Choosing the right podcast microphone is essential for getting good sound quality and getting your voice heard. When choosing a mic, there are a few things to consider, including your budget, where you plan to record, and how you want your voice to sound. Keep reading for more tips on how to choose the right podcast microphone.
Choosing a Starter Mic
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when starting your show is what type of microphone to use. There are many different mics available on the market, so it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.
The most important factor when choosing a podcast microphone is the type of content you will be recording. If you plan on recording mostly interviews or talking heads, then you’ll need a mic with good sound quality and pickup. On the other hand, if you plan on recording music or doing field recordings, then you’ll need a mic that is versatile and can handle a wide range of sounds.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a podcasting microphone is your budget. Mics can range in price from $20 to $2000+. So you’re just starting out, we recommend starting with something relatively affordable that still has a good sound quality, like the Audio-Technica AT 2020 or some other Audio-Technica model.
Choosing Between a Condenser Mic and a Dynamic Mic
There are two main categories of mics: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic mics are typically more affordable and portable than condenser mics, but they also tend to have lower sound quality. Condenser mics usually produce higher-quality audio recordings, but they can be more expensive and bulky compared to dynamic mics.
Once you know which type of mic you need, there are still many options to choose from within that category. The most important thing when selecting a mic is how well it reproduces your voice. You don’t want something that’s going to make your voice sound tinny or harsh; you want something that sounds natural and clear. There are many great mics available at every price point, so there’s definitely something for everyone, no matter their budget.
Choosing a Mic With the Right Pickup Pattern
Another way mics are classified is by their pickup pattern. This is the manner in which they capture sound from around them. There are three primary patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and bidirectional. Omnidirectional mics pick up sound equally from all directions around them. Cardioid mics pick up sound mostly from in front of them, with reduced pickup from the sides and rear. Bidirectional mics pick up sound equally from both the front and rear but reduce pickup from the sides.
Most show hosts use a cardioid or bidirectional mic since most shows are recorded in close quarters with only one person talking at a time. Some people do use omnidirectional mics for pods, but they tend to be less common because they can pick up more noise from their surroundings. If you’re not sure which type of mic you need, ask someone who’s already in the pod business what types of mic they’re using.
When selecting a podcast mic, it’s always important to consider both your budget and the kind of environment you’ll be recording in. If you plan on doing most of your recordings outdoors or in other noisy environments, then you’ll need a mic that can handle loud sounds well. Conversely, if you plan on doing most of your recordings in a quiet studio setting, then you can get away with using a less expensive mic that doesn’t have as many noise-cancellation features.
Overall, choosing the right podcast microphone is important for the quality of your show. Mics vary in price, quality, and features, so it is important to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs.
