Recording outdoors can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor for radio hosts and podcasters. The bustling sounds of nature, cityscapes, or public events can enrich content, adding a layer of realism and ambiance. However, capturing clean, high-quality audio in such environments requires the right tools: a microphone for outdoors.
In this article, we’ll explore why a good outdoor microphone is indispensable, what features to look for, and introduce 8 top mics for outdoors across different categories to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
1/ Why invest in a quality microphone for outdoors?
2/ Key features to look for
3/ Best microphones for outdoors
4/ Tips for optimizing outdoor recordings
5/ Frequently asked questions
Outdoor environments are unpredictable. From wind gusts to passing cars or chattering crowds, unwanted noise can overwhelm your recordings. A good outdoor microphone often includes features like windshields, shock mounts, and directional audio pickup to minimize interference.
Listeners judge the professionalism of your podcast or radio show by the quality of its sound. Poor audio, characterized by hiss, muffling, or distortion, can deter even your most enthusiastic listeners. Investing in a microphone for outdoors will reinforce the professionalism of your radio station, and provide a great listening experience for your audience.
Outdoor conditions can be harsh (think rain, humidity, or dust…) High-quality microphones designed specifically for outdoor use are built to withstand these challenges without compromising performance.
When selecting a microphone for outdoor use, it’s important to prioritize these features:
To simplify your decision-making, we’ve created four categories: Handheld Mics, Lavalier Mics, Shotgun Mics, and Portable Recording Devices with Built-in Mics.
Handheld microphones are portable microphones designed to be held in the hand, commonly used by singers, presenters, reporters, and performers. It can be dynamic, offering durability and resistance to feedback, or condenser, providing higher sensitivity. Most models have a cardioid pickup pattern to focus on the speaker’s voice while reducing background noise. Available in both wired and wireless versions, some also feature built-in on/off switches for control. Handheld microphones are widely used in live performances, broadcasting, interviews, and public speaking. They are incredibly versatile and easy to use.
The Shure SM58 is a legendary dynamic vocal microphone known for its durability, warm sound, and excellent background noise rejection. Featuring a cardioid pickup pattern, it isolates the main sound source while minimizing ambient noise and feedback. Built with a rugged metal body and an internal shock-mount system, it’s ideal for live interviews and speeches. Its built-in spherical wind and pop filter helps reduce plosive sounds, making it a top choice for interviews in noisy environments like street fairs or sports events.
The Sennheiser MD 46 is a dynamic cardioid handheld microphone designed for professional broadcasting and field reporting. It features a long handle for easy use in interviews, excellent speech clarity, and low handling noise. Its cardioid pickup pattern reduces background noise, making it ideal for outdoor and noisy environments. With a durable metal construction and minimal plosive sensitivity, the MD 46 is a reliable choice for journalists and broadcasters.
A lavalier microphone is a small, clip-on microphone designed to be attached to clothing, typically near the collar, for hands-free audio capture. It is commonly used in broadcasting, public speaking, and video production due to its discreet size and ability to pick up clear speech while allowing the user to move freely. Lavalier microphones can be wired, connecting directly to a recording device or transmitter, or wireless, using a bodypack transmitter for mobility. Most have an omnidirectional pickup pattern to capture sound from all directions, though some models offer directional options to reduce background noise.
The RODE Lavalier II is a premium omnidirectional lavalier microphone designed for broadcast, filmmaking, and content creation. It features a low-profile, sleek design for discreet placement and exceptional audio clarity. With a wide frequency response and minimal self-noise, it captures natural and detailed sound. The Lavalier II includes a locking 3.5mm TRS connector, making it compatible with a range of wireless systems and recording devices, making it an excellent choice for professionals.
The Sanken COS-11D is a high-quality omnidirectional lavalier microphone designed for interviews, broadcasting and film production. Known for its natural, transparent sound and excellent speech intelligibility, it features a moisture-resistant design to withstand challenging environments. With a wide frequency response and minimal self-noise, the COS-11D delivers clear, detailed audio while remaining discreet and easy to conceal, making it a top choice for radio presenters and podcasters recording on-the-go.
A shotgun microphone is another highly directional microphone designed to capture sound from a specific direction while minimizing background noise. It features a long, narrow body with a supercardioid or lobar pickup pattern, making it ideal for isolating audio in noisy environments. Commonly used in filmmaking, broadcasting, and field recording, shotgun microphones are often mounted on boom poles, cameras, or stands to capture clear dialogue or sound effects from a distance. They can be wired or wireless and are especially useful in outdoor and on-location shoots where ambient noise needs to be minimized.
The RODE NTG5 is a lightweight, highly directional shotgun microphone designed for professional field recording, film, and broadcast applications. It features a supercardioid polar pattern, providing exceptional sound isolation and clarity while rejecting off-axis noise. With a wide frequency response and low self-noise, the NTG5 delivers natural, detailed audio. Its compact design, durable construction, and high sensitivity make it ideal for use in outdoor environments. The NTG5 also includes a custom windscreen and a high-quality shock mount for superior performance. It does a fantastic job at capturing crisp dialogue in nature or urban settings.
The Sennheiser MKH 416 is a professional shotgun microphone renowned for its outstanding clarity and precision in sound capture. It features a supercardioid/lobar polar pattern, making it highly directional and ideal for isolating sound in noisy environments. Widely used in film, television, and broadcast, the MKH 416 delivers exceptional audio quality with low self-noise, even in challenging conditions. Its rugged build, moisture resistance, and compact design make it a go-to choice for radio hosts and podcasters requiring broadcast-quality audio outdoors.
If you prefer an all-in-one solution, portable recorders with built-in microphones can be a game-changer. A portable recording device is a compact, self-contained audio recorder designed for high-quality sound capture on the go. It typically features built-in microphones, multiple input options for external mics, and onboard storage or memory card slots. These devices are widely used by journalists, podcasters, musicians, and field recordists for interviews, live performances, and ambient sound recording. Many models offer battery power, high-resolution audio recording, and even built-in effects.
The Zoom H6 is a versatile portable recorder designed for professional audio recording. It features four built-in XLR/TRS inputs and supports up to six tracks simultaneously, making it ideal for interviews, podcasts, music recording, and fieldwork. With its high-quality preamps, interchangeable microphone capsules, and intuitive interface, the H6 offers excellent sound capture with flexibility and portability. Its durable construction, combined with features like multi-track recording and onboard effects, makes it a popular choice for creators on the go.
The Tascam DR-40X is a portable audio recorder that offers high-quality stereo recording with up to four tracks. It features built-in adjustable condenser microphones and supports external mic inputs via XLR or TRS connections. With its easy-to-use interface, robust design, and versatile recording options, the DR-40X is ideal for podcasts, interviews, and fieldwork. It also includes features like overdubbing, multi-track recording, and a variety of effects, making it a reliable tool for both beginners and professionals. If you’re looking to record ambient sounds and interviews on-location, this portable device is a great option.
Even with the best microphone for outdoors, technique matters. Here are some tips to get the most out of your outdoor recordings:
A high-quality outdoor microphone can elevate your radio or podcasting game, enabling you to capture clean, professional audio in even the most challenging environments. Whether you prefer handhelds, lavaliers, shotguns, or portable recorders, there’s a perfect microphone for your unique needs.
If you’re planning on broadcasting or recording outside of your radio studio, it’s important that you invest in the proper equipment to ensure high quality audio. When you’re recording outside, you are faced with various noises and situations that can negatively impact your audio if you don’t have the right equipment!
In our selection, the cheapest mic is the Shure SM58. You can purchase it on Thomann for $92.
To complete your setup, you will need cables to connect your microphone to your recording device. We also suggest that you invest in a pair of headphones in order to monitor your recording. You may also want to purchase a windshield to improve your audio quality.
Investing in the right gear and applying solid recording techniques ensures that your content not only sounds professional but also connects with your audience in meaningful ways. Explore the options listed above, and start creating your best outdoor content today!
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