5 Best XLR Microphones For Podcasting – Product Reviews in Details (2020 Update)

Are you looking for an XLR microphone for podcasting? An XLR mic differs from a USB mic in the way it is being connected to your recording device. Unlike the USB microphone, the XLR microphone is connected using XLR Cable. Since you can’t connect XLR cable directly to your computer, therefore you will need an audio interface. 

XLR microphone is preferred over USB microphone when it comes to sound recording or podcasting. There are various XLR microphones available in the market under various price ranges. Since it is an analog microphone, it needs an audio interface to connect it to the computer. Here in this guide, we have mentioned top podcasting XLR microphone choices that you can look into.

What are XLR Microphones?

These are analog microphones, and they are connected using an XLR cable. And if you want to connect them with your computer, then you will need an audio interface. XLR is an abbreviation, and it stands for ‘X Connector – Locking connector – Rubber boot.’ The XLR microphones are considered as a better option for high-quality recording as they send balanced signals that help to isolate noise. Below are the reasons for why the XLR Microphones are better than USB Microphones:

• They offer more versatility.
• XLR microphones can also work in non-digital settings, and hence you don’t always need a computer.
• They offer clearer and better sound quality.
• Components of XLR microphones can be easily changed.

Let’s now dive into what you should be looking for when buying the best-in-class XLR microphone for podcasting.

How to choose the Best XLR Microphone for Podcasting?

Podcasting microphones come with variant features and specifications, which included USB or XLR. It becomes, therefore, imperative for you to choose the best and most suitable option for yourself. Here, in this guide, we have explained the different factors that affect your purchase when buying the best XLR microphone for podcasting. Let’s have a look at them in details:

• Podcasting Format: What kind of recording are you planning for? Is your podcast involve one person or multiple people? Will you require only one mic or multiple connections? Many such questions will arise which need to be answered. Once you have the answer to all your questions regarding your podcast format, your purchase will get simple and perfect. 

• Material and Quality: Looking for a brand has always been a fruitful venture; however, you need to consider the construction, quality, and design of the microphone as you might need to carry it with you. Durability and portability are vital factors that you must consider.

• Microphone Types: Four major types of XLR microphones are available in the market these days, which are condenser, tube, dynamic, and ribbon. Condenser and dynamic microphones are the most popular ones and widely-used; however, the tube and ribbon mics are used by dedicated people only. You must understand your general purpose of podcasting and then choose the most suitable type of microphone.

• Purpose: The choice of the microphone also depends on the purpose it is being used for. You can use the microphone for various purposes like recording musical instruments, recording vocals, and broadcasting or podcasting.

• Budget: You should be aware of the budget as well while buying an XLR microphone. If you are buying it just for fun and personal use, then you can go for the economical ones. However, if you are a professional podcaster or you need it for other professional purposes, then you can go for a bit expensive one.

The factors listed above affect your purchase directly or indirectly; therefore, careful consideration is essential. It will not only make your buying process for the best XLR microphone for podcasting smooth and convenient, but it will help you save those extra bucks from your pocket, making your purchase budget-friendly.

Last update on 2021-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Reviews: Top 5 XLR Microphones for Podcasting in 2020!

1. Audio-Technica (Model: ATR2100-USB) Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone 

It comes with two output options, including XLR and USB, which makes it the best option for live performances. Low-mass diaphragm offers extended, excellent, and smooth frequency response. This is best for on-stage use, voiceover, field recording, home studio recording, and podcasting. It has a Cardioid polar pattern that helps reduce background noise and improve sound quality.

Last update on 2021-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Major Features!

Why we choose this product? 

This is easy to use and compatible with Mac and Windows. It comes with a built-in headphone jack that makes it easy to adjust the volume of the headphone. It is designed with durable material and boasts long-lasting performance. It also comes with required tools and accessories, including stand clamp, tripod desk stand, XLR cables, and USB.

2. Blue Yeti USB XLR Microphone for Podcasting, Silver 

This multi-pattern USB mic is versatile and designed with the most advanced technology. It combines four different pattern settings and three capsules that make it perfect for all sorts of recording. It ensures amazing and smooth sound quality. It has an elegant silver finish to add style to your broadcasting set-up and recording. 

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Major Features! 

Why we choose this product?

If you want to record anything with ease, then this is the best option loaded with amazing features. It can record in many innovative patterns encompassing bidirectional, omnidirectional, and cardioid.  You can easily manage volume with controls available. This is easy to install and use. Having four pickup patterns to record the way you want it.

3. Shure (Model: SM58-LC) Cardioid Dynamic Podcasting XLR Microphone, Black

This is an excellent choice when it comes to speak or sing into a live mic. This is popular for its durability, sturdy construction, and amazing design. It comes with built-in pop filter ad spherical wind. Its Pneumatic shock-mount system can control the background or cut down the noise. 

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Major Features!

Why we choose this product?

Its cardioid pickup pattern helps reduce the background noise and isolate the main sound source. It ensures legendary live performances. It has an enamel-coated construction and steel-mesh grille that ensures durability and resist abuse and wear. This unidirectional dynamic vocal microphone is available at the best price so that you can go for it.

4. Blue enCORE 100i XLR Cardioid Microphone for Podcasting

The enCORE 100i Microphone from Blue microphones is the ideal microphone for various purposes such as the podcast, live performances, etc. The engineering and analysis involved in its designing take the performance of this microphone to the next level. It consists of a dynamic capsule that has a custom-tuned diaphragm. This design makes it perfect for various sources that require higher isolation. It can be used with drums and vocals.

Last update on 2021-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Major Features!

Why we choose this product?

This microphone is perfect for live performances and can be used with drums and other vocals. Its dedicatedly designed grille offers protection to the device. The grille is also helpful in mounting the device. The acoustic circuit used in this mic has a transformer and a high pass filter. It is a perfect option to go with when using it regularly; therefore, it has become an all-time favorite for many podcasting experts. 

5. Rode Procaster Dynamic XLR Microphone for Podcasting

This is tailored for wider frequency response and suitable for many applications. It has a tight polar pattern and internal pop filter to reduce the background noise and plosives. This package comes with a zip pouch, 3/8 inch adaptor, and stand mount. This is a rugger mic with superior design and quality.

Last update on 2021-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Major Features!

Why we choose this product?

This is the best microphone for podcasting, voiceover work, and many applications.  This is built with high-quality material that offers its great finish. It sounds crisp and quite pretty. You can go with this mic as it has great features and available at the best price. The all-metal construction is the best feature making it highly durable and long-lasting. It is a perfect option to go with when podcasting every day with multiple users.

Frequently Asked Questions!

1. Why should you use the XLR microphone for podcasting? 

Answer: XLR microphones offer lots of customization and adaptability. Additionally, they ensure great sound quality when recording vocals.

2. Are XLR condenser mics good for podcasting? 

Answer:XLR condenser mics are best-suited for the studio as they are more sensitive in recording than dynamic mics and other range of mics. Therefore, yes, they are good for podcasting.

3. How many mics do you need for podcasting? 

Answer:For every two people that are involved in the podcasting process, you will need one XLR microphone. Along with the mic, you will also require a good-quality audio interface.

4. What does XLR stand for? 

Answer:XLR stands for ‘X Connector – Locking connector – Rubber boot.’

5. Which end of XLR is male? 

Answer: Plugs are generally male in most of the XLRs, and sockets are female.

6. Is XLR a stereo mic or mono mic?

Answer:In most of the cases, an XLR microphone is a stereo mic; there are just a few instances when you find an XLR mono mic; this is because it generally has multiple pins. If you require a mono mic, you may have to look around or get it customized.

7. Is XLR analog or digital?

Answer:XLR microphones are analog and need an XLR cable for connection and installation.

8. Why are XLR cables better than the others?

Answer:XLR cables, which are used for microphones, are better than all other mic cables owing to their low signal to noise ratio. 

9. Do you require headphones with XLR microphones for podcasting?

Answer:Yes, it is recommended to use studio headphones for podcasting along with XLR microphones for improved sound quality and recording versions. 

 10. Are XLR microphones balanced?

Answer:Not necessarily. Most of the three-pin XLR cables carry balanced audio, but it’s not the case with XLR cables with a higher number of pins.

Final Verdict!

We have, at this moment, completed an unbiased review of the top 5 XLR microphones that are used for podcasting. We have, therefore, come up with a clear winner depending on the quality, make, features, pricing, and availability. 

The enCORE 100i Microphone from Blue microphones is the ideal microphone, and you should go for it. This is suitable for various purposes, such as the podcast, live performances, etc. The mic is designed with advanced technology that can take the performance of this microphone to the next level.