I want to say first that I know The usb mics are overpriced and XLR is the way to go This isn't really true, and if you do not already have an interface that accepts XLR inputs, and XLR mic is useless to you. It isn't really important what you buy as long as it isn't trash. If you actually put the work in to learn what you're doing, you can buy a mic with knowledge in couple years. For now, just buy a "podcasting" mic and learn how to use it. More on reddit.com

Hi all, having browsed the existing topics I can’t see a clear and simple answer to this one. My eyes glaze over when reading technical specs and I have zero interest in learning the intricacies of tech. I just want an OK for Zoom lessons plug and play microphone. Any recommendations? More on community.justinguitar.com

Have you considered dynamic mics? They need you to be closer to the mic and hence will pick up less background noise. Rode have the podcaster. More on reddit.com

then Blue Snowball seems a good idea but I don't know if I need the normal one or the ICE I accidentally bought the ICE last summer. I thought ICE just meant the color. Don't buy the ICE. It's a fine mic and all, but there's no reason to get it instead of the regular Snowball unless you are on a really, really tight budget. Like, so tight that the $10 you save is the difference between dinner or no dinner. But if you're in that scenario, a mic probably isn't something you need. should I buy a stand and pop filter? I just really don't want to shell out a load of cash and then find that I still get loads of clicks and ambient noise The Snowball comes with a decent stand. It's more than adequate to start with. Just keep in mind (this might seem obvious), but it's a desk stand. You can see a picture of the mic and stand on Amazon. But a pop filter is a good investment. You can get one for like $8 on Amazon. Definitely worth the money. It's not like a USB mic will block all other sound besides your voice. Odds are, it will still pick up some clicks and other noise. My Snowball picks up some controller sounds when the controller is about 8 inches away. A lot of sounds like breathing can be edited out in something like Audacity. I record in an area where there is a furnace about 7 feet away from the mic. When the furnace is on, it's easily picked up by the mic, but I can edit it out without too much of an issue. More on reddit.com