How to choose a microphone for streaming
Principle of operation and pattern
The majority of modern microphones use either a condenser or electret capsule. These concepts are closely linked as the storage capacitor includes an electret plate. These capsules vary in size, from a few millimeters for headsets to 10 — 20 mm for podcasters, streamers, and semi-professional music microphones. The omnidirectional nature is both an advantage and a drawback, allowing comfortable speaking at various distances and angles but also capturing background noise regardless of volume.
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| Internal structure of the microphone. |
Dynamic capsules with a diameter of 30-50 mm, which work on the reverse principle of speaker, are a completely different matter. The vibrations of the air during conversation move the diaphragm, which generates a current by electromagnetic induction, which is converted into a sound signal. Speaking into a dynamic microphone should be strictly directed at the capsule from a short distance. If you deviate even a little bit, the volume of the recording is instantly reduced. But no external sound affects the diaphragm and, as a result, is not recorded. Dynamic microphones are more energy consuming, so when powered from USB they produce low volume, so it is better to use XLR connection.
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| Cardioid and omni-directional pattern. |
Unlike dynamic microphones, which are strictly unidirectional, condenser and electret microphones default to a cardioid pattern, recording evenly within a 30-degree forward angle. However, there are also bidirectional and omnidirectional options available, equipped with two or three capsules, respectively. A switch on the microphone body allows users to change the recording mode: cardioid is ideal for solo streamers, stereo suits ASMR enthusiasts, bidirectional works for podcasting, and omnidirectional accommodates group dialogues or amateur musical performances with three or more participants.
Connectors and equipment
The XLR connector is designed for so-called “phantom power” — amplification of the volume of microphones with a large diameter capsule and, as a result, high resistance in ohms. It carries a voltage of 50 V, which is ten times more than typical USB. A wider voltage range allows you to more accurately control the recording volume with the analog knob, and also minimizes internal electronic noise. The XLR microphones are connected to specialized sound cards or streamer consoles (mixers).
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| XLR cable with 50 V power supply. |
The USB connection offers greater versatility, compatible with computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, including iOS and Android. It also works seamlessly with gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox for direct streaming to platforms like Twitch or YouTube. USB connectivity implies a built-in sound card, with options for fixed or detachable cables, and support for both Type-A and Type-C. Recently, models with dual connections — USB and XLR — are becoming more prevalent.
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| The spider mount dampens vibration. |
Apart from cables, microphones can come with various stands: a rigid metal leg for desktop use, a foldable tripod for portability, or a flexible pantograph allowing precise positioning without obstructing the keyboard and mouse. Additionally, a spider mount (shock mount) minimizes table vibrations, and at least one pop filter is typically included to reduce breath sounds during recording.
Additional features
Many USB microphones feature a 3.5 mm Mini-Jack connector, serving as an input for headphones to allow real-time monitoring of recordings. Though there might be a slight audio delay initially, the microphone's built-in sound card is often superior to the one in PCs and laptops, making it suitable for music playback as well. To add visual appeal during video recording or live broadcasts, manufacturers often enhance microphones with RGB backlighting. This backlighting can be dynamic, cycling through various colors, or customizable to match the branding of a YouTube or Twitch channel.
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JLab Talk GO is a budget microphone from a young American brand, costing only $50. Unlike most of its “classmates”, it has not one, but two condenser (electret) capsules. This allows you to switch between recording modes: unidirectional (cardioid) or omnidirectional.
In addition to the directional switch, on the microphone body there is a Mute button to completely turn off recording (lights up in red) and a mechanical volume control. There's even a 3.5 mm Mini-Jack port for real-time monitoring of headphone recording. Moreover, the manufacturer promises almost zero sound delay.
The diameter of the two capsules is 14 and 9 mm and the recording frequency range is from 20 to 20000 Hz. The kit comes with an L-shaped USB Type-C cable and a compact folding tripod, which, however, may be a little short for tall users. But a standard 5/8-inch thread allows you to easily transfer the microphone to any other stand.
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The Fifine AmpliGame AM8, designed for streamers, features a sizable dynamic capsule delivering rich bass in your voice and effective noise cancellation. However, optimal performance requires speaking into the dynamic capsule at a close range and right angle to avoid low volume issues. The included soft foam pop filter effectively minimizes unwanted breathing sounds.
The microphone supports two connection options: via an XLR cable to an external sound card or streamer mixer, as well as via USB directly to a computer or laptop. In addition to the Windows and macOS operating systems, Sony PlayStation 4 and 5 game consoles are officially supported. But Xbox fans were left out of the spotlight.
The built-in sound card enables real-time monitoring, offering separate analog knobs for adjusting microphone and headphone volumes. The robust steel stand provides stability on the table, and the kit includes a 5/8 to 3/8 inch thread adapter, ensuring compatibility with various pantographs.
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| Artline.ua | 3 499 ₴ | To Store |
| Click.ua | 3 499 ₴ | To Store |
| Palladium.ua | 3 443 ₴ | To Store |
| Portativ.ua | 4 499 ₴ | To Store |
The Hator Dreamcast RGB is a three-capsule microphone with four pattern modes that allows you to stream alone, as a duo, or with a large group. The microphone body and stand are made of metal, so they weigh over half a kilogram in total. The vibration-absorbing suspension is integrated directly into the microphone.
Decorated with multi-color RGB backlighting, and, thanks to the built-in memory, the selected color and flicker mode are not reset after the microphone is turned off. The touch-sensitive Mute button operates silently, avoiding the potential disruptive click of a mechanical button during recording. It boasts compatibility with computers, game consoles, and smartphones.
The three condenser capsules have a diameter of 14 mm each and a frequency range of 30 — 18000 Hz. The bit depth is 24 bits, and the sampling frequency is 192 kHz. Connects with a 2.5-meter USB Type-C to Type-A cable. The kit includes an adapter for an alternative thread for the pantograph. The role of a pop filter is performed by a foam layer inside the microphone.
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