Looking for a professional-level XLR mic to record yourself talking or singing?
You’ll have to think about two things primarily: what is your affordability and are you in search of a dynamic or condenser microphone?
Before getting into the list of the Best XLR Microphones for Streaming, let’s have a brief discourse on types of mics.
Dynamic versus Condenser
Dynamic mics are less sensitive as compared to condenser mics, making them ideal for recording a lot of people present in the same room or in the event that you do not have a quiet area for recording. For using it properly, you need to be stand closer to the microphone.
This is widely used by live performers so that they do not pick on the sound of the other instruments or background noise.
On the other hand, the Condenser mics are much more precise and sensitive, making that perfect for solo recording in a quiet room.
They do need the “phantom’ power, although it is something present in most audio interfaces these days.
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Related Guides:
- Best Dynamic Microphone For Podcasting
- Best Supercardioid Microphones for Streaming, Vlogging & Podcasts
- Best Microphone For Home Studio Vocals
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Affordability
Our recommended XLR mics on this list are priced between $70 to $500 apart from a single exception.
While picking an XLR mouthpiece, you will also require a method to convert the audio to your PC for editing purposes.
Usually, this is done by using a DAC or a digital audio converter, for example, a mixer or a USB interface.
On the other hand, Cloudlifter CL-1 or CL-2 are recommended for dynamic or ribbon microphones. Just simply make sure to get an extra XLR link.
Mic booms and shock mounts are other commonly used accessories. Typically, the organization that makes the mic will likewise offer a shock mount.
We have different options proposals for in our ‘podcast starter kit’
Regardless, you’ll need to consider the expense of these accessories while choosing which microphone to buy.
Table of Contents
12 Best XLR Microphones For Live Streaming
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1. Audio Technica ATR2100x
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It is a fantastic and economical dynamic cardioid mouthpiece that gets a great deal of praise from its users.
The two USB/XLR outputs can be utilized simultaneously, permitting you to get a backup recording too. The Audio Technica ATR2100x comes with an XLR and a USB cable.
2. Audio Technica AT2020 and AT2035
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The Audio Technica AT2020 and AT2035 is a cardioid condenser mic, perfect for your solo content.
There is additionally the AT2035 that costs around $50 more, however, it accompanies a switchable high-pass filter, a shock mount, a higher SPL, 10dB pad and progressively powerful range. This makes the AT2035 a great choice while keeping the budget less than $150
This has made this device gain immense popularity among its users including several professionals and sound engineers.
3. Shure SM58 S
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The Shure SM58 is a cardioid dynamic microphone that is generally seen in live performances. that is generally utilized for live exhibitions. This version comes with a switch for easy on and off. This mouthpiece is designed and tuned for vocals.
If you are in search of a tool that you can use both on the stage and for your studio recordings Shure SM58 S, this could be the ideal choice for you.
4. Rode Procaster
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The Rode Procaster is a superb close to studio-grade option in contrast to some of the more expensive “pro” microphones on our list below. It has an interior pop filter, accompanies a stand mount adaptor, and gives a 75Hz – 18kHz frequency response. You will definitely need a stand-in case you do not want to hold it in your hand.
The Procaster is a dynamic cardioid mic, making it ideal for a studio that houses two to hour people, as it will eliminate any background noise.
The mic isn’t the “hottest” so our suggestion would be to use a separate mic preamp, in order to not increase the audio levels in post. A simple to utilize alternative in this regard is the Cloudlifter CL-1.
You can pair the Rode Procaster with the Rode PSM 1 Shockmount, Rode PSA 1 Swivel Mount Microphone Boom Arm, and the Cloudlifter CL-1 Preamp for optimal.
5. AKG C214
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The AKG C214 is the cardioid alternative of the C414. It accompanies the wonderful-looking case, shock mount, and windscreen. It’s a condenser mic that gives warm and real sound, with a switchable 20dB pad to record loud vocals.
The included extras make it one of the best choices when searching for a condenser mic with quality sound.
6. Heil PR-40
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This is one of the most regularly suggested top of the line XLR podcasting mics, and it is no wonder that it is preferred by many of the top podcasters.
The PR-40 is an end-address cardioid dynamic microphone that offers a frequency range from 28Hz to 18kHz (the most in the Heil’s PR series), utilizes an internal shock mounted 1″ big diaphragm and even has an internal pop filter. You additionally get a cushioned leather case with foam for safety during travel and handling.
For optimal usage, pair it with Heil PRSM-B Shockmount, Heil PL-2T Boom Arm, Heil Windscreen or BSW RE27POP
7. Telefunken M82
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Initially designed as a kick drum mic, it can also be utilized for vocals due to its EQ switch. Because of this, it effectively rivals the different mics around the $400 price range.
It’s a dynamic cardioid microphone with a moving coil, a frequency response between 25Hz to 18kHz and a high max SPL 146dB.
For optimal usage, pair it with the Telefunken M700 Shock Mount.
8. Rode NT2-A
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The Rode NT2-A gives you significantly greater adaptability as opposed to the other XLR options mentioned on this list. Firstly, it comes with 3 distinct pickup patterns, omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure 8. The High-Pass Filter can be set to Flat, 40Hz or 80Hz.
The PAD can be changed from 0dB to – 5dB or – 10dB for loud sources. It is additionally accompanied by a Rode SM6 shock mount, a detachable pop filter, 3-pin XLR mic cable, and a bag to carry the equipment.
The response frequency ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz and it may be fueled using a 24-volt or a 48-volt phantom power.
Mics with similar functionalities can cost more than double of the price of the Rode NT2-A. making this an incredible value-for-money asset to have.
For optimal usage, pair it with a Rode PSA 1 Swivel Mount Microphone Boom Arm.
9. Shure SM7B
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This is the standard for radio broadcasting, meaning that for your podcasting and other related content, this should be the perfect fit.
The SM7B is a dynamic cardioid mic that gives a frequency response from 50Hz to 20kHz. It comes with a bracket to mount and a windscreen, alongside a built-in shock mount for air suspension. In fact, there is an extra separable A7WS windscreen included in the package too.
Since you essentially get all that you need in one bundle, this is a great value-for-money and similarly incredible-sounding podcasting mic. You will still require a preamp with a minimum of 60dB of gain, our suggestion would be to use it with the Cloudlifter for a simple volume lift and limiting background noise.
For optimal usage, pair it with Heil PL-2T Boom Arm and Cloudlifter CL-1 Preamp.
10. Electro-Voice RE20
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This is another industry-standard device which means that you can’t go much wrong with it. It is a genuine cardioid dynamic mic that is as good as any condenser in the market. First released in 1989, you probably know more people who use this gadget than you realize.
The one-of-a-kind Variable-D option diminishes the proximity effect and can suffice with amateurs who are not accustomed to using the mic perfectly. It offers a frequency response from 45Hz to 18Khz, an internal shock mount, and pop filter, as well a high-pass filter
Like the other expert-level dynamic mics, you’ll need a mic pre-amp to eliminate background noise even when the gain is turned up. A good choice in this regard is the DBX 286s pre-amp. This is the most popular option in the industry which also offers additional features like compression.
For optimal usage, pair it with Electro-Voice 309A Shock Mount, Electro-Voice WS-PL2 Windscreen, Heil PL-2T Boom Arm and DBX 286s Microphone Pre-amp.
11. Electro-Voice RE27N/D
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This is an upgraded variant of the Electro-Voice RE20 mentioned above. N/D represents neodymium, the component that gives this mic an extra sensitivity of 6dB. There is an extra frequency response of up to 20kHz and it likewise incorporates switches to calibrate certain frequencies:
This is a solid upgrade over the RE20 that costs just an additional $50. Hence in case you’re confused between these two options from Electro-Voice, this is the option to go for.
For optimal usage, pair it with Electro-Voice 309A Shock Mount and Electro-Voice WS-PL2 Wind
12. Neumann U87
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This is the last option on the list but is certainly not the least. This device is in a league of its own, and its market price truly reflects this: more than $3000
It’s a multi-design condenser mic: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure 8. You additionally get a low frequency to move off and a – 10dB attenuator. It comes in a spectacular wooden box.
Its design is intended to bring out warmth, particularly for vocals and it handles EQ quite decently. This is however not meant for amateurs, so be mindful of this when you decide to purchase it.
For optimal usage, pair it with Neumann EA87 Shock Mount and Neumann WS87 Windscreen.
FAQ:
Q: Which microphone should I get for streaming?
A: A pattern of use. Different microphones are designed to capture sound waves from different positions. … Types of mics. Generally speaking,the best mics come in two flavors: condenser and dynamic capsules. … On the road again. … Making a connection. …
Q: What is the best microphone to use for streaming?
A: Best USB mic for streaming: Elgato Wave 3 Best USB mic for recording and podcasting: Blue Yeti X Best XLR mic: Audio-Technica AT2020 Best cheap USB mic: Blue Snowball Ice Best audio interface for streamers: TC-Helicon GoXLR/GoXLR Mini Best headset mic: Antlion Audio ModMic USB
Q: What are the best mics for streaming and gaming?
A: Blue Yeti JLab Talk Rode PodMic Blue Yeti X Blue Snowball Ice Movo UM700 Rode Podcaster Blue Yeti Nano HyperX QuadCast Elgato Wave: 3
Q: Are XLR microphones considered better than USB?
A: XLR as a connector type is capable of better sound quality with reduced interference, but that doesn’t necessarily make every XLR microphone better than every USB microphone. Some USB microphones may have many more features you may find essential compared to XLR depending on what you want out of the microphone.