Behringer XM8500

The Behringer XM8500 is the genuinely-cheap dynamic vocal microphone that gives away its inspiration (the Shure SM58) in every design choice — handheld dynamic, cardioid polar pattern, integrated shock-mount system, spherical pop filter. Pricing varies surprisingly across retailers from around $25 on Amazon and B&H historically to $64.96 at current Walmart pricing, with the older $20-30 price point still findable used or on sale.

Includes a mic clip and carrying case. Frequency response 50Hz-15kHz, cardioid pattern, capable of handling moderate SPL. Where it shines is exactly the use case it's priced for: guest mics for occasional in-person interview podcasts, backup mics for emergencies, pop-up live event recording, or genuinely budget-strapped beginners who can't justify even a Q2U.

Many podcasters keep an XM8500 or two around as spare/guest mics specifically because they're cheap enough to lend without anxiety. Where it falls short is everything compared to higher-tier dynamics.

The tone is thinner than the SM58 it copies, build quality is light, and there's no path to growth — you'd outgrow it the moment your podcast hit a serious quality bar. The lack of USB output also means you need an audio interface immediately, adding cost. Best fit as a spare, guest, or true-budget starting point — not as a primary mic for a podcast you're investing in.