Top microphones for online training
If you're in the market for top-quality audio for your online courses and webinars, download our recommendations for the best microphone setups for your online tutorial.
Building your course content is a beast of burden.
And let's not forget recording it.
Audio recording equipment is required for delivering professional online courses with top-quality audio. And you're aware of this. This is also true of online webinars, tutorials, and live streaming. The right microphone could determine the success or failure of your info products.
You can do exactly the same thing for your bank balance.
To save you from hours of hunting through Amazon reviews, and searching the internet to find the top microphones, we've done all the research for you.
Today, we'll walk through various types of microphones. We'll also review the most popular models and brands available on the market, and when to use the best ones.
It's suitable for every online teacher or leader.
Before we dig into models though, let's briefly review the basics of microphones, so you have a better knowledge of what you should look for.
When you've found your ideal microphone, it's time to create! Create draft courses for no cost and then upgrade them when you are ready.
A few basics on the ideal microphone configuration for online classes as well as webinars.
The majority of our recommendations include an audio setup with cable.
Why? It's because the market andlisteners like the quality of sound of microphones with cable.
Wireless microphones have the retail sales value at $172million which is a vast difference from the price of $455 million for the worth of retail sales of microphones with cable.
Another method we use to classify our top microphone choices by two cable types -the XLR microphones as well as USB mics.
Here's a quick visual distinction between them :
Pro XLR:
The benefit of using an XLR cable is that it's the most widely used standard in the industry, meaning that the majority of audio recording equipment has been designed to work with XLR microphones. You have more choices and control over sound (think professional musicians as well as podcasters).
Con:
With XLRs it is necessary connect it to an audio interface which converts the analog signal into digital -- a.k.a. it can be played in your Mac and PC. But you can use an XLR to USB adapter is an option for you if you're not seeking the power of phantoms or have ultimate audio control.
USB pro:
One benefit of a USB microphone is that it can be connected directly into your computer or laptop. That implies that you do not require any additional audio equipment.
USB with:
It's a great device that provides connectivity to the PC's USB port, you don't enjoy the same level of control of the sound quality.
As the vast majority of online classes or webinars require plugging in computers at one point, most of our choices are USB microphones.
Finally, we separate our initial category of XLR mics into dynamic microphones and condenser microphones .
The dynamic microphones use passive listening and are designed to drown out background noise.
If you're working in a space that has background noise and need clear and quality audio, dynamic microphones could be the best choice. Also, excellent for professionals as well as pro-podcaster quality audio.
Condenser microphones , on the other hand, use active listening and capture sounds with lots of precision and clarity. They're great for studio environments that don't have much ambient or background sounds.
It's as simple as that:
In recommending the microphone setup for your online class or webinar generally speaking you must be able to provide high quality audio using these mic categories:
Wired
USB
Condenser
We would like to offer each online entrepreneur a solid option (including professionals-level audio recorders musicians, filmmakers, podcasters, and so on) So we go a bit beyond those options.
However, it's okay. Now, let's find the right microphone setup to suit your needs.
XLR microphones, both condenser and dynamic.
Editor's Note: All prices remain in effect at the date of publication. In the event that they're different, they're lower however it's likely that there are many options to pick from the list below.
Zoom DZM-1 dynamic microphone
The Zoom DZM-1 dynamic microphone comes with an inbuilt shock mount, which means it can isolate sound from any bumps or other noises that are not needed.
The stand mount makes it easy to place onto a microphone stand though it's an accessory that's required to purchase separately if you don't own one. You don't, however, require an external shock mount, as this mic is equipped with an internal shock mount.
This mic also captures a smooth, broadcast-quality sound from its large-diaphragm dynamic design.
Price: $59.99
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response From 50Hz up to 20kHz
Best microphone: Online teachers that are looking to record loud, powerful sounds using a reasonably priced mic. It is ideal for online live teaching as well as recording audio with high quality instruments and voice.
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
If you're looking for a more expensive alternative, consider the Shure SM7B the cardioid-based dynamic mic. It's an excellent professional-grade microphone that's designed specifically for singers, musicians, and creators that are committed to their recording audio quality.
The flat, wide-range frequency response makes to provide a clean and natural recording of speech and music.
Shure's SM7B comes with the internal "air suspension" shock-isolation system that reduces mechanical sound transmission (like from your computer).
Additionally, it comes with a built-in pop filter, making it unnecessary additional accessories in order for controlling the sound. Naturally, the XLR connectivity offers more possibilities to control the sound just what you require.
Price: $399
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response from 50Hz to 20kHz
Best microphone for professional audio recording, professional musicians or online educators that want professional-grade crystal clear audio and the financial extra to get it.
Note A note about the XLR + USB version is Shure's USB MV7 dynamic microphone , which goes for $249.
AKG P120 condenser microphone
The AKG P120 is a powerful vocal condenser microphone, which is great for recording general purpose voices and for presenting.
If you're in search of microphones that are able to serve a range of general purpose for online courses and webinars including recording music instruments to giving voice-overs on slide decks, this is a top-quality microphone.
Price: $79
Connectivity Connectivity to Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
The best microphone for: Online teachers looking to make use of a competitively priced XLR condenser microphone setup for presenting live and prerecorded tutorials with high-quality audio from a computer.
In case you're in search of additional equipment for your XLR microphones, such as this accessory bundle comprising an XLR shock mount for your mic and a pop filter, you could grab a kit for an affordable price.
The set is priced at $14.99 as an example and will fit a microphone with 46mm-53mm diameter.
If the microphone you're using doesn't come with included features, it is possible to find similar shock mount and pop filter packages that are compatible with your specific microphone (just ensure you verify the compatibility).
Speaking of mic accessories, with the XLR mics you'll need to figure out how to provide your audio material in digital format inside your webinar or online course, which means audio editing software for audio recordings, or the XLR to USB adapter to live demonstrations.
In order to avoid the additional tech setup altogether, USB mics are ideal -- especially if pro-audio recording isn't your highest priority.
Microphones with USB condenser
Blue Yeti condenser microphone
Blue Yeti condenser microphone is an excellent microphone that connects directly to a USB port. It's considered to be one of the top microphones thanks to its many pattern modes.
The tri-capsule's exclusive technology allows you to select from four patterns that include cardioid and steroid the omnidirectional and bidirectional.
In addition to pattern choice and pattern settings, the Yeti mic also comes with headphones with studio controls, including the volume, instant mute as well as microphone gain.
Price: $129.99
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern: Multipattern
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz
Best microphone: Online teaching content that highlights high-quality audio content with the convenience of plugging directly into the computer from an office or studio. An audio course is an example, and it can be greatly enhanced by the microphone.
Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone
Another plug-and-play USB microphone that is plug-and-play USB Blue Snowball ICE condenser microphone. It has an stand with an adjustable height that makes it very easy to move about and set up on any desk.
Its size is small as well as portable. The connectivity is a simple USB output you can simply plug into your PC.
Blue Snowball iCE Blue Snowball iCE gives you high-quality audio for live online teaching, using platforms like Skype, Zoom, or YouTube Live. Podcasters are known to use this model, which means that it's a good choice to record your webinars as well as courses online.
Price: $49
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response time between 40Hz and 18kHz
Best microphone for: Online teachers looking for a mobile desktop alternative that's priced reasonably and practical to use both inside as well as outside of your office or studio. It won't be the bestquality ever, but you'll land firmly within the "good" space.
SUDOTACK USB condenser microphone kit
Sudotack's USB streaming podcast PC microphone is a high-quality condenser microphone that provides high-quality audio via USB connectivity.
This one comes in a kit, so if you're looking for a good quality mic setup that comes all in one package then this could be the best option.
The SUDOTACK USB mic kit contains microphone stands, a table clamp, shock mount with foam cap for anti-wind, USB A-to-B cable, as well as a pop filter.
Price: $52.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response from 30Hz to 16kHz
A great microphone for: Creators that are only beginning their journey. If you're searching for an excellent microphone set which provides top-quality audio at a a competitive price it's a comprehensive kit that will give you just that.
In the opposite side on the other hand, it is possible that you might be hesitant to handle any audio recording equipment. A headset with a high quality mic may be enough for you.
Logitech USB headset H390
It is the Logitech USB headset H390 is a headset that can be used hands-free featuring a noise cancelling microphone. It is possible to plug the headset directly into the computer or laptop's USB port.
If you're teaching live classes you can plug the headsets into your laptop and begin presenting. When you're not teaching or conversing, you can shift the left-sided microphone boom, so it's tucked out of the way.
Price: $24.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Response to frequency from 100Hz to 10kHz
Ideal microphone suitable for Online instructors who want minimal audio setup. Ideal for non-techie creators who require high-quality audio for basic tutorials online or for presenting audio-over slides.
As we're discussing the subject of portability, and the tech-free convenience The desktop edition of the headset setup but without the head gear.
JOUNIVO USB portable desktop condenser microphone
JUNIVO USB mic for desktop use is a lightweight USB microphone that is able to be carried to your desktop setting.
Its tall and slender gooseneck makes it lightweight and easy to move and adjust. Also, there's a mute button and LED indicator located on the tiny stand that tells you the status of your device.
The desktop mic is the lowest-priced microphone we've reviewed and it's worth trying for those who love to travel or one who loves switching between teaching and work environment often.
It is important to note that there's not a volume control and also the frequency response isn't highlighted on its product page (which would be logical considering the cost).
Price: $14.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern Omnidirectional
Best microphone for beginners online instructors on-the-go who want a portable, very compact portable USB microphone, which can easily be packed together with laptop equipment. Ideal for live online teaching as opposed to recording professional audio but it's adequate for very basic voice-over recording.
We have options for that, too.
Non-desktop microphone setup
Rode SmartLaV+ lavalier condenser microphone
Rode's SmartLav+ is an ideal handheld hands-free microphone for teachers online who have to are often on the move during teaching.
For instance, a fitness trainer can attach the lapel and plug the jack straight into a recorder portable or mobile phone.
Or if you're someone who instructs using a whiteboard or various props, or who instructs using a talk head (a.k.a. directly facing the camera), this is a solid option and pairs nicely using an audio recording device that is external.
Price: $79
Connectivity: Wired TRRS jack
Polar pattern The pattern is Omnidirectional
The best microphone to use for: Online teachers who make a lot of movements when teaching, or instruct and record in the field as well as want an unidirectional microphone that plugs into their mobile or an external recording device. Also ideal for face-to-camera video recording.
Connect your headset or lavalier mic into something fancier than your phone for better audio and control of volume, such as the external recording device.
Zoom H2n recorder
The lavalier plugs into the handheld Zoom H2n recorder and run for more than 20 hours with just two AA batteries.
For the size of audio files The Zoom record up to 24-bit/96kHz in WAV files and up to 320kbps in MP3 formats. Audio recordings are saved directly on SD or SDHC cards up to 32GB.
If you're not keen to invest in the wireless lavalier and you want to record straight into the Zoom's five built-in microphones with four recording modes including mid-side stereo and Stereo X/Y, as well as 2-channel and four-channel surround.
If you're interested in learning more, here's a picture of how those microphone configurations look like:
As for the other pertinent specifics:
Price: $169.99
The best microphone Portable, non-desktop microphone option with plenty of sound control for audio recording.
Looking for a combo microphone and lavalier? Look at our final microphone system.
Rode Wireless Go wireless microphone system
Rode Wireless Go Rode Wireless Go system functions in the same manner as an external recorder and lavalier can, but it is smaller.
The system comes with a compact wireless microphone, which comes with earbuds, a transmitter and receiver.
Clip on the wireless transmitter, and use it as a super tiny belt-pack transmitter to create a lavalier microphone. It can be used with its integrated omnidirectional condenser capsule to function for a wireless mic.
The receiver is also compact and can even mount onto a camera or GoPro.
Also included is the small TRS Coiled Cable to make it compatible with DSLRs.
Price: $199
Connectivity: Wireless USB
Polar pattern The pattern is Omnidirectional
Best microphone for: Physically active creators and online teachers who are often moving around during teaching, and need the convenience of a wireless portable system.
Present your online class with the best microphone setup and audio quality for your content
As with everything in your business, choose the option that works best for the purpose you are trying to achieve and your budget.
Here's the breakdown of the best microphones for your online courses and webinars:
mics with XLR (dynamic and condenser)
Utilize Zoom's DZM-1 Dynamic Mic to get high-quality, isolating audio. The price is $59.99.
Make use of Shure's Shure SM7B dynamic microphone for a premium cardioid microphone for professional audio pros; price is $399.
The P120 is a condenser microphone from AKG for everyday use and premium audio. Price is $79.
USB mics (condenser)
Utilize to use the Blue Yeti condenser mic for an elite USB microphone with multiple patterns and a price of $129.99.
Use this Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone for an excellent microphone for your desktop; cost is $49.
Make use of SUDOTACK's USB condenser kits to start with a basic kit that includes accessories. Price is $52.99.
Make use of the Logitech H390 USB headset for minimal audio equipment and basic live tutorials; price is $24.99.
Use JOUNIVO's USB portable microphone to create small desktop microphones for live demonstrations that are simple; cost is $14.99.
Mics that are not desktop-based
Utilize Rode's SmartLaV+ condenser microphone to connect your mobile device or other recording device; price is $79.
Make use of the Zoom H2n recorder for top-quality audio recordings that give you greater audio control than your mobile device; price is $169.
Make use of Rode's Wireless Go mic system for small wireless transmitter as well as receiver kit, which records high quality audio. The cost is $199.
We hope our researched and streamlined list of top microphones to be used for online courses and webinars shaves hours off the time you spend shopping.