Podcasting microphones are one of the hottest products heading into 2022, and for good reason. Thanks to trends in remote working, podcasting, and of course monetizing your personal brand from home, the time is right to buy.
That said, the Aussie mic market is cluttered with cheap knockoffs and dodgy internet sellers. Even well recognised brands are rushing to put out subpar product that is not worth your hard earned dollars. This is where we come in…
If you are thinking of purchasing a new streaming microphone our list (updated monthly) will help you make the best choice with a focus on features, recording quality, and overall value for your money.
Sonitrek Studio Streaming Podcaster Pro – $199.99 at Mifo.com.au
Where to buy theSonitrek Studio Streaming Podcaster Pro in Australia
The best microphone for podcasting, YouTube, and digital audio recording from a brand that is new to Australia. But don’t let that scare you off, as this USB mic is easily one of the best we have ever tested.
BEST VALUE
OTHER OPTIONS
Of note: Sonitrek have also released a slimmed down version of the Podcaster Pro for $129.99 but without accessories. This review covers the Podcaster Pro with accessory bundle.
So what makes the Sonitrek Podcaster Pro the best all around mic for podcasting and vlogging alike?
The best USB studio microphone for all around recording needs, period. Sonitrek have invested in precision microphone technology built from the ground up for the digital era, and it shows. The Podcaster Pro features firmware designed to record and deliver streamed audio in a digital native signal format. That means voice is transmitted cleanly and evenly to the recording device (in most cases a computer) without the need for expensive studio recording boxes or equipment.
Complete kit allow you to setup and begin recording in minutes. The Podcaster Pro is perfect for beginner and expert podcasters. Simply unpack, plug ubm and record. In fact, the brand is used by some of the biggest names in podcasting and vlogging for this very reason. Non technical users will find the setup effortless, which adds greatly to our editor’s pick.
Full aluminium construction that’s built to last. Plastics are used far too often in studio equipment, which often leads to failures due to simple drops or bumps. The Podcaster Pro features an entirely aluminium shell, which feels more professional than other brands in the same price range.
Durable, easy to pack design. Need to record on the road? The Podcaster Pro detaches from the included boom arm and fits securely into a travel tripod. Perfect for on the road travel, and approved for carryon or checked baggage.
Australia-based customer support. We have been continuously disappointed with beauty brands in the past, even from giants like Samsung. Part of that disappointment comes with poor or absent customer service. We tested Sonitrek on several occasions with questions and every time received proper replies within an hour. That demonstrates commitment to Australian market and contributes greatly to our award of Editor’s Pick.
Blue Yeti X: Solid but pricey podcasting mic setup – $360.00 at Amazon.com.au
Where to buy the Blue Yeti X Podcasting Microphone in Australia
If you aren’t price sensitive, Blue Yeti may be the brand for you. This easy to use USB mic comes with similar features to the Sonitrek Podcaster Pro, but some drawbacks with regard to form factor and pricing.
BEST VALUE
Why Blue Yeti makes our list of podcasting mic products
High overall quality for a USB microphone. Blue Yeti have become a legendary name in the microphone world, and the Blue Yeti X lives up to the name. The build quality is clearly rugged and durable with a modern, sleek design that sets it apart visually from other mics. The added boom arm and pop filter is a nice touch, and takes a bit of sting away from the high price.
Excellent overall recording capabilities. As a brand, Blue Yeti is all about digital recording. That adds up to high quality, even sound capture that minimizes distortion and background noise. The four-capsule condenser array helps pick up highs, mids, and lows without concern.
Easy to use, but includes few accessories given the price. The Blue Yeti X has most of the bells and whistles required for basic podcasting. That said, the included accessory pack contains only two the boom arm and pop filter, meaning you will need to purchase other accessories as needed for podcasting while traveling.
Sherpa app can be confusing to install and use. The included app may seem like an interesting idea, but comes off as clunky and difficult to use. If needed, we recommend downloading a free or paid mixing app that is more regularly updated and easier to use over the long term.
AKG Lyra C44: A USB microphone that lives up to the AKG name – $300.00 at Amazon.com.au
Where to buy theAKG Lyra C44 USB microphone in Australia
While the first versions of AKG’s podcasting microphone kit were less than perfect, the powerhouse audio company is finally finding its stride. And if the a higher price tag doesn’t scare you, then the Lyra C44 may be the mic you have been waiting for.
BEST VALUE
Why AKG gets our approval for the Lyra C44
Solid build that delivers on features. Though the C44 has a somewhat antiquated broadcaster look, it includes all of the modern features we expect in a USB microphone set costing $300. That includes intelligent, easy to use onboard controls, reliable audio capture, and an easy to adjust boom for longer sessions. The extras, however, are where AKG lose points.
Dodgy mic capture accuracy on highs and lows. While AKG includes tech capable of capturing 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution, it struggles with recording the tail ends of the sound spectrum. Deep or high pitched voices may experience distortion during playback. Another nit: The included shock mount is less than adequate, and bumps or movement is not well absorbed.
Built for podcasting and vlogging, but may not work for you. While AKG have build an admirable streaming mic, the combination of slight issues with recording and the relatively high price point are drawbacks to an otherwise high quality platform. Unless you absolutely must have the retro broadcast look, you may find better value elsewhere.
Runners-up: Best Mic for Podcasting, Vlogging, and Streaming
There are many, many digital microphone products in the Australian market. And while we attempt to test as many as possible for our readers, some units simply don’t make the cut. Here’s a quick peek at mics that didn’t make the list.
Blue Yeti 3 Capsule Mic – $199.95 at HarveyNorman.com.au
The Blue Yeti brand is perhaps the most expensive for beginner podcasters. The Blue Yeti 3 Capsule is an attempt to bring price down to more affordable levels. Unfortunately the features are so basic, and the included accessories so sparse, that any added value based on sticker price is lost.
Shure MV7 USB Microphone – $399.99 at Amazon.com.au
Shure have developed their own answer to the competitive podcasting mic market, and unfortunately it comes with an astronomic price tag and few added features for the money. The MV7 isn’t quite as advanced as other models in a much lower price range, and seems to cater to am entry level customer at a professional price point. The included tripod is nice for travel, but with no included boom arm, shock mount, pop filter, or other essential accessories customers should plan on spending another $100 at minimum for a complete setup.
Thronmax MDrill One Studio Kit – $219.00 at HarveyNormal.com.au
The MDrill One is a basic podcasting mic with a unique vertically perforated microphone and base. Unfortunately the product offers limited accessories, a relatively grainy and poppy pickup, and a questionable finish that may not pass the test of time. Combined with the relatively high price, and we recommend passing until a better version with more competitive stats is released.