The Importance of Good Quality Microphones and Headsets

When it comes to podcasting, high-quality audio is essential. Wired microphones and headsets deliver consistent, reliable, and professional sound that wireless options simply can’t match.

Benefits of Using the Right Microphone:

• Clarity: Your voice will be clear and easy to understand.
• Reduced Background Noise: Minimize noise for a more professional sound.
• Engagement: Eliminate delays associated with wireless connections.
• Reliability: Avoid disruptions during recording.

What Not to Use

We strongly advise against using wireless or Bluetooth microphones and headsets, including popular brands like Apple AirPods, Bose, and JBL. These options often have connection issues and compromised sound quality, which could lead to your podcast being canceled unless it meets our standards. Some examples of popular products that have poor-quality microphones include

• Apple AirPods Pro
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
• Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
• Google Pixel Buds Pro
• Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones
• Apple AirPods Max 
• Beats Fit Pro 

Many of the expensive headphones offer an excellent listening experience and are designed for entertainment experience, although they have subpar microphone quality. We recommend obtaining a headset with a high-quality microphone.

Product Recommendations

For optimal sound quality, we recommend a wired headset with a boom microphone. This offers a convenient plug-and-play solution without the need for additional equipment. Position the microphone close to your mouth for the best sound capture.

Wired Headsets – If you are unsure what to get, we can recommend these headsets:

• Sennheiser PC 7 USB Headset
• Sennheiser PC8.2 USB
• Jabra Evolve 20 UC Stereo Wired Headset
• Logitech H390
• Sennheiser PC 8 USB Internet Telephony On-Ear Headset

Please note: Unfortunately, if you join the episode recording and the sound quality does not meet our standards, we will have to cancel the recording.

FAQs

Why is a cheaper wired headset better than my expensive Bluetooth headphones? While expensive headphones offer great listening experiences, they often have subpar microphones. Microphone placement is also crucial. A well-positioned, affordable wired microphone will outperform a high-end Bluetooth headset with a distant microphone.

What if I’m new to podcasting? We recommend sticking to a wired headset with a boom arm for ease of use. Dedicated microphones often require additional equipment and expertise to set up correctly.

Do I need additional accessories? No, pop filters or windscreens are only necessary for dedicated microphones.

How should I position the microphone? Position it slightly below your mouth, between your lips and chin, to capture your voice clearly while minimizing unwanted sounds.

Will you help with the audio settings? Wired headsets are plug-and-play, requiring no setup. We only recommend dedicated microphones if you’re experienced in audio configuration.

What about my internet connection? Your internet connection won’t affect recording quality, as the recording is done locally on your computer.

What if I make a noise during the recording? Don’t worry! Our audio editor will remove coughs, bumps, and other noises from the final recording.

How will I know if my sound quality is okay? Our host will let you know if there are any issues with your microphone.

Should I mute myself when not speaking? This is only necessary if there’s background noise on your end.

What if I want to buy a dedicated microphone? If you want to try for a more professional feeling setup, you can try a standalone microphone and headset setup.