Good quality audio is the name of the game for podcasting.
If your show doesn’t sound good, listeners will click away, no matter how good your content is.
That’s why both beginner and seasoned podcast hosts should have a reliable mic for recording. The right microphone relays your message and tone to your audience.
A top choice for recording is the Shure microphones. Its line of durable and high-quality recording equipment makes it a good option for both new hosts and those looking to upgrade their gear.
Let’s explore five candidates for the best Shure mic for podcasting in 2026, their strengths, and how to pick the right one for your setup.
What Is the Best Microphone for Podcast?
Aside from your voice, a quality mic is the bread and butter of your podcast. That’s why choosing the best microphone for podcasting is an important decision.
Here are a few key factors you need to assess before you check out:
- Consider your podcast recording setup: Are you in a quiet, controlled home studio or recording on the go? Environment impacts the mic type you need, especially for handling background noise.
- Think about your budget: How much are you willing to spend? Podcasting microphones range from affordable USB models to high-end XLR mics requiring extra gear.
- Plan for connectivity options: USB mics plug directly into computers and phones, perfect for beginners. XLR mics need audio interfaces but give higher sound quality and expandability.
- Consider ease of use: If you’re new to podcasting, choose a mic that’s quick to set up.
- Look for a cardioid polar pattern: This reduces ambient noise by focusing on your voice and rejecting off-axis sounds, essential for clear podcast audio.
- Built-in pop filters: These soften harsh plosive sounds (like “p” and “b”) which can create distracting spikes in recordings.
- Frequency response: This affects how well a mic captures the tone and nuance of your voice. Choose one with a natural, warm response which is better for vocals.
- Check for other features: Automatic gain control, noise reduction, high-pass filter and proximity effect can make recording easier and improve overall sound quality.
- Consider future flexibility: Hybrid mics with both USB and XLR allow you to start simple and upgrade your setup without needing a new mic.
- Test compatibility with your existing gear: Some mics integrate well with popular apps that allow EQ and compression tweaks.
- Match your speaking style: See how the microphone feels and sounds. Comfort and personal voice capture matter if you want a mic to last long term.
For me, how it fits in my home studio setup and how it looks on video also matter. When I film myself for interviews, my mic has to fit right in.
What type of microphone is best for podcasting?

There are four main types of microphones commonly used in podcasting, and each brings something different to your recording experience.
Explore these examples to know which mic is right for you:
- Dynamic microphones: Known for durability and less sensitivity to ambient sounds. Great for noisy rooms or live settings, making them ideal for many podcasters working in less treated environments.
- Condenser microphones: These are more sensitive and capture a wider frequency response, delivering clear, detailed sound. Best for quiet and acoustically treated recording studios since they pick up unwanted noise.
- USB microphones: A practical choice for beginners or podcasters who want plug-and-play ease. These mics often blend built-in preamps and interfaces, connecting directly to your computer via USB cable without additional gear.
- XLR microphones: Provide balanced audio transmission to reduce noise and interference. Great for creators who want high-quality sound and are okay with connecting XLR cables to audio interfaces, mixers, and other gear.
What are the best podcast microphones?
When it comes to the best podcast microphones, you can start your search with top-tier brands:
- Shure: Known for broadcast microphones and durable, professional-grade gear used by musicians, broadcasters, and podcasters worldwide.
- Audio-Technica: A favorite among many podcasters for offering excellent quality at accessible prices. This brand is especially known for its wide range of condenser microphones and some dynamic mics that deliver crisp, clear audio.
- Blue Microphones: They became popular with podcasters and streamers thanks to the Blue Yeti, a powerful and versatile USB microphone that makes podcasting accessible for beginners. I still use the Yeti mic I bought back in 2015 today.
- RODE: Provides professional-quality microphones for filmmakers, podcasters and content creators. Their mics deliver clear, polished sound and often include studio-oriented features.
Best Shure Mic for Podcasting (6 Picks)
When people are looking for the best podcast mics, many think of the brand Shure.
Known for its legendary sound and quality, it’s become a household name for flawless engineering and full sound experiences.
Let’s look at the best podcasting microphones Shure has to offer. Whether you record solo or with multiple hosts, in a studio or on the go, there’s a Shure mic for you.
1. Shure MV7+

Best for: Podcasters, streamers, and content creators looking for a versatile, easy-to-use microphone that delivers professional broadcast-quality audio both at home and on the go.
The Shure MV7+ is an updated version of the popular Shure MV7 microphone, with more features like the real-time denoiser, auto level mode, and customizable LED touch panel. This versatile mic provides both XLR and USB connections.
- Sound quality: Delivers warm, rich, and natural vocal reproduction, ideal for spoken word content.
- Ease of use: Plug-and-play via USB-C is ideal for beginners, while the XLR connection allows growing podcasters to upgrade their setup without changing mics.
- Price: $269
Key features:
- Hybrid microphone with USB and XLR connectivity.
- Voice Isolation Technology for clear vocal focus and minimized background noise.
- Digital Popper Stopper and physical pop filter to reduce plosives.
- Built-in 3.5mm headphone jack for latency-free monitoring.
- Rugged all-metal construction with adjustable yoke for easy mounting.
- Compatible with MOTIV app for desktop and mobile.
- With built-in 5/8″-27 threaded mount, compatible with mic stands and boom arms.
2. Shure SM7B: Shure mic for podcast

Best for: Professional podcast studios, multi-host shows, and podcasters ready to invest in broadcast-quality audio.
The Shure SM7B Vocal Microphone is a dynamic microphone that delivers warm vocals every time. It captures and finetunes the human voice and blocks out noise.
- Sound quality: Helps you achieve deep, rich, and natural sound with excellent noise rejection, making it a favorite for podcasters wanting that “radio voice.”
- Ease of use: More setup required due to XLR-only connection and gain needs. Better for those comfortable with audio interfaces and mixing.
- Price: $399
Key features:
- Dynamic microphone with a smooth, warm sound signature loved by broadcast pros.
- Classic cardioid polar pattern with air suspension shock isolation to eliminate handling noise.
- Comes with a detachable internal pop filter to reduce plosives.
- Requires a quality preamp or a device like a Cloudlifter for the best results because it demands high levels of microphone gain.
3. Shure SM7dB: Shure recording microphone

Best for: Multi-guest, high-end studios, voice actors, and podcasters looking for the best advanced equipment.
The Shure SM7dB microphone boasts its built-in preamp that gives you the audio gain you need for this powerhouse. This versatile podcast mic delivers studio mic sound appreciated by pros in the field.
- Sound quality: Offers smooth, clear, and noise-immune recordings, making it one of the top choices for voice professionals.
- Ease of use: Requires professional audio equipment, including a powerful preamp or gain booster.
- Price: $499
Key features:
- Designed specifically for professional broadcast and podcast studios.
- Adds to the SM7B’s classic voice-friendly tone with better sound isolation and enhanced durability.
- Extended frequency response to capture the full depth of voice nuances.
- Ideal for demanding recording environments.
4. Shure BLX24/SM58 Wireless System: Shure professional wireless microphone

Best for: Podcast hosts conducting live and on-location interviews and hosting events.
If you’re looking for flexibility, the Shure BLX24/SM58 Wireless System is the top podcast setup to consider. It operates up to a range of 300 feet and has about 14 hours of power to keep going.
- Sound quality: Classic crisp SM58 vocal clarity with the freedom of wireless control.
- Ease of use: Gives you the mobility you need to record your audio anywhere.
- Price: $349
Key features:
- Reliable wireless system paired with the iconic SM58 dynamic mic capsule.
- Consistent and clear transmission with solid rejection of interference.
- Easy plug-and-play receiver designed for quick setup.
- Transmission range suitable for medium-sized spaces.
5. Shure BLX288/PG58 Wireless Microphone System: Shure best wireless microphone

Best for: Duo podcasters, interviewers, and event hosts who need reliable wireless handheld microphones.
The Shure BLX288/PG58 is a wireless dual vocal system featuring two PG58 dynamic handheld transmitters and a BLX88 dual-channel receiver. It blends professional-grade audio quality with convenience.
- Sound quality: Clear, powerful vocals with a cardioid pattern that isolates voice and reduces background noise.
- Ease of use: Easy setup with one-touch QuickScan frequency selection, long battery life, and lightweight handheld design.
- Price: $599
Key features:
- QuickScan one-touch frequency selection for fast, interference-free connection
- Up to 14 hours battery life per transmitter on 2 AA batteries
- Supports up to 12 compatible channels per frequency band for system expansion
- Durable construction built for reliable live use and frequent handling
- Includes power supply, user guide, and necessary mounting hardware
6. Shure MV6

Best for: Podcasters, streamers, and gamers who want a simple, high-quality USB mic with advanced voice isolation and sound enhancement features.
The Shure MV6 is a dynamic USB microphone designed for easy plug-and-play use with PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. It gives you radio-quality sound with smart DSP features that enhance vocal clarity without the complex setup.
- Sound quality: Delivers clear, warm vocals with a hypercardioid polar pattern that isolates your voice and reduces background noise.
- Ease of use: Very easy to set up and use with USB connectivity. No need for other equipment.
- Price: $149
Key features:
- Auto Level Mode for real-time automatic gain adjustment
- Digital Popper Stopper reduces plosive sounds without a physical pop filter
- Real-time Denoiser minimizes environmental noise
- Tap-to-mute button for instant privacy
- 3.5mm headphone jack for latency-free monitoring
- Includes weighted desktop stand and threaded mount for tripod compatibility
- Compatible with Shure MOTIV Mix app for advanced control over EQ, compression, and gain
Which Shure Mic Is the Best?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Shure mics for podcasting:
| Shure mic | Best for | Connectivity | Ease of Use | Ideal environment |
| MV7+ | Most podcasters, both beginners and pros | USB-C, XLR | Plug and play | Home studios, remote, professional |
| SM7B | Professional podcast hosts and broadcasters | XLR | Requires pre-amp and gain | Controlled studios |
| SMdB | Seasoned podcasters and multi-guest shows | XLR | Requires pre-amp and gain | Broadcast studios, advanced setups |
| SM58 | Live vocals, interview hosts | XLR, wireless if part of BLX24 system | No extra gear needed | Live events, noisy environments |
| PG58 | Wireless or handheld events and interviews | Wireless | Easy setup | On-location interviews, events |
| MV6 | Desktop podcasters, gamers and streamers | USB-C | Simple plug-and-play with DSP presets | Home studios, streaming setups |
Given this comparison, the Shure MV7+ is the perfect microphone for podcasts. It combines professional sound with modern features and works as a starter mic that grows with you.
If you’re looking for affordable options to make a good podcast, check out the best budget microphones for recording your podcast.
Is Shure SM58 good for podcasting?
Yes, you can use a Shure SM58 for podcasting, but it’s better suited for live vocal performance.
- Unidirectional dynamic capsule: Handles high sound pressure without distortion.
- Reliable anywhere: Great for public speaking with its strong build and effective noise rejection.
- Strong build for outside use: It’s resistant to drops, moisture, and rough handling, which makes it the perfect mic to use in public.
- Beginner-friendly choice: Intuitive and simple design that’s both reliable and durable.
If your priority is mobility and durability, and you’re okay with a slightly more raw sound, you can use the Shure SM58 as your podcast mic.
But if you’re looking for high-quality audio, check the MV7 or SM7B for their custom sound profiles and podcasting-specific features.
Turn Up the Mic
Choosing the best Shure mic for podcasting can change your audience’s whole listening experience.
From warm and rich sounds to distraction-free live interviews, their product line-up meets a lot of podcaster needs.
Getting the right equipment is just step one. To really thrive, you need to produce content like a saucy interview.
With Talks’ state-of-the-art AI features, you can easily get matched with the right guest to make that happen:
- Auto Match: Find the right guests based on your profile and preferences.
- Auto Message: Send personalized messages instantly.
Sign up for a FREE Talks Creators Profile and Start Recording.