So your group is playing online through a service like Roll20 and you want to find the best microphone for playing D&D online. No worries! We’ve got you covered!
Today we are looking at the best microphones to fit your gaming, recording, and streaming needs. This isn’t a full-on technical breakdown of each microphone. Instead, we’re focusing on how each microphone helps you sound your best for your online D&D sessions.
Microphone Types
With even one Google search, it becomes painfully apparent that there is no shortage of microphones on the market. With so many options that have so many features and a wide price range, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
So for this review, we’re going to look at three types of microphones, their pros and cons, and the Tabletop Joab picks in each category.
As a note, you should also consider what you will be using the microphone for in the long run as well. If you’ve ever considered streaming or starting a podcast or Youtube channel, getting a “fancier” microphone now will save you from having to get one later!
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones are very sensitive to sounds which makes them very popular picks for studio recordings. These bad boys pick up very high-quality sound and are commonly used by podcasters and streamers. The point of a condenser microphone is to perfectly recreate the sound that is put into it.
Chris, the sound guy for Critical Role, said on Reddit that they record using the Audio-Technica AT875R Condenser Microphone.
Pros
USB Condenser Microphones are one of the most cost-effective options on the market.
They offer a great quality sound at a low cost with no need to learn the fine points of proper audio setup.
Cons
These microphones tend to be fragile. If you plan on traveling with your microphone, you are greatly risking damaging it.
Because these microphones are so sensitive to sounds, you want to be mindful of background noise. A squeaky chair, louder air conditioning unit, or TV in the background can all be picked up very easily by a condenser microphone.
Condenser Picks – Best Microphone For Playing D&D Online
The Blue Yeti is my personal microphone of choice. With multiple settings and a high-quality sound, it’s a great option to help you sound your best in your games!
For its quality, settings, and incredible ease-of-use, this is the Tabletop Joab top microphone pick!
The Blue Snowball is from the same company who makes the previous pick. This pick is cheaper while still offering great quality sound. In its price range, it’s the clear winner.
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are another option that you may find interesting.
These are most often used for live recordings and radio broadcasts. If you’ve ever listened to talk-radio, you’ve almost certainly heard that deep and clear “broadcast sound” that dynamic microphones create.
Pros
These microphones tend to be hardier than condenser microphones which make them great options if you have kids that may play with it or plan on traveling with it.
They aren’t as sensitive as condenser microphones are, which means that you’re less likely to pick up background noises that can be disruptive to your D&D session.
Cons
Because they are less sensitive, you need to have the microphone closer to your mouth.
Extra gear is needed. You’ll want to pick up a windscreen (to block breath and spit in those excitable moments) and a microphone stand so that you can get the position just right.
Most Dynamic microphones require an XLR connection, so be careful if you’re just looking for a USB option.
Dynamic Picks – Best Microphone for Playing D&D Online
The ATR2100x-USB provides the benefits of a Dynamic microphone with the connectivity of USB for easy use. It comes with a decent stand, but you’ll want to get something sturdier.
For the money, the Zoom ZDM-1 Podcast Mic Pack is a great option. It includes the microphone, tripod, XLR cables and windscreen that you need to get going. The headphones are admittedly kind of “meh” but the other contents make up for it. Just note that this won’t work unless you have an XLR interface!
Headset Microphones
The most budget-friendly options for playing D&D online are headset microphones. These aren’t going to have the same quality and depth of Condenser and Dynamic microphones, but these are worth looking at if you are in the market for a quick and affordable solution.
Pros
Headsets are cheaper than the previously mentioned options. They’re a great and affordable option for a hands-free online D&D experience.
Also great if you do other online gaming
Cons
Lower quality sound than the other options
Not ideal if you are having multiple people that need the microphone on one end.
Headset Picks – Best Microphone For Playing D&D Online
All in all, I’m a big fan of Corsair products.
The headphone cups on this headset are made with memory foam which is great for keeping it comfortable (especially if you have glasses) for the typical 4+ hours D&D session.
Also, the unidirectional microphone helps to cut out ambient noise in the background while the headphones themselves are 7.1 surround sound which can greatly help with immersion.
If you aren’t looking for a fancy Condenser or Dynamic microphone to play D&D online, I would strongly encourage you towards this headset.
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