Microphone Needed

[olds]

I need to get a microphone (actually 20) to sit on a desk for multiple users to share for webinars.
Should I go USB or the standard 1/4?
Any recommendations on specific microphones?
Budget: $50
Thanks

EDIT
We have a phone conference system in the room.

We also have a smart board hooked up to a desktop. The smartboard has software called "Bridgit" that allows users to connect remotely to other smartboards and interact with their desktop/smart board.

I purchased cameras so the users can see each other and these cameras have built in microphones. But some of the users want a microphone they can sit on a table in front of them. As it stands, the smart board are mounted in such a way that the microphone would be about 5' above users heads if they are seated at a table.

 

[Harvey]

Selecting microphones and amplification for conference settings presents unique problems, including separation of voices and handling room echo/reverb effects. There are complete systems that take on the problem, including some that use only one mic and involve some electronic processing.

I'd suggest starting by searching through these Google search results:

conference microphone system

microphone for conference

microphone for conference room

Searching for conference microphone problems may give you a better understanding of the logistical and implimentation problems you're trying to solve, which is always a good first step. 😎

Hope that helps. 🙂

 

[olds]

Thank Harvey. I probably should have been a little clearer.

We have a phone conference system in the room.

We also have a smart board hooked up to a desktop. The smartboard has software called "Bridgit" that allows users to connect remotely to other smartboards and interact with their desktop/smart board.

I purchased cameras so the users can see each other and these cameras have built in microphones. But some of the users want a microphone they can sit on a table in front of them. As it stands, the smart board are mounted in such a way that the microphone would be about 5' above users heads if they are seated at a table.

I'll look at your links, I appreciate the information and help.

 

[Harvey]

I think a cardiod (directional) mic would be best to reduce room echo.

What connector do you want the mic feed, standard 1/4", mini-jack (as on your computer) or USB?

Another possiblity could a headset if that works for your setup.

 

[olds]

I think a cardiod (directional) mic would be best to reduce room echo.

What connector do you want the mic feed, standard 1/4", mini-jack (as on your computer) or USB?

Another possiblity could a headset if that works for your setup.

Thanks Harv.
I'll look for a directional mic.

I have no preference for 1/4" or USB. I'd probably go with 1/4" because there a port on the front of the desktop.