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Microphones

🌱 This post is in the growth phase. It may still be useful as it grows up.

Let me tell you which microphones to start with.

I own more than 20 microphones. So I have strong and nuanced opinions. I know that isn’t helpful when you’re starting your podcast or livestream, So I’ve limited it to four.

I’ve chosen these four on their ability to build from one system to the next.

I haven’t been able to finish the detail sections of my recommendation. So, if you don’t trust me, {% bug-me-on-twitter %}

COVID CAVEAT

Many of these items have limited stock or prices have been inflated. I’ve added B&H product links because they provide stock notifications. Heads up: Amazon links are affiliate links.


For $60: Samson Q2u

Buy at: Amazon, B&H

Why it works

Meh

Suitable and similar alternatives

I used the AT2100USB to record the 2016-2018 episodes of Bird Call Review. The two mics above are newer versions of that mic.

These are very similar to the Samson Q2u but don’t include the same useful accessories. They also sound “thinner” to my ears and they have a blinding, blue “on” LED.

But, pretty close if you can’t find stock of the Samson Q2u.

Why this works

Why you might need to upgrade


For $200: Beringer XM8500 mic + Elgato Wave XLR

I know $60 to $200 is a big jump. If you can’t spend at least $200, you’re going to be best served by my $60 recommendation.

https://amzn.to/3uxAo3D

Buy the mic: Amazon, B&H Buy the interface: Amazon

What you get for the extra money

Why this works

Why you might need to upgrade

(Details coming…)

For $300: Rode M2 + Behringer U-PHORIA UMC22 interface

Buy the mic: B&H (Rode doesn’t provide warrantees to Amazon customers) Buy the interface: Amazon, B&H

What you get for the extra money

Why this works

Why you might need to upgrade

(Details coming later…)

For $650: Shure SM7B + MOTU M4

Buy the mic: Amazon, B&H Buy the interface: B&H

What you get for the extra money

Why this works

Meh

Why you might need to upgrade

Don’t I need a Cloud Lifter or FetHead for the SM7B?

No. Those are for interfaces with worse preamps. The MOTU has preamps with a higher EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) than the Cloud Lifter and FetHead.

(Details coming…)

For $1100: Shure SM7B + Sound Device MixPre-3 (my setup)

Buy the mic: Amazon, B&H Buy the interface: Amazon, B&H

What you get for the extra money

Why this works

Meh

Why you might need to upgrade

You don’t. You have everything you need. Rent the rest if/when you need it.

Don’t I need a Cloud Lifter or FetHead for the SM7B?

No. Those are for interfaces with worse preamps.

(Details coming…)


This doc is a work in progress. The recommendations aren’t likely to change any time soon. But I’ll flesh out the decision-making nuances a bit.