Conference call Microphone

Thanks to a tech boost, videoconferencing is sounding better than ever. Connect one of these high-quality microphones to your computer's USB port and dial up the call using business telephony software. The only sound ringing in your ears will be that of business moving forward.

Photo© Devon Jarvis

1. Marshall Electronics MXL Studio 24 USB ($170)
MXL borrows technology from its professional-level USB mics, like the .009, for the more reasonably priced Studio 24. Business users will feel-and hear-the quality of this mic's true 24-bit recording technology and travel-friendly design and construction.

2. Blue Microphones Snowflake ($33)
The budget-friendly Snowflake's elegant, slide-on, foldable design, surprisingly high audio quality and ease of use-it's pretty much a plug-and-play mic-make it the must-use conference call audio upgrade of the moment.

3. Audio-technica ATR2500-USB Cardioid Condenser ($100)
Backed by technology similar to that employed by professional recording artists, the ATR2500 features high-fidelity audio sampling rates and very low noise. The downside here is bulk: Clocking in at the size and weight of an office phone, it's far from portable.

4. Samson Meteor Mic ($110)
With its retro good looks, the chrome-plated Meteor will be the clear winner in the mic wars among design enthusiasts. It features solid audio quality and clever foldable legs that adjust for optimal positioning while recording (and make portability a snap).