Are you a YouTuber or thinking of starting a youtube channel? One of the most critical gears for a YouTuber is a great microphone. Why? Because your subscribers and watchers need to hear what you are saying. But the decision on which is the best microphone for youtube will be determined by the kind of videos you are doing.
Therefore, you might require more than one type of microphone which you can use depending on your video needs. This is because there are different kinds of youtube videos, and each video style needs a different mic to record them. So, we will highlight in this article a variety of youtube microphones so that you can find the one that best suits you, without building more hype lets get straight into what microphone do YouTubers use.
As we have already mentioned above, there are different types of youtube mics.
The following are the most common kinds of microphones available:
- USB microphones – these are the most common type of mics for computer users. This kind of microphone is ideal if you are recording at or near a computer. Moreover, it can be used for Vlogging, interviews, podcasts, walk-through gaming, to mention just but a few.
- iOS microphones – they are not very common, but they are designed for those making videos using their phones. As the name suggests, these kinds of mics are useable with iOS powered phones.
- Camera microphones – as the name suggests, these microphones are ideal for those filming using a camera. It can be used either outdoors or indoors, and they cannot access the computer. It is an external microphone which you attach to the camera to capture the sound as you are filming.
- Lavalier microphones – these are small mics with clip-on, which you attach to the cloth. They are most commonly used for interviews, performances, seminars, to mention but a few. They are great because they cannot be seen, such as when you want to make a prank.
How to Choose a Microphone for Youtube Video?
When you want to purchase a microphone to do a youtube video, there are some things that you need to have at the back of your mind. Here are some things to consider:
What kind of youtube videos are you making?
This is the most crucial question you need to ask yourself before deciding on the kind of mic that you need. The type of video that you are making will determine the type of microphone that you will buy.
As we have highlighted in the last section, there are various kinds of youtube microphones, and each is used differently. Depending on your style, choose appropriately.
– Budget
Once you have known what type of microphone is ideal for your youtube videos, the next factor is your budget. How much are you willing to spend on a mic? Microphones are available in a wide range of price ranges.
In most cases, the price of the microphone is determined by its build quality. In our article, we will try to cover mics with different price ranges to help you make the right choice.
– Other accessories
The youtube microphone does not work on its own. Other accessories go with it. Some of the accessories that you will require include the microphone stand, pop filters, shock mounts, among others. Some of these accessories might come with the microphone, but there are those that you will buy separately.
It is paramount to know the other accessories that you will require to use together with your mic so that you can make the final decision.
– Audio quality
This is probably the most significant factor to consider. This is because, with clear and crispy sound quality, people cannot hear what you say. Therefore, ensure that the microphone you buy has the best audio quality there is in the market.
Apart from that, make sure you also consider where you are going to use the mic. If you are going to record indoors, the sound quality will be different as compared to recording outdoors.
– Design
Another very critical factor to consider when buying the microphone is the make. If you are going to use the mic for doing interviews, then the microphone should have a professional look. This is essential because your video will look professionally done.
– Recording environment
It is paramount to consider where you are going to use the mic. For instance, if you are going to use the mic for music performance or live recording, then you will require a microphone that can handle high sound input.
Equally important, you need to know whether you will need a mic that will create some background noises to create ambiance, or you need a single sound source.
“Best Microphone for Youtubers”
1. Rode NT-USB Microphone
The Rode NT is a USB kind of microphone. It can be used in the studio to make videos as a cardioid condenser mic. It comes with a USB cable for easy plug and plays use with a computer.
One of the outstanding features of the Rode NT is the tripod, which helps to keep the level of the sound down. But if you would wish to increase the music, then you can use an external shock mount.
In terms of the audio quality, the Rode NT microphone has excellent sound quality. Besides that, it is appropriately priced, so you will not spend a fortune to own it.
Other salient features of the Rode NT microphone are the headphone jack, which allows you to connect with a headphone. There are also controls for mixing, which you can use to control the volume of the computer to blend with your voice.
What’s more, the microphone has a sleek design which makes it stand out from the crowd. Also, it is straightforward to use because there are no complex connections to be made.
Apart from that, the Rode NT being a USB kind of mic, you can upgrade it if you would wish to expand your sound quality according to your video making demands.
However, the Rode NT microphone lacks the onboard control; therefore, you must manually adjust the input volume on your computer.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Exceptional audio quality
- Appropriately priced
- Uses a tripod
- Can be used with a shock mount
- Has control knobs for adjusting the volume
Cons
- Lacks onboard gain control
2. Blue Yeti
This is one of the best-selling youtube microphones in the market today. The manufacturing company has a curved a name for its high-quality products. However, the price of the Blue Yeti is on the high end, but you will get a quality product.
The Blue Yeti comes with a 16 bit/48kHz resolution, which gives you unmatched audio quality. Besides that, you can choose from 4 various polar patterns available, which include bi-directional, stereo, cardioid, and omnidirectional.
Another outstanding feature of the Blue Yeti is its versatility, and you can use it in different applications with exceptional results.
What’s more, the Blue Yeti comes with an inbuilt headphone amplifier, which allows you to monitor what you are recording remotely.
Also, it is very easy to use the Blue Yeti. There are controls on the microphone for functions such as mute and gain control.
It comes with a stand with is collapsible for easy storage and transportation. The Blue Yeti is a USB kind of microphone, and it is compatible with both Mac and Windows.
The Blue Yeti is ideal for use for Vlogging, gaming commentary, song recording, among others. Moreover, it comes with a user manual that you can refer to whenever you are stuck.
Pros
- Exceptional audio quality
- Comes with 4 polar patterns
- Versatile in its use
- Comes with an inbuilt headphone amp
- Comes with a stand
- Compatible with Mac and Windows
Cons
- Very expensive
3. Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone
Audio-Technica is a renowned name in the industry. It has curved a name due to its high-quality products and at pocket-friendly prices. We now bring you one of its high-quality youtube mics – Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone.
The Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone is a shotgun kind of microphone that offers the best audio quality.
This microphone is designed for professional recording. Besides that, it can also be used for broadcasting.
The Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone uses the hyper cardioid pattern, which works to isolate and reduce the sound from the source. Apart from that, it produces a clean signal with a high output, which you can achieve via the direct-coupled balanced output.
That is not all; the microphone comes with a high-pass filter switch, which you can use to minimize the low-frequency noise. There is also a -10dB pad, which helps to pick louder sound from the source.
What’s more, the Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone is circuitry, and it does not have any transformers which play a significant role in reducing low-frequency distortions.
Apart from that, the microphone is lightweight, compact, and sturdy. Therefore, it will last for a long time, and you can carry it easily from place to place.
The Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone is highly sensitive, and it can pick up the sound from the source accurately.
It is ideal for use for Vlogging, broadcasting among other purposes. Most importantly, when you buy the Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone, you will get a free carry case, a stand, and a windscreen.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Lightweight and compact
- Durable
- Uses the hypercardioid technology to isolate and reduce sound
- Ideal for professional recording
- Uses circuitry to reduce distortions
- Very sensitive
Cons
- Very expensive
- Does not have a Phantom so it will not plug to most cameras
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4. Shure SM7B
Shure SM7B is a USB kind of microphone that uses the XLR type of cable. If you would like to use the USB, then you will need a preamp to complete the connection.
Are you looking for a youtube microphone that will suppress all the background sounds? Then look no further than the Shure SM7B microphone.
It is ideal for voice over actors, podcasts, twitch streaming, to mention but a few. What’s more, the Shure SM7B mic is dynamic in its use. It will only be able to capture the sound that is coming from the front side. Therefore, it is a unidirectional kind of microphone.
As already mentioned, the Shure SM7B mic suppresses the background noise. For this reason, you will need a preamp to increase the sound signal to a level that you can use. This is because it has a low dB.
What’s more, the Shure SM7B microphone is designed for professional use. This is because the microphone is capable of reducing all the background noise to ensure that you get a high-quality audio output.
However, the Shure SM7B microphone is on the high end. So, if you are working on a budget, look for other mic options.
Pros
- High-quality sound
- Ideal for professional use
- Suppresses background noise
- It is dynamic in its use
- Value for money
- Can be used with preamps
Cons
- Costly
5. AKG C214
AKG is another big name that produces quality products. The AKG C214 is a studio kind of condenser microphone. It comes with a wide diaphragm, which helps to pick all the sound effortlessly in front of it.
Besides that, the AKG C214 comes with a double capsule system, which ensures the audio quality is superb. Apart from that, it has a black-plate which increases the quality of its production.
In addition to that, the AKG C214 has an inbuilt suspension, which plays a vital role in reducing the external noise. There is also an attenuation pad which is switchable when you want to record high sound sources.
What’s more, the AKG C214 comes with a unique bass-cut filter, which allows you to record even at very close proximity without affecting the quality of the sound.
AKG C214 has a sturdy build, which makes it very long-lasting.
However, AKG C214 is highly-priced, which might be a deal-breaker for most people. But every extra penny you spend on it is worth the value you will get from using it.
Pros
- Decent audio quality
- Long-lasting
- Comes with a bass-filter for close recording
- Has an inbuilt suspension for noise reduction
- Has a wide diaphragm
- Value for money
Cons
- Expensive
6. Blue Snowball
Last but not least, in our list, today is the Blue Snowball microphone. It is among the best-priced youtube microphones in the market today. This mic is ideal for youtube streamers and vloggers.
The Blue Snowball can switch between two useable modes – cardioids and omnidirectional. In addition to that, it is available in a wide range of color shades to choose from. The omnidirectional feature of the Blue Snowball allows you to record from all directions while the cardioid will enable you to record high-quality sound.
In terms of audio quality, the Blue Snowball has an excellent sound quality. There are 2 inbuilt microphone capsules that allow you to make a perfect recording.
When you buy the Blue Snowball, you will get a free stand, which is high adjustable to adjust the height according to your recording needs.
Apart from that, in terms of the build quality, the Blue Snowball is sturdy, and it will last for a long time. Also, it is a USB type of microphone.
Pros
- Durable
- Excellent audio quality
- 2 inbuilt microphone capsules
- Comes with a collapsible stand
- Has 2 useable modes
- Affordable
- Available in a wide range of colors to choose from
Cons
- None to note
Conclusion
Depending on what you are going to record for your youtube channel, you need a microphone that will best serve you. It is advisable to go for a mic that comes with extra accessories to make your recording perfect. If you can find a microphone that comes with the audio interface, and all the pieces and bits for the record, you are better off.
For today, we would like to recommend to you the Audio-Technica AT4053B Hypercardioid Condenser Microphone because it a trustworthy brand, and it has all you need for the perfect recording. All the best in your youtube recording and we hope that we were able to answer the ever pending question of what microphone do Youtubers use.
Happy Recording and create awesome content!