How to Set Up Microphone for YouTube

Last Updated: 

February 1, 2025

If you are planning to become an official YouTuber, there are many things that you have to prepare – one of the most significant things is a microphone.

A microphone is a device that converts your voice into electrical signals that you can edit and then publish on YouTube through your computer. Your YouTube video’s quality is determined not only by its content and resolution but also by the clarity of your voice.

If you are new to setting up a microphone, worry not; you don’t have to learn a lot of technical stuff to get started. Having the right microphone that suits your channel’s personality will make things easier for you.

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Why you Need a Microphone for your YouTube Videos

You need a microphone for your YouTube videos to record clear and rich audio and make it reach your audience’s ears.

The sound of a video is one of the most crucial elements. No doubt, video content, and quality are important, but they are not enough.

You need to make sure the quality of sound matches the quality of the video. If you record a 4k video, but the sound is terrible, it will be hard to keep your audience interested and engaged.

Laptops and cameras have in-built microphones, but their audio quality is usually poor, and they also do not eliminate background noise. The main focus of a camera is to capture images, and not to record audio. Contrarily, an external microphone is specifically designed to record audio alone. That is why it is vital to have a good quality microphone for your YouTube videos.

How a Good Microphone Can Help your YouTube Channel Grow

Good audio can make your video sound professional, and it can impact how your audience experiences your videos. Viewers may forgive lighting or camera errors, but the poor recording and sound quality are hardly forgiven.

A good microphone that records crisp and clear voices while efficiently eliminating ambient sounds is what famous YouTubers use to grab and hold their viewers’ attention until the end of a video.

Pick the Right Microphone

There is a huge variety of microphones available in the market. They differ from each other based on how they convert sound waves into electrical waves and how they are constructed. Their additional features also make them different from each other.

Since different microphones are suitable for different situations or surroundings, you should be aware of their differences so that you can pick one that suits your surroundings the best.

Condenser: It is considered great for vocals because of its ability to record a clear voice. It’s suitable for indoor studios.

Dynamic: It handles loud sounds really well. It’s a good choice for both indoors and outdoors.

Lavalier: This small microphone allows hands-free operation, which makes it ideal for recording on-camera talent.

Portable Digital Audio Recorders: These compact microphones are easy to transport, due to which they are popularly used for recording interviews in the field.

Shotgun: It is good for on-camera talks and speeches where the speaker has to maintain his focus on the camera.

Wireless Microphone Systems (WMS): It records multiple speakers and allows them to move freely in their surroundings or studio.

Know your Budget

Microphones vary in price. It is generally believed that the higher the price, the superior the microphone, but it is not always true.

If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with a low-cost microphone. Then upgrade it when your channel starts growing and making some bucks. If your channel already has many viewers, buy a professional and advanced mic that can help you grow your audience.

Where is the Best Place to Record

Choose your recording location wisely and build a dedicated space. It should go well with the nature of the content and personality of your channel. You can record in a kitchen, bedroom, living room, basement, outdoors, and many other places.

  • Record in a kitchen if your channel is about cooking
  • Record in an office if your channel is related to business
  • Record in your living room or behind a desk if you run a gaming channel
  • Record in a production studio if your content is about filmmaking
  • Record in your living room while sitting on the sofa if you are giving relationship advice

Pick the Right Microphone

USB Microphones

Blue Yeti

It’s suitable for different recording settings and offers numerous beneficial features. You can customize the polar pattern and choose between 4 options. There is a headphone jack that makes recording easier. In addition to this, it also has a mute and a volume control button.

XLR Microphones

Rode Procaster

Rode Procaster is a dynamic microphone that has a solid built and comes with a 10-year warranty. It uses the cardioid pattern. It is an inexpensive option yet produces professional-quality sound. There is an internal pop filter and a low-cut filter that helps in rejecting background noises.

Best Budget Mic

Samson Go Mic

This budget mic is a good choice for beginners. It has a plug-and-play design so you can record directly on your computer. It allows you to switch between cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns. It is designed in a way that you can either clip it to your computer or place it on your desk easily.

Best Lavalier Mics for YouTube

Rode SmartLav+

Rode SmartLav+ is a professional-grade mic for YouTubers. You can use it in a wide range of scenarios. Its condenser capsule is omnidirectional. It comes with a mounting clip and a windshield.

Best Shotgun Mics for YouTube

Rode VideoMic Pro+

Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a true shotgun microphone that records well in both indoor and outdoor places. It has a compact structure and has a built-in shock mount that absorbs various vibrations and reduces noise. Its built-in battery door makes changing the battery quicker and easier.

Conclusion

An external microphone that is built specifically to record sound is important to create professional-level YouTube videos. A clear voice that is free of distractions helps you grab your audience’s attention and grow your channel.

Microphones come in various forms. You should select one that suits your needs and content type the best. Hope these YouTube microphone tips helped you with your channel.

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