Top microphones for online training and webinars
If you want high-quality audio to accompany your online course or webinars, check out our top-rated list of top microphone configurations you can use in your online course.
The process of creating your course's content can be an enormous task.
It's even better to record it.
You need audio-recording gear to pump out polished online classes with high-quality audio. You are aware of this. It's the same for live webinars and tutorials. The right microphone could determine the success or failure of your info products.
It can also do exactly the same thing for the bank account balance.
In order to save you the time searching through Amazon reviews, and searching websites to locate the most effective microphones, we've already done the homework for you.
This week, we'll guide through various types of microphones, including the best models and brands on the market, and when you should use them.
It's ideal for online teachers or instructor.
Before diving into the different models however, we'll review the basics of microphones, to give you a better understanding of what to look 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 configuration for online classes and webinars
The majority of our suggestions include the use of a microphone with a cable.
Why? Markets andlisteners appreciate the superior sound of the cabled microphones.
Wireless microphones can boast the retail sales value in the range of $172 million , a far cry from the price of $455 million for the price of microphones with cable.
Another method we use to classify our top microphone choices by two cable types -- XLR microphones as well as USB mics.
This is a brief visual difference between the two :
XLR pro:
The benefits of the XLR cable is that it's the most widely used standard in the industry, meaning that all audio recording equipment for professional use is designed for XLR microphones. It gives you a wider range of options and control over sound (think professional musicians and podcasters).
XLR con:
When using XLRs, you need connect it to an audio interface to convert the analog to something digital - a.k.a. playable in either your Mac or PC. But you can use you can use an adapter for XLR and USB adapter is an option for you if you're not seeking the power of phantoms or have ultimate audio control.
USB Pro:
The benefit of using the USB microphone is that it can be connected directly into your computer or laptop. This means you don't need extra audio equipment.
USB with:
It's a great device that provides connectivity to your PC's USB port, it doesn't enjoy the same level of control over the quality of your sound.
Because the majority of online courses or webinars require plugging in computers at one point, most of the options we have are USB microphones.
Lastly, we break up the first group of XLR mics into condenser and dynamic microphones .
These microphones employ passive listening and are specifically designed to block out background noise.
If you work in an environment that's noisy, an ambient sound, and require crystal clear, high-quality audio, dynamic mics may be ideal. They are also great for professional musicians and pro-podcaster audio quality.
Condenser mics On the other hand, use active listening, and can pick up sounds with tons of precision and clarity. They're great for studio settings that aren't surrounded by much ambient or background sound.
It's as simple as that:
When recommending our mic setup for your online course or webinar, generally speaking it is best to create high-quality audio using these categories of microphones:
Wired
USB
Condenser
However, we want to give everyone online business owner a reliable option (including professional audio recorders, musicians and filmmakers, as well as podcasters et cetera) So we go to include more options.
Okay. We'll now look for the best microphone setup that is right for you.
XLR microphones that are condenser or dynamic
Editor's Note: Prices remain in effect at the when they were written. Hopefully, if you find the prices are different, they're less, but if not, there should be lots of choices to choose from this selection.
Zoom DZM-1 dynamic microphone
The Zoom DZM-1's Dynamic Microphone has an internal shock mount that means it will block out sound due to bumps and extraneous unwanted noise.
Stand mounts make it super easy to put on a mic stand, however, it's an additional accessory that's required to purchase separately if you don't possess one. You don't, however, have to buy an external shock mount, since this microphone comes with an internal shock mount.
It also delivers a smooth, broadcast-quality sound due to its wide-diaphragm, dynamic style.
Price: $59.99
Connectivity: Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response from 50Hz to 20kHz
The best microphone Teachers who are looking to record loud, strong sounds with a competitively priced microphone. It is ideal for online live teaching as well as recording audio with high quality vocals and instruments.
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone
If you're looking for a more expensive alternative, consider Shure's SM7B the cardioid-based dynamic mic. It's an excellent professional-grade microphone specifically designed specifically for singers, musicians, and creators that are committed to their recording audio quality.
The wide, flat frequency response makes for a natural and clean recording of speech and music.
Shure's SM7B comes with an inside "air suspension" shock isolator that blocks mechanical noise transmission (like the sound of your computer).
The device also comes with an integrated pop filter, making it unnecessary to add external accessories to control the sound. Also, having XLR connectivity offers more possibilities to control your sound to be just what you require.
Price: $399
Connectivity Wired XLR
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response to frequency from 50Hz to 20kHz
The best microphone suitable for: Serious audio recording, pro musicians or online educators with a desire for crystal clear professional audio and the financial surplus for it.
Note: 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 powerful vocal condenser microphone that's great to record general-purpose voice and for presenting.
If you're searching for a mic setup that can provide a wide range of web-based course or webinar needs -- from recording musical 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 to 20kHz
Best microphone for: Online teachers that want to utilize a competitively priced XLR condenser microphone setup for presenting live and prerecorded lessons with top-quality audio on the desktop.
If you're seeking additional items for your XLR mics, like this accessories bundle , which includes a mic shock mount and pop filter, it is possible to purchase a set for a very reasonable price.
This particular set goes for $14.99 For instance, it fits microphones with a 46mm to 53mm size.
If the microphone you're using doesn't come with included features, it is possible to get similar shock mounts as well as pop filter accessories for your specific microphone (just make sure you check for compatibility).
In terms of microphone accessories and the XLR microphones, you'll have determine how you can deliver your audio content in digital format within your webinar or online course this means editing software to edit audio recordings, or an XLR into USB adapter to live demonstrations.
To avoid the extra technology setup, 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 condenser microphone is a premium microphone which plugs straight into the USB port. It's considered among the best mics thanks to its many patterns.
Its tri-capsule technology, which is proprietary to the company, allows you to select from four different pattern options including steroid, cardioid, the omnidirectional and bidirectional.
In addition to pattern choice, aside from pattern selection, the Yeti mic also comes with control for the studio's volume control, instant mute and mic gain.
Price: $129.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Multipattern
Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz
Most suitable microphone educational content on the internet which showcases high-quality audio material and is easy to plug directly into the computer from the studio or desk. An audio course could really benefit from this microphone.
Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser microphone
Another USB plug-and play microphone is the Blue Snowball iCE condenser mic. It comes with an attached adjustable stand that makes it very easy to set up and move up at any desk.
The dimensions are compact and portable, and the connectivity is a simple USB output you can connect directly to your laptop.
Blue Snowball iCE Blue Snowball iCE gives you high-quality audio for live online teaching, with platforms such as Skype, Zoom, or YouTube Live. Podcasters are known to use this format, and that means that it's a good choice for recording webinars or online course content.
Price: $49
Connectivity Connectivity via Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Response time from 40Hz to 18kHz
The best microphone for online teachers seeking a portable desk choice that is priced competitively and easy to use inside the office and in your studio. You won't get the most premiumquality microphone however you'll end up within the "good" category.
SUDOTACK USB condenser microphone kit
The SUDOTACK's USB streaming podcast PC microphone is a solid condenser microphone that provides high-quality audio through USB connectivity.
The product is the form of a kit. If you're looking for a good quality mic setup that comes in one bundle, this may be the best option.
The SUDOTACK USB mic kit contains a microphone stand, table clamp, shock mount with foam cap for anti-wind, USB A-to-B cable, and pop filter.
Price: $52.99
Connectivity: Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional cardioid pickup pattern
Frequency response from 30Hz to 16kHz
The best microphone for those who are just starting out. If you're searching for a good quality microphone kit that provides high-quality audio for a competitive price This is a complete set that provides just that.
On the other end on the other hand, it is possible that you might prefer not to use any audio recording equipment. A good headset that has a audio quality could suffice.
Logitech USB headset H390
It is the Logitech H390 USB headset is a wireless headset equipped with a microphone that cancels out noise. The headset can be connected directly into your laptop or computer your laptop's USB port.
If you're teaching live classes you can plug the headphones into your computer and begin presenting. While you're not teaching, or talking, you may relocate the left-facing microphone boom so that it's hidden away from view.
Price: $24.99
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Frequency response between 100Hz and 10kHz
Best microphone for Online instructors who want minimal audio set-up. Ideal for non-techie creators who want good quality audio for basic online classes or to present slideshows with voiceovers.
While we're on the topic of portability and tech-free simplicity There's also a desktop version of the headset set-up, however with no head gear.
JOUNIVO USB portable desktop condenser microphone
JOUNIVO USB Desktop microphone is a portable USB microphone that is able to take you anywhere to any desk setting.
The long and slim gooseneck makes it small and easy to move and adjust. Also, there's a mute button and LED indicator located on the tiny stand that tells you what's happening with the stand.
This desktop microphone being the cheapest mic on our list, it's worth a try for those who love to travel or have a desire switching between teaching and work settings often.
It is important to note that there's not a limit on volume, nor is there a frequency response doesn't appear on the page for its products (which makes sense given the price).
Price: $14.99
Connectivity Wired USB
Polar pattern The pattern is Omnidirectional
A great microphone: Beginner online teachers in the field who require a lightweight extremely compact portable USB microphone, which can easily be packed up with their laptop gear. It's ideal for teaching live on the internet as opposed to recording professional audio but it's adequate for basic voice recording.
We have options for that as well.
Setup of a non-desktop mic
Rode SmartLaV+ lavalier condenser microphone
Rode's SmartLav+ is an excellent portable hands-free mic option for teachers online who have to frequently move about during teaching.
A fitness trainer can attach the lapel and plug directly into a recorder portable or mobile device.
For those who instructs using a whiteboard or different props or someone who teaches as a talking head (a.k.a. directly facing the camera), this is a solid option and pairs perfectly with an external audio recorder.
Price: $79
Connectivity: Wired TRRS jack
Polar pattern Omnidirectional
The best microphone for Teachers who 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.
Connect your headset or lavalier microphone into something more expensive than your phone for better audio and volume control, for example an audio recording system that is external.
Zoom H2n recorder
It is easy to plug into the portable Zoom H2n recording device and run for up to 20 hours on only two standard AA batteries.
As for sound file capacity, the Zoom records up to 24-bit/96kHz in WAV files and up to 320kbps in MP3 formats. The recordings of audio are recorded directly on SD as well as SDHC cards with up to 32GB capacity.
If you're not looking to use a wireless lavalier and you want to record straight using the Zoom's five built-in microphones with four recording options: mid-side stereo, X/Y stereo, and 2-channel and 4-channel surround.
In case you're interested in learning more, here's a picture of what those mic configurations appear to be:
As for the other pertinent details:
Price: $169.99
Best microphone for An all-in-one portable desktop microphone option with plenty of sound control for recording audio.
You are looking for a combination lavalier + mic option? Look at our final microphone system.
Rode Wireless Go wireless microphone system
Rode Wireless Go Rode Wireless Go set-up functions the same way that a lavalier and external recorder does, only more compact.
The device comes with a compact wireless microphone, which comes with earbuds and a transmitter and receiver.
You can clip on the wireless transmitter and utilize it as a small belt-pack transmitter for a lavalier microphone. Or you can use its built-in omnidirectional condenser capsule for a wireless mic.
The receiver is just as compact, and it can be mounted onto a camera or GoPro.
Also included is the small TRS Coiled cable to allow compatibility with DSLRs.
Price: $199
Connectivity: Wireless USB
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Best microphone for: Physically active creators and online teachers who travel a lot when teaching and require an easy-to-use wireless system that is portable.
Present your online class with the most effective microphone configuration and quality audio for the content you are sharing.
As with everything in your enterprise, select the solution that is most suitable for your goals and financial budget.
Here's the breakdown of the best microphones for your webinars and online classes:
mics with XLR (dynamic and condenser)
Use Zoom's DZM-1 dynamic mic to get high-quality, isolating audio. Its the price is $59.99.
Utilize this Shure SM7B dynamic mic 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)
Use this Blue Yeti condenser mic for a top-tier USB mic that has multipattern mode and a price of $129.99.
Use this Blue Snowball iCE USB condenser mic to get a premium microphone for your desktop; cost is $49.
Use SUDOTACK's USB condenser kit to start with a basic kit that includes accessories; price is $52.99.
Use Logitech H390 USB headset for minimal audio equipment and basic live training; cost is $24.99.
Make use of the JOUNIVO USB portable mic for an ultra-compact desktop microphone for live demonstrations that are simple; price is $14.99.
Non-desktop microphones
Utilize Rode's SmartLaV+ condenser mic to plug into your mobile phone or any other recording devices; cost is $79.
Make use of Zoom H2n Zoom H2n recorder to create high-quality audio recordings that give greater control over sound than your phone The price is $169.
Use Rode's Wireless Go mic system for a compact wireless transmitter and receiver kit, which records high quality sound; cost is $199.
We hope our researched and streamlined list of top microphones to be used for online courses and webinars shaves hours off the time you spend shopping.