Neither is better or worse both microphones are characterized by outstanding sound and performance. However, each model has key fundamental strengths suitable for different applications. The supercardioid polar pattern of the Beta58A is less susceptible to feedback when using correctly placed stage monitors, however the cardioid pattern of the SM58 offers a wider sweet spot and is a little easier to use for beginner performers. Due to its neodymium magnet, the Beta 58A has greater sensitivity and a 4dB hotter output than the AlNiCo magnet in an SM58. The Beta58 has an extended low-end and high-end compared to the SM58; depending on the style/tonal characteristic of your voice, you may or may not benefit from this feature. The SM58 has a bit more of a warmer sound to it, whereas the Beta58A is certainly a bit brighter. In short, the Beta58A is no doubt an upgrade for many applications, but in some scenarios, these upgrades can also be a hindrance making the SM58 the better tool for the job.

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The Beta 58 is a great sounding microphone that can be used in different applications, however this is mainly used to capture vocals for live sound. For podcast I would recommend one of the microphones in the links bellow, the first gives you the ability to connect the microphone through a interface to the computer but it also has a USB output to use it straight into the computer without additional hardware. The second microphone link it's one of the best sounding mics for a podcast and it has become the standard in the industry. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1593379-REG/shure_mv7_k_mv7_mic.html?sts=pi&pim=Y https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/225820-REG/Shure_SM7B_SM7B_Cardioid_Dynamic.html?sts=pi&pim=Y

This item is made in Mexico.