10 Outstanding Podcast Microphones
There’s only ever one chance to make that first impression. This applies to audio presentations as well as visual. And when it comes to podcasting, sound quality is the only medium that matters. Keep reading if you need an outstanding podcast microphone. We have ten reviews here for some of the current favorites among active podcasters. First, let’s go over the vital buying considerations.
Budget |
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SUDOTACK USB Podcast Mic |
4.8/5.0 |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Connection: USB |
USB plug-n-play connectivity, wide compatibility. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
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Pyle USB Podcast Mic |
4.9/5.0 |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Connection: USB |
Cardioid pickup pattern, adjustable pop filter, mic stand, recording extras. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
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Apogee Hype Studio Podcast Mic |
4.8/5.0 |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Connection: USB |
Versatile application, 3 compression settings, premium accessories. |
Check Amazon |
Why Built-in Mics Fail
Most mobile devices today come equipped with built-in mics. While the cameras in these have come a long way, the integrated mics have not. They’re convenient for general recording, but they’re not suitable for podcasting. That’s because they’re tinny and pick up external noises going on around you. A dedicated podcast mic can focus on the sound from a small area only, namely your mouth.
Background noise is not always apparent to our natural hearing, especially familiar sounds. We have a way to filter them out subconsciously so that they don’t distract us. We’d never be able to concentrate or have conversations with others if we couldn’t. But everyday noises from electrical, electronic, and mechanical sources are distracting when evident on a podcast.
Phantom Power
You will come across the term ‘phantom power’ when reviewing podcast microphones. It’s a phrase explicitly used in pro audio recording circles. Phantom power occurs as DC voltage works its way through the internal circuitry of a mic. The direct current travels through a cable to the device to power it. That’s the same single cable that also carries the audio signal.
Condenser Mics Vs. Dynamic Microphones
There are two main types of podcast microphones, i.e., dynamic and condenser. There are pros and cons for each kind. Don’t let these terms confuse you. It’s not necessary to get overly technical to explain the differences between these two products.
When to consider condenser mics
Condenser mics are way more sensitive than dynamic ones. The sound quality is exceptional within certain conditions, especially the human voice. These ultra-sensitive mics need a proper, sound-proofed environment. If not, they pick up all kinds of unwanted background noise. Thus, condenser mics are ideal for insulated spaces like a proper recording studio.
Most amateur podcasters don’t have access to a permanent soundproofed room. Also, condenser mics are not ideal if you move around, recording from different places and environments.
A condenser microphone needs phantom power (typically around 48V) to work.
When to consider dynamic mics
Dynamic mics are far less sensitive than condensers. They won’t pick up passing traffic outside, the fan in the corner, or any other background noise. There are also directional dynamic mics that only pick up the sound directly in front and cut out any noise from behind. Consider a dynamic mic for your podcasts if you move around a lot and record in noisier spaces. That includes outdoors.
Dynamic type microphones do not require phantom power to work.
Other Useful Terms
Here are a few other useful terms that are handy to know when reading podcast mic reviews.
Omnidirectional microphones: This type of mic picks up sound from all directions, i.e., 360° audio. Thus, it needs a quiet space to get the best results. Podcasters must hold omnidirectional mics very close to the mouth when recording on location.
Unidirectional microphones: These mics are directional and therefore block out unwanted surrounding noise. They’re perfect if you only record a single voice. You won’t want to use this type of mic if you regularly record two or more people simultaneously.
Bidirectional (figure-of-eight) microphones: have equal sensitivity to sound from the front and rear. They’re least sensitive to side sounds, which makes them ideal mics for recording interviews.
Cardioid microphones: These mics pick up frontal sound and minimize noise from behind. That makes them a superb choice for solo podcast presenters. They can be a tad overly sensitive, though.
Shotgun microphones: This type is typically longer than other kinds of mic. Their job is to pick up sound from whoever or whatever you point them at. They’re useful if you want to record something or someone for your podcast that you can’t get right up to.
USB Vs. XLR for Podcasting
The visible difference between these two types of mic is their distinct connections. We’re all familiar with the USB that plugs directly into a computer’s USB port. An XLR connector is round and can have either 3 or 7 pins. So, which is best? That depends on your podcasting style and expectations.
USB microphones
USB plug-n-play mics are the obvious choice for anyone dipping their toe into podcasting. They’re dead easy to set up and cost considerably less than XLR mics. You don’t need any tech skills to exploit the full potential of a USB microphone. Even the cheapest ones provide much better audio quality than the built-in mics of mobile devices. However, XLR mics are in a different league.
XLR microphones
XLR connection mics are professional-grade products that connect through an audio mixer. This arrangement lets you manipulate and exploit many sound options and variations. However, most podcasters don’t need a complex audio setup, at least not at the amateur level.
About My ‘Podcast Microphone’ Guide
There’s an endless supply of podcast-capable mics on sale for all budgets and skill levels. Some are better than others, but it’s not always easy to tell by the sales spiel. My shortlist of 10 popular products is the result of personal experience, the opinions of industry experts, and user feedback. The first three reviews are the Editor’s choice for Best Budget, Best Value, and the Top Pick.
Podcast Microphones Comparison Table
Make and Model | Polar Pattern | Connection | Price |
---|---|---|---|
USB Streaming Podcast PC Mic by SUDOTACK | Cardioid | USB | Check Price |
USB Microphone Podcast Recording Kit by Pyle | Cardioid | USB | Check Price |
Apogee Hype Studio Qualtiy Podcast Microphone | Cardioid | USB | Check Price |
Movo Professional Clip-on Interview Podcast Mic | Omnidirectional | Audio jack | Check Price |
Affordable USB Podcast Microphone Kit by TONOR | Cardioid | USB | Check Price |
MAONO USB Microphone Kit for Podcast | Cardioid | USB | Check Price |
Samson Q2U Handheld USB Dynamic Podcast Mic | Cardioid | USB/XLR | Check Price |
Bumblebee Desktop USB Mic by NEAT Microphones | Cardioid | USB | Check Price |
Audio-Technica AT2020PK Quality Vocal Mic Pack | Cardioid | XLR | Check Price |
Blue 1967 Yeti Pro Multipattern USB Condenser Mic | Multi-pattern | USB/XLR | Check Price |
1. SUDOTACK ST-850 Professional Podcast Mic | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Best Budget podcast microphone goes to the SUDOTACK ST-850 USB Professional. It’s a versatile, studio cardioid condenser mic with crystal clear audio quality.
- Best feature 1: Cardioid pickup pattern
- Best feature 2: Detachable metal desktop stand
- Plus points: USB plug-n-play connectivity, wide compatibility, professional look, metal build
- Minus points: Slight distortion when speaking too loud and too close
SUDOTACK Professional Mic Highlights
This mic plugs directly into any Windows or Mac computers for direct recording. No drivers needed. Its cardioid polar pattern only picks up sounds from the front of the mic. Any noise from behind is ignored or at least minimized so that it doesn’t detract from your voice. That makes it an excellent podcast mic as recordings are free from unwanted sound distractions.
The convenient extendable metal desktop stand is invaluable for podcasters. You can adjust the mic buy 180° to attain the perfect angle—for you. Just place the mic into the ideal position and forget about it. Another of ST-850’s neat features is its wide compatibility. It even works with modern smartphones, but you need to buy a special adapter for that.
The professional look of this microphone makes it visually appealing, and that’s always a bonus. And the solid metal construction makes it durable and resistant against knocks.
The Not So Good
The only negative with this mic is that it tends to slightly distort if you get too close and speak too loud. There should be no issues if you keep your distance when there’s a need to raise your voice.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: SUDOTACK |
Mic Type: Desktop |
Cable: USB A to B cable 2.5m |
Microphone-core: Dia.16mm condenser |
Connection: USB |
Power Supply: Plug-in |
Equivalent Noise Level: 160dBA Max |
Maximum SPL: 120dB |
Package Dimensions: 9.6 x 5.3 x 3.4” |
Product Weight: 2.15 lbs. |
Warranty: 30 day return |
The Pros |
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Cardioid pickup pattern |
Detachable metal desktop stand |
USB plug-n-play connectivity |
Wide compatibility |
Professional look |
Sturdy metal build |
The Cons |
---|
Slight distortion when speaking too loud too close |
2. USB Microphone Podcast Recording Kit | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Pyle plug-n-play USB desktop PC microphone makes the Best Value pick. Simply connect it to your laptop or PC, and you’re ready to create high-quality podcasts.
- Best feature 1: Easy, plug-n-play desktop computer mic
- Best feature 2: Universal OS compatibility
- Plus points: Cardioid pickup pattern, adjustable pop filter, mic stand, recording extras
- Minus points: Desktop/laptop restrictions
Pyle PDMIKT100 Computer Mic Highlights
This microphone is an excellent recording set for a whole variety of applications. It works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It’s a superb podcast mic, but also an excellent choice for studio vocals and desktop recording. The cardioid pickup is most sensitive at the front and rejects noise from the sides and rear. That’s precisely what you need for the perfect podcast.
Recording Extras
There are lots of extras included in this mic set. The adjustable gooseneck pop filter eliminates annoying popping sounds. The result is high-precision audio clarity that draws ears to your voice. Also in the box is a mic shock mount, detachable USB cable, and a foam mic windscreen. There’s even a smart portable aluminum case to store and carry the valuable equipment.
The Not So Good
The mic set is purposely made for use with desktop and laptop computer systems. It might be possible to connect it to other devices via an adapter, but the maker won’t support it.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Pyle |
Mic Type: Desktop Condenser Mic |
OS Support: Windows XP, Mac, Linux |
Polar pattern: Cardioid |
Cable: Detachable USB |
Power Supply: Plug-in |
Maximum SPL: 96dB |
Material: alloy, metal iron base |
Dimensions: 1.9 x 1.9 x 6.1” |
Product Weight (kit): 5.96 lbs. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Easy, plug-n-play setup |
Lab-tested for performance |
Solid desktop computer mic set |
Freestanding placement |
Universal OS compatibility |
Cardioid pickup pattern |
Adjustable gooseneck pop filter |
Sturdy mic stand |
Recording extras |
Aluminum storage/travel case |
The Cons |
---|
Made for desktop and laptop computers only |
3. Apogee HypeMiC Studio Quality Podcast Mic | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
Apogee’s superb studio-quality Hype Mic makes the Top Pick. It’s the one to consider if you strive for podcasts that sound like you’re sitting next to the listener. Yes, it’s that true to life.
- Best feature 1: Truly realistic sound
- Best feature 2: Broad compatibility
- Plus points: Versatile application, 3 compression settings, premium accessories
- Minus points: Quite pricey
Apogee Hype Studio Mic Highlights
The HypeMiC is flawless for speech applications. Think podcasts, interviews, YouTube, voiceovers, conference calls, and live streaming. Its unique analog compression makes it a brilliant mic for singers too. The three compression settings let vocalists bring out the best in their voice as few mics can. It adds warmth and smoothness to acoustic instruments as well.
There are three compression settings; Shape it (low), Squeeze it (medium), and Smash it (high). None is better than the other. They exist so that users can fine-tune and tweak the sound they demand. This product works with any computer or iPhone, iPad, iPod touch. That means you can set up your pro-level recording studio anywhere at any time.
This mic set comes with a few premium accessories. They include a smart carry case, desktop tripod, and a custom pop filter. There’s everything in the box to start recording like a pro right away.
The Not So Good
There’s not much to gripe about the HypeMiC other than its highish price tag. It offers excellent value for anyone who can afford it, though. But there are bound to be many at the entry-level who would love one but can’t justify the cost—yet.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Apogee |
Mic Type: USB computer mic |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Cable: USB / iOS Lightning |
Power Supply: USB and iOS device |
Maximum SPL: 130dB (1% THD at 1kHz) |
Max gain of preamp: 46 dB |
Product Dimensions: 4.9 x 1.5 x 1.5” |
Product Weight: 0.45 lbs. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Truly realistic sound |
Plug-n-play mic |
Computer compatibility |
Versatile application |
3 compression settings |
Built-In Headphone Output |
iOS Lightning cable |
Smart carry case |
Custom pop filter |
Premium desktop tripod |
The Cons |
---|
Quite pricy |
4. Movo Pro Clip-on Interview Podcast Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
This product is the Movo Professional Lavalier Lapel mic. It’s a great choice of clip-on microphone for entry-level podcasters. It works with all iOS and Android smartphones, phablets, and tablets.
- Best feature 1: Works with all Apple/Android smart devices
- Best feature 2: Includes second interview mic
- Plus points: Easy to use, interview-ready, detachable second mic, soft storage pouch
- Minus points: Cables get tangled, different length cords
Movo Clip-on Podcast Mic Highlights
Consider the Movo Pro clip-on mic set if you do—or intend to start—podcast interviews. The 8ft cable provides plenty of room to move around or create space between you and the interviewee. The second mic is detachable, so you don’t have to leave it dangling when not in use. The kit includes four identical lapel clips for the mics, four foam windscreens, and a soft storage pouch.
The audio quality might not be at the studio level, but it’s a massive improvement on most built-in mics. The price is affordable and about right for new podcasters dipping their toe.
The Not So Good
The cords tend to get tangled easily. The interviewer has 8ft, and the interviewee 5ft of cable. It would make better sense to give them equal lengths. Make sure you separate the cords between use, or you could start each new session untangling them.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Movo |
Mic Type: Interview lavalier podcast |
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
Cable Lengths: 8ft, 5ft. |
Connector: 3.5mm TRRS |
Power Supply: Plug-in |
Signal/Noise Ratio: 74dB SPL |
Package Dimensions: 4.4 x 3.3 x 1.5” |
Product Weight: 3.52 oz. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Works with iOS/Android devices |
2-microphone set |
Easy to use |
Interview-ready |
Detachable second mic |
Soft storage pouch |
Reasonable price |
The Cons |
---|
Cables get tangled |
Cables different lengths |
5. Affordable USB Podcast Microphone Kit by TONOR
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The TONOR USB Microphone Kit is a good-looking, competent recording device. It gives a listenable warmth and clarity to the spoken voice and sports an extended dynamic range.
- Best feature 1: Plug-n-play mic
- Best feature 2: Produces warm, listenable speech
- Plus points: Volume button, adjustable arm stand, 2 mounts, pop filter, foam covers
- Minus points: No storage/travel case, no headphone monitoring
TONOR USB Mic Kit Highlights
TONOR’s USB microphone is another stress-free plug-n-play product. The mic sports noise reduction technology, cardioid pick-up (perfect for speech), and a 16mm diaphragm. The volume button is smooth and easy to adjust. This affordable mic is an excellent choice for podcasters, singers, gamers, and acoustic instruments. Everything you need to start recording is in the box.
Mic Kit Extras
There are some essential extras in the kit as well as the microphone. The suspension scissor arm stand can be invaluable for precise positioning. Other accessories include a metal shock mount, foam windscreen, and a 6ft long USB cable.
The Not So Good
There’s no storage/travel case despite being a comprehensive mic kit. I think most buyers would be happy to pay a bit extra to have a purpose storage case to put it all. Another downside is that it doesn’t have headphone monitoring. Still, that’s more of a nitpick than a con considering the price.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: TONOR |
Mic Type: USB Condenser |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Cable: 180cm USB |
Frequency Response: 20Hz-20KHz |
Power Supply: Plug-in |
Product Dimensions: 16.4 x 9.9 x 3.4” |
Product Weight: 3.7 lbs. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Plug-n-play mic |
Full recording kit |
Decent build quality |
Doesn’t need phantom power |
Warm, clear audio |
Volume button |
Adjustable arm stand |
2 mounts |
Pop filter |
Foam covers |
Excellent value |
The Cons |
---|
No storage/travel case |
No headphone monitoring |
6. MAONO USB Microphone Kit for Podcast
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The MAONO USB microphone kit is a professional-looking setup that’s perfect for podcasts. It’s also a versatile mic that you can use for vocals, instruments, and other types of recording.
- Best feature 1: Quality, USB podcast microphone kit
- Best feature 2: Pro sound chipset
- Plus points: Broad compatibility, plug-n-play, low noise, speech & instruments, extras
- Minus points: Need to get close for best results, no storage case
MAONO USB Mic Kit Highlights
MAONO’s USB microphone is a condenser mic designed using a pro sound chipset. It produces the kind of high-quality, interference-free sound you’d expect from much costlier models. The broad compatibility lets you use this plug-n-play mic with all OS, including Linux. That means laptops, PCs, and even mobile smartphones. The latter needs an OTG adapter, though (not included).
This mic has a lot going for it like no distortion, strong output, and low power consumption. The USB cable uses double shielding to reduce interference to the max. It’s this clarity that lets listeners focus on your voice with zero distractions. There’s plenty in the box too aside from the mic. The extras included a sturdy table stand with iron base, a shock mount, pop filter, and a foam mic windscreen.
The Not So Good
The main negative with the MAONO USB Microphone is that you must get close. The sound is beautiful, but if you’re someone who needs to record with a soft voice, then think on. Eating the mic is not what you might call a relaxing experience. Finally, there’s no carry case included. If you need one, there’s a larger MAONO mic kit with an aluminum storage case for around 12–15 dollars extra.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: MAONO |
Mic Type: USB desktop |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Cable: USB-A to USB-B |
Connector: OTG adapter for smartphones (not included) |
S/N Ratio: 70dB |
Power Supply: Plug-in |
Product Dimensions: 11.5 x 10.1 x 5.1” |
Product Weight (Kit): 4.55 lbs. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Quality, USB podcast mic kit |
Pro sound chipset |
Broad compatibility |
Plug-n-play ready |
Low noise |
Works well for singers and musical instruments |
Recording extras included |
The Cons |
---|
Need to get close for best results |
No storage case in the basic kit |
7. Samson Q2U Handheld USB Dynamic Podcast Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The Samson Q2U is a handheld USB dynamic microphone. It’s a plug-n-play mic that connects to any PC, Mac, or Apple devices. You’re then ready to start recording with your preferred audio software.
- Best feature 1: USB and XLR outputs
- Best feature 2: Plug-n-play microphone
- Plus points: Multiple device versatility, cardioid pattern, ultra-clear audio, recording extras
- Minus points: Rickety stand, cheap ON/OFF switch
Samson Q2U Dynamic Mic Highlights
Samson’s Q2U podcast mic comes with both USB and XLR outputs. That gives you the versatility to record from the home studio or on the stage if you need to. The XLR cable delivers a more balanced signal that results in less unwanted noise. It’s the perfect mic for podcasters on the move.
You can even use this mic with iPads and iPhones using Apple’s Lightning to USB adapter. And a host OTG cable will connect it to any Android device. The cardioid pickup pattern guarantees ultra-clear audio recordings with great detail and total accuracy. The Q2U kit includes a mic clip, tripod stand extension, desktop tripod, 3m XLR cable, and a 2.25m USB cable.
The Not So Good
The stand that comes with the Q2U is on the flimsy side. It’s also short, which means some people will have to lean into it. The slide ON/OFF switch feels cheap and vulnerable as if it doesn’t belong on the quality mic. The switch works fine, but a press button would have looked and felt a lot better.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Samson Technologies |
Mic Type: Handheld Dynamic USB |
Cables: USB and XLR |
Power Supply: PLug-in |
Windscreen: Dual-stage grill |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Headphone Level Control: x |
Frequency Response: 20Hz–18kHz |
Package Dimensions: 13 x 4 x 10” |
Product Weight: 1 lb. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Well-made handheld podcast mic |
Ultra-clear audio |
Records directly to a USB device |
Connect to a mixer via XLR |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Multiple device versatility |
Cardioid pick-up pattern |
Pop-filter to reduce p-pops |
Desktop stand |
Mic clip |
The Cons |
---|
Rickety stand |
Cheap ON/OFF switch |
8. Bumblebee Desktop USB Mic by NEAT Microphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Meet the Bumblebee Desktop USB Microphone. It’s an unusual-looking device but highly practical in its design. The cardioid pick-up pattern makes it a decent fit for podcasters, musicians, and vocalists.
- Best feature 1: Integrated articulating stand
- Best feature 2: Direct USB connection
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, PC/Mac compatible, boom arm, sonic signatures, excellent user guide
- Minus points: Geeky bumblebee theme
Bumblebee Desktop USB Mic Highlights
NEAT’s Bumblebee USB mic is worth considering for anyone with multiple recording needs. It’s a plug-n-play mic that works well with both PC and Mac computers. The integrated articulating stand keeps everything neat and tidy. The mic is a large-diaphragm condenser type that delivers pure sonic fidelity right to your computer. Its 3 switchable sonic signature selections are Music, Voice, and Neutral.
The other two controls at the front of the stand are for mic output Gain Control and headphone volume. The build quality is impressive and uses metal with a texturized coat. Mic placement is easy, thanks to the boom arm and swivel capsule design. The user guide is one of the best I’ve seen. It goes into easy-to-follow details on how to exploit the product’s full potential.
The Not So Good
The only real negative—and this is subjective—is the geeky bumblebee theme. It’s young and feels silly for serious podcasters. If you can overlook that, though, then this is an excellent microphone. It won’t replace high-end mics, but it does deliver beautiful sound, especially for podcasting.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: NEAT Microphones |
Mic Type: USB desktop |
Cable: USB |
Power Supply: Plug-in |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
S/N Ratio: 98.0 dB-A |
Dynamic Range: 98.0 dB |
Product Dimensions: 3 x 8.5 x 8.5” |
Product Weight: 1.73 lbs. |
Warranty: 3 years |
The Pros |
---|
Integrated articulating stand |
Direct USB connection |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
PC/Mac compatible |
Boom arm and swivel capsule |
Three sonic signatures |
MIC Gain |
Headphone volume control |
Excellent user guide |
The Cons |
---|
Geeky bumblebee theme |
9. Audio-Technica AT2020PK Quality Vocal Mic Pack
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The Audio-Technica AT2020PK as a quality XLR mic pack for podcasting and streaming. Its cardioid polar pattern reduces all side and rear sounds while picking up perfect vocals from the front.
- Best feature 1: Pivoting, threaded stand mount
- Best feature 2: Easily adjustable studio boom arm
- Plus points: Cardioid pick up, clear, warm sound, durable mic, headphones included
- Minus points: No USB, no XLR cable, flimsy storage pouch
Audio-Technica AT2020PK Mic Highlights
This mic sells well which tells us quite a lot. It’s an exceptional product for vocal pickup. The sound is warm and clear, and the mic’s responsive with almost no transient noise. It’s a durable condenser microphone that’s priced perfectly for its class. You can enhance the sound further through a decent preamp (not included). The mic sits dead center of quality amateur and pro-level products.
The over-ear circumaural ATH-M20x Professional Monitor Headphones are a welcome extra. They’re factory-tuned for improved low-frequency performance. The studio boom arm deserves mention too. Positioning the mic is easy with its full 360° rotation and flexible spring-stabilized joints. And the thumbscrews make the adjustments quick and easy.
The Not So Good
Most mics on this page are USB plug-n-play, but not this one. And it’s certainly not ready to use out of the box. There are complaints about what’s not included, especially XLR cables. Check with the seller for a package update before purchase. You must also buy a phantom power box or at least an audio interface that can produce 48V phantom power. Lastly, the soft storage pouch is cheap and flimsy.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Audio-Technica |
Mic Type: Condenser |
Cable: XLR |
Power Supply: phantom |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Signal to noise ratio: 74 dB |
Dynamic Range: 24 dB |
Maximum SPL: 144 dB SPL |
Dimensions: 6.38 x 2.05” |
Product Weight: 0.76 lb. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Superb mic for vocal pickup |
Pivoting, threaded stand mount |
Adjustable studio boom arm |
Cardioid pick up |
Clear, warm sound |
Durable product |
Headphones included |
The Cons |
---|
Not a USB mic |
No XLR cables included |
Flimsy storage pouch |
10. Blue 1967 Yeti Pro Multipattern USB Condenser Mic
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The last of the reviews go to the Blue 1967 Yeti Pro. It’s a USB condenser microphone with endless potential for pro-level studio and desktop applications.
- Best feature 1: 4 pattern polar selector
- Best feature 2: Super versatile
- Plus points: Pro level USB, USB & XLR cables, built-in headphone amplifier, custom base
- Minus points: Cost, weight, stock stand picks up vibrations
Blue 1967 Yeti Pro Mic Highlights
You don’t have to be a dedicated audiophile to appreciate the true quality of the Blue 1967 Yeti Pro. What we have here is the easiness of a USB plug-and-play mic but with advanced features. The four built-in polar patterns are worth the price alone. They are stereo, omnidirectional, bidirectional (figure of eight), and cardioid. All you do to choose the desired pattern is rotate the selector knob.
The mic plugs into the USB port if you want to record to a desktop or laptop computer. You can also connect via XLR and an audio interface for using it in a studio (cables included).
Quality Audio Guaranteed
This beast records 24-bit/192 kHz digital recording resolution. To put that in layman’s terms, it’s 4 times CD audio quality. The cardioid polar pattern is perfect for high-quality single person podcasts. The omnidirectional polar pattern is ideal for multi-person podcasts. And the bidirectional (front and back) polar pattern is the one to choose for interviews. The Yeti Pro is all things to all people.
There are a few studio controls located on the mic. One of those is an analog gain control for adjusting the mic’s sensitivity. On the bottom is a headphone jack, and there’s a headphone volume control on the front. Above that is a useful mute button if you suddenly need to cough or sneeze mid-recording.
This is a heavy-duty mic that comes with a heavy-duty stand. There’s also a standard thread on the bottom should you want to connect it to a conventional mic stand.
The Not So Good
Yes, this microphone is quite expensive, but it’s a reliable tool of the trade that offers exceptional value. The most common gripe relates to the stock stand. It’s a solid product, but its base tends to absorb nearby vibrations far too easily. That includes typing. It’s a design flaw because a shock absorption mechanism could have eliminated the problem. Other than that, it’s a superb mic.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Blue |
Mic Type: Condenser multi-pattern |
Cable: USB/Stereo XLR (included) |
Power Supply: Phantom |
Polar Patterns: Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, and Stereo 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution |
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz |
Max SPL: 120dB (THD: 0.5% 1kHz) |
Signal to noise ratio: 114dB |
Dimensions: 4.92 x 11.61 (in stand) |
Weight (mic): 1.2 lbs. |
Weight (stand): 2.2 lbs. |
Warranty: 2 years |
The Pros |
---|
Single or multi-person podcasts |
4 pattern polar selector |
Super-versatile |
Heavy-duty desktop stand |
Studio on-mic controls |
Pro-level USB condenser mic |
USB & XLR cables included |
4 times CD audio quality |
Built-in headphone amplifier |
Mute button |
Standard thread for mic stands |
The Cons |
---|
Quite expensive |
Stock stand picks up vibrations |
Contents
- Why Built-in Mics Fail
- Phantom Power
- Condenser Mics Vs. Dynamic Microphones
- When to consider condenser mics
- When to consider dynamic mics
- Other Useful Terms
- USB Vs. XLR for Podcasting
- USB microphones
- XLR microphones
- About My ‘Podcast Microphone’ Guide
- Podcast Microphones Comparison Table
- 1. SUDOTACK ST-850 Professional Podcast Mic | Best Budget
- SUDOTACK Professional Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 2. USB Microphone Podcast Recording Kit | Best Value
- Pyle PDMIKT100 Computer Mic Highlights
- Recording Extras
- The Not So Good
- 3. Apogee HypeMiC Studio Quality Podcast Mic | Top Pick
- Apogee Hype Studio Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 4. Movo Pro Clip-on Interview Podcast Mic
- Movo Clip-on Podcast Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 5. Affordable USB Podcast Microphone Kit by TONOR
- TONOR USB Mic Kit Highlights
- Mic Kit Extras
- The Not So Good
- 6. MAONO USB Microphone Kit for Podcast
- MAONO USB Mic Kit Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 7. Samson Q2U Handheld USB Dynamic Podcast Mic
- Samson Q2U Dynamic Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 8. Bumblebee Desktop USB Mic by NEAT Microphones
- Bumblebee Desktop USB Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 9. Audio-Technica AT2020PK Quality Vocal Mic Pack
- Audio-Technica AT2020PK Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 10. Blue 1967 Yeti Pro Multipattern USB Condenser Mic
- Blue 1967 Yeti Pro Mic Highlights
- Quality Audio Guaranteed
- The Not So Good