How to Choose the Right Microphone for Streaming, Podcasts & YouTube

Embarking on the journey of content creation? Congratulations! Whether you're setting up for streaming, launching a podcast, or creating YouTube videos, one essential piece of equipment stands out: the microphone. I still remember when I recorded my very first podcast episode using a cheap gaming headset mic. I was excited, fired up, ready to change the world with my voice, but then I played it back. It sounded like I was trapped in a tin can being attacked by bees. That’s when I realized that great content doesn’t mean much if no one can actually stand to listen to it. So yeah, audio matters. A lot. Let’s navigate the maze of options to find the perfect mic for your needs and hopefully help you skip the "tin can phase."

Understanding Microphone Types

Microphones come in various flavors, but the two primary types you'll encounter are dynamic and condenser microphones. Each has its unique characteristics, advantages, and ideal use cases.

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic microphones are the workhorses of the audio world. They're known for their durability and ability to handle high sound pressure levels. This makes them less sensitive to ambient noise, which is a boon if you're recording in a space that's not acoustically treated.

For instance, the Shure SM7B is a legendary dynamic microphone that's been a staple in broadcasting and recording studios for decades. Its cardioid polar pattern focuses on capturing sound from the front, effectively minimizing background noise. However, it's worth noting that the SM7B requires a significant amount of gain, so pairing it with a quality audio interface or a preamp like the Cloudlifter is advisable.

Another noteworthy dynamic mic is the Electro-Voice RE20. Celebrated for its smooth and natural sound reproduction, the RE20 is a favorite among radio broadcasters and podcasters alike. Its Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect, allowing for consistent tonal balance even when the speaker moves closer or farther from the mic.

Condenser Microphones

Condenser microphones are renowned for their sensitivity and wide frequency response. They excel at capturing the nuances and subtleties of the human voice, making them ideal for studio environments where sound isolation and acoustics are controlled.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a popular entry-level condenser microphone that offers excellent sound quality for its price point. Its cardioid pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source. However, being a condenser mic, it does pick up more ambient noise compared to dynamic mics, so a quiet recording environment is beneficial.

For those seeking a step up, the Rode NT1-A is another condenser microphone that boasts an exceptionally low self-noise level, making it perfect for vocal recordings where clarity is paramount.

USB vs. XLR: Choosing the Right Connection

When selecting a microphone, the type of connection is a crucial consideration. The two primary options are USB and XLR, each catering to different user needs and setups.

USB Microphones

USB microphones are the epitome of convenience. They connect directly to your computer via a USB port, eliminating the need for additional equipment like audio interfaces. This plug-and-play functionality makes them particularly appealing to beginners and those looking for a straightforward setup.

The Blue Yeti is a well-known USB condenser microphone that offers multiple polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. This versatility allows users to adapt to various recording scenarios, from solo recordings to group interviews. Its built-in gain control, mute button, and headphone output for real-time monitoring add to its user-friendly design.

Another commendable option is the HyperX QuadCast S. This USB condenser mic not only delivers quality audio but also features dynamic RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to your setup. It comes with an anti-vibration shock mount and a tap-to-mute sensor, enhancing its functionality for streamers and podcasters.

XLR Microphones

XLR microphones are the standard in professional audio settings. They require an external audio interface or mixer to connect to your computer, offering greater control over audio quality and the flexibility to upgrade components of your audio chain.

The previously mentioned Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20 are both XLR microphones, revered for their superior sound quality and durability. While the initial setup cost is higher due to the need for additional equipment, the investment pays off in the form of enhanced audio fidelity and scalability.

For those seeking a hybrid solution, the Shure MV7 offers both USB and XLR connectivity. This dynamic microphone allows users to start with a simple USB setup and transition to an XLR-based system as their needs evolve. It also features touch panel controls for gain, mute, and headphone monitoring, providing a blend of convenience and professional features.

Polar Patterns: Understanding Directionality

A microphone's polar pattern determines how it picks up sound from different directions. Choosing the right polar pattern is essential for capturing the desired audio while minimizing unwanted noise.

• Cardioid: This heart-shaped pattern captures sound primarily from the front and rejects noise from the sides and rear. It's ideal for solo recordings, such as podcasts or voiceovers, where isolating the speaker's voice is crucial.
• Omnidirectional: Captures sound equally from all directions. This pattern is useful for recording ambient sounds or group discussions where capturing audio from multiple sources is desired. However, it also means that background noise is more likely to be picked up.
• Bidirectional (Figure-8): Picks up sound from the front and back while rejecting noise from the sides. This pattern is beneficial for interviews or duet recordings where two sound sources are positioned opposite each other.

Understanding these patterns helps in selecting a microphone that aligns with your recording environment and intended use.

Budget Considerations

Your budget plays a pivotal role in determining the microphone that best suits your needs. Fortunately, there are quality options available across various price points.

• Under $100: The Samson Q2U is a versatile microphone offering both USB and XLR connections. It delivers commendable audio quality for its price and includes accessories like a desktop stand and windscreen, making it a great value package.
• $100 - $250: The Samson Q2U will treat you well. If you're building a serious setup or planning for long-term use, consider an XLR mic like the Shure SM7B or the Electro-Voice RE20 and pair it with a good interface. Don’t forget to think about your room acoustics and how much background noise you want to fight. Most importantly, trust your ears. If it sounds good to you and feels right to use, that’s probably your mic.

  Happy recording! And may your audio always be crisp and your takes always be first tries.