No matter if you are podcasting, recording or streaming, a good content creation wouldn’t be complete without using a quality microphone. The microphone helps to make your voice (and the person(s) you talk to) sound clearer and more professional. Depending on your needs and budget, below is our selected list of 8 of the best microphones for content creators in alphabetical order.
1) AKG Ara C22-USB
This reasonably priced AKG Ara C22-USB boasts a classy two-tone design with the convenience of a plug-and-play setup via USB connectivity. It offers exceptional professional-level audio for its price point with highlights like 24-bit/96 kHz conversion and an integrated shock mount, allowing you to attach your microphone to a boom or standard mic stand. The AKG Ara C22-USB also benefits from Front & Front + Back modes, making it ideal for picking up directional (cardioid) and all-around (omni) sound patterns, depending on your needs. You even get complete control over volume and mute settings using the adjustable knobs.
2) Audio-Technica AT2020
Here’s another reasonably priced microphone suitable for content creation. The Audio-Technica AT2020 not only features a sleek-looking black design but also professional-level sound that has been synonymous with brand quality. The cardioid pattern can capture crystal-clear sound for up to 120° while its side-address mic style is best used for stationary audio such as front-and-centre vocals and speeches. The microphone also benefits from its sturdy all-metal construction. The two-colour indicator which emits from behind the grill helps ensure your microphone’s functionality. If the light turns blue, you are good to go while red means no sound is transmitted.
3) Blue Yeti X
The bestselling Blue Yeti X from Logitech features not one but four capsule arrays for different audio needs. That means you can switch between cardioid, omni, bi-directional and stereo for streaming and podcast interviews, to name a few. The smart knob on the front side comes in handy to adjust volume or mute the microphone. Other highlights include customisable LED lighting via G HUB software, and easy plug-and-play USB compatibility regardless of Windows/Mac computers or laptops. The built-in internal shock mount ensures you get cleaner audio while the desktop stand allows you to set your microphone in place. You can also remove the stand and mount your microphone to a boom.
4) HyperX QuadCast S
The HyperX QuadCast S boasts attention-grabbing spectacular RGB lighting effects. And yes, it’s customisable using the HyperX NGENUITY software. The four capsule-array patterns allow you to adjust the sound accordingly, covering from cardioid to omni, bi-directional and stereo. There’s an easy-to-adjust dial at the bottom of the microphone for controlling your mic sensitivity while the integrated anti-vibration shock mount reduces the accidental mic bumps during the recording. The LED indicator, in the meantime, comes in handy to let you know whether the microphone is active or muted. Finally, the mount adapter is designed to fit most mic stands and boom arms.
5) JLab Talk
The compact-size JLab Talk offers professional-grade sound quality at 24-bit/96 kHz for crisp audio recording. Not to mention the versatility of this microphone which supports four audio patterns: cardioid, omni, bi-directional and stereo. There’s a knob for adjusting the volume, mic sensitivity via gain control and a quick-mute function. It’s easy to use too since it supports easy USB plug-and-play compatibility directly into your computer or laptop. The JLab Talk includes a foldable stand to mount your microphone for a desktop-style recording session.
6) Rode NT1
This high-end, fifth-generation Rode NT1 has everything you need for top-quality audio. It offers rich-sounding audio that defines the brand in the first place while the brand’s ultra-low-noise, high-gain Revolution Preamp ensures you get crisp digital recordings, which can support up to 192kHz analog-to-digital conversion. The Rode NT1 also comes with dual connectivity via XLR and USB and its 32-bit float digital output means you can record different levels of clipping-free sound. The internal shock mount within the microphone helps reduce vibrations during your recording session and not to forget, a bundled pop filter to minimise unnecessary popping sounds.
7) Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B’s large microphone boasts a studio-level audio quality that captures crystal-clear, neutral-sounding vocals no matter if you are using it for podcasts, YouTubing or even major broadcasting. The combination of air-suspension shock isolation and pop filter helps reduce unnecessary background noises. The cardioid pattern, in the meantime, makes it ideal for picking up front-focused sound. The Shure SM7B’s XLR compatibility allows more control and flexibility upon connecting it to an audio interface.
8) SteelSeries Alias
The distinctly capsule-like microphone design isn’t the only star attraction for SteelSeries Alias. It also boasts a 3X bigger capsule for better and more detailed sound quality while you get more control via Sonar’s all-in-one audio software. The microphone features an LED display, allowing you to monitor the status of your audio or mute levels. You can also personalise the colour of the RGB downlight, making it ideal for gamers.
