We Reviewed the Best Podcast Microphones for Different Budgets and Setups
Quick Summary
This article reviews the best podcast microphones for different budgets and setups. We share key features, pricing, pros, and cons to help you pick the right mic for your needs. Plus, you’ll get to know how Cleanvoice can polish your audio for a professional finish. For more tips on improving your podcast sound, explore our blog.
Want the Perfect Microphone for Your Podcast?
Nothing ruins a great episode faster than bad audio. Muffled voices, background noise, and crackles can leave your audience frustrated and ready to hit the skip button. But with the right podcast mic, you can create clean, crisp recordings that keep your listeners hooked.
In this Cleanvoice guide, we’ll review 10 best podcast microphones for every budget and setup. We’ll also show you how Cleanvoice can give your audio a professional finish by removing the distractions even the best mics miss.
But first…
Why Listen to Us?
At Cleanvoice, we’ve helped many podcasters create polished episodes with clear, crisp sound. We’ve seen how unwanted noises can sneak into recordings even with the best microphones. From removing distracting mouth sounds to enhancing overall clarity, we know what it takes to deliver professional-grade audio for any podcast format or style.
So, What’s a Podcast Microphone?
A podcast microphone is a special audio device made to capture clear, high-quality sound for podcasts, interviews, and voiceovers. Unlike the basic mic on your computer or phone, it’s built to deliver professional-level audio. It ensures your voice comes out with clarity and detail, while cutting down on background noise and distortion.
Why Do You Need a Podcast Microphone?
- Improved Sound Quality: You can get much superior audio compared to built-in computer or phone mics.
- Enhanced Listener Experience: Clear, crisp audio keeps listeners engaged. That way, they can focus on your content without distractions from poor sound quality.
- Noise Reduction: Podcast microphones are designed to reduce background noise, making sure your voice stands out and your recording environment stays quiet. And with AI tools like Cleanvoice removing silence and filler words, you’re guaranteed a more polished, distraction-free audio.
- Consistency: A good microphone provides consistent audio quality across episodes. This helps to maintain a professional sound in all of your recordings.
- Better Directionality: Many podcast microphones are designed to pick up sound from specific directions (like the front), reducing unwanted noise from the sides or behind the mic. And for other interrupting sounds from the front, like loud breaths and mouth clicks, a tool like Cleanvoice automatically removes them, giving you a sharp and clear recording.
- Versatility for Different Setups: Podcast microphones come in different types (like dynamic or condenser), making it easier to find the right fit for your recording space.
Best Podcast Microphones For Different Price Points and Studio Setup
- HyperX SoloCast
- Samson Q2U
- Rode PodMic
- Audio-Technica AT2040
- MAONO PD200XS/PD400X
- Blue Yeti
- AKG P220AKG P220
- Rode NT1-A
- Shure MV7+
- Shure SM7B
1. HyperX Solocast
If you’re looking for the ultra-affordable, plug-and-play option, this is it. It’s for anyone who wants seamless recording without breaking the bank. The microphone is compact and easy, which makes it perfect for one-person setups.
Key Features
- Plug-and-play USB connectivity
- Cardioid pattern for focused sound capture
- Built-in tap-to-mute sensor
- Adjustable stand
- Compact design for easy storage
Pricing
$49–$59
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Impressive sound quality for the price
- Easy setup for beginners
- Compact and portable
Cons
- Limited customization options
- Lacks XLR connectivity for more advanced setups
2. Samson Q2U
The Samson Q2U is a versatile microphone that suits both beginner podcasters and those looking to upgrade their equipment. With its dual USB and XLR connectivity, the Q2U is ready for whatever stage of podcasting you're in. Whether you're starting with a laptop or moving to a full-fledged studio setup.
Key Features
- USB and XLR connectivity
- Cardioid pattern for noise rejection
- Includes mic stand, pop filter, and USB cable
- Durable metal construction
- Onboard headphone output for real-time monitoring
Pricing
$60–$80
Pros
- Great value for both USB and XLR connectivity
- Easy to use, with everything you need to get started
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Slightly bulky for portable setups
- Potential issues with plosives and sibilance
3. Rode PodMic
Rode’s PodMic is the microphone of choice for podcasters who want good sound and a straightforward setup. Known for its durability and professional-grade sound, it’s perfect for those looking to improve their podcasting with an affordable yet quality mic.
Key Features
- Dynamic cardioid pickup pattern
- Built-in pop filter for crisp vocals
- Rugged build with a metal housing
- Optimized for voice recording
- Requires an XLR interface for connection
Pricing
$85–$105
Pros
- Good quality sound for the price
- Durable and built to last
- Handles plosives well
Cons
- XLR only, requiring an audio interface or mixer
- Not the best for noisy environments due to its sensitivity
4. Audio-Technica AT2040
The Audio-Technica AT2040 is a professional-grade mic that offers great sound clarity and superior noise isolation. It’s perfect for podcasters who want to ensure that every detail in their voice is captured crisply and cleanly.
Key Features
- Cardioid dynamic microphone
- XLR output connection
- Internal pop filter
- Includes integrated shock mount
- Wide frequency response
Pricing
$100–$110
Pros
- Cardioid dynamic microphone
- Superior isolation of vocals from background noise
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Wide frequency response for natural sound
Cons
- XLR only, which means it needs additional equipment for setup
- Slightly heavier than other mics in this price range
5. MAONO PD400X
This mic brings a more premium feel to your podcast setup without reaching the high price tags of other professional microphones. Offering both USB and XLR connectivity, it’s perfect for podcasters who want to have the option to scale up their gear in the future.
Key Features
- Dynamic cardioid pickup pattern
- USB and XLR hybrid connectivity
- High gain and low noise
- Metal construction for durability
- Includes shock mount and pop filter
Pricing
$120–$130
Pros
- Hybrid USB/XLR for future-proofing
- Great build and sound quality
- Comes with useful accessories
Cons
- A little more complicated to set up for beginners
- Larger and less portable than some entry-level mics
6. Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti is one of the most popular USB microphones for podcasters and streamers alike. Known for its versatility and high-quality sound, it offers multiple pattern selections, making it great for solo podcasts or interviews.
Key Features
- Multiple pattern options (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, stereo)
- USB connectivity
- Adjustable gain control
- Mute button for quick silence during recordings
Pricing
$120–$140
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Various pattern modes for different recording scenarios
- Easy to use with plug-and-play USB connectivity
- Ideal for both beginners and more advanced podcasters
Cons
- USB-only, limiting more advanced recording setups
- Larger size, making it less portable
7. AKG P220
This mic is a dynamic cardioid microphone designed for podcasters looking for a professional mic at a mid-range price. It delivers high-quality sound and is known for its durable construction and versatile performance.
Key Features
- Cardioid pattern for focused sound capture
- Large diaphragm for clear, natural sound
- Solid metal body
- Integrated shock mount
Pricing
$155–$170
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Versatile for both podcasting and music recording
- Great value for its price point with professional-level features
Cons
- XLR connection requires an audio interface or mixer
- May pick up more background noise in untreated rooms
8. Rode NT1-A
The Rode NT1-A is a cardioid condenser microphone known for its extremely low self-noise and clear sound capture. This makes it perfect for those who want to record every detail of their voice, like in an ASMR podcast.
Key Features
- Condenser microphone for detailed, high-fidelity sound
- Low self-noise
- Cardioid pattern for isolating sound from the front
- Shock mount included to reduce vibrations
- Gold-sputtered diaphragm
Pricing
$200–$230
Pros
- Clear sound with great detail
- Includes shock mount and pop filter
- Durable and well-built, designed for longevity
Cons
- Requires an audio interface or mixer due to its XLR connection
- Sensitive to room acoustics, meaning you'll need a good recording space for optimal sound
9. Shure MV7+
This microphone is a hybrid USB and XLR mic that brings professional-level audio processing into a user-friendly, accessible package. With built-in audio processing, it adapts to your needs, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.
Key Features
- USB and XLR outputs for flexible recording setups
- Built-in DSP for audio processing
- Adjustable gain and monitoring controls
- Includes a pop filter and shock mount
- Professional-grade construction
Pricing
$300–$320
Pros
- Hybrid connectivity for both beginners and pros
- Excellent sound quality with built-in audio processing
- Great for both home studios and mobile setups
Cons
- Higher price point
- USB setup might be a bit too complex for some beginners
10. Shure SM7B
Widely considered the gold standard for podcast microphones, the Shure SM7B is used by many professional podcasters, radio hosts, and voiceover artists. It’s renowned for its rich sound and excellent rejection of unwanted noise, making it perfect for even the busiest recording environments.
Key Features
- Dynamic cardioid microphone
- XLR connection
- Wide frequency response
- Bass roll-off and mid-range presence
- Built-in air suspension shock isolation
- Internal pop filter for plosives
- Rugged all-metal construction
Pricing
$435–$450
Pros
- Superior sound quality and isolation
- Industry standard for professional podcasters
- Highly durable and reliable
Cons
- Expensive compared to other options
- Requires additional equipment (XLR interface, preamp)
A Side-By-Side Comparison of the Best Podcast Microphones
| Microphone | Price Approx. | Best For | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| HyperX SoloCast | $49–$59 | Plug-and-play/Beginners | Tap-to-mute, compact |
| Samson Q2U | $60–$80 | Beginners/Upgraders | Affordable, easy upgrade path |
| Rode PodMic | $90–$105 | Starter/Intermediate | Durable build, broadcast quality |
| Audio-Technica AT2040 | $100–$110 | Serious hobbyists | Rich vocals, great noise rejection |
| MAONO PD200XS/PD400X | $120–$130 | Versatile setups | Solid accessories |
| Blue Yeti | $120–$140 | Beginners/Intermediate | Multiple pattern options |
| AKG P220 | $130–$160 | Mid-range enthusiasts | Dual-connectivity, versatile |
| Rode NT1-A | $220–$250 | Professionals | Extremely low self-noise, clear detail |
| Shure MV7+ | $240–$270 | All-round/Pro | Large diaphragm, versatile performance |
| Shure SM7B | $380–$420 | Pro/Studios | Industry standard, excellent response |
Cleanvoice: The Go-To Tool for Perfecting Your Podcast Recordings (Even If You’ve Got a Great Mic)
Even with the best microphone, your podcast recordings can pick up small flaws like background hum, uneven levels, or distracting mouth sounds. That’s where Cleanvoice comes in. It’s designed to polish your audio so your episodes sound smooth, clear, and professional.
Let’s look at two Cleanvoice features that get the job done:
Echo Remover
What it does:
The echo remover detects and eliminates unwanted room echoes and reverb, giving your recordings a clean, studio-quality sound. It also supports multi-track files, so if you have multiple speakers on different tracks, Cleanvoice reduces echo on each track while keeping everything perfectly synced.
Benefits
- Clearer Audio: Removes distractions caused by echo, ensuring your voice sounds sharp and precise.
- Studio-Quality Sound: Eliminates reverb for a polished, professional recording without needing expensive soundproofing.
- Multi-Track Compatibility: Works seamlessly with multi-speaker setups, maintaining clarity across all tracks.
- Effortless Processing: Automatically handles echo removal without manual editing, saving you time and effort.
Audio Enhancer
What it does:
The AI audio enhancer cleans up your audio with just three clicks, no need for technical know-how. It removes background noise, distortion, wind breath, and even white noise, while balancing levels and applying smart EQ all in one go.
Benefits
- Immediate improvement in clarity: Traffic, children playing, or room hum vanish effortlessly.
- Consistent volume and warmth: Your voice remains balanced and pleasant to listen to.
- Time-saved: All processing happens automatically, so you're not stuck tweaking settings.
Why Podcasters Love Cleanvoice
- Clean, distraction-free audio**: Listeners don’t get sidetracked by background noise, echoes, or mouth clicks.
- Professional polish: Even without a fancy studio, your recordings come across crisp and engaging.
- **Hands-off process: Cleanvoice automates the hard work, eliminating manual editing.
- Broad compatibility**: Works with multi-track recordings, Zoom files, phone captures, you name it.
Choose Cleanvoice for Polished Podcast Recordings
The right microphone certainly improves the quality of your podcast. And we’ve listed a variety of options that cater to different budgets and setups. But gears alone don't do the magic.
For that polished, studio-quality sound that keeps listeners hooked, you’ll need more than just the right mic. That’s where a smart editing tool like Cleanvoice comes in, removing distractions, balancing levels, and giving your episodes a professional edge.
With features like the Echo Remover, Breath Remover and Audio Enhancer, you can tidy up your recordings in minutes, cut out the noise, and deliver clean episodes back to back.
Want studio-quality sound that gets listeners hooked every time? Try Cleanvoice for free today.
