Every wondred which is the best microphone type for podcasting? Podcasting has become a powerful medium for storytelling, sharing insights, and connecting with audiences worldwide. One key element to producing a high-quality podcast is the choice of microphone. But with so many options available, it can be daunting to select the right one. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best microphone types for podcasting, considering various needs and setups.

1. Understanding Microphone Types

Before diving into specific models of best microphone type for podcasting, it’s essential to understand the two primary types of microphones used in podcasting: Condenser and Dynamic.

Condenser Microphones

• Sensitivity: They are sensitive and capture more detail, ideal for studio settings.
• Sound Quality: Offers a broader frequency range and better transient response.
• Use Case: Best in controlled environments without much background noise.
• Power Source: Requires phantom power, typically supplied by audio interfaces or mixers.

Dynamic Microphones

• Durability: More rugged and less sensitive to moisture and temperature changes.
• Sound Capture: Less sensitive to sound pressure levels, making them ideal for loud sources.
• Background Noise: Better at rejecting background noise, suitable for less controlled environments.
• Power Source: Does not require external power.

2. Top Picks for best Podcasting Microphones Types

1. Begginers – Audio-Technica AT2035
2. Middle of road – Rode NT-USB
3. Best professional – Shure SM7B

a) For Beginners: USB Microphones

• Example Models: Blue Yeti, Audio-Technica AT2020USB+
• Pros: Easy to use, no need for an external audio interface.
• Cons: Generally, offer less control over sound than XLR microphones.

b) For Intermediate Podcasters: XLR Dynamic Microphones

• Example Models: Shure SM7B, Rode PodMic
• Pros: Excellent sound quality, durable, and great at noise rejection.
• Cons: Requires an audio interface or mixer, more expensive setup overall.

c) For Professional Studios: XLR Condenser Microphones

• Example Models: Neumann TLM 102, AKG C414
• Pros: Superior sound quality, captures nuances of the voice.
• Cons: Picks up background noise, needs a quiet environment, more expensive.

3. Other Factors to Consider

a) Polar Patterns

• Cardioid: Captures sound from the front, ideal for podcasting.
• Omnidirectional: Captures sound from all directions, used for group recordings.
• Bi-directional: Captures front and back, good for two-person podcasts.

b) Connectivity

• USB vs. XLR: USB for simplicity and direct computer connection; XLR for higher quality and more professional setups.

c) Accessories

• Pop Filters: Reduce plosive sounds.
• Shock Mounts: Minimize vibrations and handling noise.
• Boom Arms/Stands: Provide flexibility in microphone positioning.

4. Budget Considerations

The cost can vary widely:

• Entry-Level: $50 – $150, suitable for beginners or hobbyists.
• Mid-Range: $150 – $300, offering a balance between quality and affordability.
• High-End: $300 and above, for professional quality sound.

5. Conclusion

Choosing the right microphone for your podcast depends on your level of experience, the environment you’ll be recording in, and your budget. For beginners, a USB microphone offers a great starting point. Intermediate podcasters might prefer the sound quality and durability of an XLR dynamic microphone. Professional studios often lean towards high-end XLR condenser microphones for the best sound capture.

Remember, the best microphone is the one that fits your specific needs and helps you connect with your audience effectively. Happy podcasting!

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Shure Incorporated, a beacon in the audio industry since 1925, is synonymous with unparalleled quality and durability in the world of microphones. This article ventures into the best of Shure’s offerings, showcasing top-tier microphones for various applications. Learn more about Shure’s rich history and diverse product range on their official website or dive into their detailed history on Wikipedia.

But first…

What should you look for in a professional microphone?

1. Type of Microphone:
   • Dynamic Microphones are versatile, durable, and excellent for live sound and recording loud sources. They handle high sound pressure levels well.
   • Condenser Microphones are more sensitive and provide a higher-quality audio signal, making them ideal for studio recording. They capture more detail and a wider frequency range.
2. Polar Patterns:
   • Cardioid Microphones are most sensitive to sound coming from the front, making them suitable for live performances.
   • Omnidirectional Microphones pick up sound equally from all directions. They are useful in natural-sounding recordings in acoustically-treated spaces.
   • Bidirectional or Figure-8 Microphones pick up sound from the front and back, ideal for interviews or duets.
3. Frequency Response:
   • This is the range of frequencies the microphone can pick up. A wider range can capture more detail, but for certain applications like voice recording, a more tailored frequency response might be preferable.
4. Sensitivity:
   • Sensitivity indicates how well the microphone converts acoustic pressure into an electrical signal. A more sensitive microphone is preferable for studio settings where capturing subtle nuances is important.
5. Impedance:
   • Low impedance microphones (under 600 ohms) are generally better, as they can be used with long cable runs without losing sound quality.
6. Durability and Build Quality:
   • For touring or live performances, a robust build is essential.
7. Connectivity:
   • Consider the connection type (XLR, USB, etc.) and compatibility with your existing equipment.
8. Additional Features and Accessories:
   • Features like built-in pop filters, shock mounts, and the ability to switch polar patterns can be beneficial.
9. Budget:
   • Determine your budget and find the best microphone within that range. More expensive doesn’t always mean better for your specific needs.
10. Brand and Reviews:
    • Research brands and read user reviews to understand the performance and reliability of the microphones.

Remember, the best microphone for you depends on your specific needs, the environment you’ll be using it in, and the type of sound you’re looking to capture.

Shure Microphone Categories: A Brief Overview

Shure’s diverse range encompasses dynamic, condenser, ribbon, and wireless microphones, each tailored for specific audio needs. From live performances to studio recordings, Shure offers a solution for every sound requirement.

Top Shure Microphones

• For Live Vocals: SM58 The legendary SM58, a favorite among vocalists for its robust design and warm, clear sound.
• For Studio Recording: SM7B The SM7B stands out in studio settings for its flat, wide-range frequency response, ideal for both music and speech.
• For Instrument Miking: SM57 The versatile SM57 excels in handling high sound pressure levels, perfect for instrument miking.
• For Broadcasting and Podcasting: MV7 Inspired by the SM7B, the MV7 offers USB and XLR outputs, bringing studio-quality audio to home setups.
• Wireless Options: BLX and SLX Series The BLX and SLX series provide wireless clarity and reliability for performers who value mobility.

Shure Microphones Technical Aspects

These microphones are distinguished by their technical prowess, including tailored frequency response, various polar patterns, and advanced connectivity options.

User Reviews and Industry Reception

Shure microphones have garnered accolades and positive testimonials worldwide for their consistent performance and reliability.

Comparison with Competitors

Shure microphones are renowned for their quality, sound fidelity, and durability, giving them an edge over competitors.

Price Range and Availability

Shure microphones cater to a broad range of budgets and are widely available through various online and physical retail channels.

Conclusion

Shure microphones represent a fusion of audio excellence and technological innovation. Whether you are a musician, podcaster, or sound engineer, Shure offers a microphone that will enhance your sound experience.

References

• Shure Incorporated Official Website
• About Shure – Shure Incorporated
• Shure – Wikipedia

This exploration into Shure’s world of microphones reveals their commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, setting them apart in the audio industry. From dynamic energy of live performances to the nuanced tones of studio recordings, Shure microphones are your partners in sound, capturing every note, word, and nuance with clarity and warmth.

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The Shure WL184-TQG is a lavalier microphone designed for use with wireless systems. It is ideal for transmitting speech during interview panels, conferences, lectures, and houses of worship. This compact lavalier microphone is highly adaptable and provides the ability to switch condenser capsules (sold separately) to select the polar pattern needed for the environment.

The capsule of the WL184 provides a supercardioid polar pattern for more focused pickup. It is designed to have a wide dynamic range and frequency response that is well-suited for accurately transmitting speech and adapting to the naturally shifting volumes of the human voice. The microphone also includes a rotatable tie-clip that can rotate in 90-degree increments, allowing for flexible placement.

Additionally, the Shure WL184-TQG comes with two useful accessories: a windshield for reducing plosives and wind noise, and a dual tie-clip for dual miking purposes. For more information, click here.

The WL184 is designed to naturally and smoothly handle speech in conferences, professional broadcasting, lectures, houses of worship, and more. It offers a broad dynamic range to handle the natural volume changes often seen in speech, minimizing distortion and providing a smooth, accurate sound.

This lavalier microphone offers the use of interchangeable condenser capsules, ensuring that it can fit into any acoustic environment or adapt to changes in microphone setup between events. The WL184 model includes a supercardioid cartridge, but cardioid and omnidirectional cartridges are also available (sold separately).

The microphone features a compact design and is ideal for projecting speech in broadcast studios, lectures, conferences, and houses of worship. It uses a TQG connector designed for use with wireless bodypack transmitters. The wide dynamic range of the microphone provides consistent sound despite volume changes, and the full-range frequency response ensures accurate and natural sound reproduction.

The WL184 comes with a rotatable tie-clip for easy microphone positioning and a snap-fit windscreen that reduces plosives and wind noise with a secure fit. Additionally, it includes a dual tie-clip accessory that holds two microphones for dual-miking purposes.

The specifications of the WL184 are as follows: it weighs 28 g and has a condenser transducer type. The polar pattern is supercardioid, and the frequency response range is 50 Hz – 17 kHz. The sensitivity is -33 dBV/Pa/5.95 mV/Pa, and the self-noise level is 27 dB (A). The maximum sound pressure level is 129.5 dB, and the impedance is 1800 ohms. It does not have a switchable low cut feature. The output connectors are TQG (TA4F 4-pin mini), and there is no attenuation pad. The microphone has an interchangeable capsule, and it requires +5 V DC phantom power. The cable length is 1.2 m (4 ft).
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The Shure WL185-TQG is a lavalier microphone designed for use with wireless systems. It is ideal for transmitting speech during interview panels, conferences, lectures, and houses of worship. This compact lavalier microphone is highly adaptable, as it provides the ability to switch condenser capsules (sold separately), allowing you to select the polar pattern you need for your environment. The capsule of the WL185 provides a cardioid polar pattern for more focused pickup.

The WL185’s design provides a wide dynamic range and frequency response that is well-suited for accurately transmitting speech and adapting to the naturally shifting volumes of the human voice. It also includes a rotatable tie-clip that can rotate in 90-degree increments, allowing you to place it wherever you need to. Additionally, this microphone comes complete with two useful accessories – a windshield for reducing plosives and wind noise, and a dual tie-clip for dual miking purposes.

For more information, click here: [link to website]

The WL185 is designed to naturally and smoothly handle speech in conferences, professional broadcasting, lectures, houses of worship, and more. It offers a broad dynamic range to handle the natural volume changes often seen in speech, minimizing distortion and providing a smooth, accurate sound.

This lavalier microphone also offers use with interchangeable condenser capsules, ensuring that it can fit into any acoustic environment or adapt to changes in microphone setup between events. The WL185 model includes a cardioid cartridge, but cardioid and omnidirectional cartridges are available (sold separately).

Features of the WL185 include its compact size, cardioid condenser design, and suitability for projecting speech in broadcast studios, lectures, conferences, and houses of worship. Its TQG connector is designed for use with wireless bodypack transmitters. Optional cartridges are available to switch between supercardioid or omnidirectional polar patterns (sold separately).

The WL185 has a wide dynamic range that provides consistent sound in spite of volume changes, and a full-range frequency response for accurate, natural sound reproduction. It also includes a rotatable tie-clip for easy microphone positioning and a snap-fit windscreen to reduce plosives and wind noise effectively.

Additionally, the microphone comes with a dual tie-clip accessory that holds two microphones for dual-miking purposes.

Specifications of the WL185 include a weight of 28g, a condenser transducer type, a cardioid polar pattern, a frequency response of 50 Hz – 17 kHz, a sensitivity of -33 dBV/Pa/5.95 mvpa, a self-noise of 27 dB (A), a maximum sound pressure of 129.5 dB, an impedance of 1800Ω, and an output connector of TQG (TA4F 4-pin mini). It does not require a switchable low cut or an attenuation pad. The microphone does have an interchangeable capsule and requires +5 V DC phantom power. The included cable is 1.2m/4ft long.
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The Shure WL93 Lavalier Microphone with TQG connector is designed to let your voice take center stage. Whether you’re broadcasting, presenting, or in a theater or house of worship, this microphone provides clear professional sound while remaining discreet. It is ideal for public speakers who want to look as good as they sound.

The WL93 is finely tuned for clarity, ensuring undistorted sound, even at high volumes. It offers a wide dynamic range, minimal clothing noise, and a bright, defined sound thanks to its omnidirectional polar pattern with tailored presence rise. Additionally, its small and discreet design allows for easy mounting on ties, collars, and buttonholes using the included accessories.

The box contains the Shure WL93 Lavalier Microphone with TQG connector, an acoustic windscreen, a dual mounting block, and a sew-on mounting bracket. This professional lavalier microphone is suitable for theater, television, broadcasting, video, film, and sound reinforcement. It features a subminiature condenser element that delivers precise and articulate sound, with clear vocal pickup through its omnidirectional polar pattern.

The mounting hardware is designed to be inconspicuous, ensuring almost invisible use. The microphone’s smooth extended frequency response and presence rise in the frequency range help your voice cut through, while the controlled low-frequency roll-off reduces clothing and room noise. It can handle loud volumes without distortion, thanks to its wide dynamic range.

The microphone is plug and play, compatible with wide-range phantom power operation. It can be easily mounted on your body or clothing using a preamplifier (SM93), and it operates with an output impedance of 3000 Ω. The microphone’s specifications include a frequency response of 50 to 20000 Hz, a maximum SPL of 120 dB, and a dynamic range of 102 dB.

It has a signal-to-noise ratio of 76 dB at 94 dB SPL, and the polarity is positive pressure on the microphone diaphragm, producing positive voltage on pins 3 and 4 with respect to pin 1 (ground). The recommended operating voltage is 2 to 10 V, with a current drain of 40 μA typical. The microphone is designed to withstand environmental conditions, with operating temperatures ranging from -18o to 57o C and storage temperatures from -29o to 74o C.

The cable is black and measures 1.27 m, terminated by a miniature connector type TA4F. The microphone is housed in a black ABS thermoplastic case with a stainless-steel-mesh grille. It weighs 16 g and has a product code of WL93.
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The Shure WL183 Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone is designed to ensure that your voice is heard clearly in a variety of situations. Whether you are broadcasting, presenting, giving lectures, or participating in conferences, this microphone will provide total clarity whenever you speak. The condenser element of the microphone allows for maximum speech intelligibility, thanks to its tailored frequency response. No matter the event, your audience will be able to catch all the important details.

Despite its powerful capabilities, the WL183 is small and lightweight, making it easy to wear without being obstructive. The microphone is discreetly clipped onto your clothing, allowing for appearances to take priority. It can be clipped to your tie, collar, or shirt buttons, and its omnidirectional polar pattern ensures that you will receive the same great sound no matter the position.

The microphone also features a rotatable clip, which allows for easy positioning, and a snap-fit windscreen that helps to minimize unwanted background noise. With the Shure WL183, you can achieve professional-quality audio right out of the box.

Included with the microphone are the WL183 Omnidirectional Lavalier Condenser Microphone, a windscreen, and a tie clip. The microphone’s frequency response is tailored to deliver clear and articulate audio, and it can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. In addition, the microphone’s cartridges are interchangeable, allowing you to switch between cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional patterns (cartridges sold separately).

The WL183 also features a rotatable dual tie-clip that pivots in 90-degree increments and can hold two microphones, if desired. The snap-fit foam windscreen is included to reduce unwanted breath and plosive noise. The microphone’s balanced transformerless output ensures a high-quality signal.

Specifications of the WL183 include TA4F (TQG) connectors, a condenser transducer type, an omnidirectional polar pattern, a tailored frequency response of 50Hz – 17kHz, an output impedance of 1800Ω, a dynamic range of 102.5dB, a sensitivity of -27.00 dBV/Pa – 42.00 mV/Pa, and a weight of 28g.
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The Shure WH20QTR Wireless Headset Microphone is designed for audio professionals, including active performers and theatre crew. It offers comfort and ease of use with its elasticated headband, sturdy wireframe, and gooseneck mic for optimized fit and positioning. The headset is reliable and durable, ensuring that it won’t hold you back during performances. It comes with black windscreens and a clothing clip, so you can start using it right away and showcase your talent.

The WH20 delivers high-quality performance, making it suitable for musicians, sports or aerobics instructors, broadcasters, presenters, and more. It has a prograde voice pick-up with excellent gain and no distortion. With its cardioid polar pattern, it provides sound isolation for smooth vocal capture, eliminating ambient noise and feedback. The headset also includes a low-frequency roll-off to compensate for proximity effect, ensuring flawless delivery regardless of your vocal style. In the box, you’ll find the WH20QTR Headset Microphone, two black windscreens, a clothing clip, and a connector belt clip.

The WH20 offers comfort through its lightweight headband and maintains pristine signal integrity with its 1/4″ jack connector. Its attached microphone cable is extra-strong and small in diameter, allowing for easy positioning. The microphone boom is collapsible, making it convenient to adjust its position. It has a smooth and natural frequency response for accurate vocal pickup and high input clipping level to prevent distortion. The headset is reliable in extreme temperatures and humidity levels. It is also equipped with a foam windscreen, clothing clip, and a 1.2m cable.

Specifications of the WH20 include a tailored frequency response of 50Hz – 15kHz, 1/4″ jack connectors, -67 dBV/Pa sensitivity, dynamic transducer type, 150 ohm impedance, 38.4 dB hum sensitivity, cardioid polar pattern, fixed cartridge, and a weight of 98g.
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The Shure WH20TQG Wireless Headset Microphone is designed for audio professionals who demand high-quality performance. It is perfect for active performers, theater crew, and more. With a direct plug into your Shure bodypack transmitter, you can experience a pristine signal connection with zero distortion. The headset is comfortable to wear and easy to use, featuring an elasticated headband, sturdy wireframe, and gooseneck microphone for optimal fit and positioning. No matter how intense your performance, the headset will never hold you back.

The WH20 delivers sound that rivals dynamic handheld microphones, making it reliable in various extreme environments. It comes with two black windscreens and a clothing clip, so you can start using it right away. All you need to bring is your talent.

The WH20 is perfect for musicians, sports or aerobics instructors, broadcasters, presenters, and more. Its dynamic headset boasts excellent gain without distortion, ensuring exceptional performance. You don’t have to worry about ambient noise and feedback because the cardioid polar pattern offers effortless sound isolation for smooth vocal capture. The WH20 also has a low-frequency roll-off to compensate for proximity effect, guaranteeing flawless delivery no matter your vocal style.

In the box, you will find the WH20-TQG Headset Microphone, two black windscreens, a clothing clip, and a connector belt clip. The headset is comfortable to wear with its lightweight headband, and it provides pristine signal integrity with its 4-pin female connector. The attached microphone cable is extra strong and small in diameter, allowing for easy positioning. The WH20 has a smooth and natural frequency response for accurate vocal pickup, and it can perform without distortion thanks to its high input clipping level. It is also reliable in extreme temperature and humidity levels. Additionally, it comes fully equipped with a foam windscreen, clothing clip, and a 1.2m cable.

Specifications of the WH20 include a tailored frequency response of 50Hz – 15kHz, sensitivity of -67 dBV/Pa – 0.50 mV/Pa, dynamic transducer type, impedance of 150 ohms, hum sensitivity of 38.4 dB equivalent SPL, cardioid polar pattern, and no switchable low cut. The connectors are 4-pin female (TA4F / TQG), and there is no attenuator or interchangeable capsule. The main functionality is performance, and there is no headphone output. The cartridge is fixed, and the weight of the WH20 is 98g.
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The Shure WH20XLR Headset Microphone is designed for audio professionals who demand top-notch performance. Whether you’re an active performer or part of a theatre crew, this robust headset is comfortable to wear and easy to use. It features an elasticated headband, sturdy wireframe, and gooseneck mic for optimized fit and positioning. You can trust that this headset will never hold you back, no matter how difficult your performance gets. It delivers sound comparable to dynamic handheld microphones and is reliable in extreme environments. The WH20 comes with two black windscreens and a clothing clip, so you can start using it right away.

The WH20 is perfect for musicians, sports or aerobics instructors, broadcasters, presenters, and more. It features a pro-grade voice pick-up with excellent gain and no distortion. It offers effortless sound isolation thanks to its cardioid polar pattern, ensuring smooth vocal capture without worrying about ambient noise and feedback. Additionally, it includes a low-frequency roll-off to compensate for proximity effect. With the WH20, you can deliver flawless performances no matter your vocal style.

In the box, you will find the Shure WH20XLR Headset Microphone, two black windscreens, a clothing clip, and a connector belt clip. The headset is lightweight and comfortable to wear, and it ensures pristine signal integrity with its 3-pin XLR connector. The attached microphone cable is extra-strong and has a small diameter, making it easy to position your microphone. The WH20 has a smooth and natural frequency response for accurate vocal pickup and can handle high input levels without distortion. It is also reliable in extreme temperature and humidity levels.

The WH20 is fully equipped with a foam windscreen, clothing clip, and 1.2m cable. Its specifications include a tailored frequency response of 50Hz – 15kHz, sensitivity of -67 dBV/Pa – 0.50 mV/Pa, dynamic transducer type, 150 ohm impedance, 38.4 dB hum sensitivity, cardioid polar pattern, no switchable low cut, XLR connectors, no attenuator, no interchangeable capsule, and main functionality for performance. It does not have a headphone output and has a fixed cartridge. The WH20 weighs 98g.
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The Shure Beta WB98H/C Microphone is designed to capture expressive instruments to the highest stand. The mics full range frequency response (20Hz-20kHz) is tailored to preserve the tonality and power of horns and percussion whilst the tight cardioid polar pattern rejects the intrusive noise from around you. Delivering the clearest most authentic sound possible.

With its clip-on design flexible gooseneck and miniature size the Beta WB98H/C is easy to setup. Just attach the mic directly onto your instrument and experience consistent sound no matter where you move. Despite its small size the 98H/C is deceivingly tough too. It has been extensively tested to withstand high energy performance and extreme sound pressure levels. Even the loudest instruments wont push your mic into distortion.

Simple Positioning As a premium condenser instrument microphone the Beta 98H/C is available to attach to the bell of wind instruments and onto the rims of percussion instruments. With the gooseneck and swiveling joint the microphone can be easily positioned and configured whilst remaining secure. The shock-mount provides protection against mechanical and unwanted noises such as instrument key noise.

Included In The Box 1 x Beta WB98H/C Miniature Instrument Microphone 1 x Attached 3m High-Flex Cable with (TA4F Connection) 1 x Zippered Carrying Bag 1 x Windscreen

Features Tailored frequency response compliments brass woodwind and percussion Full range frequency response captures the details of your performance Wide dynamic range can handle loud instruments without distortion Position your mic with precision thanks to a flexible gooseneck design Quick easy attachment to your instrument with an integrated clamp Rejects unwanted background noise with a cardioid polar pattern Legendary Shure durability with a tough construction and metallic grille Includes TA4F (TQG) connector for use with Shure wireless bodypacks (no preamplifier required)

Specifications Polar Pattern: Cardioid Transducer Type: Condenser Frequency Response: Tailored 20Hz – 20kHz Connectors: TA4F (TQG) Output Impedance: 150Ω Sensitivity: -56 dBV/Pa – 1.60 mV/Pa Equivalent Selfnoise: 31 dB(A) Sound Pressure: 155 dB (@ 1kΩ) 163 dB (@ 2.5kΩ) Dynamic Range: 124 dB Clipping Level: 3 dBV (1.4V) Requires Phantom Power: 11 – 52 VDC Weight: 65 g
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