Podcasting Tools

Recommended Podcasting Microphones Audio-Technica ATR2100 Samson Q2U Audio-Technica AT2005 Why these three microphones, specifically? Versatility — All three of these microphones can be plugged into your computer via USB for quick plug-and-play podcasting. 

They are also XLR capable, meaning they can also be connected to audio interfaces, mixers, or portable recorders via XLR cable, as well.

This is a fantastic microphone for a beginning podcaster who wants a microphone that can grow with them.

Price — These are all under $100 typically. The Samson Q2U usually goes on sale for around $50 a few times a year, too. Sound — All three of these mics are Dynamic, which means they are built to take in noise from the top of them, as opposed to all around. This helps keep sounds other than your voice out of your recording.

Most podcasters who are not recording in a sound-treated room will find they get a much clearer sound with a Dynamic microphone. What are the differences between these three microphones?

Aside from a side-by-side comparison, you may not be able to tell the difference in sound that comes from each microphone. The Samson can be a bit louder, but not by much.

The reason I (Emily here) like the Audio-Technica ATR2100 best is the Lifetime Warranty that the other two don't have. If the ATR2100 breaks, you can ship it back to Audio-Technica and get it fixed or get a replacement.

The Samson Q2U is second because it's usually the most affordable and the easiest to find worldwide, as opposed to Audio-Technica, which can be harder to find outside the U.S.

The Audio-Technica 2005 is third because it's usually the most expensive, it doesn't have the Lifetime Warranty, but it still sounds great and is under $100.

Here's our Recording Setup Microphones Emily’s Microphone: Audio-Technica ATR2100 Emily's Boom Arm: Neewer White Broadcasting Studio Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Bonnie’s Microphone: Rode NT-USB Versatile Studio-Quality USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone Bonnie’s Boom Arm: RODE PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm Bonnie’s Audio Interface: Rodecaster Pro Software We use Streamyard to stream Live to Facebook. Bonnie records her side of the conversation into her Rodecaster Pro or Audacity. Emily records her side of the conversation and edits the entire podcast in Reaper. The podcast is leveled and processed in Auphonic and Izotope RX. We host our podcast (and website) over at Libsyn.com  — Get the remainder of the current month PLUS the next month absolutely free when you sign up and use the promo code EMILY.