The Best Dynamic Microphone For Podcasting Of 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best of the Best: Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone

The Shure SM7B is a professional microphone perfect for live streaming, designed to reject off-axis audio. Whether you're on the road or in the studio, this microphone gets you crystal clear sound. The Shure SM7B is equipped with Air Suspension Shock Isolation and Anti-pop Filter technology that eliminates both mechanical noise and breathiness, creating an exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone

The Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone is your affordable, professional-quality microphone. Offering rich sound, high-quality all-metal construction, and an effectively integrated pop filter that reduces plosives, the PodMic is very forgiving to use and has a custom plug-in preset so you can instantly get professional results with your favorite recording software. Read Review

3. Best Convenient: Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone

The Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone is a dynamic microphone capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern. This mic captures sound from in front of the microphone and less from the side and rear. This mic can also hear you without any delay or echo, plus it will mix your computer audio playback. Read Review

4. Best Connectivity: Audio-Technica AT2005USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone

Audio-Technica's AT2005USB Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone has everything you need in a professional quality mic. It's lightweight and portable yet it delivers the rich, detailed sound you've come to expect from Audio-Technica mics. With its rugged build, easy-to-use controls, and convenient headphone volume knob on the bottom of the microphone, this dynamic mic is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and more. Read Review

5. Best Easy To Assemble: Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone

Featuring the same impressive combination of dynamic cartridge, cardioid pick-up pattern, and shock mount as the MV7, the Shure MV7X is designed with podcasters in mind. The MV7X's distinctive cardioid pick-up pattern minimizes feedback while letting you hear yourself loud and clear. Connect to all professional interfaces with ease via XLR. Read Review

Finding the right mic can make or break your show when it comes to podcast production. The right podcaster mic can make your voice sound clear and crisp — whether you’re interviewing guests, reading a script, or telling a story. A lousy microphone can make you sound tinny, robotic, or unintelligible.

This article will help you identify the best podcasting microphone for your needs and budget. It covers everything from the most popular mics on the market today to lesser-known options worth investigating if you want to invest in a better mic for podcasts.

The best dynamic microphone for podcasting available now is a Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone. If you want another option, you could check the Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone as an alternative. Our products are designed to be easy to use, deliver the best sound, and you will have a great user experience. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone
Our Score:
9.9
Shure

WHAT’S IN THE BOX - Shure SM7B Vocal Dynamic Microphone With One A7WS Detachable Windscreen And One RPM602 Switch Cover Plate. Free 2-year Warranty Included.

CLASSIC CARDIOID PATTERN WITH UNIFORM CAPTURE - The SM7B Cardioid Pattern Is Designed To Reject Off-axis Audio, So You Can Sing Or Speak At A Comfortable Angle And It Captures The Sound, Just As You Want It, With Minimum Coloration.

PODCAST and BROADCAST - Found In The Top Podcasting Studios Around The World, The SM7B Air Suspension Shock Isolation and Pop Filter Eliminate Both Mechanical Noise And Breathiness. So Words Get Through And The Rest Stays Out Of The Mix.

STREAMING CONTENT - Professional Live Streaming Starts With A Microphone Capable Of Capturing Exceptionally Clean And Natural Reproduction Of Both Music And Speech. The SM7B Has Been A Pioneer In Such Abilities For Decades.

PROFESSIONAL XLR CONNECTION - The XLR Connection Along With An Audio Interface Allows You More Control Over The Sound — Thus A Better Overall Sound Quality. At least 60dB of gain is recommended to get that iconic warm and balanced tone most commonly associated with the SM7B.

QUALITY IN THE DETAILS - Rugged Construction For Securing The Microphone Cartridge. Detachable Close-talk Windscreen And Switch Cover Plate Included. Bass Rolloff And Mid-range Emphasis (Presence Boost) Control With Graphic Display Of Response Setting.

CLOSE-MIKING STUDIO APPLICATIONS - The SM7B Shines When Used For Close-miking Instruments and ASMR Audio Where Warm And Smooth Full-frequencies Are A Must.

SHIELD YOUR SOUND - We Added Advanced Electromagnetic Shielding To Defeat Hum From Computer Monitors And Other Studio Equipment.

ONE MICROPHONE FOR EVERYTHING - Studio Recording, Home Recording, Podcasting and Streaming. The SM7B Is Trusted By The Worlds Leading Vocalists, Podcasters and Streamers.

STUDIO VOCAL RECORDING - The SM7B’s Dynamic Cartridge With Smooth, Flat, Wide-range Frequency Response Produces Exceptionally Clean and Natural Reproduction Of Both Music and Speech.

TOP Choice #2 Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
Our Score:
9.7
Rode

Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone with Integrated Pop Shield

TOP Choice #3 Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone
Our Score:
9.6
Samson

It’s All in the Box: The Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack includes everything you need to start recording great sounding projects: an extended desktop stand with mic clip that positions the microphone close to the sound source, a pop-filter for reducing p-pops, and USB and XLR cables.

Hear the mix: onboard 1/8" (3. 5mm) headphone jack allows for zero-latency monitoring, so you can hear yourself without any delay or echo, plus a mix of your computer audio playback. Solid, die-cast construction with heavy gauge mesh grille

Best of both worlds: professional handheld dynamic microphone with USB digital output for connecting to a computer and XLR analog output for connecting to a mixer, audio interface or portable PA system

Sound your best: dynamic microphone capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern captures sound from in front of the microphone and less from the side and rear, minimizing ambient sounds and other room noises for podcasting, home recording or voiceover work. It also reduces possible feedback in live performance settings

Start Recording: The Q2U is a plug-and-play device, meaning it doesn’t need any special drivers to work with your computer. Just connect the microphone to your computer, launch your favorite audio software, and start recording.

USB output connects to your computer for digital recording, while the XLR output connects with your sound system's conventional microphone input for use in live performance

Smooth, extended frequency response ideally suited for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, voiceover, and on-stage use

Adjust headphone volume with easy-to-use controls on the bottom of the microphone

Handheld dynamic microphone with USB digital output and XLR analog output

Built-in headphone jack allows you to directly monitor from your microphone

5 Shure MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone
Our Score:
9.3
Shure

PODCASTING & VOCAL RECORDING - Designed with podcasters and vocalists in mind, using the same form factor of the SM7B. Connect directly to any audio interface via XLR and record with the high-quality audio.

TRUSTED HERITAGE, CLASSIC DESIGN - Designed with podcasters in mind and modeled from the legendary SM7B for integration into any podcasting set up and workflow.

VOICE ISOLATION TECHNOLOGY - The MV7X features the same impressive combination of dynamic cartridge, cardioid pick-up pattern and shock mount as the MV7. Have confidence that your MV7X will bring your voice to the forefront of the recording and reject any unwanted background noise for perfect recordings in imperfect rooms.

MIC STAND COMPATIBLE - MV7X contains 5/8” threaded yoke to attach to any 5/8” threaded mic stand. Also included in the box is 5/8” to 3/8” Euro thread adapter for compatibility with most mic stands.

XLR OUTPUT - Connect to all professional interfaces with ease via XLR without the need to add an in-line pre-amp for additional gain.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX - Shure MOTIV MV7X XLR Podcast Microphone with 3/8" - 5/8" Thread Adapter, User Guide, Free 2-Year Warranty

MULTIPLE MICS. MINIMUM SPEND - A perfect solution for multi-microphone podcasts on a budget that wish to deliver great sound without compromise.

6 FIFINE USB Gaming Microphone
Our Score:
9.1
FIFINE

Package Including: Dynamic PC Microphone for Gaming*1, Shock Mount*1, Screw Adapter*1, Metal Ring*1, Dynamic Microphone USB Cable (8.2ft)*1, User's Manual*1 (Tips: Keep the sound source in front of USB microphone top. Fifine K658 microphone suggested recording range is 2 to 4 in.)

[Original Voice Reproduction] With 16 bit, 48kHz sampling rate, the USB Dynamic microphone enhances vocal intelligibility and voice reproduction. Discord K658 boosts streamer or podcaster popularity for you via resonate voice delivering. Gaming mic for streaming with cardioid pattern minimizes ambient noises, like tower fan or central air system, to lessen your studio podcasting or broadcast audio processing.

[Easy to Work] The straightforward USB plug-and-play computer mic is compatible with Windows, Mac OS and Play Station Consoles (Xbox not included). With high speed type-C (mic end) to type-A (computer end) connection, the streaming microphone is plugged into your computer or game console, and then the PC mic works. Firmly tight USB-C connection will not interrupt intense game tactical talking or emotional podcast recordings.

[Function Mic Keys] Soft-touch mute button helps you instantly mute the gaming microphone without audible noises when streaming or podcasting. Built-in LED indicate microphone gaming working status even gaming in the dark. Big gain control offers fine tuning for the dynamic USB microphone volume when Twitch or Discord. You can hear FPS games footsteps clearly in real time or headphone audio production via the headphones jack.

[Noise Reduction] Shock mount with circular frame design reduces desk vibration caused by knocking keyboard or operating gamepad when you are gaming. A locking knob on the USB gaming microphone is for easy angle adjustment. Designed with acoustic transparent foam, windscreen on the USB dynamic mic for PC reduces blasting sound when you speak. Audiences will enjoy the streaming with less noise.

[Ambient RGB lights] Unique RGB lights with rainbow colors on mic dynamic highlights exciting game atmosphere, reflected on the podcast mic shock mount but not dazzling. If you live the same game as others, your streaming will be much better and attracts more viewers due to the appearance of standing RGB dynamic mic. You can turn on/off the RGB with the button at the back of the microphone for PC.

COMPATIBLE: Connect directly or via USB, XLR and Host OTG cables. Compatible with Android and iOS devices.

VERSATILE: For podcasting, miking vocals, instruments, amplifiers and music recording.

ACCESSORIES: Comes with a mic clip, desktop tripod stand with extension piece, windscreen, XLR cable and USB cable

QUALITY RECORDING: Cardioid polar pattern picks up sound from in front of the mic, while minimizing ambient noise

CONVENIENT: High-quality audio with minimal setup, a 3.5mm headphone output for monitoring the recording and computer audio

Cardioid dynamic microphone: Built-in cardioid capsule can capture sound in front of the microphone and reduces possible background noise from the other side and rear. Smooth, extended frequency response for rich and natural vocal reproduction.

Zero-Latency Monitoring and Volume Control:onboard 1/8" (3. 5mm) headphone output allows you to monitor your sound while recording without any delay or echo. HD300T microphone also has a control button that can adjust the headphone output volume conveniently.

Durable metal construction for long-lasting performance: Rugged metal construction provides outstanding reliability. The stable base with the all-metal and will not be easily knocked down. Height adjustable metal tube is stronger than ordinary plastic tube and easily supports heavy microphones. Shock mount and pop filter for reducing p-pops.

Package List and Warranty: Dynamic microphone*1, microphone stand*1, pop fliter*1, shock mount*1, 78in USB cable, 98in XLR cable*1, user manual*1. MAONO HD300T dynamic microphone provides 24-month warranty.

Best of both worlds: Professional handheld dynamic microphone with USB/XLR dual-mode output. USB digital output connects to a computer, pc, mac, and XLR analog output connects to a mixer, audio interface, or portable PA system. Ideal for podcasting, recording, live streaming, vocal, voiceover, singing, home-Studio, content creation.

Includes pivoting stand mount, 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter, and a soft protective pouch

Multistage foam mesh windscreen provides superior internal pop filtering

Integrated shock mount attenuates noise, shock and vibration transmitted through mic stands, booms and mounts

Dynamic microphone delivers warm, assertive broadcast sound that’s perfect for podcasting; Large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise

Hypercardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear for maximum vocal isolation

10 Zoom Dynamic Microphone
Our Score:
8.4
Zoom

High SPL handling ensures clean recordings every time

Super cardioid polar pattern provides focused pickup and excellent isolation

Internal shock mount provides isolation from bumps and handling noise

All metal body and grille stands up to daily use

Large-diaphragm dynamic design captures smooth, broadcast-quality sound

Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best dynamic microphone for podcasting?

Polar Pattern/Directionality

Directionality is the way a microphone picks up sounds from its surroundings. One microphone can detect sound in all directions simultaneously. Most other microphones can only pick up one direction at a time. This can be advantageous depending on the circumstances.

Connections

After you have chosen the mic type you prefer, it is time to think about how you will connect it to your system. There are two options: wireless or wired.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.

Impedance

This is measured in Ohms (symbol O) and refers to the microphone's ability to receive an audio signal or AC current. Mics with a low impedance (600O and lower) retain better audio quality when used on cables that are longer than 16 feet. High impedance signals that other microphone components may be of lower quality can sometimes indicate a low quality signal.

Attenuation Switch

Have you ever wondered what those switches at the back of Rode Videomic are for? Attenuation switches are the switches at the back. Attenuation switches on microphones reduce the output of the mic by a specific amount. This is usually between -10dB and -20dB. The microphone will become four to sixteen times more quiet than usual.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.

Type Of Microphone

The energy of sound waves is captured by microphones, which can then convert it into electricity in various ways. You can either use a condenser microphone or dynamic microphone to accomplish this.

Response Flatness

Although it might seem that flat responses are the best, a treble lift is sometimes an advantage. This applies especially to vocals. This can cause the PA system to become more sensitive to howling. The signal from speakers often gets in the microphone, creating a hissing sound. Many dynamic microphones have a treble lift, which lends itself to many vocals.

Frequency Response

The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can detect, usually 20hz-20Khz. Knowing the frequency range is not enough. What you need is the microphone's responsiveness to certain frequencies. Before you choose a microphone, think about the recording you are going to do. A microphone with a higher frequency, such as a dynamic microphone, may be better suited for recording bass, drums, and other musical instruments.

FAQs

Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?

A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.
It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.

What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?

Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.

What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?

A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.

What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?

Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.

What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?

The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.

Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?

It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.

Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?

Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.

How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?

Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.