Top-10 Podcasting Microphones
Loved in the USA

The Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a top-tier choice for podcasters, streamers, and vocalists who seek professional-quality sound. This microphone features a unidirectional polar pattern, which effectively captures sound from one direction, reducing background noise. The standout feature is its built-in preamp, providing up to 28 dB of low-noise gain, making it ideal for recording quiet vocals or podcasting without needing an external preamp. You can choose between 18 dB and 28 dB gain levels or bypass the preamp entirely for a more traditional sound.

Its frequency response of 50 to 20,000 Hz ensures a wide range of sound is captured, resulting in natural and detailed audio. The robust build quality and included large foam windscreen add to its durability and ability to handle various recording environments. Connectivity through XLR ensures compatibility with professional audio equipment.

The microphone is relatively heavy at 2.7 pounds, which might require a sturdy stand. It also requires phantom power from an interface or mixer, which could be an additional cost if you don’t already own one. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Shure SM7dB is a reliable choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio recordings with a warm, smooth sound.

The Shure MV7+ is a dynamic podcasting microphone designed for clear and professional audio, making it a strong choice for podcasters, streamers, and content creators. It uses a unidirectional polar pattern, which helps focus on your voice while reducing background noise—a key feature for recording in less-than-perfect environments. The microphone supports both USB-C and XLR connections, offering flexibility whether you want to plug directly into a computer or use more advanced audio setups. Build quality is solid with a metal body and includes practical accessories like a foam windscreen and adjustable desktop stand, giving it durability and convenience for desktop use.

One of the MV7+'s standout features is its digital pop filter and real-time denoiser, which work together to reduce harsh plosive sounds and unwanted ambient noise, so your recordings stay clean and easy to listen to. The mic’s Auto Level Mode automatically adjusts gain based on how far you are from it, which is helpful if you tend to move around while speaking. The colorful LED touch panel not only adds a fun visual element but also functions as a mute button and audio level meter, making control intuitive. Additionally, onboard reverb options can add depth if you want a richer sound for music or voice recordings. The microphone integrates well with Shure’s MOTIV MIX app for customization and is OBS certified, ensuring smooth compatibility with popular streaming software.

The MV7+ is on the heavier side and may take up more desk space than some simpler models. While its metal build is durable, the size and weight might not suit those looking for ultra-portable options. Also, although it offers a lot of tech features, beginners might need some time to explore the app and settings fully. This microphone is a versatile, high-quality option ideal for podcasters who want clear, professional sound with useful noise control and flexible connectivity. It suits users who appreciate a combination of solid build, smart features, and easy integration with streaming platforms.

The Shure SM7B is a top-tier dynamic microphone, highly regarded in the podcasting and broadcasting community. Its unidirectional polar pattern ensures that it captures sound directly in front while minimizing background noise, making it ideal for home studios and professional settings alike. With a smooth, flat frequency response, this mic provides a natural and rich sound quality, essential for clear vocal reproduction in recordings and live streaming.

One of the standout features is its effective air suspension shock isolation and built-in pop filter, which significantly reduce mechanical noise and plosives, ensuring that your voice comes through cleanly. It's also built ruggedly, designed to withstand the rigors of regular use, which is a plus for those on the go.

The SM7B requires an XLR connection and typically needs a good audio interface or preamp that provides sufficient gain (at least 60dB) to achieve its best sound. This might be a hurdle for beginners who are accustomed to USB microphones or simpler plug-and-play solutions. Additionally, while it performs excellently for vocals, some may find it less versatile for instruments or wide-ranging audio scenarios compared to other microphones in its category.