Are you recording at home and unsure which mic will be right for you? Taking the time to think about your listener’s experience is very important. You want your listeners to focus on your message and to continue listening to what you have to share. No one is going to continue listening if there are unexpected background noises and your voice is muffled. Selecting the correct gear for your in-home recordings is vital. Here are a few microphones to check out on any budget:
Under $100:
Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone for Smartphones is a great mic to easily connect to your smartphone. This is the perfect mic to use when you’re on the go and need to conduct on-site interviews. It’s tiny and discreet, so no one would know it’s there.
Mid-Range $100-$200:
Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a favorite among a lot of podcasters. The Blue Yeti offers amazing quality audio and is extremely easy to set up with it’s plug-and-play USB connection. Another bonus to consider is that the Blue Yeti comes with its own stand. This may seem like it’s not a big deal but it is when you think of spacing and setup.
The Rode Podcaster is a highly recommended microphone for podcasters. It is an excellent dynamic microphone.
Premium Range Over $200
The Shure SM7b is my personal favorite and what is currently used in our studio. The Shure SM7b is known as the “One Microphone for Everything” and it really can be used for everything. As a singer-songwriter and podcaster, I needed one mic to use instead of swapping out equipment every session. I highly recommend this microphone for vocalists and podcasters.
The Rode NT1-A is a great entry-level microphone. The low-noise XLR microphone provides a very rich sound. The one thing to keep in mind is that an audio interface and pop filter are required as well. The price of the additions can add up.
Remember starting small is always a good idea. You need to find what microphone works best for you and sometimes this happens as a result of trial and error. You can always upgrade your equipment along the way. Perfection is never the goal. Deciding to show up and do the work is. Happy recording!
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.