If you have passion of becoming a great Youtuber and you are looking forward to getting your camera gear and audio recorder then this article is for you. In this article, we will primarily focus on the best microphones that you can buy for your Youtube Videos. There are different genres of youtube Videos, Whether you want a mic for gaming, vlogging, singing or asmr. We’ll also dive deeply into this deciding which receiver is the most suited for what purpose. Many times, newbies take audios for granted but let me tell you audio matters as much as the video of your content.
A lot of new trends are coming on the internet nowadays like podcasts, asmr, song cover and these are mostly driven by your Audio. To get the good quality audio quality, you have to buy a good mic recorder.
Sometimes if you have a video which has some flaws and not perfect, but with ideal audio, it can be an overall success. Some studies conclude no matter how good quality pictures you have, but with bad sound, you will have the overall adverse effect.
Read the article thoroughly, we will cover all the essential aspects of microphone that will include types of receiver, things to keep in mind before buying one, what mic recorders best YouTubers are using? And what are the best microphones to buy in 2019? So, without wasting any time further, let’s dive into types of receivers.
Types of Microphones
1- Moving coil (Dynamic Microphone): These moving coil microphones are built to handle the high sound without any distortion. Their build quality is sturdy, and they last longer even though you feel them roughly. These dynamic mics are mostly used for stage vocals and PA. They have low output impedance with high output level, they don’t require the amplifier to boost the sound. The Shure 57 is one of the leading brands when it comes to these types of microphones. For better audio, you have to be very close to them. As these mics are very popular among pop groups, they prefer it to be handheld only.
2- Crystal microphone: These are some old school microphones and have lost their popularity since the last couple of years. They cost very less and made up of ceramic. The offer high impedance with high output. They need an amplifier for high production. The biggest problem with them was high impedance because of that they have this general stray pickup.
3- Condenser microphone: These are the most popular microphones nowadays because of their high quality whether its vocals or instruments. These microphones need power because of capacitor and preamplifier. The output impedance of condenser microphones is low to enable the longer leads. Price of these microphones may range from $100 to $500. They are mostly preferred in podcasts, singing, and asmr. To avoid any pops, you can use the pop filter as well which are available online at just $5. Blue Yeti is one of the most popular condenser microphone open and being used by famous YouTubers.
4- Ribbon microphone: These microphones are being used mostly in studio work. Nowadays, their popularity has gone down. They need a preamplifier, and their output impedance is low. Cost of these microphones is quite high. I would only recommend them if you have any specific requirement as such.
5- USB microphone: There are not the separate category of microphones. Most of these condenser microphones are USB microphones only. They come with preamplifier and analog to digital converter. You can plugin them to your computer and record the sound in your system. These mics are getting popular nowadays because of their ease of use. Though these microphones are not very portable and cannot be mounted on the camera. They are preferred when you want to record something sitting at your home or studio.
6- Wireless microphones: If you are a traveling filmmaker, where you have to meet new people and take their interviews then these kinds of microphones come into the picture. They are preferred when the camera is far from the subject, and you want to record the vocals or sound of the subject. These mic recorders are easy to use and completely tangle free. But with them, you can face the problem of signal dropouts so better don’t take receiver very far from the recorder.
Technical Aspects to keep in Mind Before buying a Mic Recorder
There are a couple of things, you have to keep in mind before buying a mic recorder. You have to decide what budget you have because microphone ranges between $100 to $1000. You also have to get clarity for what purpose, you are using it. If you are using it for outdoor purpose, then you can choose the rode pro plus, or if you are using it for indoor sound recording, then you can go for a blue yeti recorder. Also, make sure the build quality and warranty period of the product that you are purchasing. Below are three main technical aspects of a good mic recorder.
Impedance: Prefer a low impedance mic recorder. It picks up the less noise, and you also get the high-frequency output on longer cables. Pro mics come with 200 ohms or lower impedance.
Sensitivity: The sensitivity of the mic is measured in decibels. Nowadays, you get the mics whose sensitivity, you can adjust at your disposal. If you want to record something which is very low in sound, it can pick up too -70db of sound. In this case, Go with a higher value with less variance.
Frequency Response: Every mic has a range of frequency response. If on the mic 40Hz-16kHz, this is written, it means mic will catch the sound between that frequency only. In this case, a wide range of the spectrum is preferred.
What microphones do Famous Youtubers use?
- Rode VideoMic Pro+ Microphone: Mark Dohner, WolfieRaps, Casey Neistat, Jake Paul, Logan Paul, Tanner Braungardt, JoJo Siwa
- Audio Technica AT2020 Microphone: DanTDM, Ali-A, FaZe Rain
- AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Microphone: PewDiePie
- Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone: Zoella, Alfie Deyes, Ryan Higa, Julien Solomita, Jon Olsson, Alisha Marie
- Blue Yeti Pro USB Condenser Microphone: Dakotaz
- Blue Yeti USB Microphone: Faze Rug, Hamlin, Myth
Best Microphones for Youtube Vlogging | Gaming | Singing | ASMR
Watch the Full Video: Morgan Freeman Secret
1- Rode Videomic Pro+
This is one of the most popular microphones among vloggers all around the world. This camera shotgun condenser mic delivers an excellent quality sound quality. This comes at a very affordable price and mostly used with on camera mount setup. It doesn’t require any kind of extra battery, you just mount it on the camera and start using it.
At the same time, it also has got pretty good build quality. The body is built of aluminum while little plastic on the back. The Mic plugs of the microphone are 3.5mm jack which is compatible with most of the cameras. You can also use the microphone with your mobile as well. It also comes with a pass-through connection that allows you to cross check your recording once you are done. Below are some of the technical aspects of Rode Videomic Pro+ that you should know.
- If you are buying it from Amazon, buy it only from authorized dealers so that you don’t face any issue with the warranty.
- It comes with automatic plugin power function Automatic Power Function.
- It can be powered via LB-1, AA Batteries or Micro USB.
- You will also get camera shoe mount with 3″8′ thread.
Can I use this mic with canon 70d?
It works well with Canon 70D without any glitch. Highly recommended for your camera. You will see the drastic transformation in the sound quality.
I have noticed hissing sound while using it. What should I do?
It might happen, you have to change your audio settings. Change the settings from Auto to Manual and lower down the sensitivity.
Can you attach this to a boom pole?
For that, you need to add a TRRS extension cable. It won’t work with the standard connection as it requires 3 signal plus ground connection.
My Camera doesn’t have a 3.5mm audio jack, how can I connect this?
You have to buy a separate connector for this.
2- Blue Yeti USB Microphone
This is probably the most popular condenser mic with fantastic sound quality. If you are into singing, podcasts or asmr, then this mic recorder is highly recommended for you. There are a lot of features available with this condenser mic that gives you full control over your audio quality. You can change the volume, mode(pattern selection), sensitivity and instant mute. It comes at very affordable though being loaded with all these fantastic features. If you want to avoid the surrounding sound, then you can reduce the sensitivity and have a good quality sound. It’s preferred for home use and studio purpose. For more better recording, you can also use the pop filter as well. Below are essential aspects of this monitor.
- It weighs around 3.51 pounds, and its dimensions are 4.9*4.7*11.6 inches.
- It comes with three condenser capsules that can record from any direction if in omnidirectional mode.
- It requires the power of 5V 150mA. Microphones have a frequency response of 20Hz-20KHz while amplifier frequency ranges between 15Hz to 22KHz.
- It is best suited for Vocals, podcasts, singing, asmr, and voice-overs.
- It is compatible with all the software like Windows 10, 8, 8.1, 7, Vista, XP and all Mac Versions as well.
What is the length of USB Cable, I would be getting with this microphone?
It is 3metres long so that you have enough distance to stretch.
While I am using it near my laptop and tying, it’s picking this keyboard. What can I do to resolve this?
I will recommend to reduce the sensitivity of the mic and keep it near your mouth, it will resolve the problem.
Can I use it with windows 10?
Yes, you can use it without any issue.
What is the difference between silver and platinum models?
Platinum version has the better build quality and a little bit heavier than the silver one. It’s more gunmetal and has a glossy finish.
3- Rode RodeLink FM Wireless Filmmaker System
If you are looking for a wireless recorder then this could be one of the options that you should go for. It’s good for recording interviews or if you want to shoot the subject with vocals which are far from the camera. Though it is bit costlier, it is worth its price because of its sound quality. With this, you are less likely to face a signal loss like other wireless recorders. The setup of these microphones are quite comfortable, just pop the receiver and transmitter, put the AA batteries and you are good to go. Below are some of the critical aspects of Roderick Wireless mic that you should know.
- If you are buying it from Amazon. Buy it from trusted seller only. Otherwise, you might face the problem with warranty.
- It has 128-bit encryption and 2.4GHz digital transmission. The range is up to 100m, and you can pair it up with a single button.
- You get OLED Display on the receiver that shows you all the essential data.
Can I use it with Canon Vixia HF R600?
Yeah, if it has 3.5mm mic jack, you can use it without a problem.
Can I connect it with a handheld microphone?
Yes, you can connect it with any microphone, but it needs a power supply to run it.
How do I connect the receiver to the camera?
It comes with the cable that you can use to connect.
How’s the build quality of this headphone?
Build Quality is rugged and sturdy, and you can use it for an outdoor shoot with full freedom.
4- Shure VP83F LensHopper
This is a camera mounted condenser mic with integrated flash recording. It has the solid build quality and gives high-quality audio quality. You can use it with your DSLR or camcorders. You can record the sound at 24bit with 48KHz with one button recording. It is built with the super-cardioid polar pattern. It comes with customized lyre shock mount. Its dimensions are 10*4.2*5.2 inches, and it weighs around 1.5pounds. Below are some of the important features of the microphone that you should know.
- You get a low-end response with high definition audio.
- It can record up 32GB with flash recording.
- You get the uncompressed version of the sound with 24Bit with 48Khz Frequency.
- You can also adjust the audio gain sensitivity and avoid the surrounding sound. Gain can be adjusted from 60db to 1db.
- I come with lyre shock mounting to avoid any kind of potential damage to the mic recorder.
- With 2AA batteries, you can use it for around 10 hours.
What is the maximum size memory card it supports?
It supports memory card up to 32gb. But Some users claimed that there are some issues in file transfering if you are using high GB memory card.
Can I use it with Canon t3i?
You can use it with any camera that comes with a 1/8 inch input jack.
Does it work with iPhone 7?
Yes, you can use it with your iPhone without any glitch.
Does it come with any audio monitoring port?
The VP83F gives you headphone monitoring option while VP83 does not.
Watch the Full Video: Morgan Freeman Secret
5- Audio-Technica AT4053B
This Hypercardioid Condenser Mic is specially built for professional recordings like acoustic, broadcast or sound enforcement. Its hypercardioid polar pattern reduces sound from the surrounding and only focuses on the subject sound. It is not very popular among, but some of the professional YouTubers highly recommend it. When it comes to price, it is a bit costly and might not fit your budget. So, if you are a newbie and looking for some affordable microphone with some ok quality, then it’s not recommended for you.
- This condenser mic is directly coupled which gives clear results even under high conditions.
- The weight of Audio Technica is around 14.4 ounces.
- The dimensions of the product Product is 10.4 x 4.4 x 1.5 inches.
- It has transformerless circuitry which helps in eliminating the low-frequency distortion and gives high-quality output.
- It comes with switchable 80Hz hi-pass filter with the 10db pad.
Does it worth its high price?
I would wait until or unless you have any specific requirement as such and you are a beginner. I would say prefer other mics like Rode or Blue Yeti.
How can I replace the mic clip?
You can buy this #AT8405a stand clamp.
Can I use this with Canon 80D?
You can directly use it, you have to buy a separate connector for this.
How much does it cost in India?
I would say it’s not worth buying in India as you have to pay $200 extra shipping cost.
6- Rode Procaster
This Rode Procaster microphone is specially designed for broadcasting purpose. Most of the broadcasters nowadays use this mic only. It doesn’t compromise with the sound quality, and you get the perfect smooth sound. It comes with a tight polar pattern which is made to give good voice frequency response. This Rode Procaster is highly recommended if you want to reduce the ambient noise and only want to capture the subject sound. Most of the ASMR Youtubers use this mic only to record their voice. Below are some of the important aspects of the Rode Procaster.
- It comes with an internal pop filter that reduces all kinds of plosives sounds.
- Its low impedance and high output capsule make it the best for broadcast and voice-over.
- It also has an internal shock mounting that eliminates the possibility of any kind of distortion.
- Build Quality of this mic is nice and sturdy, full metal, no plastic.
- You also get stand mount and zip pouch with the microphone.
Can I use this for my vocal recordings and singing?
Yes, you can. It is made for that purpose only.
Apart from broadcasting, where else we can use this?
See, this microphone is specially built to avoid surrounding noise. You can use it for a lot of purposes like a kick drum, acoustic guitar, bass cabinet and much more.
Does it come with shock mount?
Nopes
Do we the cable with this?
Nopes
Watch the Full Video: Morgan Freeman Secret
7- Rode NT-USB
This Rode NT USB Condenser microphone is a versatile microphone and can be used for various purposes. You can use it for podcasting, voice over, singing, musical performances and other purposes. It is compatible with many windows and Mac software. It already has a premium sound quality filter. You can position this pop filter properly to avoid any kind of hard sounds like ‘B,’ ‘T’ or ‘P.’ It comes with a tripod stand mount that comes with 3’8″ thread. You also get the pouch for storage when the microphone is not in use. Below are some important features of this Rode NT-USB.
- It weighs around 3.5 pounds and has product dimensions of 14*14*11 inches.
- USB Connectivity makes it easy to use. It also has a 6m cable and storage pouch.
- You also get a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack for audio monitoring with zero latency.
- It is also compatible with Apple iPad and comes with an extended two years warranty if you register for the microphone.
What kind of audio monitoring output do we get with 3.5mm jack?
It’s for your headphones, you get good quality sound with this.
Can I use this mic with my Sony a6000?
You have to buy a separate connector for this. I don’t think it will support your Sony camera. There is a lot of connectivity problems with Sony Cameras with Rode mic.
Will I get the guarantee with this product?
If you buy it from an authorized dealer, you get the guarantee with the product.
Can I use it with microphone stand? Or Do I need to buy a shock mount?
Yeah, it works fine with a microphone stand. There is no need of investing money in the shock mount.
8- Rode smartLav+
It is built for mobile users who want to record good sound quality by using their smartphones. This is a simple microphone, you can just plug in and start using it. This smartlav+ is a wearable microphone which gives you better portability and more convenience. You just simply mount this on the talent and connect it with your mobile then you are good to go. You can use it with iOS, Android and record the sound the sound in any application of your choice. Below are some important features of Rode SmartLav+, we have also covered some frequently asked questions.
- It weighs around 1.44 ounces, and product dimensions are 5*1*3 inches.
- It broadcast high-quality sound as it comes with TRRS jack.
- It has an omnidirectional condenser capsule.
- It is the very small size and easy to carry. 4.5mm miniature microphone.
- It comes with windshield, mount clip and pouch.
- It has twelve months warranty.
Does it work with iPhone lightning cable adapter?
Yeah, It works fine with iPhone 7, 8 and X.
Can I use this with Zoon H4N?
Yes, you can, you just have to change the TRRS to TRS.
Apart from using it with smartphones, what another device we can use this with?
You can buy this Rode SC3 adapter and start using it with your DSLR cameras.
Does it worth its price?
It is worth every single penny. It is very cheap as well.
9- Audio-Technica
This is also one of the great mic recorders by audio technology company. This is most popular for studio usage as it comes with large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser. This is specially built to capture the very details of the sound while eliminating the surroundings. It comes with 80Hz high pass filter and 10db pad. It has solid build quality, gives high performance. You get the pouch and shock mount with this microphone. It has a permanently polarized condenser and fixed chargeback plate. Below are some important features of the mic that you should know including frequently asked questions as well.
- Element: Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: -33 dB (22.4 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
- Impedance: 120 ohms
- Maximum Input Sound Level: 148 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.;158 dB SPL, with 10 dB pad (nominal)
- Dynamic Range: 136 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
- Switches: Flat, roll-off; 10 dB pad (nominal)
Can I use this with 24v phantom power?
It works fine with anything that ranges between 11-52V.
How’s the build quality of the mic?
I would say all the mics we have mentioned in this article have really solid build quality.
Can I use for recording my rap?
Yes, you will get the deep voice with this.
Will I get the stand with the microphone?
Nopes, You will only get the shock mount.
10- Blue Snowball USB Microphone
Though we have put this microphone on 10th number it is the most popular microphone among beginners all around the world and has amazing reviews on Amazon. This USB microphone is very easy to use and delivers studio quality sound. The company claims that it has their award-winning dual capsule in it that provides crisp and clean sound free from any kind of distortion.
You can easily change between the three patterns and give you the option to record vocals, instrumental music, podcast and interviews. It doesn’t require any kind of external assistance, you just directly plugin and start using with your pc or mac. Below are some of the important features of this mic recorders.
- System Requirements – Windows: 7, XP Home, Professional, USB 1.0 or 2.0.
- Transducer type: Condenser, Pressure gradient with USB digital output
- Polar patterns: Omnidirectional or cardioid
- Frequency: Position 1-3: 40-18kHz
- Sample/Word rate: 44.1kHz/16-bit
- Weight: 460g;
- Dimensions: 325mm
- Finish: Gloss black finish
How many modes, does it come with?
It comes with two mode cardioid and omnidirectional.
What software should I use for recording?
You can use any software like Audacity or Audition. Or you can also go with some basic software as well.
I have a lot of noise in my room while recording. How to eliminate that?
Use the microphone in Settings #2.
How far should I keep my mouth to record the vocals?
Keep it 2-3 feet away for good quality recording.
