Top microphones for online training and webinars
If you're in the market for top-quality audio for online classes and webinars, get our recommended list of the top microphone configurations you can use in your online course.
Making your course's content is one of the biggest challenges.
It's even better to record it.
It is essential to have audio recording equipment in order to create polished online classes with high-quality audio. And you're aware of this. This is also true of the live webcasts and online tutorials. An excellent microphone can be the difference between success and failure for your information products.
It can also do exactly the same thing for the bank account balance.
To save you from hours of scouring Amazon reviews or scouring the web to find the most effective microphones, we've done all the research for you.
Today, we'll walk you through the different kinds of microphones, the top models and brands on the market, and when you should use these types of microphones.
This option is right for any online teacher or instructor.
Before we get into specific models though, let's briefly review the basics of microphones, to give you a better idea of what to search for in a microphone.
When you've found your ideal microphone, you're ready to design! Create draft courses for absolutely free and you can upgrade later at launch time.
Some basics about the best microphone for online training as well as webinars.
All but one of our suggestions includes a cabled microphone setup.
Why? The market as well aslisteners prefer the sound quality of cabled microphones.
Wireless microphones boast a retail sales value in the range of $172 million , a far cry from the $455 million price of the cabled microphones.
Another method we use to classify the best microphones is using two different types of cable namely- XLR microphones as well as USB mics.
Here's a quick visual distinction between them :
XLR pro:
The benefit of using an XLR cable is that it's an industry standard. This means that most pro audio recording gear is designed for XLR microphones. It gives you a wider range of options as well as sound control (think professional musicians as well as podcasters).
Con:
With XLRs it is necessary to plug it into an audio interface that converts the analog audio to digital -- a.k.a. playing with your Mac or computer. Although you can use an adapter for XLR and USB adapter can be a viable option, if you don't want to increase an XLR-based phantom or the ultimate in sound control.
USB pro:
The benefit of using the USB mic is that it can be connected it right 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 get as precise control of the sound quality.
Because the majority of online courses and webinars involve plugging into an internet connection at some moment, the vast majority of our choices include USB microphones.
In the end, we split our first category of XLR mics into dynamic microphones and condenser microphones .
These microphones make use of passive listening, and are specifically designed to block out background noise.
If you are working in an area that is surrounded by ambient noise, and you need clear and quality audio, dynamic microphones could be the best choice. They are also great for professional musicians and pro-podcaster audio quality.
Condenser microphones are, on contrary, utilize active listening to pick up sounds with tons of clarity and detail. These are great for studio-type environments that don't have much ambient or background sounds.
The simplest way to summarize:
When recommending our mic setup for your online class or webinar, generally speaking you must be able to produce good quality audio by using the following mic categories:
Wired
USB
Condenser
We want to give each online entrepreneur a solid alternative (including pro-level audio recorders, musicians and filmmakers, as well as podcasters etc.) We therefore expand to include more options.
But OK. Let's now find the perfect microphone configuration that is suitable for your needs.
XLR microphones that are condenser or dynamic
Editor's Note: All prices are valid at when they were written. In the event that the prices are different, they're less and if they're not it's likely that there are lots of choices to choose from in this list.
Zoom DZM-1, a dynamic microphone
The Zoom DZM-1's Dynamic Microphone comes with an inbuilt shock mount that means it is able to isolate sound from bumps and extraneous unwanted noise.
Stand mounts make it super easy to put onto a microphone stand however, it's an additional accessory that's required to purchase separately, if you don't already own one. You don't, however, have to buy an external shock mount as this mic comes with an internal shock mount.
The mic also produces an incredibly smooth and broadcast-quality audio from its large-diaphragm dynamic design.
Price: $59.99
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency: 50Hz to 20kHz
Ideal microphone for Teachers who need to capture loud and clear sounds, using a budget priced microphone. Perfect for live online instruction or recording high-quality audio of the voice and instruments.
Shure SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone
If you're looking for a more expensive choice, you can check out Shure's SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone. It's a top-notch pro-quality mic specifically designed specifically for singers, musicians, and creators who are serious about the quality of their recordings.
The smooth, broad-band frequency response makes to provide a clean and natural recording of speech and music.
Shure's SM7B has an internal "air suspension" shock isolator that blocks mechanical noise transmission (like that of your laptop).
Additionally, it comes with an integrated pop filter, so you don't need additional accessories in order to control the audio. Also, having XLR connectivity offers more flexibility and options for controlling your sound to be just what you require.
Price: $399
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response From 50Hz up to 20kHz
The best microphone for professional audio recording, pro musicians or online educators with a desire for crystal clear professional sound and have the cash extra to get it.
A side note A note about the XLR + USB model of this is Shure's MV7 USB dynamic microphone that retails for $249.
AKG P120 condenser microphone
The AKG P120 is a top-quality condenser microphone for vocals that is ideal for recording general purpose voices as well as presenting.
If you're looking for microphones that are able to provide a wide range of online course and webinar purposes -- from recording musical instruments to giving voice-overs on slide decks -- this one is a top-quality microphone.
Price: $79
Connectivity Connectivity to Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
Ideal microphone for Teachers looking to make use of a competitively priced XLR condenser microphone for presenting live and prerecorded tutorials with high-quality audio from a computer.
If you're in search of additional equipment for your XLR mics, like this accessories bundle , which includes a mic shock mount and pop filter, you can buy the kit at the price of a reasonable amount.
This set retails for $14.99 For instance, and will fit a microphone with 46mm-53mm size.
If your mic doesn't have integrated features, you may locate similar shock mounts and pop filter packages that are compatible with your specific microphone (just be sure to check for compatibility).
Speaking of mic accessories, with the XLR microphones, you'll have to figure out how to transmit your audio in digital format within the online course or webinar, which means audio editing software for audio recordings, as well as the XLR into USB adapter for live tutorials.
To avoid the extra technical setup completely, USB mics are ideal particularly if professional-audio recording isn't the top priority for you.
Condenser microphones for USB
Blue Yeti condenser microphone
Blue Yeti's condenser microphone is a premium microphone which plugs straight into the USB port. It's regarded as to be one of the top microphones thanks to its many patterns.
Its tri-capsule technology, which is proprietary to the company, allows you to choose between four pattern modes that include cardioid and steroid multidirectional and bidirectional.
Aside from pattern selection, in addition to pattern choice, Yeti microphone also has headphones with studio controls, including level control and instant mutes, and mic gain.
Price: $129.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Multipattern
Frequency response 20Hz to 20kHz
Most suitable microphone: Online teaching content which highlights audio of high quality and is easy to plug straight into the computer from an office or studio. An audio course could greatly benefit from this type of microphone.
Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone
Another USB plug-and play microphone to use is the Blue Snowball ICE condenser microphone. It is equipped with an adjustable stand that makes it very easy to move around and set up on a desk.
Its size is small and easy to carry around, while the connectivity is simple USB output that you plug directly into your computer.
The Blue Snowball iCE gives you high-quality audio for live online classes, with platforms such as Skype, Zoom, or YouTube Live. Podcasters have been known to utilize this model, which means it's also a great option to record your webinars as well as the online content of your course.
Price: $49
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response between 40Hz and 18kHz
The best microphone to use for: Online teachers seeking a portable desk choice that is priced competitively and convenient to use in and outside your office or studio. There's no guarantee that you'll get the most premiumquality ever however you'll end up in the "good" square.
SUDOTACK USB condenser microphone kit
The SUDOTACK's USB streaming microphone for PC is a high-quality condenser microphone which delivers high-quality audio using USB connectivity.
It's a kit, so if you're looking for a good microphone that's high-quality and comes in one bundle, this may be the right choice.
The SUDOTACK USB mic kit includes microphone stands, a table clamp, shock mount 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 30-Hz up to 16kHz
A great microphone to use for creators who are just starting out. If you're in search of an excellent microphone set that provides high-quality audio for a competitive price it's a comprehensive kit that will give you just that.
On the other end in the range, there are times when you might prefer not to use any audio recording equipment. A good headset that has a quality mic may 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 featuring a noise cancelling microphone. The headset can be connected directly into your laptop or computer your laptop's USB port.
If you're conducting live classes simply plug in the headphones to your laptop and begin presenting. If you're not teaching or talking, you may move the left-sided mic boom so that it's hidden into the background.
Price: $24.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Response to frequency: 100Hz to 10kHz
Best microphone to use for Online instructors who require a minimal audio set-up. Perfect for those who don't have the technical skills but want good quality audio for simple tutorials online or for presenting voice-over slide decks.
In the spirit of portability, and the tech-free convenience, there's a desktop version of the headset configuration, but not with the headphone.
JOUNIVO USB portable desktop condenser microphone
JUNIVO USB Desktop microphone is a very portable USB mic that can easily be carried to your desktop location.
Its tall and slender gooseneck makes it lightweight and easy to move around and adjust. Also, there's a mute button as well as a LED indicator on the small stand, which shows the status of your device.
This desktop microphone being the cheapest microphone on our list It's definitely worth giving it a shot in case you're a frequent traveler or have a desire switching between teaching and work environments often.
It is important to note that there's not a volume control and also the frequency response is not highlighted on the product's page (which is logical given the price point).
Price: $14.99
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Best microphone for beginner online teachers traveling and looking for a mobile extremely compact portable USB microphone, which can easily be packed together with laptop equipment. It's ideal for teaching live on the internet rather than recording high-quality audio but it's adequate for basic voice recording.
There are options available for this as well.
The microphone that is not on the desktop
Rode SmartLaV+ lavalier condenser microphone
Rode's SmartLav+ is an excellent hand-free microphone that can be used on the go for teachers online who have to frequently move about when teaching.
For instance, a fitness trainer can attach the lapel and plug directly into a recorder portable or mobile phone.
Or if you're someone who is teaching using whiteboards or other props, or someone who instructs using a talk head (a.k.a. face-to-face with the camera), this is a solid option and pairs nicely in conjunction with a portable audio recorder.
Price: $79
Connectivity: Wired TRRS jack
Polar pattern Omnidirectional
The best microphone suitable for online teachers that require a lot of movement while teaching, or teach and record on the job as well as want a hands-free microphone that easily plugs into their mobile or an external recording device. Ideal for face-to-camera recording.
Connect your headset or lavalier mic to something more sophisticated than your mobile device to enhance audio quality and volume control, for example an external audio recorder.
Zoom H2n recorder
It is easy to plug into the portable Zoom H2n recording device that can operate for more than 20 hours with only two batteries from standard AA.
As for sound file capacity, the Zoom records up to 24 bit/96kHz WAV files as well as up to 320kbps for MP3 files. The audio recordings are stored directly to SD as well as SDHC cards up to 32GB.
If you're not keen to use an lavalier wireless it is possible to record directly to the Zoom's built-in microphones by using four recording settings: mid-side stereo, X/Y stereo, and 2-channel and 4-channel surround.
If you're curious Here's an image of what those mics appear to be:
In addition to the above specifics:
Price: $169.99
The best microphone Portable, non-desktop microphone option with plenty of sound control options for recording audio.
Are you looking for a lavalier + mic option? Take a look at our latest mic system.
Rode Wireless Go wireless microphone system
The Rode Wireless Go setup works in the same way that an external recorder and lavalier performs, however it's smaller.
The device is equipped with a tiny wireless microphone with earbuds as well as a transmitter and receiver.
Clip on the wireless transmitter and make it a tiny belt-pack transmitter to create an lavalier microphone. Or you can use its built-in omnidirectional condenser microphone as a wireless mic itself.
The receiver is equally as compact and can even mount onto a camera or GoPro.
The camera also has a small TRS Coiled cable to allow compatibility with DSLRs.
Price: $199
Connectivity: Wireless USB
Polar pattern Omnidirectional
The best microphone for physical active creators and online teachers who are often moving around during teaching, and need the convenience of a wireless portable system.
Your online course will be presented with the best microphone setup and the best audio quality to deliver your message
Just like with any other aspect of your enterprise, select the one that best suits the purpose you are trying to achieve and your budget.
Below is the list of top microphones you can use in your webinars and online classes:
Mics XLR (dynamic as well as condenser)
Make use of Zoom's DZM-1 dynamic microphone for high-quality isolation audio. The price is $59.99.
Utilize this Shure SM7B dynamic microphone If you are looking for an outstanding cardioid microphone for professional audio professionals. The price is $399.
Make use of AKG's P120 Condenser Mic to get general-purpose use, and top-quality audio. The price is $79.
USB mics (condenser)
Utilize to use the Blue Yeti condenser mic for an elite USB microphone with multiple patterns; price is $129.99.
Make use of this Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser mic for a high-quality mobile desktop microphone; the price is $49.
Make use of SUDOTACK's USB condenser kits to get a starter kit with accessories; price is $52.99.
Utilize the Logitech H390 USB headset to get basic audio gear and simple live tutorials; price is $24.99.
Utilize the JOUNIVO USB portable microphone to create a compact desktop mic for live demonstrations that are simple; cost is $14.99.
Non-desktop mics
Utilize Rode's SmartLaV+ condenser microphone that plugs into your mobile phone or any other recording equipment; the cost is $79.
Utilize Zoom H2n Zoom H2n recorder for high-quality audio recordings that give you greater audio control than your phone The price is $169.
Make use of Rode's Wireless Go mic system for a compact wireless transmitter and receiver kit that records good quality audio. The cost is $199.
We hope our researched simplified list of best microphones for online courses and webinars shaves hours off your time shopping.