The Best USB Microphones For Podcasts
With technology rapidly advancing one of the things that has changes is how we consume media. Instead of sitting down and watching a talk show or a video, many of us are watching or listening to podcasts. The anywhere, anytime nature of a podcast has made them a new source of news, information and entertainment for millions of people.
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a podcast then you probably already know that choosing the right microphone can make or break your podcast. Having clear sound quality is key since most of your listeners don’t want to listen to your background noise and static as you record.
In this list we’ll cover the best go anywhere portable USB microphones for recording a podcast. For this list we’re focusing on portable performance, sound clarity, and price. Our hope is that with this list you’ll find an affordable microphone for all your podcasting needs.
1. Audio Technica AT2020 USB+
This is one of the top contenders if you’re in the market for a usb microphone. Specifically designed for podcasting it has excellent voice recording capability working with most recording software. Its simple plug and go setup is great for those of us that are less tech savvy and the sound quality will be everything you want and more.
Price Range
$99 – $199.95
Pros:
-Designed To Function With Most Recording Software
-Tight Cardioid Pattern and Excellent Noise Reduction
-Works Without Additional Equipment
Cons:
-Microphone Sensitivity May Still Catch Ambient Noise
-Stand is Flimsy
2. Rode NT USB
The Rode NT USB is a standout in the market for its quality construction and ease of use, needing no third party software to operate. Add that to the fact that it’s a studio quality mic and you’ve got a winner
Price Range
$99 – $169
Pros:
-Solid Durability for Price Point
-Solid Easy to Use Controls
Cons:
-No Mute Button
-No Gain Adjustment
3. Samson Meteorite
The Samson Meteorite is a small go anywhere little ball of a mic. One of the more affordable options it’s a great option for an on the go podcaster. Ideal for sit down podcasting while connected to a laptop, this one offers no frills or extra features but is a budget conscious starter mic for the beginner on the go.
Price Range
$39.99
Pros:
-Extremely Portable
-Low Cost
Cons:
-Lack of Notable Features
-No Sound Monitoring
4.AKG Lyra
Marketed as multimode Ultra HD microphone the AKG Lyra is solid standup microphone with multiple functions. A quality microphone for use with all your podcast recording needs, whether doing interviews or recording simple audio recordings this mic has you covered
Price Range
$89 – $159
Pros:
-Multiple Recording Functions
-Accessible Volume, Mute, and Gain Controls
-Built in Headphone Jack For Monitoring Audio
Cons:
-Back Mounted Gain Control Makes Lowering Recording Volume Awkward
-Solid Standing Mic Makes It Less Portable
5. Beyerdynamic Fox USB Mic
If you’re looking to step up to a “big boy” microphone, then the FOX is for you. Carefully riding the line between new user convenience and professional performance, the FOX has all the features you’ll need while still producing high quality sound and functionality. It allows for high end podcast recording.
Price Range
$139 – $224.99
Pros:
-Multi Use Functionality
-Records at 96Khz, 24 bit Sound Considered “Studio Quality”
-Table or Stand Mounted Good Audio Pickup Range For Interviews or Audio Recordings.
Cons:
-Cardioid Polar Pattern Makes It Nearly Impossible to Pick Up More Than One Voice at a time.
6. Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti is the microphone you see all other podcast microphones compared to. If you’ve spent any time researching mics at all you’ve probably seen a search comparing other mics to this one. While not the best at everything, This one sets the standards for what a good usb microphone should be.
Price Range
$99 – $139
Pros:
-Multiple polar patterns allow different types of recording
-Has All Standard Functions: Mute Button, Headphone Jack, Gain Control, Volume Control.
-Plug and Play Functionality, User Friendly
Cons:
-Heavy, Exceptionally Heavy With a Stand
-Beginner Friendly But Only Displays Full Functionality With Experienced Users
In Conclusion:
There you have it. Our list of the best mics for podcasting. While many of these microphones can be used for other types of recording, they all make excellent mics for the fledgling podcaster.
Some of our more portable options are great for podcasts that are done at the spur of the moment or while mobile. All of our options are budget friendly being under $200. We tried to include a range of models for beginners while giving you something to grow into as your experience grows.
Whether you want something quick and easy or plan on becoming a seasoned pro, this list will help you find just what you need.
