September 2023
Microphones: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of microphones rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2023.
Summary
On 2 Sep 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 108 microphone endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
83 microphones were endorsed in total, only 16 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 2 Sep 2023, Shure MV7 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed microphone with 6 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 6 recommended it as the '#1 microphone' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
Rode: 9 microphones
(#1 is Rode PodMic)
-
Audio-Technica: 7 microphones
(#1 is Audio-Technica AT2020 USB)
-
Shure: 5 microphones
(#1 is Shure MV7)
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Blue: 4 microphones
(#1 is Blue Yeti)
-
Sennheiser: 3 microphones
(#1 is Sennheiser Profile Streaming Set)
Price breakdown
At a glance - September Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Microphone |
Music Radar
|
PCMag
|
PianoDreamers
|
MusicTech
|
Tom's Guide
|
Music Grotto
|
CNN Underscored
|
Just Creative
|
IGN
|
PC Gamer
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $245 |
Shure MV7
The Shure MV7 microphone is a versatile and adaptable option for podcasters, streamers, and content creators, offering excellent sound quality, noise-cancelling capabilities, and connectivity options.
|
6
|
7
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
4
|
1
|
|
2
|
- | $100 |
Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti microphone is a versatile and durable device with four directional patterns, a built-in headphone jack, and compatibility with a wide range of devices and software, making it a popular choice among content creators, podcasters, and gamers.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
1
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $397 |
Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B is a highly regarded dynamic microphone that delivers exceptional sound quality, particularly for recording vocals, with its wide frequency response range, flat frequency response, presence boost, and effective noise isolation.
|
10
|
-
|
8
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $99 |
Rode PodMic
The Rode PodMic is a dynamic microphone with a well-balanced frequency response range, internal pop filter and damping features, cardioid polar pattern, XLR connectivity, and solid metal construction, making it a reliable and versatile choice for podcasters and content creators.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $130 |
HyperX QuadCast S
The HyperX QuadCast S is a versatile and reliable USB microphone suitable for podcasting, streaming, gaming, and vocal recording, with four polar patterns, built-in pop filter and noise reduction technology, and two connectivity options.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
5
|
|
6
|
- | $30 |
Fifine K669
The Fifine K669 USB microphone is a budget-friendly option with a cardioid pickup pattern that reduces background noise and focuses on vocals, making it ideal for podcasters, live streamers, and radio broadcasters who want clarity focused on vocals.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $199 |
Sennheiser Profile Streaming Set
The Sennheiser Profile Streaming Set is a USB microphone with a cardioid polar pattern, frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, and several useful features, making it a great choice for streamers, podcasters, and content creators.
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
8
|
- | $40 |
HyperX SoloCast
The HyperX SoloCast is a high-quality USB microphone that delivers clear and detailed sound with a full, rich sound that is hard to match at its price point, making it an ideal choice for podcasters, streamers, and gamers who want a simple and effective way to record their voice without any unnecessary features or complications.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
|
15
|
New * | $40 |
Razer Seiren Mini
The Razer Seiren Mini microphone is praised for its sound quality, directionality, and compatibility, making it a highly recommended choice for clear and focused audio recording in various applications.
|
-
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
2
|
|
16
|
-1 | $150 |
Elgato Wave 3
The Elgato Wave 3 is a versatile and reliable USB microphone designed for content creators, podcasters, and live streamers, featuring a cardioid polar pattern, two connectivity options, advanced features, and compatibility with both PC and Mac.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
|
17
|
-1 | $269 |
Rode NT1
The Rode NT1 is a high-quality studio condenser microphone with a wide frequency response range, low self-noise, cardioid polar pattern, dual connectivity options, and durable construction, making it a versatile and reliable choice for recording vocals and acoustic guitars.
|
4
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
18
|
-1 | $203 |
Sontronics Podcast Pro
The Sontronics Podcast Pro microphone is a reliable and high-quality option for podcasters, streamers, and other content creators who prioritize sound quality, with a super-cardioid pickup pattern that minimizes background noise and compatibility with any device that has an XLR input.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
-1 | $233 |
Aston Origin
The Aston Origin microphone is a versatile and reliable option for recording vocals and acoustic instruments in a studio setting, delivering clear and natural sound with built-in pop filter and shock isolation.
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
20
|
-1 | $449 |
Electro-Voice RE20
The Electro-Voice RE20 is a dynamic broadcast microphone with exceptional sound quality, advanced noise reduction features, and a wide frequency range, making it a versatile and reliable choice for professional audio recording and broadcasting applications.
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
21
|
-1 | $229 |
Rode Procaster Dynamic
The Rode Procaster Dynamic microphone is a broadcast-quality, cardioid polar pattern microphone that delivers clear and professional sounding vocals, making it an ideal choice for podcasters, broadcasters, and musicians who require a durable and reliable microphone for their professional needs.
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
17
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
-1 | $3295 |
Neumann U87 Ai
The Neumann U87 Ai is a top-of-the-line condenser microphone that delivers warm, crystal-clear, and detailed sound quality, making it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic guitar, and spot microphones for individual instruments in a sound-treated recording space.
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
13
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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We ranked Shure MV7 #1 in September 2023 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Shure MV7 as #1.
Music Radar
The best microphone for content creation
|
Dual output adds versatility
MOTIV app is genuinely useful
|
USB-C connection would have been preferable
|
PCMag
Best for Vocals
|
Excellent dynamic mic for vocals
USB (digital) and XLR (analog) connections
Shure Motiv app provides real-time EQ and basic controls while recording
|
No included mic stand or mount
|
Just Creative
The best USB microphone for podcasting
|
Good range and sound quality
Quite versatile
Comes with a direct to computer USB connection
|
Does not come with a mic stand included
|
PC Gamer
The best microphone
|
Excellent Vocals
USB/XLR combo
Versatile
Easy Use software
|
No mic stand included
Uses Micro-USB rather than Type-C
|
We ranked Blue Yeti #2 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Blue Yeti as #1.
Tom's Guide
Editor's Choice / The best microphone overall
|
Versatile
Reasonably priced
Great sound quality
|
Not as precise as specialized mics
So-so mount
|
Just Creative
The best portable microphone
|
Affordable
Great audio quality
Easily portable
Great sound reproduction
|
Gain can only be adjusted through the Sherpa app
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend microphones.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of microphones, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for September 2023 ranking
Music Radar
PCMag
PianoDreamers
MusicTech
Tom's Guide
Music Grotto
CNN Underscored
Just Creative
IGN
PC Gamer
We ranked Shure SM7B #3 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
The best for recording vocals in untreated rooms
|
Peerless sound quality for a dynamic
Excellent noise rejection
A joy to use in untreated rooms
Built-in pop filter, electromagnetic shielding, suspension and windscreen
|
Requires oodles of clean gain
|
Just Creative
The best high-end microphone
|
Outstanding sound quality
Solid and rugged build
Easy to use
Great sound reproduction
|
Must be used along with a mixer
|
We ranked Rode PodMic #4 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Rode PodMic as #1.
Tom's Guide
The best microphone for serious podcasting
|
Fantastic sound
High build quality
Low price
Internal pop filter
|
Not ideal for newcomers
Stand not included
|
We ranked HyperX QuadCast S #5 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
A gaming microphone with customizable lighting
|
High sound quality
Customizable lighting
Built-in shock mount and pop filter
|
Standard QuadCast is cheaper
|
PC Gamer
The best microphone with RGB lighting
|
Easy to set use
Touch-sensitive mute button
Built-in Shockmount
Cool RGB lighting
|
RGB is not for everyone...
and costly
|
We ranked Fifine K669 #6 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best budget-friendly USB microphone
|
Affordable price
Solid build
Good audio quality and versatile range
Compatible with both Windows and Mac OS
|
The cable could be better quality
|
We ranked Sennheiser Profile Streaming Set #7 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
PCMag
Best All-In-One Package
|
Quality vocal mic with transparent signal
Onboard gain, mix, and headphone controls
Sturdy boom arm
Long cable
|
Lacks software with effects and presets
Doesn't include pop filter
|
PC Gamer
The best USB microphone and boom arm bundle
|
Good build quality
Great value
Clean, crisp sound
|
Lack of desk stand in streaming kit
Cardioid only
|
We ranked HyperX SoloCast #8 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Tom's Guide
The best microphone on a budget
|
Very affordable
Good sound
Adjustable stand
Portable friendly
|
Limited controls
Cardioid pattern only
|
We ranked Razer Seiren Mini #9 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
PC Gamer
The best budget mic
|
Pill-shaped design
Great sound
|
No mute button
Proprietary micro-USB
|
We ranked Elgato Wave 3 #10 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
We ranked Rode NT1 #11 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
The best affordable condenser mic
|
Low noise
Sound quality
Integrated shock mount
USB interface
|
No minimal latency monitoring facility
Doesn't support 44.1kHz sample rate
|
PCMag
Best for USB and XLR Inputs
|
Features both XLR and USB inputs
Solid digital signal processing options for USB mode
Up to 192kHz, 32-bit float audio quality
Box includes shock mount, cables, and pop filter
|
Not all processing options are available for every audio quality setting
Lacks physical gain and volume knobs
No headphone jack
|
We ranked Sontronics Podcast Pro #12 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best-looking podcast microphone
|
Good for recording speech and podcasts
Great unique design
Comes with an internal shock mount
Good price
|
Can have issues rejecting ambient noise when multiple sounds are being recorded
|
We ranked Aston Origin #13 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
The best low-priced condenser mic
|
Fantastic price
Boutique appearance
|
Very few
|
Music Grotto
|
Versatile for most voices
127 dB max SPL
Custom, mountable end caps
Built-in shock isolation adds a layer of durability
|
No shock mount included
Low-cut filter doesn’t lend to dynamic vocals
|
We ranked Electro-Voice RE20 #14 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Music Radar
The dynamic mic that thinks it’s a condenser
|
No proximity effect
No off-axis colouration
Superb rejection of unwanted sounds
Legendary for voice, but great for vocals and some instruments too
|
Needs a lot of clean gain
|
We ranked Rode Procaster Dynamic #15 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
Just Creative
The best microphone that’s built to work
|
Clear and focused audio
Solid build
Handles ambient noise extremely well
Comes with stand mount and a zip pouch
|
A bit pricey
|
We ranked Neumann U87 Ai #16 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best microphones” rankings.
