For podcasters and live musicians who want to travel light, Shure has a microphone and interface for Mac, iPad and iPhone.

Distance: Position the microphone between 6 and 12 inches away from your mouth. Alternatively, use the "hand spread" technique: extend your hand with your thumb on your chin and pinky on the pop ...

But if this digital microphone project is a bit too modern for you, why not try your hand at building a ribbon microphone instead?