Podcasting Microphones Mega-Review – Marco.org
It’s hard to find useful microphone recommendations for podcasters: most people have only tried one or two, and pro audio engineers recommend mics designed for very different environments than the rooms most podcasters record in. And almost no reviews include audio samples to compare.
So I set out to change that. Some commonly recommended mics were disappointing, some were right on, and I’ve found some real gems that were previously unknown in my podcasting circles.
Every microphone accentuates and suppresses different characteristics, so what works for one person may not sound as good with another.
I’ve provided sound samples from both my wife and me for comparison: I have a more nasal voice, while she has a smoother tone. My voice is more “picky” with mics, while she sounds great on almost anything. I need more midrange smoothness, while she needs more sibilance suppression. I speak more loudly, and her quieter levels reveal background hiss more easily. And while we both have podcasts, neither of us are professionally trained announcers or have a background in radio — just like most podcasters.
From most to least favorite, considering sound quality, value, and practicality for podcasters who aren’t recording in professional studios:
