The best microphone for streaming. Top 5 microphones for streamers and podcasters of 2023.
A microphone is an essential accessory for any streamer or podcaster to record broadcasts and transmit voice, such as during a virtual session. This review article will introduce you to five, according to experts, the best modifications of the respective devices, which guarantee a high-quality stream with sound that is always clear and natural.
Top 5 microphones for streaming:
- HyperX QuadCast S;
- HyperX SoloCast;
- Arozzi Colonna Black;
- Razer Seiren Elite;
- ASUS ROG Strix Magnus.
HyperX QuadCast S
Top popular microphones for streamers included the HyperX QuadCast S model from the American developers Kingston. Such an accessory, in addition to the advanced technical features of its predecessor HyperX QuadCast, which resulted in excellent functionality and reliability of the device design, received an additional feature in the form of multi-colored RGB backlighting.
Main characteristics
- Microphone type: electret condenser.
- Number of radiation patterns: 4.
- Sensitivity index: 36 dB.
- Frequency: 20 Hz to 20000 Hz.
- Resistance: 32 kOhm.
- USB cable length: 3 m.
- Backlight: RGB, about 16,8 million colors.
- Weight: in the configuration and with a cord - 710 g, separately microphone - 254 g.
- Average price: 15000 rubles.
Features
The signature HyperX QuadCast S microphone is new and certified by Discord and TeamSpeak.
The device, which comes with an ergonomic fixing stand and an adapter that allows the device to be installed on standard microphone stands, has a convenient sound intensity control.
The ergonomics of the product also include the ability to adjust the angle of the microphone and deactivate audio with a light touch of your finger on the touch sensor.
The model is distinguished by four polar radiation patterns. Depending on the specifics of the work, its owners may prefer stereo mode, bi-directional, omni-directional or cardioid. Equipped with an integrated pop filter, it reproduces the sound clearly, preserving the natural timbre and blocking out external noise.
The microphone is equipped with a full-color RGB LED backlight, you can perform a variety of color, radiance and brightness effects by downloading the HyperX NGENUITY utility from the manufacturer's website.
Advantages and disadvantages
Such a desktop branded device has several advantages:
- it conveys the voice qualitatively;
- exceptionally soundly assembled;
- convenient and easy to use;
- stable, does not spontaneously fall and does not move;
- equipped with a smart programmable backlight;
- has wide compatibility - connects to PC, PS4 and Mac consoles.
The disadvantages of the HyperX QuadCast S microphone are picky users, including volume markings placed on the bottom of the design and a relatively expensive price tag.
HyperX Solo Cast
The new HyperX SoloCast microphone, which belongs to the class of universal accessories, also fell into the category of the best. This model, which meets all the key requirements of streamers, podcasters, e-sportsmen and amateur video editors, combines aristocratically laconic design and excellent performance, and is inexpensive.
Main characteristics
- Microphone type: electret condenser.
- Directionality: cardioid.
- Sensitivity index: 6 dB.
- Frequency: 20 Hz to 20000 Hz.
- Operating current: 47 mA.
- Removable USB cable length: 2 m.
- Compatibility: PC (from Windows 7), PS4 and Mac OS.
- Weight: in the configuration and with a cord and stand - 430 g, separately microphone - 261 g.
- Average price: 7000 rubles.
Features
The design of the HyperX Solo Cast microphone shows an elegant understated style. The model, which is modestly decorated with a logo, is made in a timeless black color, characterized by a classic shape and medium dimensions.
The matte surfaces of the device do not leave fingerprints, and the mounting thread that the device is equipped with allows it to be installed on any standard-type microphone stands.
The complete stand of the model is distinguished by strength and stability, as well as ergonomics - it, equipped with special flexible guide elements, allows you to conveniently adjust the position of the microphone.
Using the novelty does not require software - the device operates on the simple principle of plug and play.
The microphone control system includes a touch-sensitive mute sensor with a key equipped with an LED.
This microphone has become popular due to its excellent voice quality, documented by Discord and TeamSpeak certification, as well as its wide compatibility. The accessory can be used in tandem with PC, PlayStation 4 and MAC consoles.
Advantages and disadvantages
Professional users note the following advantages of the corresponding proprietary microphone:
- stylish strict appearance;
- excellent voice quality and voice recording;
- reliability and compact design;
- ease of management;
- democratic price tag.
Among the shortcomings of the HyperX Solo Cast streamer device, skeptics attribute two points: the lack of own drivers for settings and a pop filter.
Arozzi Colonna Black
An excellent microphone, optimized for streaming audio broadcasts of various specifics, is the product of the Swedish brand Arozzi Colonna Black. Such a device, which is equipped with many functions for user settings, features a wide reception range, so it is great for podcasts, recording and streaming games online.
Main characteristics
- Microphone type: condenser.
- Directionality modes: omnidirectional, bidirectional and cardioid.
- Sensitivity index: 4,5 mV / Pa (1 kHz).
- Frequency: 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
- Connection: USB 3.0.
- Headphone jack: yes, 3,5 mm.
- Compatibility: PC, Mac and game consoles.
- Cable length: 3 m.
- Weight: in the configuration and with a cord and stand - 1,4 kg.
- Average price: 12000 rubles.
Features
The Arozzi Colonna Black Streamer Microphone features a sleek, stylish design that is easy to use. It does not require software and is plug & play.
The ergonomics of the accessory is evidenced by its heavy stand, made of cast metal and rubberized at the bottom, which eliminates the possibility of shifting or falling of the device on the table, as well as the convenient location of the gain and volume controls.
Depending on the radiation pattern selected by the user, the device can broadcast surround audio, capturing it from all directions, operate in bidirectional mode, which is optimal for interviews, or in cardioid mode, suitable for individual use.
The presence of a 3,5 mm port in the microphone will allow you to connect a headset to it to listen to your voice and fully control the sound, and if there is not enough space on the tabletop, attaching the accessory to a standard microphone boom will solve the problem. In this case, the device has a 5/8 inch thread.
The model is also equipped with a sound deactivation key. There is no need to go into the settings to turn off the audio.
Advantages and disadvantages
Competent users have identified the following benefits of the Arozzi Colonna Black microphone:
- trendy design;
- ease of use;
- support for multiple radiation patterns;
- high quality voice transmission;
- moderate cost;
- The device is compatible with PC and Mac, you can connect a headset to it.
The only drawback of this branded model, streamers consider the lack of an air filter.
Razer Series Elite
Communicate with the audience, maintaining their interest with high-quality voice transmission, the Razer Seiren Elite professional microphone will help you. Owners of this model can be sure that their streaming potential will be fully revealed. No wonder the corresponding device was awarded the STREAMLABS platform certificate.
Main characteristics
- Microphone type: condenser.
- Directionality: omnidirectional.
- Sensitivity index: 120 dB.
- Frequency: from 20 Hz to 20 thousand Hz.
- Resistance: up to 16 Ohm.
- Weight: complete and with cord and stand - 0,783 kg.
- Cable length: 3 m.
- Package contents: microphone, stand, detachable cable, micro-USB to USB adapter, pop filter, user manual.
- LED illumination: single color, red.
- Headset jack: yes, 3,5 mm.
- Average price: 19500 rubles.
Features
The Razer Seiren Elite microphone is designed to help you stream, record videos and podcasts, ensuring the most natural voice transmission. Since the device is equipped with a special high-pass filter, unwanted third-party noise is effectively suppressed, and sound distortion is practically eliminated. The device does not let low-frequency vibrations into the air, capturing an exceptionally clear signal.
The front panel of the design included its controls, represented by volume and gain controls, as well as a device deactivation button with a green indicator light.
The microphone also has a 3,5 mm jack. By connecting headphones to it and listening to your voice online, you will ensure accurate monitoring of the recording.
Black color adds elegance to the device, and one of its sides is decorated with a company logo. An interesting design decision was the spectacular red illumination of the rim of the accessory.
Automatic gain control of the device, resulting in minimization of electronic interference and avoidance of overload, is provided by an integrated limiter.
Advantages and disadvantages
The Razer Seiren Elite streamer microphone has several advantages:
- stylish and ergonomic design;
- studio level voice transmission and recording;
- the presence of illumination;
- structural strength.
The disadvantages of the device include its not the cheapest cost and cable connection from below, as a result of which the fall of the accessory can lead to wire pinching.
ASUS ROG Strix Magnus
With the ASUS ROG Strix Magnus microphone, professional streamers and vloggers will definitely make the right choice. Stylishly designed, solidly assembled and made with an emphasis on sound recording quality, this product of the famous brand also entered the top.
Main characteristics
- Microphone type: condenser.
- Directionality: three recording modes - stereo, directional and ENC.
- Sensitivity index: 37 dB.
- Frequency: 20 Hz to 20000 Hz.
- Resistance: up to 32 Ohm.
- Weight: 157 g.
- Dimensions: 9,5 x 5 x 13 cm.
- Cable length: 1,8 m.
- Complete set: Microphone, detachable USB cable, screw for attaching the structure to standard holders, protective case, instructions.
- LED backlight: programmable RGB, 16,8 million colors.
- Headphone jack: yes, 3,5 mm.
- Average price: 12200 rubles.
Features
The ASUS ROG Strix Magnus microphone is equipped with three 14mm condenser capsules that provide high-quality sound transmission, even at a certain distance from the sound source.
The functionality of the device provides three modes of broadcasting audio of various directions. Its owners, depending on the working conditions, can opt for cardioid, stereo mode or Environmental Noise Cancellation.
This model is equipped with a USB port for connecting various devices and a 3,5 mm jack for connecting headphones.
The chip of the microphone was the Asus Aura RGB lighting, endowed with intelligence. Featuring millions of color options and a range of dynamic modes, this backlight can be synced with compatible devices that support Aura Sync digital technology.
Accessory controls located on the structure on the right (which is convenient for right-handed people) are represented by the volume control of the connected headset, the microphone activation / deactivation key, and the backlight on / off key.
Advantages and disadvantages
The ASUS ROG Strix Magnus streamer microphone has a number of advantages:
- premium audio quality;
- strength and portability of the design;
- convenient control system;
- aesthetic lighting;
- Includes box for safe transportation.
Among the shortcomings of the device, the inelasticity of the cable and the specificity of the ENC mode, which gives the sound some rigidity, were noted.