# Best Studio and Classroom Microphones For Your Next Podcasting Project - Link: https://teachercast.net/podcasting/best-classroom-podcasting-microphones/ - Published: 2024-01-31T22:46:02-05:00 - Author: Jeff Bradbury **_So you are a podcaster … What microphone do you use?_** It’s the worlds oldest joke but it is one that certainly has a place in this world. Back when I first started podcasting, there were a few standard microphones but today, there a number of great options in just about every price range to make your head spin.  * Where do you start looking? * How do you find the right microphone for your project? * Whose advice do you follow when everyone has their own opionion? In this post, we are going to look at my favorite podcasting microphones. This year, I am looking to not only [update the equipment ](https://teachercast.net/captivate-podcast/attc-ep147-aver-usa-purchasing-classroom-video-equipment/) that I use with my students but also purchase new equipment for my mobile broadcasting when I attend conferences such as ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education). Each of these microphones below are ones that I either own or have used in the past and have extensive experience testing out. If you would like to reach out and discuss your next equipment purchase, please do not hesitate to select a time to talk on my booking page. ## Microphones that Sit on a Desk or Table ### RODE NT-USB MINI The RODE NT-USB MINI microphone is a studio-quality condenser microphone that features a directional cardioid polar pattern to help reduce sounds found in noisy classrooms. The microphone has a built-in pop filter to reduce awkward sounds that come from heavy breathing. The NT-USB Mini works with any Windows, MacOS or Chromebook computer along with most tablets. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/3vYKVaR) ### BLUE YETI The famous (or infamous) BLUE [YETI](https://teachercast.net/Blue-Yeti-X-USB-Microphone) is a USE microphone that can be used either on your desk or attached to a boom arm. The [YETI](https://teachercast.net/Blue-Yeti-X-USB-Microphone) features a multi- pattern design that allows you to record vocals in both 180 and 360 degrees. The [YETI](https://teachercast.net/Blue-Yeti-X-USB-Microphone) will always have a safe place in my equipment bag as it was the first podcasting microphone that I bought, and I still use it today for special projects. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/4bnEcHF) ## Microphones that Clip on your Shirt ### RODE Wireless Go II & Wireless Pro The [RODE Wireless Go II](https://amzn.to/3SgFQC2) has been my go-to microphone system for conferences for the last few years. These light weight clip on microphones are simply outstanding. You can record directly into either of the two microphone and then transfer your audio directly into your computer through RODE Connect software. In addition to the devices, I also recommend picking up a [carrying case](https://amzn.to/3OqfGMe) for them so you can easily stick them in your backpack. For an extra few dollars, the [RODE Interview GO Handheld Adaptor](https://amzn.to/3u8etSO) is a great addition to any on the go recording session. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/3SgFQC2) ### RODE SMARTLAV+ The RODE SMARTLAV+ is a broadcast-grade lavaliere microphone that is designed to be powerful enough to record a clean sound yet small enough to be hidden inside of clothing when on video. The SMARTLAV+ features a 3.5mm TRRS interface and comes complete with a clip and windscreen shield to protect your recordings from excess noise and wind. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/3w5gYWi) ### RODE LAVALIER II If you wish to kick your mobile audio game up a notch the RODE LAVALIER II premium microphone might be the right one for you. Featuring a low-profile design, superior sound, and several professional features, the LAVALIER II is my mobile microphone of choice for this summer’s conferences. The RODE LAVALIER II, when paired with the AI=MICRO can attach to any desktop, laptop, or mobile device providing the best mobile unit for creating an intimate 1:1 podcast conversation. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/481ceOK) ## Microphones that Hang from a Boom Arm ### RODE PODMIC USB The RODE PODMIC is a USB/XLR microphone that is robust, durable, and features all- metal construction. This was the microphone that I purchased in bulk when I started my middle school broadcasting program. The microphone runs just over one hundred dollars and includes an internal pop filter. The RODE PODMIC works great both as a desktop microphone or when held in place by a boom arm such as the RODE PSA 1 SWIVEL MOUNT STUDIO MICROPHONE BOOM ARM. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/3UnF8W9) ## Microphones that Work with Apple Devices ### RODE VIDEOMIC ME-L Another microphone that will be in my gear bag this summer is the RODE VIDEOMIC ME-L. This compact but very high-quality microphone comes in 3 versions for iOS, Android, and Headphone connection and is the perfect companion for video setups using your phone or tablet. My favorite feature of this microphone is the 3.5mm headphone port so you know that your mobile device is receiving clear audio into your favorite recording application. [CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE FROM AMAZON](https://amzn.to/3HDfp4G) ## Looking Back … What a Wild Road! I will always remember spending hours packing up all my gear and setting sail for conferences such as ISTE.  I probably had 1-2 bags full to the brim with wires, mixers, and dongles for every occasion. I don’t want to think about how much I probably paid in baggage charges at the airport. Podcasting equipment certainly has come a long way since then. The equipment is much smaller, the prices are cheaper, and the strain on your back during long days of walking are long from over. If there is a microphone that I missed, please leave a comment below. I’d love to learn what is in your equipment bag or podcasting studio. ![Illustrated Jeff Bradbury beside the title Impact Systems Starter Kit, with a weekly planner, storytelling kit and Google resources listed.](https://i0.wp.com/ teachercast.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/The-Impact-Systems-Starter-Kit-Blog-Bottom- Image-1000x900-1.webp?resize=1000%2C900&ssl=1 "Best Studio and Classroom Microphones For Your Next Podcasting Project") FREE FOR TEACHERS AND COACHES ### Spend less time planning and more time teaching. Get a weekly planner, a storytelling kit and Google resources you can use in your classroom this week.