Top microphones for online training and webinars
If you're in the market for top-quality audio to accompany your online course and webinars, get our recommended list of the best microphone setups for your online tutorial.
Building your course content is an enormous task.
It's even better to record it.
You need audio-recording gear to pump out well-crafted online classes that have high-quality audio. You are aware of this. It's the same for online webinars, tutorials, and live streaming. A good microphone can make or break your info products.
The same can be done similar things to the balance in your account.
To spare you the hassle searching through Amazon reviews, and searching the web to find the most effective microphones, we've done your research.
This week, we'll guide you through the different kinds of microphones, the top models and brands available on the market and how to make use of the best ones.
There's an option here that's suitable for every online teacher or teacher or.
Before diving into the different models however, we'll cover some microphone basics, to give you a better idea of what to search for in a microphone.
After you've got your dream microphone, now is the time to design! Draft courses can be created for free with and upgrade at launch time.
Some basics about the best microphone configuration for online classes and webinars
None of our recommendations include an audio setup with cable.
Why? It's because the market andlisteners like the quality of sound of cabled microphones.
Wireless microphones have an estimated price of $172 million that's a huge difference from the 455 million in price of cabled microphones.
A different way to categorize the best microphones is using two different types of cable namelythe XLR mics and USB microphones.
Here's a visual differences between these two :
Pro XLR:
The benefits of the XLR cable is it's the industry standard, which means all audio recording equipment for professional use is made for XLR microphones. It gives you a wider range of options and sound control (think professional musicians as well as podcasters).
XLR con:
When using XLRs are required connect it to an audio interface which converts the analog to something digital, a.k.a. playable in your Mac or computer. However, you can use an adapter for XLR and USB adapter is an option for you if you're not seeking phantom power or ultimate sound control.
USB pro
The benefit of using an USB microphone is that it can be connected directly into your computer or laptop. This means you don't need extra audio equipment.
USB con:
It's a great device that provides connectivity to the computer's USB port, you don't enjoy the same level of control of the sound quality.
Since most online courses and webinars involve plugging into an internet connection at some moment, the vast majority of our choices include USB microphones.
Lastly, we break up our initial category of XLR mics into dynamic microphones and condenser microphones .
These microphones employ passive listening and are designed to drown out background disturbances.
If you're working in an environment that's noisy, background noise and require crystal clear, high-quality sound, dynamic microphones might be a good choice. Also, excellent for professionals as well as pro-podcaster quality audio.
Condenser microphones are, on the other hand, use active listening and listen to sounds with a lot of clarity and detail. They're great for studio environments that don't have much ambient or background noise.
It's as simple as that:
In recommending the microphone setup for your online class or webinar, generally speaking it is best to produce good quality audio by using the following mic categories:
Wired
USB
Condenser
However, we would like to offer everyone online entrepreneur with a viable alternative (including pro-level audio recorders, musicians film makers, podcasters et cetera), so we expand to include more options.
Okay. Now, let's find the best microphone setup that is right to suit your needs.
XLR microphones, both condenser and dynamic.
Editor's Note: Prices are valid at when they were written. In the event that they're different, they're lower and if they're not, there should be many options to pick from this selection.
Zoom DZM-1 dynamic microphone
The Zoom DZM-1's Dynamic Microphone comes with an inbuilt shock mount which means that it can isolate sound from any bumps or other noises that are not needed.
The stand mount makes it easy to place on a mic stand, although that is an extra accessory you'll need to purchase in addition if you do not own one. There's no need to purchase an external shock-mount, since this microphone is equipped with an internal shock mount.
It also delivers a smooth, broadcast-quality sound thanks to its dynamic large-diaphragm style.
Price: $59.99
Connectivity: Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response From 50Hz up to 20kHz
Best microphone Teachers who need to capture loud and strong sounds with a competitively priced mic. Perfect for live online instruction as well as recording audio with high quality the voice and instruments.
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
If you're looking for a more expensive option, check out the Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone. This is a premium pro-quality microphone specifically designed specifically for singers, musicians as well as creators who are serious about their audio recording quality.
The wide, flat frequency response allows for a natural and clean reproduction of music and speech.
Shure's SM7B comes with an inside "air suspension" shock isolation that eliminates mechanical noise transmission (like that of your laptop).
The device also comes with a built-in pop filter, making it unnecessary to add external accessories for controlling the sound. Naturally, the XLR connection gives you greater flexibility and options for controlling the sound exactly what you want.
Price: $399
Connectivity: Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency from 50Hz to 20kHz
Ideal microphone to use for serious recording of audio, professional musicians or online educators who want crystal clear pro-quality sound and have the cash extra to get it.
Sidenote A note about the XLR + USB version is Shure's USB MV7 dynamic microphone priced at $249.
AKG P120 condenser microphone
The AKG P120 is a high-performance condenser microphone for vocals that is ideal for general purpose voice recording as well as presenting.
If you're looking for microphones that are able to provide a wide range of online course and webinar purposes including recording music instruments, to broadcasting voice-over slides decks -- this one can provide high-quality audio.
Price: $79
Connectivity: Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency 20Hz-20kHz
The best microphone for online teachers who want to use an affordable XLR condenser microphone for presenting live and prerecorded tutorials using high-quality audio via the desktop.
In case you're looking for additional accessories to use with your XLR mics, like this accessory bundle that includes the mic's shock mount as well as a pop filter, you can buy the kit at a very reasonable price.
This particular set goes for $14.99 as an example and will fit a microphone with 46mm-53mm diameter.
If your mic doesn't have integrated features, you may find similar shock mount and pop filter accessories for your specific microphone (just make sure you check whether they are compatible).
In terms of microphone accessories, with the XLR mics you'll need find a way to deliver your audio content in digital format inside the online course or webinar that includes audio editing software that can edit audio recordings, as well as the XLR adapter to USB adapter to live demonstrations.
In order to avoid the additional technology setup, USB mics are ideal particularly if professional-audio recording isn't your top concern.
USB condenser microphones
Blue Yeti condenser microphone
Blue Yeti's condenser mic is an excellent microphone which plugs straight into an USB port. It is considered to be one of the best microphones thanks to its many patterns and modes.
Its proprietary tri-capsule technology lets you choose from four different pattern options that include cardioid and steroid omnidirectional, and bidirectional modes.
In addition to pattern choice in addition to pattern selection, the Yeti microphone also has control for the studio's the volume, instant mute and mic gain.
Price: $129.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Multipattern
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz
Most suitable microphone for online teaching material which highlights audio of high quality and is easy to plug directly into a computer via the studio or desk. An audio course is an example, and it can greatly benefit from this type of microphone.
Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone
Another plug-and-play USB microphone is the Blue Snowball ICE condenser microphone. It is equipped with an adjustable stand that is very simple to move about and set up at any desk.
The size is compact and easy to carry around, while the connectivity is a simple USB output that you can simply plug into your PC.
Its Blue Snowball iCE gives you clear audio quality for live online classes, using platforms like Skype, Zoom, or YouTube Live. Podcasters are known to use this format, and that means this is a fantastic option to record your webinars as well as online course content.
Price: $49
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response time from 40Hz to 18kHz
Best microphone to use for Teachers who want a portable desktop alternative that's priced reasonably and convenient to use in as well as outside of your office or studio. It won't be the highestquality in the world however you'll end up in the "good" square.
SUDOTACK USB condenser microphone kit
Sudotack's USB streaming PC microphone is a solid 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 audio system that is high quality and available together then this could be the best option.
The SUDOTACK USB mic kit contains a microphone stand, table clamp, shock mount and foam cap that prevents wind. USB A to B cable, and pop filter.
Price: $52.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency: 30Hz to 16kHz
Best microphone to use for creators that are only beginning their journey. If you're in search of an excellent microphone set which provides top-quality audio at a a competitive price it's a comprehensive kit that will give you exactly that.
In the opposite side in the range, there are times when you might not want to deal with the use of any recording device. A headset with a good audio quality could suffice.
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 your laptop or computer laptop's USB port.
If you're conducting live classes simply plug in the headsets into your laptop and then begin to present. If you're not teaching or talking to students, you could relocate the left-facing microphone boom so that it's hidden out of the way.
Price: $24.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Frequency response: 100Hz to 10kHz
Best microphone suitable for: Online teachers who require a minimal sound setup. Perfect for those who don't have the technical skills but require high-quality audio to use for tutorials online or for presenting audio-over slides.
While we're on the topic of portability and technology-free ease The desktop edition of the headset set-up, however with no head gear.
JOUNIVO USB portable desktop condenser microphone
JOUNIVO USB desktop microphone is an extremely mobile USB mic that can easily be carried to your desktop setting.
Its slim and tall gooseneck design makes it super lightweight and easy to move and adjust. It also has a mute switch and a light indicator located on the tiny stand, which shows what's happening with the stand.
The desktop mic is the cheapest mic on our list, it's worth a try in case you're a frequent traveler or one who loves to change teaching and working settings often.
Note that there's no volume control, and the frequency response isn't highlighted on the page for its products (which is logical given the price).
Price: $14.99
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern The pattern is Omnidirectional
The best microphone for beginners online instructors in the field who require a lightweight extremely compact USB microphone that easily packs up with their laptop gear. It's ideal for teaching live on the internet rather than recording high-quality audio but it's adequate for basic voice recording.
We have options for that also.
Setup of a non-desktop mic
Rode SmartLaV+ condenser microphone with lavalier
Rode's SmartLav+ is an excellent handheld hands-free microphone for instructors who are online and move around a lot when teaching.
For example, a fitness instructor could clip to the lapel and plug in directly into a portable recording device or mobile device.
If you're someone who is teaching using a whiteboard or different props or who is a teacher with a talking head (a.k.a. direct in front of the camera), this is a solid option and pairs nicely using an audio recording device that is external.
Price: $79
Connectivity Connectivity to Wired TRRS Jack
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Ideal microphone for Teachers who use a lot of movement while teaching, or teach and record on the job or in the field, and need a hands-free microphone that easily connects to their smartphone or an external recording device. Ideal for face-to-camera recording.
Connect your headset or lavalier microphone into something more expensive than your smartphone for better audio and volume control, like an audio recording system that is external.
Zoom H2n recorder
It is easy to plug directly into the compact Zoom H2n digital recorder and run for up to 20 hours on only two batteries from standard AA.
For the size of audio files, the Zoom record up to 24 bit/96kHz WAV files as well as up to 320kbps for MP3 formats. The audio recordings are stored directly to SD as well as SDHC cards that can hold up to 32GB.
If you don't want to utilize the wireless lavalier and you want to record straight using the Zoom's five built-in microphones using four recording settings: mid-side stereo, X/Y stereo, and 2-channel as well as 4-channel surround.
If you're interested in learning more, here's a picture of the mic configurations appear to be:
For the additional pertinent specifics:
Price: $169.99
The best microphone An all-in-one portable desktop microphone that gives lots of control over sound for audio recording.
Looking for a combo of lavalier and mic? Check out our final mic system.
Rode Wireless Go wireless microphone system
Its Rode Wireless Go system functions in similar fashion to what an external recorder and lavalier performs, however it's smaller.
The system is equipped with a tiny wireless microphone with earbuds as well as an audio transmitter as well as a receiver.
Clip on the wireless transmitter to utilize it as a compact belt-pack transmitter that can be used as a lavalier microphone. Or you can use its built-in omnidirectional condenser capsule for a wireless mic.
The receiver is equally as compact and can even mount on cameras or GoPro.
Also included is a small TRS Coiled Cable to make it compatible with DSLRs.
Price: $199
Connectivity: Wireless USB
Polar pattern The pattern is Omnidirectional
The best microphone for: Physically active creators and online teachers who move around a lot when teaching and require a portable wireless system.
Present your online class with the most effective microphone configuration and quality audio for the content you are sharing.
Like with anything in your company, you must choose an solution that is most suitable for your purpose and budget.
This is a breakdown of the best microphones for your webinars and online classes:
Mics XLR (dynamic and condenser)
Use Zoom's DZM-1 dynamic mic if you want high-quality isolating audio. Its price is $59.99.
Make use of this Shure SM7B dynamic mic for a premium cardioid microphone for professional audio professionals. The price is $399.
The P120 is a condenser microphone from AKG to get general-purpose use, and top-quality audio; price is $79.
USB mics (condenser)
Utilize the Blue Yeti condenser mic for an elite USB mic with multipattern modes; price is $129.99.
Use the Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser mic to get a premium mobile desktop microphone; the price is $49.
Utilize SUDOTACK's USB condenser kit for a beginner package with accessories. Price is $52.99.
Make use of the Logitech H390 USB headset to get basic audio gear and simple live tutorials; price is $24.99.
Utilize JOUNIVO's USB portable microphone for small desktop microphones for simple live tutorials; cost is $14.99.
Non-desktop mics
Use Rode's SmartLaV+ lavalier condenser microphone that plugs into your smartphone or another recording device; price is $79.
Make use of this Zoom H2n recorder for high-quality audio recordings that give you greater audio control than your mobile device The price is $169.
Utilize Rode's Wireless Go mic system for small wireless transmitter as well as receiver kit that records good quality sound; cost is $199.
Our well-researched simplified list of best microphones for online courses and webinars will cut hours off your time shopping.