When it comes to podcasting, having a high-quality microphone is crucial to ensure that your voice is clear and easy to understand. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this guide, we’ll look at four of the best XLR microphones for podcasting that won’t break the bank.
Specifically, these microphones cost less than $100 and offer great value for your home studio.
- Maono PD100 – Budget friendly option – https://currentprice.io/maono_pd100
- Shure SM58 – Best sounding, worst looking – https://currentprice.io/shure_sm58
- Audio Technica AT2040 – Open and clean sounding – https://currentprice.io/at2040
- Rode PodMic – Well built, clean sound – https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
Maono PD100
The Maono PD100 is a great option for those on a budget. This microphone offers a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up sound from the front and blocks out noise from the sides and rear.
The built-in pop filter helps to reduce plosives and other unwanted noises, and the microphone itself is made from durable metal.
It also comes with a stand an XLR cable.
It is insanely good for the price.
Key Features
- Extremely affordable
- Great value
Pros
- Dynamic microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Included table stand
- Stylish compact design
- XLR cable included
Cons
- No internal shock mounting
- An additional windscreen would be helpful.
Shure SM58
The Shure SM58 is a classic microphone that musicians and podcasters have used for decades. It offers a cardioid polar pattern to reject background noise while forgiving in various environments.
The SM58 is known for its durability and ruggedness, making it a great choice for those who plan to take their microphone on the go. It also has a built-in pop filter and comes with a microphone clip.
The SM58 is a bit more expensive than the Maono PD100, but it is a tried and true option that has stood the test of time.
Key Features
- Time tested design
- Warm, rich tone
- Extremely reliable
Pros
- Perfect for recording podcasts
- Works well in nearly any environment
- Dynamic microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Internal shockmount
- Pop filter
Cons
- Dated look / style
- Requires lots of gain
Audio Technica AT2040
The Audio Technica AT2040 is another fantastic microphone designed specifically for podcasting and voice recording. With its hyper-cardioid polar pattern, the microphone will only record what is in front of it, and it works well at a table with several microphones simultaneously.
It has a frequency response of 40Hz-18kHz and is made from durable metal. The microphone comes with a stand mount and a carrying pouch.
Key Features
- Clear, Intelligent Tone
Pros
- Dynamic microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Great pop filtering
- Internal shock mount
Cons
- A little weak in the lower frequencies
Rode PodMic
The Rode PodMic is a compact microphone designed specifically for podcasting. It offers a cardioid polar pattern and has a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz.
The PodMic is made from all metal and has an internal pop filter to reduce plosives. It also comes with a built-in shock mount to further improve sound quality.
Compared to the other microphones on this list, it has better build quality and mounting options, but the lower frequencies aren’t well represented.
Key Features
- Clear sound
- Good build quality
- Easy to mount with robust yoke
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Compact design
- Good looking
- Dynamic microphone
- Cardioid polar pattern
- Yoke based mount
Cons
- Weak in the lower frequencies
- Requires additional wind screen
Final Thoughts
Overall, each of these microphones offers excellent value for less than $100 and can help to take your podcasting to the next level. The Maono PD100 is a great entry-level option, while the SM58 is a classic that has stood the test of time.
Don’t forget, you’ll also need a podcast audio mixer!
What Makes A Good Podcast Microphone?
First and foremost, you want a podcast microphone with good sound quality. This means it should be able to capture your voice clearly and accurately, without picking up too much background noise or room echo. A dynamic microphone is a great choice for this, as it’s designed to isolate your voice and minimize outside sounds.
Next, you want a microphone that’s easy to use and set up. You don’t want to spend half your recording time fiddling with settings or trying to get the mic to work. You want a microphone that will work great in a variety of environments. Again, a dynamic microphone will typically work better for this.
Lastly, you want a microphone that’s durable and reliable. You don’t want to be constantly replacing or repairing your microphone, especially if you’re doing regular recordings. Look for a microphone that’s well-built and can withstand some wear and tear.
Best XLR Microphones For Podcasting (under $100) Pricing
- Maono PD100 – Budget friendly option – https://currentprice.io/maono_pd100
- Shure SM58 – Best sounding, worst looking – https://currentprice.io/shure_sm58
- Audio Technica AT2040 – Open and clean sounding – https://currentprice.io/at2040
- Rode PodMic – Well built, clean sound – https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
Best XLR Microphones For Podcasting (under $100) FAQs
What is the best podcast mic for less than $100?
If you have a $100 budget, we recommend the Maono PD100, Shure SM58, Audio Technical AT2040, or the Rode PodMic
Do I need an expensive microphone for a podcast?
You always get what you pay for. However, with a podcast, you need to spend enough so your audience can clearly hear your content and isn’t distracted by bad quality. For $100, you should be able to achieve this goal.
Should I use a dynamic or condenser mic for my podcast?
Generally, we recommend using dynamic microphones. They are more rugged and reject background noise better than condenser microphones.
What pickup pattern is best for a podcast?
We recommend using microphones with a cardioid or hyper-cardioid polar pattern for podcasting. This will reject background noise and give you a better-quality recording.
