Dynamic or condenser?
- Dynamic microphones are less sensitive. They pick up mainly what's right in front of them and ignore much of the room — ideal for untreated bedrooms, loud sources and podcasts.
- Condenser microphones are more sensitive and detailed, capturing breath and air beautifully — and also your room's echo, computer fan and traffic. They need phantom power (48 V) from your interface.
If your room isn't treated, a dynamic mic usually sounds better in practice than a pricier condenser.
USB or XLR?
- USB — plugs straight into a computer. Simple and affordable, but harder to upgrade later.
- XLR — needs an audio interface, which adds cost but gives you better converters, low-latency monitoring and the freedom to swap mics.
Polar patterns
- Cardioid — picks up the front, rejects the back. The right choice for most solo recording.
- Figure-8 — front and back, rejecting the sides. Useful for two people facing each other.
- Omni — all around. Great in a good room, unforgiving in a bad one.
Accessories that matter
- A pop filter for vocals.
- A stand that holds the mic still.
- Something soft behind you — a duvet or bookshelf does more than you'd expect.
Recording in a noisy space anyway? The noise remover and voice cleaner can help after the fact.