What is Pop Filter?
A pop filter (also called a pop screen or pop shield) is a mesh screen placed between your mouth and microphone to reduce plosive sounds—the bursts of air from pronouncing "P," "B," and other consonants that cause low-frequency thumps in recordings.
Pop filters work by diffusing the air blast before it hits the microphone diaphragm. They come in several types:
- Nylon mesh: Dual-layer fabric screens (most common, affordable)
- Metal mesh: Perforated metal screens (more durable, easier to clean)
- Foam windscreens: Slip-on foam covers (less effective but convenient)
| Type | Plosive Reduction | Durability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon mesh | Excellent | Good | $10-30 |
| Metal mesh | Very good | Excellent | $20-50 |
| Foam windscreen | Moderate | Good | $5-15 |
Pop filters attach via a gooseneck arm that clamps to your mic stand or boom arm, positioned 2-4 inches in front of the microphone.
Why It Matters
Plosives are one of the most common audio problems in podcast recordings, and they're difficult to fix in post-production. A pop filter is an inexpensive investment that prevents the problem entirely. Even expensive microphones with built-in pop protection benefit from an external pop filter, especially for close-mic techniques used in podcasting.
How to Use This in Dispatch
Position your pop filter 2-4 inches in front of your microphone, between you and the mic. Speak through the filter, not around it—the mesh should be in the direct path of your breath. If you're still getting plosives, try positioning the mic slightly off-axis (angled toward your mouth rather than directly in front) while keeping the pop filter straight.