Which Microphone is BEST for PODCASTING? A Guide to Dynamic, Condenser, and Ribbon microphones
In this guide, we take a look at the three main types of microphones - dynamic, condenser, and ribbon - and how well they work within the realm of podcasting.
Your microphone is arguably the most important piece of equipment to purchase when you’re preparing to launch your podcast. Poor audio quality will turn away listeners and can leave a lasting impression when your new content appears again in their feed. So, an excellent start to your audio is critical to scoring the perfect introduction to potential followers. But with multiple microphone types available, choosing the right one for your setup can be overwhelming. Have no fear! In this guide, we’ll break down the three different types of microphones, explaining how they work and when they’re best suited for podcasting.
If you’re still unsure about whether to choose an XLR or USB mic or need to refresh your memory on the differences between the two, we’ve covered that topic in depth here.
Now, let’s get started!
Key Takeaways:
Dynamic microphones are a safe choice for beginner podcasters or recording in untreated rooms.
Condenser microphones can offer incredible vocal detail but are more sensitive to background noise.
Ribbon microphones lend a vintage tone to your podcast but are costly and fragile.
Dynamic Microphones
The "Legendary" status of the Shure SM7B is well-earned. Michael Jackson, Sheryl Crow, and Joe Rogan have all used this mic to record some of the most iconic pieces of work in the history of audio.
Let's begin by talking about dynamic microphones, one of the most popular choices for podcasters and live performers alike. Dynamic mics are widely known for their durability and ability to handle high sound levels without distortion. You’ll find them in podcast studios around the world because they’re great at rejecting background noise, making them perfect for home or untreated recording environments.
How they work:
Dynamic microphones work by using a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it moves the coil within a magnetic field, generating an electrical signal that translates into sound. This relatively simple mechanism makes dynamic mics durable and reliable, ideal for capturing loud sounds without distortion.
How dynamic mics fit in with podcasting:
Dynamic microphones are often favored by podcasters because they’re great at rejecting background noise. Most dynamic mics feature a cardioid polar pattern, which focuses on sound coming directly from the front of the mic while rejecting noise from the sides. This makes them a perfect option for podcasters recording in less controlled environments, like home studios or even noisy rooms.
Popular Dynamic Mics for Podcasting
Shure SM58
A classic microphone with excellent vocal clarity and durability.
Rode PodMic
Specifically designed for podcasting, offering broadcast-style sound.
Rode has dove into the world of podcasting, crafting some of the best podcasting gear you can get, especially the Podmic.
The GOOD of dynamic microphones:
Great for noisy environments
No need for phantom power
An all-around microphone type that doesn’t have any glaring problems
The BAD of dynamic microphones:
Less sensitive to subtle sounds
Typically doesn’t capture high frequencies as well as other mic types
Condenser Microphones
Audio-Technica has an incredible track record of creating amazing condenser microphones, like the AT4050.
Next up are condenser microphones, which are often found in professional studios due to their incredible sensitivity and clarity. Condensers are usually split up into two sub-categories: small diaphragm and large diaphragm. Small diaphragms, or sdcm’s, are commonly used for recording instruments, while their larger counterpart, ldcm’s, are more likely to be used for vocals. I won’t be covering these two minor categories of condensers here, but I think it’s important to mention them, because you’re likely to find this separation if you do your own searching.
Condenser mics typically have a much more focused frequency response range, allowing them to capture subtle vocal details that really make your dialog pop. Condensers are not so much of an “all-around mic” like a dynamic, as it is a mic that requires a bit more of a specific environment, but if you’re able to record in a quiet, more controlled environment, the sound quality you can achieve with a condenser microphone is amazing!
How they work:
Condenser microphones are more sensitive than dynamic mics and use a thin diaphragm placed near a backplate. When sound waves hit the diaphragm, it moves, creating variations in an electrical current that needs to be amplified. Most condenser mics require phantom power to operate, usually provided by an audio interface.
How condenser mics fit in with podcasting:
Condenser mics are a favorite among professional studio settings because of their ability to capture detailed, nuanced sound. This makes them excellent for podcasters who want to capture every subtlety of their voice. As I touched on earlier, the trade-off to having a sensitive and focused mic is that you need the right recording environment, otherwise your quality will greatly suffer. Condenser’s ability to capture high levels of detail that other mics can miss make them a great choice if you have the right recording room.
Popular Condenser Mics for Podcasting
Audio-Technica AT2020
Solid clarity and affordability, making it a popular entry-level condenser microphone.
Rode NT1-A
Ultra-low self-noise, and designed for podcasting.
You can grab the Audio-Technica AT2020 in either XLR or USB.
The GOOD of condenser microphones:
Superior sound detail and clarity
Great for studio-level environments or treated rooms
Sensitive to quiet, subtle sounds
The BAD of condenser microphones:
Requires phantom power
More susceptible to background noise
More fragile compared to dynamic microphones
Ribbon Microphones
If you want to take that first step into the world of ribbon microphones, the VooDoo VR1 from sE Electronics is a good choice.
Ribbon microphones are a bit of a niche option in podcasting but are beloved by audiophiles for their warm, vintage sound. While they’re more fragile than dynamic and condenser mics, ribbon microphones can add a unique richness to voice recordings, making them a great choice for podcasters seeking a natural, retro sound.
How they work:
Ribbon microphones are, technically, a type of dynamic mic. They use a thin strip of metal (the ribbon) suspended in a magnetic field to capture sound. These mics are extremely sensitive and can provide a warm, vintage sound. However, they are typically more fragile and prone to damage from high sound pressure levels (SPL), making them less common for general podcasting.
How ribbon mics fit in with podcasting:
While ribbon mics are mainly used for music and instruments, they definitely have a place in podcasting if you know how and when to use them. Ribbons work well for those looking for a natural, warm sound, and can particularly yield great results for voice-overs and specific creative projects. They’re not typically recommended for beginners due to their cost and fragility, but if you’re a more seasoned podcaster wanting to capture a unique, vintage sound, you might want to consider grabbing a ribbon mic!
Popular Ribbon Mics for Podcasting
Royer R-10
A more budget-friendly ribbon mic that still delivers that unique sound quality.
AEA KU5A
While it can also capture various instruments, this mic is very popular with vocal recordings.
The AEA KU5A is an excellent choice for an entry ribbon mic.
The GOOD of ribbon microphones:
Warm, vintage tone
Great if you’re going for a natural-sounding podcast
The BAD of ribbon microphones:
Much more expensive and fragile than other mic types in this guide
Not ideal for noisy environments, and can be damaged from high sound levels
Final Thoughts
So, we covered the three main types of microphones, but which should you get for your podcast? If you’re a beginner podcaster, most of the time a dynamic microphone is a reliable, cost-effective, and all-around safe choice, especially if you’re working in a less-than-perfect recording environment, such as an untreated or harder room with lots of ambient noise or reverb. However, if you’re setting up a home studio, are recording in more of a treated room, and want to capture the finer details of your vocals, a condenser microphone could be the choice for you.
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