10 Best Mic You Can Buy for Streaming and Podcasting
Podcasting seems to have exploded in the past few years, even Google’s cashed in by developing its own podcasting app. The accessibility of the format is what draws so many listeners and creators to it. If you’re looking to start your podcast, then it can be tough to pick the right mic from a sea of options, which is why we’ve made this list of the top 10 best mics for streaming and podcasting to help you find the best podcasting microphone for you.
1. Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+
Specifications:
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency response: 20 – 20,000 Hz
- Sample Rate: 44.1/48 kHz
- Power requirement: USB Power (5V DC)
- Weight: 386g
Audio-Technica produces some of the best studio mics on the market, and the Audio-Technica AT2020 is the best in class USB powered mic from them. It comes with a high-quality A/D converter with a 16-bit, 44/48 kHz sampling rate. That provides superb audio quality without any other tools. This mic comes with Mix Control & Volume Control, which allows you to blend your microphone signal and pre-recorded audio for optimum audio recording experience.
It provides a smooth and extended frequency response, making it perfect for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover use. The Audio-Technica AT2020 comes with multiple accessories including a pivoting stand mount, threaded adapter, and tripod desk stand. It also has a headphone jack volume control, that allows you to monitor the microphone signal with no delay. If you are on the market for a podcasting mic to improve your audio quality then the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+ is the right choice for you.
Pros
- Latency free recording
- Comes with a table-top tripod
- Crystal clear recording quality
Cons
- Pick up noises like keyboard clicks
- Only one polar pattern
2. Rode NT-USB
Specifications:
- Polar Pattern Cardioid
- Frequency response: 20 – 20,000 Hz
- Power requirement: USB Power (5V DC)
- Weight: 520g
The NT-USB is a highly versatile side-address microphone ideal for recording any kind of vocals with all mainstream recording applications. The Rode NT-USB is a High-quality studio microphone with the convenience of USB connectivity that lets you use it without any hassle. This mic provides direct mix control between mic input and source output so that you can get an optimum audio recording experience.
With the compatibility of SMR shock mount & WS2 foam windshield, this mic packs some great sound isolation and reduces unnecessary noise easily. Equipped with a Pop shield, Tripod desk stand, ring mount, storage pouch, and 6m USB cable, the Rode NT-USB offers exceptional flexibility while recording. If you are looking for a Powerful Mic to take your podcasting experience to the next level, then the Rode NT-USB is the right choice for you.
Pros
- Features integrated pop shield
- Great sound quality
- Easy to set up and use
- Good at filtering background noise
Cons
- Tripod is not steady
- Only Cardioid Polar Pattern
3. CRazer Seiren Elite
Specifications:
- Polar Pattern Cardioid
- Frequency response: 50 Hz – 20 kHz
- Sample Rate: Min 44.1 kHz / Max 48 kHz
- Power requirement: USB Power (5V DC)
- Weight: 785 g
Being a streamer means connecting with your audience through your unique perspective. Whether you’re sharing game theories or dishing witty commentary the Razer Seirēn Elite can take your audio to the next level and let your personality truly shine. It comes with a professional-grade single dynamic capsule, that ensures minimal electronic interference for a richer, warmer, and true to life broadcasting experience.
This mic has a built-in High Pass Filter, that cuts out unwanted low-frequency vibrations like footsteps or the rumbles of an air conditioner to provide only the cleanest recording signals. It features a digital or analog limiter that helps to adjust your gains to prevent audio distortion and voice clipping, so you’ll always sound in control. This mic comes with a 3.5 mm headphone monitoring port that lets you monitor your voice recording quality with zero latency. Packed with powerful hardware and intelligent software the Razer Seiren Elite can be the perfect companion.
Pros
- Features high-pass filter button
- Headphone monitoring with zero latency
- Crisp sound quality
Cons
- Build quality could be better
- No indicator for volume or gain
