Choosing a microphone for your podcast is an exciting step toward producing high-quality, engaging audio content. No matter the subject matter, the mic you select can significantly influence how your voice resonates with your audience, capturing all the nuance, emotion and storytelling depth of your delivery. With the podcasting landscape expanding rapidly and mics becoming more geared toward high-resolution and/or on-the-go productions, there's never been a better time to find the perfect microphone for your unique voice and style.
In this guide, we’ve compiled some of our most popular podcast microphones chosen by both seasoned pros and keen beginners. We’ll help you discover the best microphone to elevate your podcasting setup and journey.
But first, before selecting your ideal podcast mic, it helps to consider several important factors. Audio quality tops the list, naturally, but ease of use, connectivity options and compatibility with your recording environment are equally essential. Dynamic microphones are ideal for untreated rooms or noisy environments, delivering a clean, focused sound without requiring extensive acoustic treatment. Condenser microphones offer enhanced sensitivity and detail, making them perfect for quieter, more acoustically controlled spaces. Built-in pop filters, flexible mounting options and seamless compatibility with your audio interface or laptop—when your mic offers a direct USB connection—are also critical for creating a smooth workflow with top-notch sound.
Pictured: Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone
Table of Contents
Comparing the Best Microphones for Podcasting
The Top 5 Podcast Microphones
Considerations When Starting Your Podcast
Take Your Podcast to the Next Level
People Also Ask ...
Comparing the Best Microphones for Podcasting
|
Model |
Polar Pattern |
Frequency Response |
Maximum SPL (for Condensers) |
Power Requirements |
Connectivity |
|
Hypercardioid |
80Hz–16kHz |
N/A |
Dynamic; no phantom power required |
XLR |
|
|
Cardioid |
45Hz–18kHz |
N/A |
Dynamic |
XLR |
|
|
Cardioid |
20Hz–20kHz |
131dB |
48V |
XLR, USB |
|
|
Cardioid |
20Hz–20kHz |
142dB |
48V |
XLR, USB |
|
|
Cardioid |
50Hz–20kHz |
N/A |
Dynamic; built-in preamp (phantom power required) |
XLR |
Pictured: Electro-Voice RE20 Dynamic Microphone
The Top 5 Podcast Microphones
Audio-Technica AT2040
Why It’s Great for Podcasting: With rich tone, superb isolation and easy angle adjustment, the AT2040 is a stellar first step for budget-minded podcasters who want pristine audio.
Things to Consider:
- Dynamic design and hypercardioid polar pattern effectively reject background noise
- Warm, smooth character is perfect for spoken word
- Purpose-built podcast mic looks sharp on camera
Shop Now: Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Podcast Microphone
The Audio-Technica AT2040 is specially designed for podcasters who want broadcast-ready sound on a reasonable budget. Its hypercardioid pattern sharply reduces unwanted room noise, focusing your voice front and center. This dynamic sounds rich, warm and clear, delivering a polished panache that can go toe to toe with much higher-end mics. Its built-in multistage windscreen not only blocks pops and hisses from hitting the capsule but also gives that iconic “broadcast mic” look, whether you’re on camera or just wanting to get into that production headspace.
Electro-Voice RE20
Why It’s Great for Podcasting: With its legendary broadcast legacy, powerful vocal presence and unbeatable noise rejection, the RE20 is a long-standing gold standard among podcasters and broadcasters alike.
Things to Consider:
- Incredibly versatile vocal and instrument mic has been a go-to since 1968
- Built-in Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect
- High-pass switch rolls off frequences below 100Hz
Shop Now: Electro-Voice RE20 Dynamic Microphone
If there’s one microphone that has become synonymous with podcasting, as well as FM and old-school TV broadcasts, it’s the Electro-Voice RE20. Beloved by radio personalities and podcasters for its natural yet commanding tone, the RE20 delivers clear articulation without excessive bass build-up thanks to its Variable-D technology. And it’s incredibly versatile. It’s commonly put in front of drums, bass instruments, guitar amps—Stevie Wonder even recorded vocals for Talking Book and Innervisions with one. So, if you’re wanting a classic mic that can pull double duty for capturing spoken word and virtually any instrument imaginable, the RE20 might just be a winner.
LEWITT RAY
Why It’s Great for Podcasting: Offering XLR and USB connectivity, camera-friendly aesthetics and a groundbreaking “autofocus” feature, the RAY offers a seamless experience for podcasters.
Things to Consider:
- Dual USB/XLR connectivity fits any studio setup
- Detailed audio reproduction ideal for spoken-voice clarity
- Continuously measures your distance from the mic, automatically adjusting levels and tone
Shop Now: LEWITT RAY Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
The LEWITT RAY is a cutting-edge standout, bridging the gap between traditional studio gear and contemporary podcasting convenience via the latest tech. With dual USB and XLR connectivity, the RAY easily integrates with your existing setup or stands alone as a plug-and-play podcasting microphone. But here’s the exciting part: Its AURA feature auto-sets levels and adjusts for proximity effect as you move closer or step away from the mic—giving you unprecedented consistent sound regardless of your positioning. Never worry about proper mic technique again. This tech also makes RAY’s Mute by Distance feature possible, which will mute your signal once you step away from a customizable preselected distance when engaged. How cool is that?
RØDE NT1 5th Generation
Why It’s Great for Podcasting: The very first mic to feature 32-bit float depth as well as both USB and XLR connectivity, the 5th-gen NT1 is an ideal podcasting companion.
Things to Consider:
- Exceptional low self-noise delivers pristine audio quality
- Gain adjustments not needed, thanks to 32-bit float digital output
- Available in black and silver finishes
Shop Now: RODE NT1 5th Generation Large-Diaphragm Microphone in Black
Hitting the sweet spot of impressive quality and surprising affordability, RØDE NT1 has been the world’s most popular studio microphone for years, and this 5th-generation model ups the ante with additional versatility that suits podcasters perfectly. The RØDE NT1 5th Generation takes tedious gain setting out of the equation with its 32-bit float capability—all the nuances you could ever want will be in your audio track no matter the gain level you set your preamp to, without having to worry about clipping. As if that isn’t compelling enough, it also offers dual connection options, onboard Revolution Preamp with outstanding clarity and an exceptionally low noise floor.
Shure SM7dB
Why It’s Great for Podcasting: A descendent of the legendary SM7, the SM7dB features a built-in preamp, adding extra 18 or 28dB of gain at the flick of a switch.
Things to Consider:
- Everything you love about the iconic microphone famously used by top podcasters and vocalists, plus bypassable preamp
- Rear rejection perfect for less-than-ideal recording environments
- Onboard bass roll-off and mid presence boost switches
Shop Now: Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone
The Shure SM7dB maintains all the beloved traits of the classic SM7B—the smooth vocal clarity, excellent noise rejection and iconic warmth—and adds a convenient built-in preamp for an optional gain boost. It’s the ultimate all-in-one solution for podcasters, broadcasters, content creators and musicians who need top-tier audio quality without additional external gear.
Considerations When Starting Your Podcast
Starting your podcast can be an exciting venture, but there are key considerations beyond choosing the right microphone:
- Audio Interfaces and Mixers: To capture your microphone’s full potential, you’ll need a suitable audio interface or mixer. Interfaces and mixers provide essential features, such as preamps, phantom power and monitoring options. Get plugged in with our guide to the best audio interfaces of 2025.
- Recording Software: Selecting a digital audio workstation (DAW) that suits your workflow is essential for editing, mixing and mastering your podcast episodes. DAWs, such as Logic Pro, Ableton Live or Pro Tools, can significantly streamline your production process, while giving you a plethora of editing and mixing tools. Check out "The Best DAWs for Beginners" for a deeper look.
- Monitoring and Headphones: A good pair of studio headphones or monitors ensures you hear exactly what's being captured, allowing well-informed and precise mixing decisions. Find your pair in our “Best Studio Headphones for Recording, Mixing and Mastering” and “The Best Studio Monitors of 2025” articles.
- Microphone Stands and Accessories: Don’t underestimate the importance of mic stands, shockmounts and pop filters. Proper accessories enhance comfort and reduce unwanted noise, helping your podcast sound polished and professional.
Pictured: Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Podcast Microphone
Take Your Podcast to the Next Level
Whether you're launching your first podcast or upgrading an established show, choosing the right microphone is crucial to creating captivating content. With high-quality podcast mics from Audio-Technica, Electro-Voice, LEWITT, RØDE and Shure, you’re equipped to deliver audio that engages your audience episode after episode.
Visit your nearest Guitar Center or connect with our expert Gear Advisers online for personalized recommendations. Your podcasting journey starts with your voice—and choosing the right mic can capture your message in the best light and help you turn your podcast dreams into reality.
Pictured: LEWITT RAY Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
People Also Ask ...
What microphone type is best for podcasting?
Whether you opt for a dynamic or condenser mic depends on your recording environment. Dynamic microphones are popular among podcasters because they offer excellent vocal clarity and effectively reject background noise. Condenser microphones provide extra detail but typically require a more controlled acoustic environment.
Do I need an audio interface for podcasting?
If you're using an XLR microphone, you'll need an audio interface or mixer to connect to your computer and provide proper power and gain control. USB microphones include built-in interfaces, offering a simpler setup.
Should I choose USB or XLR microphones for podcasting?
USB microphones are easier for beginners and portable setups since they connect directly to your computer. XLR microphones offer greater sonic flexibility and typically higher audio quality, dependent on the preamp or interface you pair them with.
How do I choose the right microphone polar pattern for podcasting?
For podcasting, a cardioid or hypercardioid polar pattern is usually best, as it captures your voice clearly while minimizing unwanted background noise and room reflections.
What else do I need besides a microphone to start podcasting?
You’ll also need headphones, an audio interface or mixer, recording software (DAW), mic stands, and accessories such as pop filters and acoustic treatment to achieve the best audio quality.