Buying guide
How to Choose a Microphone for a Home Studio
The right microphone depends on what you record and the room you record it in. Understanding two main types gets you most of the way there.
Dynamic vs condenser
Dynamic microphones are rugged and pick up less background noise, which makes them forgiving in untreated rooms and good for loud sources. Condenser microphones are more sensitive and detailed, which suits vocals and acoustic instruments in a quiet, treated space, but they also pick up more of the room.
USB or XLR
USB microphones plug straight into a computer, which is the simplest way to start for podcasts, streaming and basic vocals. XLR microphones connect through an audio interface, which costs more to set up but gives better quality and room to grow with preamps and multiple inputs.
Think about the room
A noisy or echoey room often matters more than the microphone. Soft furnishings, rugs and curtains help. In an untreated room, a dynamic microphone used close to your mouth is usually the safer choice.
Accessories you will need
- Microphone stand or boom arm.
- Pop filter for vocals.
- Closed-back headphones for monitoring.
- XLR cable and audio interface for non-USB microphones.