Best microphones for online courses and webinars
If you're looking for high-quality audio for your online courses and webinars, download our top-rated list of best microphone setups for your online course.
Building your course content is an enormous task.
And let's not forget recording it.
It is essential to have audio recording equipment in order to create professional online courses with top-quality audio. And you're aware of this. This is also true of online webinars, tutorials, and live streaming. An excellent microphone can make or break your info products.
It can also do similar things to the bank account balance.
To spare you the hassle of hunting through Amazon reviews, and searching websites to locate the top microphones, we've done your research.
Today, we'll walk you through different types of microphones, including the best brands and models on the market, and when to make use of them.
This option is suitable for every online teacher or leader.
Before we dig into some models, let's go over some basic microphone basics to give you a better knowledge of what you should look for in a microphone.
When you've found your ideal microphone, now is the time to build! Make draft courses no cost and then upgrade them when you are ready.
Some basics about the best microphone setup for online courses as well as webinars.
The majority of our suggestions include a cabled microphone setup.
Why? The market andlisteners like the quality of sound of microphones with cable.
Wireless microphones can boast 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 microphones with cable.
Another way we categorize the best microphones is using two different types of cable namelytwo types of cables - XLR mics and USB microphones.
Here's a graphic distinction between them :
XLR pro:
The advantage of the XLR cable is that it's the most widely used standard in the industry, meaning that the majority of audio recording equipment is designed for XLR microphones. This gives you more options and sound control (think professionals as well as podcasters).
XLR con:
If you are using XLRs, you need to connect them into an audio interface which converts the analog signal into digital, a.k.a. it can be played in the Mac and PC. But it is not a perfect fit for a PC or Mac, you can use an USB to XLR USB adapter is an option if you're not seeking the power of phantoms or have ultimate audio control.
USB pro
One benefit of a USB mic is you can plug directly into your computer or laptop. That is why you don't require additional audio equipment.
USB con:
Although it provides a simple connectivity to the computer's USB port, it doesn't enjoy the same level of control over the sound quality.
Because the majority of online courses and webinars involve plugging into a computer at some time, the majority of the options we have include USB microphones.
Lastly, we break up our initial category of XLR microphones into condenser and dynamic microphones .
These microphones use passive listening and are designed to drown out background disturbances.
If you are working in an environment that's noisy, an ambient sound, and require crystal clear, high-quality audio, dynamic mics might be a good choice. Also, excellent for professionals and professional-grade audio.
Condenser mics are, on the other hand, use active listening and listen to sounds with a lot of clarity and detail. They are ideal for studio environments that don't have much ambient or background sound.
The simplest way to summarize:
If you are recommending our microphone configuration for your online class or webcast, in general it is best to create high-quality audio with these mic categories:
Wired
USB
Condenser
However, we would like to offer every online business owner a reliable option (including professionals-level audio recorders musicians film makers, podcasters et cetera) We therefore expand to include more options.
However, it's okay. Now, let's find the right microphone setup that is suitable for your needs.
XLR microphones, both condenser and dynamic.
Editor's Note: All prices are valid at when they were written. In the event that they're different, they're lower, but if 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 the bumps as well as other unwanted noise.
Stand mounts make it easy to place onto a microphone stand however, it's an additional accessory you'll need to purchase separately, if you don't already own one. There's no require an external shock mount, because this model has an inbuilt shock mount.
This mic also captures an incredibly smooth and broadcast-quality audio thanks to its dynamic large-diaphragm layout.
Price: $59.99
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response from 50Hz to 20kHz
The best microphone online teachers who are looking to record loud, powerful sounds using a reasonably priced microphone. It is ideal for online live teaching 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 Shure's SM7B cardioid dynamic microphone. It's an excellent professional-grade microphone made specifically for singers, musicians and other creatives that are committed to their recording audio quality.
The flat, wide-range frequency response allows for a natural and clean reproduction of music and speech.
Shure's SM7B comes with an inside "air suspension" shock-isolation system that reduces mechanical sound transmission (like the sound of your computer).
The device also comes with an inbuilt pop filter so you don't need to add external accessories for controlling the audio. Also, having XLR connectivity offers more possibilities to control your audio to just what you require.
Price: $399
Connectivity Connectivity to Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response From 50Hz up to 20kHz
Best microphone to use for: Serious audio recording, pro musicians, or online teachers who want crystal clear pro-quality sound, and also have the money surplus to achieve it.
Sidenote A note about the XLR + USB model of this is Shure's MV7 USB-based dynamic microphone that retails for $249.
AKG P120 condenser microphone
The AKG P120 is a high-performance vocal condenser microphone, which is great to record general-purpose voice and for presenting.
If you're looking for a mic setup that can provide a wide range of web-based course or webinar needs such as recording musical instruments to giving voice-overs on slide decks, this model will give you high-quality audio.
Price: $79
Connectivity: Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency: 20Hz to 20kHz
Ideal microphone for Teachers that want to utilize a competitively priced XLR condenser microphone for presenting live and prerecorded tutorials using high-quality audio via the desktop.
By the way, if you're seeking additional items for your XLR microphones, such as this accessory bundle , which includes the mic's shock mount as well as a pop filter, you can purchase a set for the price of a reasonable amount.
This set retails for $14.99 For instance, it fits microphones with a 46mm to 53mm diameter.
If the microphone you're using doesn't come with included features, it is possible to locate similar shock mounts and pop filter accessory packages for the microphone you have (just make sure you check the compatibility).
Concerning mics and the XLR microphones, you'll have to figure out how to deliver your audio content in digital format inside your online course or webinar this means editing software to edit audio recordings, or an XLR into USB adapter for live tutorials.
To avoid the extra technical setup completely, USB mics are ideal -- especially if pro-audio recording status is not your highest priority.
Microphones with USB condenser
Blue Yeti condenser microphone
Blue Yeti's condenser mic is an excellent microphone that plugs directly into the USB port. It's considered one of the best microphones thanks to its many pattern modes.
Its tri-capsule technology, which is proprietary to the company, allows you to select from four pattern modes including steroid, cardioid, multidirectional and bidirectional.
In addition to pattern choice in addition to pattern selection, the Yeti microphone also has headphones with studio controls, including level control and instant mutes and mic gain.
Price: $129.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Multipattern
Response to frequency 20Hz to 20kHz
Most suitable microphone for online teaching material which highlights audio of high quality and is easy to plug straight into the computer from the studio or desk. For audio courses is an example, and it can be greatly enhanced by this type of microphone.
Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone
A different plug-and-play USB microphone that is plug-and-play USB Blue Snowball iCE condenser microphone. It is equipped with an flexible stand, which allows it to move around and set up on a desk.
The size is compact and easy to carry around, while the connection is an easy USB output you can plug directly into your computer.
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 method, so it's also a great option to record your webinars as well as courses online.
Price: $49
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency from 40Hz to 18kHz
Best microphone to use for online teachers looking for a mobile desktop choice that is priced competitively and convenient to use in and outside your office or studio. It won't be the bestquality in the world however, you'll be in the "good" category.
SUDOTACK USB condenser microphone kit
SUDOTACK's USB streaming PC microphone is a high-quality condenser mic that delivers top-quality audio using USB connectivity.
This one comes in as a set, so if you're looking for a good microphone that's high-quality and comes together, this may be the best option.
The SUDOTACK USB mic kit contains a microphone stand, table clamp with foam cap for anti-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 from 30Hz to 16kHz
Best microphone suitable for those that are only beginning their journey. If you're looking for a high-quality microphone that provides high-quality audio for a competitive price This is a complete package that gives you exactly that.
In the opposite side of the spectrum, you may not want to deal with any audio recording equipment. A headset with a high microphone could be all that you need.
Logitech USB headset H390
The Logitech USB headset H390 is a wireless headset featuring a noise cancelling microphone. The headset can be connected directly into your computer or laptop's USB port.
If you're conducting live classes, just plug the headphones into your computer and then begin to present. While you're not teaching, or talking to students, you could relocate the left-facing microphone boom to the side, and then put it out of the way.
Price: $24.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Frequency response between 100Hz and 10kHz
Best microphone for Online instructors who require a minimal audio set-up. Perfect for those who don't have the technical skills but need high quality audio to use for online classes or to present slideshows with voiceovers.
As we're discussing the subject of portability and technology-free ease The desktop edition of the headset configuration, but without the head gear.
JOUNIVO USB portable desktop condenser microphone
JUNIVO USB mic for desktop use is an extremely portable USB microphone that allows you to take you anywhere to any desk setting.
Its slim and tall gooseneck design makes it super compact and simple to move around and adjust. Also, there's a mute button and a light indicator on the small stand that tells you what's happening with the stand.
This desktop microphone being the lowest-priced microphone on our list, it's worth a try for those who love to travel or have a desire to change teaching and working environments frequently.
It is important to note that there's not a volume control, and the frequency response doesn't appear on the product's page (which is logical given the price).
Price: $14.99
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
A great microphone beginners online instructors on-the-go who want a portable extremely compact USB microphone that easily packs into their laptops. Perfect for online live teaching instead of recording audio with high quality but it's adequate for basic voice recording.
There are options available for this, too.
The microphone that is not on the desktop
Rode SmartLaV+ lavalier condenser mic
Rode's SmartLav+ is a great portable hands-free mic option for instructors who are online and frequently move about during teaching.
For instance, a fitness trainer can attach the lapel and plug the jack straight into a recording device for a portable or mobile device.
For those who teaches using whiteboards or various props, or someone 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 The TRRS jack is wired.
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Ideal microphone suitable for online teachers that make a lot of movements during teaching or who teach and record in the field, and want an unidirectional microphone that connects to their smartphone or other recording device. It is also ideal for face-to camera video recording.
Then plug your headset or lavalier mic to something more sophisticated than your phone to enhance audio quality and volume control, like the external recording device.
Zoom H2n recorder
The lavalier can easily plug into the handheld Zoom H2n recording device that can operate for over 20 hours using only two standard AA batteries.
For the size of audio files, the Zoom records up to 24 bits/96kHz for WAV files, and up to 320kbps in MP3 formats. The recordings of audio are recorded directly onto SD or SDHC cards 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 with four recording options including mid-side stereo and Stereo X/Y, as well as 2-channel and four-channel surround.
If you're curious Here's an image of what those mics look like:
As for the other pertinent information:
Price: $169.99
Best microphone for Portable, non-desktop microphone that gives lots of control over sound for recording audio.
You are looking for a combination microphone and lavalier? Take a look at our latest mic system.
Rode Wireless Go wireless microphone system
Its Rode Wireless Go system functions in the same way that the lavalier or external recorder does, only more compact.
The device is equipped with a tiny wireless microphone, which comes with earbuds and the transmitter and receiver.
It is possible to clip the wireless transmitter and use it as a super small belt-pack transmitter for the lavalier mic. Or you can use its integrated omnidirectional condenser capsule to function as a wireless mic itself.
The receiver is equally as compact and can even mount onto a camera or GoPro.
It also comes with the small TRS Coiled cable to allow compatibility with DSLRs.
Price: $199
Connectivity: Wireless USB
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Best microphone for physical active teachers and creators who travel a lot when teaching and require an easy-to-use wireless system that is portable.
Your online course will be presented with the most effective microphone configuration and quality audio to deliver your message
As with everything in your enterprise, select the one that best suits your goals and financial budget.
This is a breakdown of the most effective microphones to use for webinars and online classes:
mics with XLR (dynamic and condenser)
Utilize Zoom's DZM-1 Dynamic Mic if you want high-quality isolating audio; the price is $59.99.
Use the Shure SM7B dynamic microphone If you are looking for an outstanding cardioid-type pickup that is suitable for 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)
Utilize the Blue Yeti condenser mic for a top-tier USB microphone with multiple patterns priced at $129.99.
Utilize the Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser mic to get a premium 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 equipment and basic live training; cost is $24.99.
Make use of the JOUNIVO USB portable microphone to create small desktop microphones to record simple live tutorials. the cost is $14.99.
Mics that are not desktop-based
Utilize Rode's SmartLaV+ condenser microphone to connect your smartphone or another recording devices; cost is $79.
Utilize the Zoom H2n recorder for top-quality audio recording, which gives you greater audio control than your mobile device Price is $169.
Utilize Rode's Wireless Go mic system for small wireless transmitter as well as receiver kit, which records high quality audio; price is $199.
We hope our researched and streamlined list of most effective microphones to use for online classes and webinars will cut hours off your time shopping.