How to Buy Your First Microphone for Podcasting

A super-quick guide for those who want to get started, pronto!

So you want to start a podcast? That’s great! One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a good microphone. The microphone you choose can make or break the audio quality of your podcast. Follow this guide to help choose the best podcasting microphone for your needs and budget.

Determine Your Budget

Microphones can range greatly in price from $50 to $500+. Set a budget for yourself before starting your search. While more expensive mics produce better sound quality, you can still get decent audio for under $100 as a beginner podcaster.

Consider Your Recording Environment

Where you record makes a difference. A professional studio? A bedroom closet? Think about background noise and echoes. Condenser mics pick up more ambient sound. Dynamics mics are less sensitive. If recording indoors, also look into acoustic treatment to absorb sound reflections.

Pick a Microphone Type

The two main types of microphones to choose from are:

• Dynamic Microphone: Good for voice podcasts. More affordable but picks up less ambient sound. Popular starters are the Audio-Technica ATR2100x and Shure SM58.
• Condenser Microphone: Picks up more detail for a “brighter” sound. Good for multiple hosts. More expensive and sensitive to ambient noises. Popular choices are the Blue Yeti and Rode NT-USB.

If you’re recording solo in a treated space, a dynamic mic like the ATR2100x is a good bet. For multiple hosts or recording video, a condenser like the Blue Yeti captures more detail.

Pick a Polar Pattern

Polar patterns determine which directions the mic picks up sound from.

• Cardioid: Picks up sound from the front. Good for podcasting.
• Bidirectional: Captures from front and rear. Good for interviews.
• Omnidirectional: Picks up sound all around. Useful for roundtable podcasts.

Stick with a cardioid mic for standard podcasting. Go bidirectional if interviewing in-studio guests face-to-face.

Check for Accessories

See what accessories come with the microphone like cables, desk stands, windscreens, shock mounts to prevent noise from bumps, and pop filters for plosive sounds. This saves you money from buying extras.

Read Product Reviews

Research mic models within your budget and check reviews on YouTube and sites like Amazon for pros/cons from actual users. Hearing mic tests in real-world conditions is helpful.

And that’s it! Following these tips will help you pick the best entry-level XLR or USB microphone to get your podcast started on the right foot. Just remember to focus on your show content above all else—no mic can save a bad podcast! But good gear allows your engaging voice and conversation to shine.