With so many options available out there, purchasing a microphone for your podcast can feel like an extremely daunting and overwhelming task. That’s why we’ve created this guide of our top choices to fit within any budget. Whether you’re just starting out and looking to purchase your first microphone, or a seasoned pro looking to upgrade your hardware, this guide has got you covered.
When selecting a microphone, it is important to plan ahead for the number of people that you intend to have on your show at one time. If you will always be recording solo, a microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern (records from one side only) will be sufficient. If you will be having more than one person on your show, a bi-directional microphone (records from both ends) or omnidirectional microphone (records from all sides) will be needed.
Samson Portable Go Mic - $30This compact and portable USB microphone is perfect for podcasting on-the-go. The unique design allows for it to be clipped onto a laptop or sit upright on a flat surface. You can select the pickup pattern, either cardioid or omnidirectional, depending on your specific needs at that time.
Snowball iCE - $60Recommended by podcasting expert Sam Laliberte from the Freedom Lifestyle Podcast, this USB microphone is the perfect option if you are looking for crystal clear audio quality and plan on recording alone.
Seiren X – $100One unique benefit to this microphone is its supercardioid pickup pattern which reduces background noise for extremely clear audio recordings. Although promoted as a gaming microphone, it is highly effective for podcasting as well.
Blue Yeti - $150One of the most popular microphones on the market is the Blue Yeti. This USB microphone is incredibly versatile as it offers cardioid, bidirectional and omnidirectional pattern selection. It also comes with a stand, so you don’t need to worry about purchasing additional accessories.
Procaster – $230This broadcast-quality dynamic cardioid microphone is an excellent choice if you have a bit more money to spend on equipment. One unique feature that it offers is an internal pop filter that minimises harsh plosives which can distort your audio.
RE320 - $340This professional-grade dynamic microphone is our personal favourite! We like it so much that you can find 4 of them set up and ready to capture your audio in incredible detail at the TalkShoe recording studio in downtown Toronto.
Live in Toronto? Come and use our equipment!
If you live near the city and want to avoid the hassle of purchasing your own microphone, the TalkShoe recording studio inside Stackt Market provides everything that you need for FREE. The space has been outfitted with professional recording equipment provided by Remenyi House of Music and Electrovoice for an excellent sounding podcast every time. So, what are you waiting for?
