Many laptops and almost all webcams have built-in microphones, but if you are trying to create a podcast or record a demo of your songs, you need a device with much better sound quality. This is where the USB microphone comes in.
When buying a USB microphone, you need to pay attention not only to its price, but also to the sound characteristics. The frequency range of the human ear is 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Microphones that have frequencies outside the range of human hearing distort high and low sounds, so that the voice may sound somewhat unnatural.
Introducing you top 10 best USB microphones of 2015 according to Wirerealm, a site dedicated to reviews and news about music devices.
10. Blue Snowflake
This is a portable cardioid condenser microphone. Great for podcasting, gaming, internet chatting, but not great for professional recording. Frequency range: 35 Hz - 20 kHz.
9. Apogee MiC 96k
Compatible with both Mac, iPhone and iPad. The presence of a microphone preamplifier and A / D converter, high quality recording (up to 96 kHz / 24-bit), as well as its small size make this device a good choice for both home and studio.
8. Samson Go Mic
Portable condenser microphone. Supplied with USB cable, cable clip, and zip pouch. Due to its small size, low weight (0.105 kg) and low price, Samson Go Mic competes with the “blue snowflake”, which took the 10th place in the rating of the best USB microphones. Samson Go Mic Frequency Response - 20 Hz to 18 kHz
7. Shure PG42
This semi-professional condenser microphone comes with a stand mount and carrying case. A large diaphragm has high sensitivity and allows you to convey the smallest nuances of sound. Switches allow you to activate the low pass filter and -15 dB attenuator. The working range is from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
6. Blue Snowball
The sampling rate is 44.1 kHz / 16-bit, which allows the device to compete with USB microphones, which cost three times the price. The Blue Snowball is a condenser microphone that can be switched between omnidirectional or cardioid modes. One of its best features is its aesthetics, it looks pretty and comes in 10 different color options. Frequency range - 40 Hz -18 kHz.
5.CAD U37
Its advantages include: low cost, 3 meter cable and large condenser capsule for rich sound. An overload protection switch minimizes distortion from loud sound sources. Operates in the 40 Hz - 18 kHz range.
4. Rode NT-USB
Provides clear sound when recording voice-overs and podcasts. Compatible with iPad (requires USB adapter when connected). The package includes a stand, a case for storing the microphone and a pop filter that attaches to the microphone base. A stereo headphone jack is provided for real-time monitoring of the Rode NT-USB. Supports a range from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
3. Audio-Technica AT2020USB
The top 3 of the best USB microphones opens with a 16-bit cardioid microphone. Suitable for professional singers thanks to the ability to mount it with a microphone stand and gimbal. The lightweight diaphragm provides excellent dynamics and extended frequency range from 20 Hz to 16 kHz.
2. Samson Meteor
A studio microphone with a cardioid pick-up pattern features a large diaphragm with a wide recording surface (25mm), and has a folding leg mechanism for easy portability or storage.Another interesting feature of Samson Meteor is that it can connect to smart devices (you need an Apple converter for this). The declared operating range is 20 Hz-20 kHz.
1. Blue Yeti
World's first microphone to combine 24-bit digital recording with XLR analog output. Blue Yeti allows you to record sound in stereo, cardioid, omnidirectional or bi-directional modes. It operates in the frequency range 20 Hz - 20 kHz.