Hi Andrew. The PR40 is a nice bit of gear, but it isn't a good, entry-level mike. Leo Laporte did a lot to publicise it as the go-to mike for podcasters... which was misleading. With his personal...

Went for PR40s but would advise against it for newcomers. The PR40 works well for Leo Laporte's voice, much less so for more general purpose use. And it's quite directional.
The Shure SM7B is an...