In the quest for professional-grade audio during live streaming, a dynamic microphone is an essential tool for creators. Whether you’re a burgeoning YouTuber, a Twitch sensation, or an aspiring podcaster, the right microphone can elevate your content. Dynamic microphones, known for their durability, simplicity, and excellent sound isolation, are perfect for untreated recording environments. They capture the richness of your voice while keeping unwanted ambient noise at bay, ensuring your listeners stay engaged. In this listicle, we’ve rounded up the best dynamic microphones for streaming to help you find the ultimate audio companion that suits your style and budget.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Dynamic Microphone for Streaming

Selecting the ideal dynamic microphone for streaming involves considering factors that contribute to high-quality audio and ease of use for the streamer. Here are key criteria to guide your selection:

1. Sound Quality: Opt for a microphone that captures rich and clear audio with minimal background noise. Look for a wide frequency response to ensure both low and high tones are reproduced accurately.
2. Cardioid Pickup Pattern: A cardioid or unidirectional pattern is essential to focus on your voice while minimizing sound from the sides and rear, helping to isolate ambient noises and room echoes common in home streaming setups.
3. Durability: Streaming can involve regular handling of the microphone. Thus, a robust build is important to withstand potential knocks and drops.
4. Connectivity: Ensure the microphone easily connects to your streaming setup. Most prefer XLR microphones for professional quality, paired with an audio interface, though USB microphones can also suit those seeking simplicity.
5. Mounting and Accessories: A compatible microphone stand or boom arm and a shock mount can help reduce handling noise and position the microphone effectively.
6. Ease of Use: Look for user-friendly features like plug-and-play capability, on-mic controls, and the absence of require complex setup procedures.
7. Price: The microphone should provide value for money, balancing cost with features and performance.

Keeping these criteria in mind, let’s dive into the listicle review of the best dynamic microphones for streaming.

Here’s a simplified table that might be featured in a user-friendly article or guide:

Microphone Model	Approx. Price (USD)	Frequency Range	Polar Pattern	Connectivity	Unique Feature
Shure SM7B	$400	50 Hz – 20 kHz	Cardioid	XLR	Internal “air suspension” shock isolation
Electro-Voice RE20	$450	45 Hz – 18 kHz	Cardioid	XLR	Variable-D for minimal proximity effect
Rode PodMic	$100	20 Hz – 20 kHz	Cardioid	XLR	Optimized for speech clarity
AKG D5	$100	70 Hz – 20 kHz	Supercardioid	XLR	Laminated Varimotion diaphragm
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB	$100	50 Hz – 15 kHz	Cardioid	XLR, USB	USB digital output for easy computer connection

Please note: The prices and specs are approximate and are meant to serve as a guide. Actual prices and specs should be checked with the retailer or manufacturer at the time of purchase.

This table will give you a clear bird’s-eye view of the options for dynamic microphones suitable for streaming. When you’re choosing one, think about your specific needs like budget, the kind of connectivity you prefer, and the sound quality you’re aiming for.

Shure SM7B

The Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone within the realms of streaming, podcasting, and broadcasting. Its popularity isn’t just hype; this dynamic mic brings an unparalleled level of professional audio quality to your streams that can make a world of difference.

From my personal experience, what makes the SM7B stand out is its rich, warm sound character that adds a pleasing depth to the voice. It’s forgiving on less-than-perfect room acoustics, thanks to its cardioid pickup pattern that excellently rejects off-axis sounds including room echo and background noise. This means even if you’re not in a professional studio setting, the SM7B will still make you sound great.

Another notable feature is the built-in pop filter, which minimizes those pesky plosives that can disrupt a broadcast. Its ability to handle a wide range of audio frequencies with ease stands out, especially on the lower end, making your voice sound full and present.

The build quality is top-notch, sporting a robust construction that feels like it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The adjustable yoke allows for easy positioning, and the included windscreen can be replaced with beefier options if you need extra plosive protection.

Specs

• Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
• Output Impedance: 150 ohms
• Sensitivity: -59 dB
• Connector: XLR

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality that brings a professional edge to your streams.
• Very effective at rejecting ambient noise, making it ideal for untreated rooms.
• The built-in pop filter and shock absorption reduce the need for additional accessories.
• Durable construction provides a premium feel and longevity.

Cons:

• Requires a good preamp due to its low output level, which can be an additional cost.
• Heavier and bulkier than other options, so make sure you have a sturdy boom arm.
• The price point may be prohibitive for beginners or those on a tight budget.

Price

The Shure SM7B typically retails at around $400, which reflects its professional quality. While it’s on the higher end of the market for dynamic microphones, the investment is justifiable for serious streamers seeking top-tier audio performance.

In my opinion, the price you pay for the SM7B translates into value when you consider the instant audio upgrade it provides. If you’re passionate about streaming and want your voice to carry that professional studio sheen, the SM7B is a worthy centerpiece for your audio setup. The initial investment might pinch the pocket, but it’s a one-time purchase that keeps on giving, elevating every piece of content you create.

Electro-Voice RE20

The Electro-Voice RE20 is a dynamic cardioid microphone that has become a broadcast industry standard, widely revered for its ability to deliver smooth, natural vocal reproduction with minimal proximity effect. It’s a favorite among radio hosts, voice-over artists, and podcasters, and it’s also found a home in recording studios for instruments, particularly kick drums and bass cabinets.

Overview:
Having used the Electro-Voice RE20 in various settings, I can confidently say it’s a microphone that lives up to its reputation. Its sound signature is characterized by a flat, wide frequency response which translates to a very natural and true-to-life capture of the source. The lack of proximity effect is a real boon for vocal work, allowing for consistent sound quality even when the speaker or singer moves slightly off-axis or varies their distance from the mic.

The RE20’s Variable-D design is responsible for this consistency, and it’s one of the features that sets it apart from other dynamic mics. The heft and build quality of the RE20 are immediately apparent; this is a microphone that feels like it can withstand the rigors of daily studio use and come out unscathed. It’s also worth noting that the internal pop filter does a decent job of mitigating plosives, though for close vocal work, an external pop filter can be beneficial.

In terms of aesthetics, the RE20’s design is iconic, with a professional look that hasn’t changed much over the years. While it’s not flashy, its appearance is instantly recognizable to those in the industry. The microphone’s weight and size mean it requires a sturdy stand, especially if you’re using it in a broadcast boom arm setup.

Specs:

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 45Hz – 18kHz
• Impedance: 150 ohms
• Sensitivity: 1.5 mV/Pa
• Connector: XLR
• Unique Features: Variable-D for minimal proximity effect; internal blast and wind filters
• Dimensions: Length: 8.53″ (216.7mm), Diameter: 2.14″ (54.4mm)
• Weight: 26 oz (737g)

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with a flat frequency response
• Variable-D technology minimizes proximity effect
• Robust construction that’s built to last
• Versatile for both voice and instrument applications
• Internal pop filter reduces plosives effectively

Cons:

• The microphone is quite heavy and bulky, requiring a sturdy stand or boom arm
• The price point may be prohibitive for hobbyists or those on a tight budget
• It lacks the convenience of USB connectivity for direct digital recording
• Some may find the sound too flat or neutral, especially if they’re looking for a mic with a built-in ‘character’

Price:
The Electro-Voice RE20 typically retails for around $450 USD, though prices can vary. While this places it in the higher price bracket for dynamic microphones, its durability and performance can make it a worthwhile investment for serious broadcasters and audio professionals. For those just starting out or with less demanding needs, there are certainly less expensive options that provide good quality, but the RE20 is a case of getting what you pay for, and in this instance, it’s a piece of tried-and-true professional audio equipment.

Rode PodMic

The Rode PodMic is a broadcast-grade dynamic microphone designed specifically for podcasting. It has gained a reputation for being a robust and versatile microphone that suits both new and experienced streamers. It’s designed to offer a professional sound quality at a price point that’s accessible for content creators on a budget.

Overview

From the moment you take the Rode PodMic out of the box, you feel confident about its build quality. The solid, all-metal construction gives it a nice weight and durability that you would expect from more expensive microphones. This durability makes it ideal for long-term use, even if it’s moved around frequently during your streaming sessions.

One of the standout features of the PodMic is its integrated pop shield. This internal feature helps reduce plosive sounds that can occur when pronouncing words with ‘p’s and ‘b’s making your speech clearer and more professional sounding.

When it comes to sound quality, the PodMic impresses with its rich, balanced tone. It’s tuned to enhance the speaker’s voice, delivering a warm and clear sound that’s ideal for streaming and podcasting. The cardioid pickup pattern also helps to isolate your voice from background noise, ensuring that your content sounds crisp.

The PodMic is optimized for use with Rode’s own RODECaster Pro Podcast Production Studio but performs admirably with a variety of audio interfaces and mixers. Note that it’s a dynamic microphone, it requires a good amount of gain, so a decent preamp or a dedicated mic activator might be necessary to get the best performance out of it.

Specs

• Acoustic Principle: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Range: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Output Connection: XLR
• Output Impedance: 320Ω
• Sensitivity: -57.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (1.60mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz
• Weight: 937 grams

Pros:

• Excellent build quality and durability
• Integrated pop shield reduces plosive sounds
• Tailored frequency response for speech
• Isolates voice well from background noises
• Affordable for the features it offers

Cons:

• Requires a good amount of gain which may necessitate additional investment in a preamp or activator
• Some users may require an external shock mount for further sound isolation
• Not as widely versatile for uses beyond voice-focused applications due to speech-focused tuning

Price

The Rode PodMic is very competitively priced, often coming in around $99, although prices can fluctuate slightly depending on the retailer and region. For a microphone that offers a broadcast-quality sound and solid build, it’s quite the bargain and allows streamers and podcasters to produce high-quality audio without breaking the bank.

Final Opinion

Overall, the Rode PodMic is an exceptional microphone for streaming, particularly for those looking to deliver clear, professional-quality vocal recordings without a steep investment. The design reflects thoughtfulness for the end-user, focusing on what matters most for streamers and podcasters—audio consistency, ease of use, and reliability. It doesn’t come with some of the additional bells and whistles of its pricier counterparts, but it doesn’t need to. Its performance speaks for itself, offering perhaps the best value for money in its category as a straightforward, no-nonsense dynamic microphone tailored for the spoken word.

AKG D5 Dynamic Microphone

When it comes to streaming, having a microphone that can deliver professional-grade audio without capturing all the background noise is essential. The AKG D5 steps into this arena with a promise to provide clarity and durability for live performers and streamers alike. Its rugged build and crisp sound profile make it an attractive choice for those looking to give their streaming setup a serious voice upgrade.

In my experience with the D5, the audio quality is commendable, especially given its price point. It competes with some more expensive microphones in terms of sound reproduction. The microphone’s patented laminated Varimotion diaphragm is the secret weapon here, enhancing its performance and making it less prone to feedback than some of its competitors.

One of the standout features for streamers is the supercardioid polar pattern which does a phenomenal job at focusing on your voice while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This means even if you have a mechanical keyboard or a noisy computer fan, the chances are high that your audience will hear less of that and more of you.

Specs:

• Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Frequency Response: 70 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector: XLR
• Output Impedance: 600 ohms
• Sensitivity: 2.6 mV/Pa (-52 dBV)
• Weight: 320 grams

Pros:

• Excellent feedback suppression, thanks to the supercardioid pattern.
• High SPL handling capacity is great for energetic streamers or those who tend to get loud.
• Solid and durable construction feels like it can take a beating.
• The sound is crisp and clear, making your voice shine through without requiring much post-processing.
• Generally well-balanced frequency response for a natural sound reproduction.

Cons:

• Lack of additional features like onboard mute or gain control, which some streamers might miss.
• XLR connection means you’ll need an audio interface or mixer, which might be an extra cost for those who don’t already own one.
• Can be less forgiving if you move around a lot, given the tight pickup pattern.

Price:

The AKG D5 can usually be found at around $99, which I find to be a steal for the quality it delivers. Granted, the need for additional gear like an audio interface can add to the overall investment, but if you’re serious about streaming, it’s a worthwhile expense for the audio fidelity boost.

In summary, the AKG D5 is a powerhouse for streamers who want clear audio without the clutter of background noises. Its durability and sound quality typically surpass what you’d expect at this price, making it a savvy choice for budget-conscious streamers looking to improve their audio setup.

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

Overview:
The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is a dynamic microphone designed for podcasters, streamers, and musicians who need a versatile and easy-to-use audio solution. This microphone immediately catches the eye (and ear) because it harmoniously blends quality with convenience. Its sound is clear and robust, delivering a professional edge to live stream sessions. One standout feature is its dual output; the ATR2100x-USB provides both USB and XLR connections, enabling you to use it with a wide variety of equipment – from computers to professional mixing boards.

Specs:

• Microphone Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 50-15,000 Hz
• Connectors: USB Type-C, XLR
• A/D Conversion: 24-bit, up to 192kHz sampling rate
• Accessories Included: Stand clamp, tripod desk stand, USB cables, and XLR cable

Pros:

• The dual USB/XLR outputs offer great flexibility, making it ideal for both entry-level and professional settings.
• It has a surprisingly crisp and clear audio profile for a microphone at this price range.
• The inclusion of a high-quality analog-to-digital converter ensures pristine sound when using the USB connection.
• It’s quite user-friendly, with essentially no need for extra gear when plugging directly into a computer.

Cons:

• While the build is sturdy, the all-metal construction can make it a bit heavy for on-the-go use.
• Its lower end doesn’t quite capture the richness that some other dynamic microphones, like the Shure SM7B, might offer.

Price:
At the time of review, the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is priced at around $100-$130. Its affordability in relation to its features makes it an excellent value proposition.

My personal take on the ATR2100x-USB is that it’s a real asset for streamers looking to step up their audio game without breaking the bank. The ease of use, combined with the quality it delivers, places it high on my list of recommendations, especially for those who are just getting serious about their audio presence online. It might not have the same pedigree as some of the more established broadcast microphones, but it certainly punches above its weight class in terms of performance and convenience.

Conclusion:

In the search for the perfect dynamic microphone for streaming, we have navigated through a plethora of options to bring you the top contenders. Each microphone on our list stands out for its durability, sound quality, and ability to isolate background noise – vital traits for any live streamer. Whether you’re embarking on your streaming journey or looking to enhance your audio setup, investing in a reliable dynamic microphone can dramatically elevate your audience’s listening experience. Remember to consider your specific needs regarding connectivity, versatility, and budget as you make your decision.

FAQs:

Q: Why should I choose a dynamic microphone over a condenser microphone for streaming?
A: Dynamic microphones are generally more robust and better at handling high sound pressure levels without distortion. They are ideal for streaming as they typically pick up less background noise than condenser microphones and don’t require external power, making them more user-friendly for non-technical streamers.

Q: Are more expensive microphones always better for streaming?
A: Not necessarily. While high-end microphones often offer superior sound quality, many mid-range dynamic microphones provide excellent audio clarity that meets the needs of most streamers. It’s more important to find a microphone that matches your specific needs and environment.

Q: Do I need any additional equipment to use a dynamic microphone for streaming?
A: Depending on the microphone model, you may need an audio interface or mixer to connect the microphone to your computer, especially if it uses an XLR connection. A stand or boom arm and a pop filter are also recommended to improve the sound quality and give you flexibility in positioning the microphone.