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10 Best Xlr Microphones For Podcast 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shure MV7+ Podcast Dynamic Microphone with Stand. OBS Certified, Enhanced Audio, LED Touch Panel, USB-C & XLR Outputs, Auto Level Mode, Digital Pop Filter, Podcasting, Streaming, Recording - Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,105
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
Build Quality

Most important from
3067 reviews

Polar Pattern
The directional cardioid pattern effectively isolates the voice while minimizing background noise and distractions.
Frequency Response
Even in untreated rooms, the mic delivers crisp, professional sound that rivals recordings made in treated studios.
Build Quality
The microphone’s solid, well-constructed metal body inspires confidence in its durability and long-term use.
Connectivity
Versatility shines through with both USB and XLR connectivity, making it compatible with a wide range of devices and setups.
Accessories
Built-in headphone jack enables real-time monitoring, helping users ensure their recordings sound perfect.

The Shure MV7+ is a versatile dynamic microphone designed especially for podcasters and streamers who want easy-to-use, high-quality audio. Its unidirectional polar pattern helps focus on your voice while reducing background noise, which is great for recording in less-than-perfect spaces. The built-in digital pop filter and physical pop filter work together to keep harsh popping sounds under control, improving sound clarity. Sensitivity is solid at 40 dB, allowing your voice to come through clearly without picking up too much ambient noise.

Build quality is robust with a metal body, making the mic durable for regular use. It connects via both USB-C and XLR, giving flexibility whether you're plugging directly into a computer or a professional audio interface. This makes it suitable for beginners using simple setups as well as those stepping up to more advanced gear. The included adjustable desktop stand and foam windscreen add convenience, so you have a ready-to-go package.

A standout feature is the LED touch panel that not only looks stylish but lets you mute quickly and monitor audio levels visually. The real-time denoiser and auto-level mode automatically enhance your sound by reducing background noise and adjusting gain based on how far you are from the mic. These digital enhancements are great for beginners, though some audio professionals may prefer more manual control. The onboard reverb effects offer creative options that are more useful if you also record music or want a richer sound. The MV7+ is well suited for podcasters who value ease of use, effective sound isolation, and flexible connectivity. Its price and features make it a strong choice for anyone serious about podcasting or streaming without diving deep into complicated audio setups.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,105
Polar Pattern
Frequency Response
Build Quality

Most important from
3067 reviews

Polar Pattern
The directional cardioid pattern effectively isolates the voice while minimizing background noise and distractions.
Frequency Response
Even in untreated rooms, the mic delivers crisp, professional sound that rivals recordings made in treated studios.
Build Quality
The microphone’s solid, well-constructed metal body inspires confidence in its durability and long-term use.
Connectivity
Versatility shines through with both USB and XLR connectivity, making it compatible with a wide range of devices and setups.
Accessories
Built-in headphone jack enables real-time monitoring, helping users ensure their recordings sound perfect.
#2

FIFINE USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone for Podcast Recording, PC Computer Gaming Streaming Mic with RGB Light, Mute Button, Headphones Jack, Desktop Stand, Vocal Mic for Singing YouTube-AmpliGame AM8

Rating
10.0
Polar Pattern
Build Quality

Most important from
5303 reviews

Polar Pattern
Background noise is minimal thanks to the directional cardioid pattern, which is impressive for environments with ambient sounds.
Build Quality
The build quality feels premium, with a sleek, modern look that fits well with various setups.

The FIFINE USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone is well-suited for podcasters and gamers looking for a versatile and dynamic microphone. Its unidirectional polar pattern effectively captures voice while minimizing background noise, which is essential for clear audio quality in recordings. The frequency response of 50Hz-16KHz ensures decent audio clarity and a balanced sound, making it ideal for various applications like gaming and podcasting.

One of the standout features is its dual connectivity options—XLR and USB—allowing for flexibility as your recording setup grows. Beginners will appreciate the ease of use with the USB connection, especially with the handy mute button that ensures privacy during live streaming. Additionally, the built-in headphones jack lets you monitor your sound, which is a great feature for ensuring audio quality in real-time.

The microphone also includes a stylish RGB lighting feature that can enhance your gaming setup aesthetics. This is a fun addition for those who stream or engage with an audience and want to create a visually engaging environment. The multiple scene use capability makes it a practical choice for both professional setups and casual use.

Rating
10.0
Polar Pattern
Build Quality

Most important from
5303 reviews

Polar Pattern
Background noise is minimal thanks to the directional cardioid pattern, which is impressive for environments with ambient sounds.
Build Quality
The build quality feels premium, with a sleek, modern look that fits well with various setups.
#3

Shure SM7dB Dynamic Vocal Microphone w/Built-in Preamp for Streaming, Podcast, & Recording, Wide-Range Frequency, Warm & Smooth Sound, Rugged Construction, Detachable Windscreen - Black

Rating
10.0
Frequency Response
Sensitivity
Build Quality

Most important from
12024 reviews

Frequency Response
It offers rich, warm, and detailed sound with excellent background noise rejection, ideal for podcasting, streaming, and voiceovers.
Sensitivity
The built-in preamp delivers a clean gain boost up to +28dB, eliminating the need for external signal boosters and simplifying setup.
Build Quality
The microphone’s solid, durable construction feels premium and built to last, matching professional broadcast standards.
Connectivity
The XLR connection ensures professional-grade audio transmission, though it requires an interface or mixer with phantom power.

The Shure SM7dB is an excellent choice for podcasters and streamers looking for professional-level sound quality. It features a unidirectional (cardioid) polar pattern that effectively isolates your voice and minimizes background noise, which is perfect for less-than-ideal recording environments. Its wide frequency response (50Hz to 20kHz) captures both deep lows and clear highs, delivering a warm and smooth tone that many broadcasters love. A standout feature is the built-in preamp with selectable gain levels (+18dB or +28dB), helping boost quieter voices without adding noise, so you usually won’t need extra equipment like in-line preamps. This makes audio setup simpler and cleaner. The mic also offers tone-shaping switches to tailor the sound to your voice or instrument, adding versatility.

In terms of build, the SM7dB is rugged and reliable, with a detachable windscreen included to reduce breath sounds. It connects via standard XLR, ensuring compatibility with most professional audio gear, but it requires an interface or mixer with phantom power. On the downside, it’s a bit on the heavier side and might feel bulky if you need something very portable or lightweight. Also, beginners may need some time to get familiar with gain settings and preamp bypass options to get the best sound.

The package includes essential accessories like the windscreen and a thread adapter, but no cables, so you’ll need to get those separately. If you want a microphone that delivers iconic broadcast sound quality, with flexible gain control and solid noise rejection, the SM7dB is a strong candidate for podcasting and streaming setups.

Rating
10.0
Frequency Response
Sensitivity
Build Quality

Most important from
12024 reviews

Frequency Response
It offers rich, warm, and detailed sound with excellent background noise rejection, ideal for podcasting, streaming, and voiceovers.
Sensitivity
The built-in preamp delivers a clean gain boost up to +28dB, eliminating the need for external signal boosters and simplifying setup.
Build Quality
The microphone’s solid, durable construction feels premium and built to last, matching professional broadcast standards.
Connectivity
The XLR connection ensures professional-grade audio transmission, though it requires an interface or mixer with phantom power.

Buying Guide for the Best Xlr Microphones For Podcast

Choosing the right XLR microphone for your podcast is crucial to ensure high-quality audio and a professional sound. XLR microphones are known for their durability, superior sound quality, and ability to connect to professional audio equipment. When selecting an XLR microphone, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
Polar PatternThe polar pattern of a microphone determines how it picks up sound from different directions. Common polar patterns include cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Cardioid microphones pick up sound primarily from the front, making them ideal for solo podcasting or interviews where background noise needs to be minimized. Omnidirectional microphones capture sound equally from all directions, which can be useful for group discussions or capturing ambient sound. Bidirectional microphones pick up sound from the front and back, making them suitable for face-to-face interviews. Choose a polar pattern based on your recording environment and the type of content you produce.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response refers to the range of frequencies a microphone can capture. A wider frequency response means the microphone can pick up a broader range of sounds, from deep bass to high treble. For podcasting, a frequency response of around 20 Hz to 20 kHz is generally sufficient, as it covers the full range of human hearing. If your podcast involves music or sound effects, you might want a microphone with an extended frequency response. Consider the type of audio you will be recording and choose a microphone that can accurately capture those sounds.
SensitivityMicrophone sensitivity indicates how well the microphone can pick up quiet sounds. It is usually measured in decibels (dB). Higher sensitivity microphones can capture softer sounds without requiring as much amplification, which can be beneficial in quiet recording environments. However, in noisy environments, a lower sensitivity microphone might be preferable to avoid picking up unwanted background noise. Assess your recording environment and choose a microphone with a sensitivity level that matches your needs.
Build QualityThe build quality of a microphone affects its durability and longevity. XLR microphones are often used in professional settings, so they are typically built to withstand regular use. Look for microphones with sturdy metal construction and high-quality components. If you plan to travel with your microphone or use it in various locations, consider a model that is known for its ruggedness. A well-built microphone will provide consistent performance and last longer, making it a worthwhile investment for your podcast.
ConnectivityXLR microphones require an audio interface or mixer to connect to your recording device. Ensure that your chosen microphone is compatible with your existing equipment or be prepared to invest in additional gear. XLR connections are known for their balanced audio signals, which reduce noise and interference, resulting in cleaner recordings. Consider the type of setup you have or plan to build and choose a microphone that integrates seamlessly with your equipment.
AccessoriesAccessories such as shock mounts, pop filters, and windshields can enhance the performance of your XLR microphone. A shock mount helps to isolate the microphone from vibrations and handling noise, while a pop filter reduces plosive sounds (like 'p' and 'b' sounds) that can cause distortion. Windshields are useful for outdoor recordings to minimize wind noise. When selecting a microphone, check if these accessories are included or if they need to be purchased separately. Having the right accessories can significantly improve the quality of your recordings.

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