The best microphones for online classes as well as webinars
If you're looking for high-quality audio to accompany your online course and webinars, get our recommendations for the top microphone configurations you can use in your online course.
The process of creating your course's content can be one of the biggest challenges.
It's even better to record it.
You need audio-recording gear for delivering polished online classes with high-quality audio. You are aware of this. This is also true of online webinars, tutorials, and live streaming. A good microphone can be the difference between success and failure for your information products.
The same can be done exactly the same thing for your bank balance.
To save you from hours of hunting through Amazon reviews or scouring the internet to find the most effective microphones, we've done all the research for you.
Today, we'll walk you through different types of microphones. We'll also review the most popular models and brands available on the market, as well as when to use the best ones.
This option is ideal for online teachers or instructor.
Before diving into the different models however, we'll review the basics of microphones, so you have a better understanding of what to look for in a microphone.
When you've found your ideal microphone, it's time to create! Create draft courses for free with and upgrade at launch time.
The basics of the best microphone setup for online courses as well as webinars.
All but one of our recommendations include a cabled microphone setup.
Why? Markets andlisteners appreciate the superior sound of the cabled microphones.
Wireless microphones have an estimated retail sales value in the range of $172 million that's a huge difference from the 455 million in retail sales value of the cabled microphones.
Another method we use to classify our top microphone choices by two cable types -two types of cables - XLR microphones as well as USB microphones.
Here's a quick graphic difference between the two :
Pro XLR:
The benefits of the XLR cable is it's the most widely used standard in the industry, meaning that all audio recording equipment for professional use is made for XLR microphones. It gives you a wider range of options and control over sound (think professional musicians as well as podcasters).
Con:
If you are using XLRs, you need connect it to an audio interface to convert the analog signal into digital, a.k.a. it can be played on your Mac or PC. However you can use you can use an USB to XLR USB adapter is an option for you if you're not seeking phantom power or ultimate control of sound.
USB pro
The benefit of using a USB microphone is that you can connect directly into your computer or laptop. This implies that you do not require any additional audio equipment.
USB with:
While it offers a convenient connectivity to your computer's USB port, it doesn't get as precise control over the quality of your sound.
Because the majority of online courses or webinars require plugging in a computer at some point, most of our options are USB microphones.
Finally, we separate our initial category of XLR mics into dynamic and condenser microphones .
Dynamic microphones use passive listening and are designed to drown out background disturbances.
If you're working in an environment that's noisy, ambient noise, and you need crystal clear high-quality audio, dynamic mics might be a good choice. Again, great for pro-musician and professional-grade audio.
Condenser mics are, on contrary, utilize active listening, and can pick up sounds with tons of precision and clarity. They are ideal for studio environments that don't have lots of background noise or background sound.
In a nutshell:
In recommending the microphone setup for your online course or webcast, in general you must be able to create high-quality audio using these microphone category choices:
Wired
USB
Condenser
That being said, we want to give every online entrepreneur a solid alternative (including pro-level audio recorders, musicians film makers, podcasters and so on) We therefore expand to include more options.
However, it's okay. We'll now look for the best microphone setup that is right for you.
XLR microphones, both condenser and dynamic.
Editor's Note: All prices are valid at when they were written. If you discover the prices are different, they're less however it's likely that there are lots of choices to choose from in this list.
Zoom DZM-1 dynamic microphone
The Zoom DZM-1 dynamic microphone includes an internal shock mount which means that it will block out sound due to any bumps or other noises that are not needed.
Stand mounts make it super easy to put on a stand for your microphone, though it's an accessory that you'll have to buy separately, if you don't already have one. However, you don't require an external shock mount since this microphone is equipped with an internal shock mount.
The mic also produces a smooth, broadcast-quality sound from its large-diaphragm dynamic design.
Price: $59.99
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency From 50Hz up to 20kHz
The best microphone for Teachers who want to capture loud, powerful sounds using a reasonably priced mic. Perfect for live online instruction 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 Shure's SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone. It's a top-notch pro-quality mic that's designed to be used by musicians, vocalists and other creatives that are committed to their audio recording quality.
The flat, wide-range frequency response is ideal to provide a clean and natural rendition of both speech and music.
Shure's SM7B has the internal "air suspension" shock isolator that blocks mechanical sound transmission (like the sound of your computer).
It also has an integrated pop filter, which means you do not need additional accessories in order to regulate the sound. Also, having XLR connection gives you greater choices and flexibility to tailor your audio to precisely what you need it to be.
Price: $399
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response from 50Hz to 20kHz
The best microphone to use for: Serious audio recording, professional musicians or online instructors that want professional-grade crystal clear audio and the financial surplus for it.
Note An aside: The XLR + USB version of this is Shure's MV7 USB dynamic microphone , which goes for $249.
AKG P120 condenser microphone
The AKG P120 is a powerful vocal condenser microphone that's great for recording general purpose voices as well as presenting.
If you're looking for microphones that are able to be used for a variety of purpose for online courses and webinars such as recording musical instruments to presenting voice-over slide decks, this will give you high-quality audio.
Price: $79
Connectivity: Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz
The best microphone Teachers who want to use an inexpensive XLR condenser mic setup to present live or prerecorded tutorials using high-quality audio via the desktop.
By the way, if you're looking for additional accessories to use with your XLR microphones, you can choose this accessory bundle that includes an XLR shock mount for your mic and a pop filter, it is possible to grab a kit for a very reasonable price.
The set is priced at $14.99, for example, it fits microphones with a 46mm to 53mm size.
If your mic doesn't have integrated features, you may find similar shock mount and pop filter accessory packages for your specific microphone (just be sure to check whether they are compatible).
Speaking of mic accessories including the XLR mics you'll need to figure out how to deliver your audio content as digital files within your webinar or online course that includes audio editing software that can edit audio recordings or the XLR into USB adapter to live demonstrations.
To avoid the extra tech setup altogether, USB mics are ideal for recording professional audio, especially recording isn't the top priority for you.
Microphones with USB condenser
Blue Yeti condenser microphone
Blue Yeti's condenser microphone is an excellent microphone that plugs directly into a USB port. It is considered to be among the best mics due to its a variety of patterns.
Its tri-capsule technology, which is proprietary to the company, lets you choose from four different pattern options that include cardioid and steroid multidirectional and bidirectional.
In addition to pattern choice in addition to pattern selection, the Yeti mic also comes with studio controls for headphone the volume, instant mute as well as microphone gain.
Price: $129.99
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern: Multipattern
Response to frequency: 20Hz to 20kHz
Most suitable microphone for educational content on the internet that highlights high-quality audio content and is easy to plug straight into the computer from the studio or desk. An audio course, for instance, can really benefit from this type of microphone.
Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone
A different plug-and-play USB microphone is the Blue Snowball iCE condenser mic. It comes with an attached stand with an adjustable height that allows it to move around and set up at any desk.
The dimensions are compact and portable, and the connection is an easy USB output that you can simply plug into your PC.
Its Blue Snowball iCE gives you clear audio quality for live online instruction, which can be done using platforms like Skype, Zoom, or YouTube Live. Podcasters are known to use this method, so that it's a good choice for recording webinars or courses online.
Price: $49
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response: 40Hz to 18kHz
Best microphone for: Online teachers looking for a mobile desktop alternative that's priced reasonably and convenient to use in as well as outside of your office or studio. There's no guarantee that you'll get the highestquality in the world, but you'll land firmly within the "good" category.
SUDOTACK USB condenser microphone kit
SUDOTACK's USB streaming PC microphone is a high-quality condenser microphone which delivers high-quality audio through USB connectivity.
This one comes in as a set, so if you're looking for a good quality mic setup that comes together, this may be the way to go.
The SUDOTACK USB microphone kit comes with microphone stands, a table clamp and foam cap that prevents wind. USB A-to-B cable, as well as a pop filter.
Price: $52.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response: 30Hz to 16kHz
Best microphone to use for creators who are just starting out. If you're in search of an excellent microphone set with high-quality sound at a an affordable price, this is a full package that gives you just that.
In the opposite side on the other hand, it is possible that you may not want to deal with all audio recording equipment. A headset with a good audio quality could be all that you need.
Logitech USB headset H390
It is the Logitech USB headset H390 is a headset that can be used hands-free equipped with a microphone that cancels out noise. You can plug the headset directly into the computer or your laptop's USB port.
If you're teaching live classes simply plug in the headsets into your laptop and then begin to present. When you're not teaching or talking, you may relocate the left-facing microphone boom so that it's hidden out of the way.
Price: $24.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Response to frequency between 100Hz and 10kHz
Ideal microphone to use for Teachers who teach online and require a minimal sound setup. Perfect for those who don't have the technical skills but want good quality audio for basic online classes or to present voice-over slide decks.
As we're discussing the subject of portability and technology-free ease There's also a desktop version of the headset setup but with no head gear.
JOUNIVO USB portable desktop condenser microphone
JUNIVO USB Desktop microphone is an extremely mobile USB mic that can easily travel with you to any desktop setting.
Its slim and tall gooseneck design makes it super small and easy to move and adjust. Also, there's a mute button as well as a LED indicator in the stand that tells you what's happening with the stand.
This desktop microphone being the cheapest mic on our list and it's worth trying if you're an avid traveler or one who loves to change teaching and working settings often.
There's no volume control and also the frequency response isn't highlighted on its product page (which is logical given the price).
Price: $14.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Best microphone for beginners online instructors traveling and looking for a mobile extremely compact USB microphone that can be easily packed into their laptops. Perfect for online live teaching as opposed to recording professional audio however it's good to record basic voiceovers.
We have options for that also.
Setup of a non-desktop mic
Rode SmartLaV+ lavalier condenser microphone
Rode's SmartLav+ is a great handheld hands-free microphone for instructors who are online and frequently move about while instructing.
A fitness trainer can attach to the lapel and plug in the jack directly into a recorder portable or mobile phone.
Or if you're someone who teaches using whiteboards or different props or someone who instructs using a talk head (a.k.a. face-to-face with the camera), this is an ideal option, and works perfectly using an audio recording device that is external.
Price: $79
Connectivity The TRRS jack is wired.
Polar pattern The pattern is Omnidirectional
Ideal microphone suitable for: Online teachers who use a lot of movement during teaching or who teach and record in the field as well as want the convenience of a hands-free mic that connects to their smartphone or an external recording device. It is also ideal for face-to camera video recording.
Plug your lavalier or headset microphone into something more expensive 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 recording device , which can run for over 20 hours using just two AA batteries.
As for sound file capacity The Zoom can record as high as 24-bit/96kHz in WAV files and up to 320kbps for MP3 formats. The recordings of audio are recorded directly to SD or SDHC cards with up to 32GB capacity.
If you don't want to use a wireless lavalier and you want to record straight using the Zoom's five built-in microphones using four recording settings including mid-side stereo and X/Y stereo, and 2-channel and 4-channel surround.
If you're curious, here's a visual of what those mic configurations appear to be:
For the additional pertinent information:
Price: $169.99
Best microphone for Portable, non-desktop mic option that offers lots of control over sound for audio recording.
You are looking for a combination microphone and lavalier? Check out our final mic system.
Rode Wireless Go wireless microphone system
The Rode Wireless Go setup works in the same manner as a lavalier and external recorder performs, however it's smaller.
It is equipped with a tiny wireless microphone, which comes with earbuds as well as a transmitter and receiver.
It is possible to clip the wireless transmitter to utilize it as a tiny belt-pack transmitter to create an lavalier microphone. Or you can use its built-in omnidirectional condenser microphone to function as a wireless microphone itself.
The receiver is just as small and is able to be mounted onto a camera or GoPro.
It also comes with an extra TRS Coiled cable to allow compatibility with DSLRs.
Price: $199
Connectivity: Wireless USB
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Best microphone for: Physically active teachers and creators who move around a lot during teaching, and need the convenience of a wireless portable system.
Make sure you have an ideal microphone set-up and the best audio quality for your content
Like with anything in your business, choose the solution that is most suitable for the purpose you are trying to achieve and your budget.
Below is the list of top microphones you can use in your online courses and webinars:
mics with XLR (dynamic as well as condenser)
Use Zoom's DZM-1 dynamic mic to get high-quality, isolating audio; the price is $59.99.
Make use of this Shure SM7B dynamic microphone for a premium cardioid microphone for professional audio pros; price is $399.
Make use of AKG's P120 Condenser Mic for general use and high-quality audio. Price is $79.
USB mics (condenser)
Make use of to use the Blue Yeti condenser mic for the best USB mic that has multipattern mode; price is $129.99.
Utilize this Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser mic for a high-quality portable desktop mic; price is $49.
Use SUDOTACK's USB condenser kit for a beginner package with accessories; price is $52.99.
Utilize the Logitech H390 USB headset to use a minimal amount of audio gear and simple online tutorials. Price is $24.99.
Use JOUNIVO's USB portable microphone to create a compact desktop mic for live demonstrations that are simple; cost is $14.99.
Non-desktop microphones
Make use of Rode's SmartLaV+ condenser mic to plug into your mobile phone or any other recording device; price is $79.
Make use of the Zoom H2n recorder for top-quality audio recordings that give you more sound control than your mobile device The price is $169.
Make use of Rode's Wireless Go mic system for small wireless transmitter as well as receiver kit that records good quality audio. The cost is $199.
We hope our researched simplified list of most effective microphones to use for online classes and webinars will cut hours off the time you spend shopping.