At conferences, weddings, and other important events, you need to capture your voice for the audience to hear. However, some of your closest friends may not be too pleased with the sound of your voice in a crowded room. But don’t worry, you can always pick up a USB microphone for your voice to be heard clearly and without distortion. The best USB microphone for crisp audio recording is one that has the following features:
Since I have been a computer enthusiast for many years, this is my fifth blog post in which I will be posting my opinion on USB microphones that I think are the best and should be on everyone’s shopping list. I will be giving my opinion on what features the USB microphone should have, how much I would pay for it and why.
For the last few years, I’ve been using a USB microphone as my main mic for recording video game audio. I like it because it’s lightweight, can pick up a lot of volume, and is easy to carry with me. In fact, it’s so comfortable to use that it sometimes gets a place of honor on my laptop, where it records my voice for the game videos I do. But, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to picking the right microphone for your needs.. Read more about best usb microphone for vocals and let us know what you think.
From music, podcasts, vlogs, streaming platforms, and even good ol’ YouTube, there’s been a meteoric rise in interest and popularity for accessible digital content in the last couple of years—especially during this terrible pandemic—from music, podcasts, vlogs, streaming platforms, and good ol’ YouTube. Are you interested in trying your hand at audio recording but are unsure where to begin, especially in terms of hardware? So, where do you begin? With a good USB microphone, of course.
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A microphone that connects through USB. Why?
USB microphones are amazingly effective for both amateurs and professionals. To begin with, most USB microphones are portable, making them extremely easy to transport. Also essential, these microphones have a low learning curve—you just plug them in and go. While this may appeal to novices, it is also useful for experts, particularly as a backup microphone.
However, there may be circumstances in which a non-USB microphone is desirable. If you’re recording and mixing audio, for example, an XLR microphone with greater recording capabilities and an external recorder are preferable options. As a result, there are a few things you should know about USB microphones before deciding which one is best for you.
- Certain USB microphones are incompatible with certain PC operating systems, particularly MacOS. But don’t worry, since none of our five choices suffer from this flaw.
- The patterns of recording vary from one mic to the next. Before deciding on cardioid, stereo, bi-directional, or omnidirectional patterns, have a clear image of the intended application.
- You’ll only need more than a 16-bit, 44.1kHz mic on rare occasions.
With this in mind, we’ve gathered 5 of the best USB microphones on the market so you don’t have to wade through the plethora of options.
1. The Yeti in Blue
Sale
Blue Yeti USB Mic for Recording & Streaming on PC and Mac, 3 Condenser…
- Three condenser capsules in a tri-capsule array can capture virtually any scenario.
- Multiple pattern selection – cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo
- Gain control, mute button, and headphone output with zero delay
- Vocals, musical instruments, podcasts, voiceovers, interviews, field recordings…
- Windows 10, Windows 8 (including 8.1), Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP are all supported.
For its unparalleled recording capabilities, the Blue Yeti is without a doubt our top choice as one of the finest USB mics on the market. The innovative ‘Tri-Capsule’ technology adds another layer to the mix, resulting in sharp, clean renderings. This equates to consumers having all four recording patterns in one USB microphone, which is great news.
Thanks to the well-graded patterns, the Blue Yeti offers a remarkable level of recording accuracy. As a result, this USB mic is ideal for a variety of applications, including music, narration, voice-over, and interviews. Switching between the patterns and changing gain control is simple because to the user-friendly controls, which also include a handy mute button.
This is a fantastic option for both pros and hobbyists. Its cutting-edge technology and flawless audio production were unrivaled. Furthermore, the Blue Yeti’s fast frequency response ensures that it will seldom let you down.
PROS
- The sound quality is excellent.
- Several design options are available.
- All major operating systems are supported.
- Gain control knob.
- It’s perfect for faultless voices.
CONS
- It’s very costly.
- On MacOS, voice software is not accessible.
NT-USB (Rode NT-USB)
Sale
Rode NT-USB Studio-Quality USB Cardioid Condenser Rode NT-USB Versatile Studio-Quality USB Cardioid Condenser
- Only buy from Amazon.com (marked with the phrase “shipped and sold by Amazon.com”).
- USB connection makes this a high-quality studio microphone.
- Included are a pop shield, a tripod desk stand, a ring mount, a storage bag, and a 6m (20′) USB cord.
- For zero-latency monitoring, there’s a 3.5 millimeter stereo headphone port.
This is another another fantastic offering from the well-known Australian audio company. The Rode NT-USB is a powerful side-address microphone that delivers crystal-clear DSP-free audio.
Some may say that this mic lacks functionality, but it more than makes up for it with ease of use: a straightforward set-up and a user-friendly design. Everything you need is included right out of the box. On this mic, monitoring levels and mixing is as simple as twisting two knobs.
The Rode NT-USB provides excellent zero latency monitoring thanks to the built-in stereo headphone connection. As a result, the audio is always in time with what’s being recorded, and it’s crystal clear. A top-end pop shield is also placed at an ideal distance from the mic. The pop filter eliminates unwanted interference and startling sound spikes from your recordings.
This USB mic, together with a well-made ring mount and tripod stand, comes with everything you need right out of the box, and at a reasonable price.
PROS
- Microphone signal with no DSP.
- All major operating systems are supported.
- Monitoring mode with no latency.
CONS
- The design is set in stone.
- There is no gain control.
3. iCE Blue Snowball
Sale
Blue Snowball iCE USB Mic for PC and Mac Recording and Streaming,…
- For Skype, Messages, and FaceTime, a custom condenser capsule provides crystal clear audio.
- Recording voices, making podcasts, and adding narration to your home videos are all options.
- Recordings for YouTube should have crystal clear audio. Response Frequency: 40–18 kHz
- There are no drivers to install, so it’s as simple as plugging it in to your Mac or PC.
- Snowball ice is a USB 2.0 gadget that is backwards compatible with USB 3.0 (according to USB 3.0 backward compatibility…
The iCE is a more current version of Blue Designs’ much-lauded Snowball twin capsule USB condenser. Unlike other manufacturers, which add functions to subsequent versions, the iCe, on the other hand, reduces some of the original’s capabilities.
Unlike its predecessor, which featured an omnidirectional recording option, the Blue Snowball iCe only has a cardioid pickup pattern. Such savings have resulted in a pocket-friendly USB microphone that nevertheless produces excellent sound and records, making it one of the finest budget choices on the list.
With mid-range equalization, the frequency response is 40-18kHz. The polar reaction isn’t the greatest of the bunch, but it doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. Although it lacks physical decibel controls, you can still change its capability using an operating system or recording software. This is an excellent choice for someone who is just starting started or who wants to give it a go.
PROS
- There are no drivers required; just plug and play.
- The pricing is reasonable.
- Audio creation with a blue heritage.
- The audio is crisp and cardioid.
CONS
- Only 44.1 kHz/16 bit is available.
- For certain users, the mic stand angle may be restricted.
4. Go Mic, Samson
Sale
Portable USB Condenser Microphone by Samson for Recording and…
- Microphone is a USB condenser microphone that may be used anywhere.
- No drivers are needed, and it is plug-and-play compatible with both Mac and PC.
- Compact, custom design that attaches to a laptop or sits on a desk
- Ideal for music recording, podcasting, and field recording
- Voice recognition software, iChat, VoIP, and webcasting are all good candidates.
The Samson Go is typical of companies that have lately released smaller versions of popular models. This mic’s new small form allows it to be conveniently clipped to a desk or even your computer.
It has front-facing and side-address cardioid capsules, as well as (optional) omnidirectional patterns. Despite its little size, the Samson Go mic produces sound that is more than adequate, although it is wise to temper any excessive expectations.
Its size also seems to restrict its ability to withstand high sound pressure levels. This makes it unsuitable for percussion instruments or long-distance recording. Aside from that, the Samson Go mic is great for recording up close, such as interviews or audio notes, and it also works well for on-the-go recording.
PROS
- Compatible with both Mac and PC.
- A fantastic construction with high-quality components.
- Extremely small; easily fits in the palm of your hand.
- Polar patterns that can be switched.
- Sound Deck Noise Cancellation software by Samson.
CONS
- It’s possible that ambient noise will be picked up.
Shure MV7 (number 5)
Sale
The Shure MV7 USB Podcast Microphone is ideal for podcasting, recording, and live performances.
- DUAL USB/XLR OUTPUT: Digital or analog recording is possible with the dual USB/XLR output.
- APPLICATIONS FOR CLOSE MIC: Ideal for podcasting, recording, live streaming, and more.
- CONTROLS ON AN INTUITIVE TOUCH PANEL: Controls on an intuitive touch panel for gain, monitoring, and more.
- HEADPHONE OUTPUT (BUILT-IN): The built-in headphone output enables for direct headphone…
- RICH & NATURAL VOCAL REPRODUCTION: Optimized frequency response for rich and natural vocal…
The Shure MV7 is a perfect example of a company that manages to combine the best of both worlds. It not only has the anticipated flexibility from Shure’s USB microphone line-up, but it also has pro gear features.
If you’re searching for a simple to use, clarity-focused microphone, this one has a lot to offer. It’s a front-address cardioid USB mic with a frequency range of 50Hz to 16kHz with audio recording speeds of 16-bit and 24-bit. Most users will appreciate the fact that the Shure MV7 offers both XLR and USB connections.
The Motiv app, which comes with it, makes fine-tuning and adjusting the USB microphone a breeze. The Shure MV7 can create a wide variety of fantastic sounds. It provides the same clear and sharp audio quality across the board, whether it’s a podcast or a studio recording. In conclusion, this is an excellent option for anybody seeking for a ready-to-use USB microphone with additional features.
The tripod, mic stand, and boom arm stand, on the other hand, are all available individually. As a result, you may have to spend a little money to acquire all of the required equipment.
PROS
- Excellent vocal reproduction.
- Recording at 16 bits, 44.1 kHz, and 24-bit/48 kHz.
- High-quality, long-lasting construction.
- Both digital (USB) and analog (XLR) outputs are available.
- Companion software is really useful.
CONS
- Windscreen is loose.
- There is no mic stand or mount included.
What Should You Look for in USB Microphones?
It may be difficult to choose through all of the finest USB microphone choices. More importantly, there is seldom a one-size-fits-all solution. As a result, it’s critical to think about the following factors before making your ultimate decision.
1. Price
Typically, the thing you purchase is determined by your budget. Everything depends on what you’re searching for. Fortunately, the finest USB microphones are available at a variety of pricing ranges. If you’re searching for a low-cost entry-level microphone that does the job well, you can be certain that you’ll discover something that won’t break the bank. However, if you want a professional-level USB microphone with a good build quality, you should expect to pay a little more.
2. The goal
Most USB microphones have a fair amount of flexibility. Nonetheless, the intended usage will have a major impact on your choice. For example, if you’ll be mostly recording audios, a USB microphone that can be quickly placed on a stand or attached to a desk/table would be ideal. Similarly, if you want to move about with your mic, it’s only sensible to invest in a small, portable one. As a result, it’s critical to have a clear concept of how you want to utilize your USB microphone before looking for suitable alternatives.
3. Patterns of Pickup
Which side will your USB microphone pick up from? The direction from which the mic will capture sounds is referred to as pickup or polar patterns. As a result, the pickup pattern to employ is ultimately determined by your particular use case(s). There are three major variants:
- Cardioid – Also known as unidirectional, cardioid microphones capture just the sound in front of them. This is perfect for one-person recordings like gaming or home recordings.
- Sound is caught up from all directions, as the name implies, making them ideal for outdoor or large-scale recordings.
- Bi-directional – This implies that the microphone only picks up what’s going on in front and behind it. The bi-directional polar pattern, as you may have guessed, was quite popular in radio back in the day. They are, nevertheless, excellent for interviews and live performances.
USB Microphones: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What characteristics distinguish a decent USB condenser microphone?
Despite the fact that this is a frequent and important topic, the answer is nearly always personal. It all depends on how you want to utilize the microphone. It’s worth mentioning that condenser microphones in the same price range don’t have a lot of features and functionality in common.
However, if we try to be as impartial as possible, a decent USB condenser mic should be able to do the following:
- There is no need to install drivers since it is plug and play.
- Deliver crystal-clear audio and speech recordings that are free of interference and background noise. The quality of the sound should never be sacrificed.
- Have a minimum of 16-bit audio quality, with 32-bit being preferred.
- Have monitoring with no latency.
- High-quality construction.
2. Can an XLR microphone record better than a USB microphone?
Yes, in general. This is entirely dependent on the basic construction of each of these two. The three-pronged output of an XLR microphone separates incoming and outgoing currents. USB microphones, on the other hand, usually have a single channel for incoming and outgoing electrical currents, which causes sound distortion.
3. What is the finest Zoom call microphone?
During a call, it depends on how often you move around. If you spend most of your time sitting in one place, a cardioid USB condenser microphone will suffice. An omnidirectional pickup mic, on the other hand, is more suited to the task if you often move about, such as during demonstrations or exercises. The Blue Yeti is without a doubt our favorite choice for Zoom calls out of our list of the best USB mics, because to its outstanding sound quality and customizable pickup patterns.
Conclusion
Disruptive technological advances, along with current societal changes, have given us more reasons and chances to film ourselves, others, and even our environment. In such scenario, you’ll need a useful tool to assist you in getting the task done well. A well-chosen USB microphone will seldom fail you down, whether you’re a podcaster, YouTuber, musician, or anything else. Hopefully, this article will spare you the time and effort of pondering which USB mic is ideal for you.
Good luck with your voice recording!
Your voice is the most important tool in your arsenal when it comes to recording audio. Whether you’re recording a podcast or any other type of media, the microphone you choose can make or break the quality of your audio. This is why it’s important to pick a USB microphone that gives you a clean, crisp sound at every volume level. The Rode Podcaster is our top pick for crisp, clear audio recording, and it’s a phenomenal value. With a built-in condenser mic, adjustable gain control, and a detachable shock mount, this USB microphone is not only affordable, but also features a premium, professional sound.. Read more about best usb microphone for podcasting and let us know what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a USB microphone good for recording vocals?
A USB microphone is not a good option for recording vocals. It will pick up the noise of your computer, and youll need to use an external mic or a headset with a built-in mic.
What is the best USB microphone for recording music?
The best USB microphone for recording music is the Blue Yeti.
What is the best quality USB mic?
I am not a microphone, but I can answer your question. The best quality USB mic is the Blue Yeti.
Related Tags
This article broadly covered the following related topics:
- best cheap usb microphone
- usb microphone cheap
- best usb microphone 2018
- best usb microphone for rapping
- best usb microphone for singing
From early on, Charley showed a keen interest in all things technical. He would spend hours taking apart and rebuilding computers- much to the dismay of his parents! But this early passion would eventually lead him to a successful career in tech.
Today, Charley uses his expertise to help companies large and small achieve their goals. He enjoys working with teams to develop innovative solutions that solve real-world problems.
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