Read this post and get the inside information on which USB microphone is best for a voice recording. We write reviews about best USB mic for voice over work.
The market nowadays has lots of new technologies, and microphones are no exception. There are many types of microphones available, including USB microphones, which are very convenient for voice recording. Each microphone has its own features, so how do you choose the right one? Here is a list of the 13 best USB microphones to help you decide which one is best for voice-over work. We’ll focus on their quality and special features. Let’s explore the top USB microphones for voice recording.
Audio-Technica AT2020USB PLUS
Audio-Technica AT2020USB + condenser microphone for singing
The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ condenser microphone is a remarkable choice for…
AT2020USB Plus is a USB condenser refined microphone. The device is meant for a digital record of music, vocal, for voice over, comments, etc. It is employed for recordings in the studio and outdoors. AT2020USB Plus has got a headphones jack; this allows of exercising monitoring in the real time, and the volume level. We think it’s the best usb microphone for voice over. That product also features the regulator making it possible to operate the balance between the signal incoming and signal from the microphone. The diaphragm is of little weight; it gives the impressive frequency range — from 20Hz to 20 kHz — and excellent dynamics.
The cardioid shape of the microphone reduces background noise a lot. The AC converter makes sure the sound is transferred accurately. Plus, this voice-over tool looks impressive. The set includes a stand, tripod, case, and cable. Overall, the AT microphone is the top choice for recording voices with a USB connection.
Audio-Technica ATR 2100-USB
This special device combines the features of a dynamic mic coupled with USB and XLR options. So, it possesses 2 outputs — USB for the digital record, and XLR for life (USB mic for voice over). The frequency is 50–15,000Hz; it has got a quality 16 bits AD converter for good fidelity, as well as a headphones output. The unwanted sound is reduced by the cardioid polar pattern. The USB mic for voice over work is good for podcasts and live performances. The package resembles that of the previous one; also, an XLR cable is included. The microphone gives good quality for a voice recording, though the sound may seem somewhat thin. The design of the given mic is rather conventional. It admits of being used with Mac and Windows.
Apogee Mic 96K
Apogee MiC 96k Professional Quality Microphone for iPad, iPhone, and Mac
The Apogee MiC 96k is a professional-quality microphone designed to…
Apogee Mic 96K presents a mobile USB microphone for a real quality recording of voice with the outputs for iPad, Mac, PC. Being one of the highly appropriate USB mics for voice-over work, it features cardioid system as well as the technology PureDigital, which gives quality sound and eliminates unwanted noises; direct connection (96 kHz, 24 bits); compatibility with applications such as GarageBand and so forth. Employing this mic, you can just as well record vocals, acoustic music, spoken word, interviews, podcasts, audio for, e.g., DSLR video, virtually anything. Indeed, it is fairly convenient and simple for being used in any place, the weight of the device being only 6.4 ounces. The quality of the produced sound is impressive for a mobile mic — it is sure to be appreciated by both amateurs and connoisseurs.
Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti is a top choice for recording voices using USB devices. It’s special because of its advanced technology and many different settings that make it easy to use for even very picky users. It has four different modes depending on what you’re recording, like podcasts, interviews, or music. It can pick up sounds across a wide range, from low to high frequencies, and can handle loud sounds up to 120 decibels. You can listen to what you’re recording in real-time through headphones. It works with both Mac and Windows computers, and it comes with everything you need to get started. The Blue Yeti is a versatile microphone, but you might not need all its features for simple voice recordings.
Blue Snowball
This modern microphone looks great and has special features that make recording easy and high-quality. You can choose from 3 different recording modes and it has 2 condenser capsules. You don’t need to install any drivers – you can use it right away after plugging it in. It’s great for recording music on your computer or for streaming because it has different modes like Cardioid and Omni. These modes help you get really good sound quality for different purposes. It has a sensitivity range of 40–18kHz and operates at 44.1kHz and 16 bits. Like similar models, it also has a headphone jack. Plus, it comes with a cable and a stylish stand for convenience.
Blue Snowflake
Blue Snowflake is a good budget variant for those who seek for a mic for, say, chatting on Skype or business meetings or something like that. The frequency is listed as 35 Hertz to 20kHz, the recording resolution being 44.1kHz and 16 bits. Blue Snowflake possesses compatibility with systems of PC and Mac. Among its advantages is portability — the mic is really convenient to transport — you can carry it even in the pocket.
It has the dimensions 6.5 – 4.4 – 2.5 inches and the weight of 9.1 ounces, but the main secret is that owing to the special unique construction, it can fold. The microphone is added by a set that includes a cable and a plastic base that also allows of storing the cable while transporting the mic. Overall, this is a quite decent device that records fairly quality, clean sound of the voice, but if you want to record some music, for instance, you had better look for another option.
Blue Snowball iCE
Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE Microphone
The Logitech for Creators BlueSnowball iCE Microphone is a reliable…
This model has features similar to those of Blue Snowball, as is understood from the name of the product; yet, it also has significant differences. As is with standard Blue Snowball, employing the device is immensely simple — you do not need any special software, just plug the microphone in. The given product is certified by Skype and is actually excellent for online conferences, conversations, podcasts, and voice-over. Unlike its predecessor, it features a single mic capsule, which, though, provides really clear sound. It does not have the omnidirectional mode and extended volume range, so this product is more oriented for typically recording a voice. Yet, if it is what you look for, consider this option.
Rode NT-USB
A condenser mic for recordings through your PC, iPad or Mac, Rode NT-USB requires no additional equipment and sounds great. It is employed for recordings of vocal, voice, musical performances, podcasts. The mic possesses the qualities highly relevant for good voice-over work. Having a headphones output, it allows of monitoring while recording, which saves your time and effort. Regulation of volume and mix is available. It is carried out via two convenient regulators on the very microphone. For employing with iPad, you need an adapter — for instance, AppleCameraConnectionKit. The package set contains a tripod, bracing to the floor stand, excellent pop-filter, and cable. The mic features a very attractive design that makes it look amazing.
Razer Seiren Elite
The Razer Seiren Elite is one of the best USB microphones for voiceovers. It’s made specifically for broadcasting and has many features that make the sound really good. It uses a special capsule to reduce extra noise, so your voice sounds clear and natural. It also has a filter to get rid of background noises like footsteps or air conditioner sounds, which is great for streamers and podcasters. You can listen to yourself using headphones, and it has a digital limiter to control loud sounds. Plus, it comes with a pop filter to reduce popping sounds.
Rode Podcaster
As podcasting is becoming ever more popular throughout the world, there are a good many products offered by different companies for amateurs and specialists. The condenser microphone produced by Rode has the frequency range 40 Hz–14 kHz; its resolution is 18 bits; maximum SPL is 115dB; there is an output for headphones; the pattern is solely cardioid. Using this device, you will get a really clear sound that will impress you. Besides, it is simple to use and supports combinability with not only computers but also iPad and some Linux distributors. Using applications such as GarageBand is possible. One more pleasant peculiarity about this product is its warranty — it is 10 years.
Samson Meteor Mic
The individual features of this interesting device are an awesome vintage look, fold-back legs that admit of bending the mic at any angle and into any position, and direct convenient monitoring: you can use your headphones in the recording. There’s another good feature: it can be mounted on a stand for the mic if necessary. The mic uses a cardioid type, the frequency is from 20 Hertz to 20kHz. Among the additions, you will find a cable and carry pouch. The mic capsule is massive, there are metal grille and 3 legs with rubber covers. Resuming, the mic is sturdily set on the desk, you can make use of headphones and start to monitor without losing time. Eventually, you get clean, pleasant sound.
Samson Meteorite
This special mic features an attached cable and a stand with a magnet inside of it; thus, you yourself decide on the position of the mic. It has got a 14-millimeter capsule, a cardioid kind; the frequency is listed as 20 Hertz–20 kHz. Using a CameraConnectingKit, you can apply the mic with an iPad. The device is really convenient to transport — it is made in ultraportable design. This microphone is known as excellent for Skype and creating videos for things like YouTube. Still, compared to Samson Meteor, it has less quality sound, and it is obviously better to pay 10 dollars more and get Meteor.
Samson Go Mic
Samson Go Mic is an exceptional record device for creating voice-over. It is especially good for those frequently doing field recording when it is inconvenient to take a lot of equipment to the place. Two modes are available when working with this product — omni and cardioid. The characteristics of this model do not differ from the majority of the variants listed above, so we deal with a standard of quality. Additionally, the package set includes a number of different things that make its use as safe, convenient and pleasant as possible. Among those are SafetyPouch, CableClip, MicStandAdaptor, and CakewalkMusicCreator software. The device allows of being mounted on practically any surface, whether it is a floor or desk type of stand, laptop or just a desk.
Conclusion
So, after considering all the variants, we see there are indeed quite a variety of options that can be employed as your helpers in voice-over recording, and each product possesses its own special advantages. Still, if you keep hesitating, not knowing which device will emerge as the best variant for you, pay special attention to Razer Seiren Elite. The mic is known for having all the essential features for making sound worth praising. Additionally, the product was created especially for broadcasts, so if you seek for the device perfectly fit for voice-over, this variant will meet your demand. Another option that should be recommended is Rode NT-USB. Its characteristics also meet all the essential requirements, providing the sound of the highest quality. You are certain to appreciate both variants regardless of you being merely an amateur or a sophisticated specialist.
Choosing the right USB microphone for voice recording can be daunting, but fear not! These products offer a plethora of options, each with its own perks. However, if you want top-notch quality and professional-grade performance, look no further than the Razer Seiren Elite. Tailored for broadcasts, it ensures crystal-clear sound with minimal background noise, perfect for voice-over work. Similarly, the Rode NT-USB impresses with its outstanding features and impeccable sound quality, making it a solid choice for both amateurs and pros alike. Whether you’re starting out or a seasoned pro, these microphones will elevate your voice recordings to new heights.