You don’t have to be an expert to know that a microphone is an essential item for most webinars.
Some of the very best microphones on the market are built right into some cameras, which can make your life a little easier.
But if your camera doesn’t have it or you want more control over what sound your audience hears, then there are also some of the best microphones for webinar hosting that you can buy separately and plugin at any time.
Table of Contents
How to Choose a Microphone For Webinar Hosting
1) Why do I need a microphone?
Some people think that a microphone is not necessary when hosting a webinar, but to ensure quality, it is recommended that you have one.
The most used microphone for webinars and other online training programs is a handheld presenter mic.
It’s lightweight, easy to use, and inexpensive. It’s also the most versatile microphone available.
2) What is the size of the room where I plan to use my mic?
A great microphone for webinars is light and compact. This means that it can be easily stored, transported, and used in various venues.
The most popular handheld presenter mic will fit just fine in the average conference room.
Wherever you host your webcast, the presenter mic must be able to muffle background noise (e.g., people talking on the phone), yet allow you to clearly hear your voice.
3) How much will it cost me to buy a microphone?
A good handheld presenter mic can be purchased for as little $50, whereas some of the best HD & XLR microphones can cost a customer $500 or more.
4) Do I really need a “handheld” (clip-on/lapel style)?
Yes, because the handheld style is typically light and compact. In addition, the handheld style is also the best way to handle a presenter mic.
5) What are the accessories that I can get with my presenter mic?
The most popular options include a windjammer shield, lavalier clip (to attach to a shirt collar), cables, and adapters.
Other options include different sizes of wireless lavalier mics, wireless lapel mics, and headsets. Lavalier microphones clip onto clothing or directly onto fabrics.
6) What simple steps could I take to ensure that my microphone works well?
This is a very good question. Many people have asked this question over the years.
To help in your search of the perfect presentation mic, here are some things that you need to consider before purchasing: -A good microphone has an impedance of 50-60 ohms.
7 Best Microphones For Webinar Hosting
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Blue Yeti USB
- Tri-capsule array - 3 condenser capsules can record almost any situation.
- Multiple pattern selection - cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo.
- Gain control, mute button, and zero-latency headphone output.
- Perfect for vocals, musical instruments, podcasting, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings, conference calls. Signal to Noise: 100dB
- Compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8 (including 8.1), Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP (Home and Professional), and Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher),...
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Blue Yeti USB microphone is a great alternative to the standard computer mics if you plan to use your laptop for webinars. It connects through a USB port and is compatible with Mac and PC computers. The price of this microphone is at about one hundred dollars which seems reasonable to me because it’s a high-grade quality mic.
What makes the Blue Yeti special? Several things: it has four polar pattern settings, four zero-latency monitoring settings, and a built-in headphone amplifier. These features make it exceptional among other USB microphones for hosting webinars. For example, when you’re using Skype on your laptop for the host v screen software and you have two other persons on video chat on.
2. Audio-Technica AT2020
- The price/performance standard in side address studio condenser microphone technology
- Ideal for project/home studio applications; The noise level is 20 dB SPL
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
- Custom engineered low mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
- Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source. Output connector: integral 3 pin...
Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB microphone is another great option for webinar hosting. It has a cardioid polar pattern and an extended frequency range. The price of this microphone is also at about one hundred dollars which seems reasonable to me because it’s a high-grade quality mic.
What makes the Audio-Technica special? This model is different from the Blue Yeti in a few ways such as it provides excellent rejection of ambient noise, it comes with both A2035c stand and A1312 shock mount, there are three different monitor settings (unidirectional, bidirectional, omni), and some other cool features like the ability to plug in headphones.
3. Shure SM58-LC
- EXEPTIONAL VOCAL PERFORMANCE - The SM58-LC delivers high-quality vocal reproduction, thanks to its tailored frequency response and brightened midrange...
- INDUSTRY STANDARD - The first choice for performers around the globe, the SM58 Dynamic Vocal Microphone is ready to bring any performance to life....
- CLARITY & CARE - The uniform cardioid polar pattern reproduces every note as it was intended, delivering warm, crisp sound time after time.
- LEAVE BACKGROUND NOISE BEHIND - The SM58 has a spherical mesh grille and built-in pop filter to keep any unwanted noise out of the mix.
- DROP THE MIC - The durable construction and break-resistant stand adapter makes the SM58 the perfect companion on the road, going strong through the...
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Shure SM58-LC Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a great option for hosting webinars if you’re looking for an inexpensive microphone. It’s a fairly basic microphone but it has excellent sound quality and is extremely durable. The price of this microphone is about one hundred dollars which, to me, seems reasonable for the high-grade quality mic that it is.
What makes the Shure SM58-LC special? This model offers durability which comes in handy because many webinar hosts are on the go and space efficiency since it easily fits into small bags or purses (perfect for conference traveling), and sound quality with its cardioid (unidirectional) pattern which helps reduce ambient noise.
4. Rode Procaster
- Package Weight : 1.5 Lbs
- Product Type : Sound And Recording Equipment
- High Output Dynamic Capsule And Balanced Low Impedance Output Make It An Ideal Broadcast And Voice Over Microphone
- Internal Shock Mounting Of Capsule For Low Handling Noise; Internal Pop-Filter To Reduce Plosives
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Rode Procaster Broadcast Dynamic Vocal Microphone is a top-of-the-line microphone. It has a broadcast quality that comes with great features like a dual-layer mesh filter. The cost of this microphone is about three hundred and fifty dollars which, in my opinion, seems expensive for a mic; but it’s also exceptional for its high-grade sound quality and its versatility.
What makes the Rode Procaster special? This model offers broadcast-quality with excellent rejection of ambient noise and extended frequency response along with advanced features like interchangeable dynamic capsules (cardioid). It provides excellent performance in both close-miking situations as well as medium or long-distance interviews. The versatility also allows you to use it for spoken applications, such as presentations, meetings, videoconferences, and the like.
5. Marantz Pro M4U
- Everything You Need – Complete package with USB condenser mic, USB adapter & cable, mic cable and desk stand – Perfect for Youtube, podcast...
- Focused, Detailed Recording - Premium electret condenser microphone with a wide-ranging frequency response and high-sensitivity
- No Latency, No Fuss - Dedicated headphone output to listen your performance in real-time without any latency.
- Effortless Connectivity - Connect to a Mac or PC using the included USB A/D adapter and microphone cable for perfect capture of vocals, instruments...
- Universal compatibility – Compatible with Windows and OSX operating systems
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Marantz Pro M4U is a great option for conducting webinars if you’re looking for a high-end microphone. However, this model is rather pricey at about three hundred and fifty dollars.
What makes the Marantz Pro M4U special? This microphone offers excellent sound quality in addition to an extended frequency range. It also has advanced features like interchangeable dynamic capsules (cardioid) and excellent rejection of ambient noise. The versatility of this model also accommodates various recording applications such as presentations, meetings, videoconferences, and the like with features such as “plug-and-play” functionality.
6. MXL 990
- FET based design with transformer balanced output for a variety of applications.
- Vintage body style with champagne finish.
- Includes custom shock mount, mic stand adapter & carrying case.
- Provides silky sweet high end and retains tight, solid low and midrange reproduction
- Power requirements: Phantom power 48V (+- 4V)
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
My opinion of this mic is that it’s a good mic for webinars. I’ve used it to do audio editing as well. The particular model I have, the MXL 990, has features such as a low-cut filter and spring-loaded 3D mesh pop filter that work well in both recording and live settings. You can find this microphone at about one hundred dollars which seems like a bit much for what the product offers, but if you’re looking for a high-grade quality mic then getting it will be worth your investment.
What makes the MXL 990 special? Well, it features XLR connector condenser microphone with three different pad settings: omnidirectional (unidirectional), cardioid, and figure 8. These settings allow you to achieve various sound requirements such as cardioid for a studio recording or omnidirectional for a miked live performance.
7. HEiL Sound PR-40
- One Mic for Every Application - Professional podcasters, studio engineers, YouTube streamers, and musicians trust the PR 40 because it delivers...
- Podcast - The PR 40 naturally captures the human voice and provides studio-quality sound in any environment. This dynamic microphone eliminates the...
- Streaming - Delivering professional-quality sound and featuring a sleek appearance, the PR 40 is built to enhance your YouTube streaming product.
- Studio Voice and Live Sound - Whether you’re in the studio or on the road, the PR 40 delivers accurate, wide-range sound reinforcement and...
- XLR Connection and Cardioid Pattern - The PR 40’s 3-pin XLR connection provides high-quality audio, and its cardioid pattern eliminates sound from...
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
HEiL PR-40 is a dynamic home studio microphone that can be used in both recording and live settings alike. The microphone has three different pad settings: omnidirectional (unidirectional), cardioid, and figure 8 (all of which are useful depending on your needs). It also features XLR connector condenser microphone with low cut filter that can be very helpful for those who are recording. One downside to this particular model is the lack of sound clarity, but it’s relatively inexpensive at about fifty dollars which makes up for its shortcomings.
FAQs
Do you need a microphone for a webinar?
A: Yes, usually, a microphone is needed for a webinar because the audience may not be able to hear the presenters.
What is the best microphone to use for Podcasting?
Podcasts microphones help transmit and amplify voice effectively without any interference from background noises. When looking for the best microphone for webinar hosting, we recommend using a condenser microphone.
What equipment do I need to host a webinar?
A: Below is a list of items that you will need in order to host a webinar.
1. Web Cam
2. Microphone
3. Projector
4. Laptop or Desktop Computer with High-speed Internet Connection
What type of microphone is best for zoom meetings?
The best microphone for zoom meetings is the one that can record audio on Mac in the highest sound quality, or in other words, the one with a low noise floor. For e.g. the Heil PR40 is best for zooming meetings.
Related: Best Microphones for Zoom