HyperX
It is no secret that Internet platforms and digital content are becoming increasingly popular among users. YouTube, Twitch, VKontakte – these are just a small part of the sites where people stream. The success of the owners directly depends on the quality of the equipment they have, because the clearer the sound and the better the picture, the better the perception of the viewer will be, and he will be much more willing to become a regular subscriber.
In today’s top 5, we will focus on the topic of recording and take a look at the ranking of the best microphones for streaming and vlogging in 2022. We have selected the highest quality and affordable models for sale.
Best microphones for streamers in 2022
HyperX SoloCast USB Type-C
Opens the top of the best microphones for streaming inexpensive option from HyperX. The manufacturer positions the product as a desktop one, with a cardioid polar pattern and a condenser type. The design is characterized by miniaturization and rigor. The lack of an input port for headphones is justified by the complete absence of any settings, you can only turn the recording on or off. Like the older version (QuadCast), here you can tilt up to 45 degrees or even put it on its side.
The recording quality is implemented at a high level, but without frills. It is desirable to work with this model in a well-insulated room, since the absence of a “spider” and a pop filter negatively affects the recording and the microphone will easily “pick up” third-party sounds. These disadvantages are balanced by wide compatibility (Windows 7 and earlier) and flawless voice transmission, even despite possible interference.
RODE PodMic
Budget microphone for streamers from RODE. The budget can be judged by simply unpacking the device. It is assembled an order of magnitude better than most analogues. The case is completely metal, leaves no traces of touch. Weight – 937 grams, which in our opinion is quite a lot. The assembly is made in Australia, reliably, efficiently and without backlash. The capsule is protected by a stainless-steel grill covering the pop filter. There are no adapters for different racks; instead, the developers made a double cut. The RODE PodMic features a standard frequency range of 20-20,000 kHz and a sensitivity of 94 dB.
When working with a microphone, you can identify several selected and intentionally truncated ranges. This is done to remove noise when recording, as the device is designed with studio work in mind. PodMic, like all models in the line, is characterized by a bright and clear sound. Thus, the user does not have to resort to additional sound processing.
HyperX QuadCast S USB Type-C
A gaming mic for streaming with clear sound, a versatile option for let’s play and podcasts. Belongs to a mixed type of capacitor / electret devices. The package includes a large, three-meter cable with ferrite rings for connecting to a computer. A stylish appearance is provided by a metal case elongated in height and RGB backlighting. The anti-vibration spider is fixed with screws on the microphone body. The gain control ring is located at the bottom, and 5 marks are spaced apart for reference when switching.
As for the sound settings, everything here is poor. You can adjust the volume of the device itself and the headphones, there are no changes in polar patterns and other fine adjustments. Decent sound is provided by a reference impedance of 32 ohms, a sensitivity of -36 dB and a frequency range of 20-20,000 MHz.
RODE NT-USB Mini USB Type-C
Our rating of budget microphones for computers and streams continues with a condenser-type device. RODE NT-USB Mini USB differs from the older model in size (3 times smaller) and a number of parameters. The sample rate is set to 24bit/48kHz versus 16bit/48kHz on the older RODE NT. Also, the “baby” is better in terms of sound pressure, 121 dB versus 110. The only negative is the increased weight due to the stand, but if you do not want to use hanging mounts, then this problem is not significant. It is also pleasantly surprising that the stand is mounted on magnets, and not on ordinary hinges.
The microphone will require MAC OS 10.12 or Windows 10 for stable operation. The front side has a joystick headphone output volume control combined with click-activated direct monitoring. Here the user should be careful, because the microphone gain is controlled directly by the software method, through the computer. Under the headphones there is a 3.5 mm output with an amplifier that can open any high-impedance headphones.
Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B is the best microphone for streaming. This is an iconic streaming and broadcast microphone, released in 2001. Compared to the SM7 and SM7A, the cartridge and diaphragm have been redesigned here. At the end, the frequency response controls, the low-cut filter and the presence filter are placed. It has a cardioid pickup pattern; it writes sound well if you hold the microphone at a large angle relative to your mouth. At the maximum approximation (touching the lips of the foam rubber), no distortion or extra sounds are observed. The device captures the frequency range of 50-20000 Hz with a sensitivity of -59 dB.
The microphone package includes a protective cover for switches, a threaded adapter for holders from ⅝ to ⅜ and a windscreen. The strict and laconic design is complemented by a matte body that is resistant to scratches and fingerprints. The weight of the microphone is 765 grams and will require a quality stand for mounting. Well suited for work in rooms with poor sound insulation. Despite the good performance, professionals recommend using the Shure SM7B in conjunction with a high-quality sound card and microphone amplifier.
