The Five Best Recommended Podcast Microphones for 2023

Jumping headfirst into the world of podcasting can be just like diving into any other endeavor: exciting and terrifying. To mitigate feelings of the latter, it pays to be prepared and what better way to prepare than to know what equipment to get. As with selecting the best recommended cameras, it is necessary to find out which microphones are best suited for your needs. With that said, consider the five items on this list:

Microphone Option #1: Audio Technica AT2020USB

The first item on our list is Audio Technica’s AT2020USB. This is a condenser-type microphone with, as its name strongly implies, USB connectivity. It is great for anyone on a budget of $100 or less. The convenience it provides through its USB connectivity makes this an excellent choice for podcasters who are new and experienced alike. Its audio sensitivity makes this a great pick as well, in addition to its wide frequency responses. This microphone already comes with a tripod desk, a ten-foot USB cable, and a stand mount–all of which contributes to its ease-of-use and convenience factor. All in all, the AT2020USB is a great pick, noted for its versatility and affordability.

Microphone Option #2: TONOR USB Microphone TC-777

Another excellent budget microphone is the TONOR USB Microphone TC-777. Besides its affordable price, which often falls under $40, it also displays a high level of versatility that is comparable to the previous item on this short list. Not only is this great for recording podcasts, it is also an excellent choice for gaming, recording of YouTube audio, and so much more. On the topic of its similarity to the AT2020USB, it is of the same type (condenser microphone), recording pattern (Cardioid) and connectivity (USB). The TONOR USB mic comes with its own pop filter, which is handy for the reduction of plosives, and a shock mount to reduce and eliminate desktop vibration noises.

Microphone Option #3: Lewitt LCT 440 PURE

The Lewitt LCT 440 PURE is among the best choices out there for those who are looking for the best bang for their buck. Unlike the previous two on this list, this item has an XLR connectivity. However, it also comes with a shock mount, a magnetic pop filter, and a windscreen. Both the exceptional dynamic range of this microphone and its cardioid pattern makes this a great choice not just for podcasting, but for content creation in general.

Microphone Option #4: Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The next microphone on our list is the Shure SM7B. Our fourth entry also happens to be the first that isn’t a condenser microphone. As a dynamic type, it comes with the added perk of being extra sensitive. This comes highly recommended for podcasts since neither the podcast host, guests, or the podcast engineer have to worry about conversations being unclear due to softer speaking. Due to this sensitivity, the SM7B also has a mid-range boost to enhance vocal clarity and a switchable bass roll-off to prevent background noises from becoming too much. For those who need even more assurance on clarity, this item also comes with a shock mount.

Microphone Option #5: Shure MV7 Podcast Microphone

The last microphone on this list is the Shure MV7 Podcast Microphone. This item comes with both USB and XLR as its connector types, as well as a stand as its special feature. The duality of its connection makes this a fine choice for either digital or analog recording. It is also compatible with headphones and comes with 10-feet USB-A and USB-C cables. As suggested by its name, this is great for podcasting, but it is also versatile enough for recording, live streaming, and others. Although this is among the more high-end microphones in terms of its overall price range, the quality it comes with is more than enough to justify the amount you’ll be forking out for the MV7.

To sum it all up, the five listed items above are sure to be among the very best any prospective podcasting specialist can find in the market today. Take the time to review each choice, as well as what key factors are most important for you, before making that final decision. Beyond the choice of microphones are cameras, there are also a myriad of lessons to learn about the world of podcasting. If you are interested in more lessons, don’t hesitate to book a free discovery call with the good folks at Podcast Engineers today!