Are you thinking about starting a podcast? One of the most important tools you’ll need is a good microphone. A high-quality microphone is essential for capturing clear, professional-sounding audio.
Types of Mics
There are several types of microphones available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The four main types of microphones used for podcasting are dynamic, condenser, ribbon, and USB.
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are rugged and durable, making them a great choice for podcasters who are on the go. They are also less sensitive than condenser microphones, which means they pick up less background noise. Dynamic microphones are often used in live settings because they are less likely to pick up feedback.
Popular dynamic microphones for podcasting include the Shure SM7B and the Electro-Voice RE20.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones are highly sensitive and capture a wide range of frequencies, making them ideal for recording vocals. They require an external power source, known as phantom power, which is usually provided by a mixing board or audio interface. Condenser microphones are best used in quiet environments to avoid picking up unwanted background noise.
Popular condenser microphones for podcasting include the Audio-Technica AT2035 and the Rode NT1.
Ribbon Microphones
Ribbon microphones are known for their warm, natural sound. They are also highly sensitive and require a preamp with many gains to produce a usable signal. Ribbon microphones are best used in controlled environments where background noise can be minimized.
Popular ribbon microphones for podcasting include the Royer R-121 and the AEA R84.
USB Microphones
USB microphones are a popular choice for podcasters because they are easy to use and require no additional equipment. They plug directly into your computer’s USB port and provide high-quality sound. However, they are less flexible than other types of microphones because they have limited connectivity options.
Popular USB microphones for podcasting include the Blue Yeti and the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mic
When choosing a microphone for podcasting, there are several factors to consider. These include your budget, the polar pattern, frequency response, sensitivity, and connectivity options.
Budget
Good microphones can range in price from under $100 to over $1000. It’s important to find a balance between quality and budget when choosing a microphone for podcasting.
Polar Pattern
The polar pattern determines how the microphone picks up sound. The most common polar patterns for podcasting microphones are cardioid, omnidirectional, and bi-directional.
Frequency Response
The frequency response of a microphone determines how it picks up different frequencies of sound. For podcasting, a flat frequency response is ideal because it captures a wide range of frequencies.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a microphone determines how well it picks up sound. For podcasting, a microphone with low sensitivity is ideal because it picks up less background noise.
Connectivity
The connectivity options for a microphone determine how it connects to your recording device. The most common connectivity options for podcasting microphones are XLR and USB.
Tips
When using a microphone for podcasting, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use a pop filter to reduce popping sounds from plosive consonants like “p” and “b.’
- Position your microphone at the correct distance from your mouth to ensure optimal sound quality.
- Invest in a shock mount to reduce vibrations and handling noise.
- Test your microphone before recording to ensure you have the right levels and settings.
Check out Essential Accessories to get some good deals on some of these Mics.
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