What type of microphone is best for recording videos?

Choosing the right microphone for recording videos can seem overwhelming given the many options available. The type of microphone you need depends on several factors like your budget, recording environment, portability needs, and the types of videos you create. While high-end studio microphones can provide exceptional audio quality, they may be overkill for casual YouTube videos. On the other hand, your smartphone’s built-in mic likely won’t provide the clarity needed for professional recordings. The key is finding the microphone that best suits your specific needs and goals as a content creator.

In this guide, we will provide an overview of common microphone types used for YouTube videos, from affordable starter mics to high-end gear for dedicated creators. We’ll explore condenser, dynamic, lavalier, USB, and smartphone microphones, outlining the benefits and use cases of each. You’ll also learn about key microphone features to consider like polar patterns, connectivity, and accessories. With the right knowledge, you can invest in a microphone that will take your YouTube audio quality to the next level within your budget.

Condenser Microphones

Condenser microphones use a capacitor to convert acoustic sound waves into an electrical signal. They require power, either from a battery or external phantom power source, to charge the capacitor. Condenser mics are extremely sensitive and capable of capturing subtle nuances and a wide dynamic range. They are optimized to pick up vocal frequencies clearly.

Condenser microphones are known for providing excellent sound quality and accuracy. The thin diaphragm condenser design is fast, responsive, and captures high frequencies with precision. This makes condenser mics a top choice for recording vocals, instruments, podcasts, and other studio applications where sound quality is critical. Condenser mics excel at reproducing the nuances of vocals and acoustic instruments.

According to The Best Condenser Mics for Podcasting, the Shure PGA27-LC is one of the best condenser microphone options for podcasting thanks to its studio-quality audio capture abilities. Condenser microphones are commonly found in recording studios because of their superb sound reproduction.

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic microphones work by using a diaphragm attached to a coil of wire in a magnetic field. When sound hits the diaphragm, it vibrates and moves the coil, generating an electric current. They are less sensitive than condenser microphones and don’t pick up as much detail. However, they are durable, able to handle high sound pressure levels, and good at rejecting off-axis sounds, making them popular for live performances.

Some benefits of dynamic microphones:

• Durable construction that can withstand abuse
• Lower sensitivity helps avoid picking up ambient noises
• Good rejection of sounds from the sides and rear
• Can handle very loud sound sources without distortion
• Don’t require external power
• Popular for live vocals, drums, guitar amps, and other loud instruments

Common examples of dynamic microphones include the Shure SM57 and SM58, Electro-Voice RE20, Sennheiser MD421, and Audix D-Series. While not as detailed as condensers, dynamics excel at rejecting off-axis sounds and handling loud sources, making them suitable for live performances and field recordings.

Lavalier/Lapel Mics

Lavalier or lapel microphones are miniature microphones that can be clipped onto clothing near the mouth. They are also sometimes called clip-on mics.

Lavalier mics allow for hands-free use while recording videos or doing activities like vlogging. Since the mic is positioned close to the mouth, it captures clear audio of the wearer’s voice. The small size makes lavalier mics fairly discreet.

According to the YouTube video “Which is the Best Lavalier Microphone?” from the Creator Fundamentals channel (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7AB3Txpad20), lavalier mics are a great option for vloggers and YouTubers looking for excellent voice pickup while maintaining mobility.

Some cons of lavalier mics include possible rustling sounds if the mic rubs against clothing. They also require either a wireless transmitter pack or an extension cord to connect to the camera or audio recorder. Lavalier mics work best when positioned properly near the mouth and may pick up less audio if placed incorrectly.

USB Microphones

USB microphones are a popular choice for YouTube videos due to their simplicity and affordability. As the name suggests, USB mics plug directly into your computer’s USB port, eliminating the need for an external audio interface. This makes setting up and recording quick and easy, even for beginners.

One of the top USB mics for YouTube is the Rode NT-USB. This condenser microphone delivers studio-quality audio recordings with its clear and detailed sound. It’s also built sturdy enough for travel, making it great for vloggers and on-the-go YouTubers. Some other benefits of USB mics include:

• No need for additional equipment – Just plug into your computer and start recording
• Portability – Easily take your mic on the go or record in different locations
• Affordability – USB mics tend to cost less than XLR setups
• Ease of use – Record and edit audio directly on your computer

While USB microphones limit your options for upgrading down the road, they provide an easy and budget-friendly way for beginners to improve their YouTube audio quality over built-in computer mics or headsets.

Smartphone Microphones

Smartphone microphones refer to microphones designed specifically for use with smartphones and mobile devices. These microphones plug into the headphone jack or charging port of your smartphone and allow you to record higher quality audio compared to using just the built-in microphone of your phone.

Some key benefits of smartphone microphones include:

• Portability – They are compact and portable so you can easily record video anywhere with your smartphone.
• Ease of use – Smartphone mics are plug and play so you can start recording quickly. Many don’t require batteries or power.
• Affordable price – They are relatively inexpensive options compared to high-end recording microphones.

Popular options for smartphone microphones include lavalier or lapel mics that attach to your clothing, shotgun mics that mount to your phone, and USB microphones that plug into the charging port. When shopping for a smartphone microphone, consider sound quality, price, compatibility with your phone, and reviews from other users.

While smartphone mics have limitations in audio quality compared to professional gear, they provide a convenient way to improve the production quality of videos recorded on your mobile device. They are beginner-friendly options for content creators looking to upgrade from their phone’s built-in mic.

Microphone Features

The defining characteristics of microphones are their specification features like polar pattern, frequency response, and sensitivity. These determine how effectively a mic can capture sound for different recording situations.

The polar pattern indicates where a microphone is most sensitive in picking up sound. Some common patterns are cardioid, supercardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Cardioid pattern mics are sensitive to sound coming from the front and can reject noise from the sides and rear. Supercardioid further tightens the directionality to capture sound from a tighter cone in front. Omnidirectional mics pick up sound equally from all directions. Bidirectional mics are most sensitive to the front and rear. Choosing the polar pattern depends on the type of sound source and environment.

Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies a microphone can reproduce – from bass to treble. The human vocal range is typically 80Hz to 14kHz, so a mic with a range of 50Hz to 18kHz can sufficiently cover that spectrum. Wider frequency ranges allow mics to capture more sound detail. However, the frequency response may be tailored to certain needs, like highlighting vocals or instruments.

The sensitivity indicates a mic’s conversion efficiency – how well it translates acoustic energy into an electrical signal. Higher sensitivity mics need less amplification and can capture softer sounds. This is measured by sound pressure level (SPL) required for a certain output. Low sensitivity mics typically need louder sources.

Understanding microphone specifications allows matching the right mic to the desired recording application. For example, a vocalist would do well with a cardioid condenser mic of at least 40Hz-16kHz response and moderate sensitivity around -40dB. The specs impact sound quality, so considering them helps choose an optimal microphone. (Source: DPA Microphones).

Microphone Accessories

Microphone accessories can enhance the quality of your audio recordings and make using a mic much easier. Some of the most useful accessories to consider include:

Pop filters – Pop filters attach to your microphone stand and help prevent plosives (popping “p” and “b” sounds) that can distort your audio. A pop filter sits between you and the mic to diffuse these air blasts.

Shock mounts – Shock mounts suspend the microphone in elastic bands or springs to isolate it from vibrations and handling noise that could get picked up. This helps minimize rumbling noises.

Boom arms – Boom arms allow you to mount your microphone on a swiveling arm attached to your desk. This makes it easy to position the mic exactly where you want it without needing a separate stand taking up space.

Other useful accessories are desk stands, windscreens, mic clips, and cables. Investing in quality accessories tailored for your microphone can really optimize your recording setup. For example, see this Sweetwater guide covering essential microphone accessories.

Budget Options

When you’re just starting out on YouTube or Twitch and don’t want to invest too much in equipment, there are some quality budget microphones available for under $50 or $100. The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is an excellent condenser microphone that provides studio-quality sound for around $100. It’s a popular choice among content creators and streamers on a budget.

For even cheaper, the Blue Snowball Ice only costs around $50 but still provides good sound quality for the price. It’s a versatile USB condenser mic perfect for beginners. Another option is the Razer Seiren Mini, a compact USB condenser mic with a supercardioid pickup pattern to isolate your voice, priced around $50.

On the dynamic side, the Behringer XM8500 is an affordable cardioid dynamic microphone priced under $25. It doesn’t require phantom power and works well for streaming, podcasting, or vocals. The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is another good dynamic USB mic under $100.

While budget options may lack some premium features, they can still provide quality audio for starting out. Focus on positioning them correctly and using proper mic technique. With budget gear, small upgrades like a pop filter, shock mount, or mic arm can also make a difference in quality.

Conclusions

When choosing a microphone for recording videos, it’s important to consider your budget, recording environment, and intended use. Condenser microphones tend to provide the best sound quality for vocals and acoustic instruments. However, they require phantom power and pick up more background noise. Dynamic mics are more durable, inexpensive, and reject ambient sounds. Lavalier mics allow hands-free use but may pickup clothing noise. USB mics are plug-and-play but limited in quality compared to XLR options. Smartphone mics are ultra-portable but have lower audio quality.

Evaluate your recording situation and budget to select the right microphone for your needs. Condenser mics are best for studio vocals and instruments while dynamics excel for voiceovers, podcasts, and loud environments. For budget home setups, a large diaphragm condenser or versatile dynamic like the Shure SM58 is recommended. Lavalier mics work well for interviews and YouTube videos. Consider accessories like pop filters, shock mounts, booms, and mic stands to optimize your microphone’s performance.

With the right mic and proper technique, you can achieve excellent vocal and acoustic recordings. Determine your budget, intended use, and recording environment when selecting a microphone for videos.