understanding your needs—whether you want portability, flexibility, or top-tier sound quality. The NearStream AM25X is the best mic for podcasting for many creators due to its versatility, easy setup, and superb sound quality under $100.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current podcast setup, you can’t go wrong with this USB podcast mic that grows with your needs. Pair it with the right accessories, like a good podcast mic stand, and you’re ready to deliver amazing content to your audience.
FAQs
- What type of microphone is best for podcasting?
For podcasting, a condenser microphone is ideal for its clarity and sensitivity. If you’re in a noisy environment, a dynamic microphone may be better.
- Do I need an audio interface with a USB microphone?
No, USB microphones don’t require an audio interface. They plug directly into your computer, making them easy to set up for beginners.
- What’s the difference between a USB and an XLR microphone?
USB microphones are plug-and-play, ideal for beginners, while XLR microphones offer better sound quality and are more versatile for professional setups, but they require an audio interface.
- How do I reduce background noise when recording?
Use a cardioid or supercardioid microphone to focus on sound from the front, and consider treating your room with soundproofing materials to reduce echo and external noise.
- What is the best podcast microphone setup for beginners?
For beginners, a simple USB podcast microphone setup is often the best choice. It’s plug-and-play, easy to use, and doesn’t require extra gear like an audio interface. Popular options include USB mics that deliver clear sound without the complexity.
- Should I use a wireless podcast microphone?
A wireless podcast microphone is great for mobility, especially if you need to move around or conduct interviews. However, wired mics offer more stability, so choose based on whether you prioritize flexibility or consistent, uninterrupted audio quality.
