High-quality equipment is required to create YouTube content or video blogging in other formats. A well-chosen microphone provides decent sound design for your content and therefore attracts more subscribers to view.
The choice of microphones for video recording involves understanding what the equipment will be used for (recording gameplay, vocals and music, action, interviews). You also need to know what characteristics are important for recording at home or shooting outdoors in order to ensure the creation of high-quality finished material without unnecessary noise and sounds.
Since buying a microphone requires certain material investments, it will not be superfluous to pay attention to the compatibility of the device with other equipment and the need for additions to it (sound amplifier, sound card, stand. Adapter) before purchasing.
These devices are often required for microphones of a cheap segment (for example, Bm700 / 800 or 8000 popular on Aliexpress) to get a good result and negate all the visible "savings" from buying a device for 1-1.5 thousand rubles.
To make the best choice, you also need information about which category the equipment belongs to and what characteristics are important for recording podcasts.
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Microphone classification
All microphones can, according to the principle of operation, be combined into two large groups:
- condenser;
- dynamic.
Condenser are called devices, the principle of operation of which is based on the use of the properties of an electric capacitor, with a membrane as one of the plates. Oscillations of the membrane provide a change in capacity.
Equipment of this type is used in professional recording studios, radio and TV. Microphones of this type usually require phantom power (48V).
Advantages: Has high sensitivity and good sound capture.
Disadvantages: requires good preparation of the space in which the recording will be carried out (isolation from extraneous noise), deteriorate from temperature changes, mechanical stress, not suitable for the street.
Dynamic microphones have a membrane (diaphragm) that reacts to sound waves. Using a dynamic (moving) inductor in a magnetic field, sound vibrations are converted into current.
This type of device is used for performances on stage, for recording in a studio or on the street.
Positive features: unpretentious, withstands sound pressure well (important when recording instruments such as bass guitar, drum kit), less sensitive to changes in temperature and moisture, cost less.
There are two more types of microphones that have earned popularity among both professional sound engineers and amateur bloggers: electret (can be classified as condenser) and ribbon (variation of dynamic).
Electret take the name from the material used for their production. They have good sound sensitivity, but at the same time they can have a small size, are resistant to mechanical stress.
Advantages: price, possibility of using without phantom power, relative resistance to mechanical stress.
Disadvantages: when the size is reduced, the sound quality suffers,
Tape: in fact, they are a kind of dynamic microphones, in which the role of a dynamic element is assigned to a metal tape. Used more often in studios.
Positive features: accurate sound reproduction throughout the entire range.
Disadvantages: large size, high price, the weight of the structure is greater than that of electrets.
According to the method of attachment, microphones can also be: desktop (on a stand or tripod), lavalier (attached to clothing with a clip), head-mounted, built-in, plug-in (inserted into the camera separately).
Important equipment characteristics
For a microphone, characteristics such as maximum and minimum frequency, frequency difference (nominal frequency), sensitivity, dynamic range, directivity are essential. The data is indicated in the technical documentation.
Maximum and minimum frequencies are the values of the highest and lowest frequency of sounds with which the microphone works. The wider the range, it would seem, the better. But, in practice, too large a range is not needed. The minimum frequency for speech recording is 200 Hz.
Frequency response unevenness - the indicator is the difference between the maximum and minimum microphone sensitivity frequency within the range. The lower the score, the better.
Sensitivity is the ratio of the input voltage to the sound pressure. The resistance must be at least 3 times the inlet pressure. In practice, this indicator indicates that the output is the loudest sound with a quiet input. The values of the indicator are expressed by parameters with a negative index in decibels, for example, - 30 dB will be higher than - 40 dB.
Dynamic range is the difference in frequency between signals that a device can reproduce without distortion. The higher the value, the better.
Rating of the best microphones
Prices for microphones for video recording vary widely, from one to several tens of thousands. In addition, the low cost of products does not always indicate the poor quality of the product, but according to YouTube users, buying too cheap stationary microphones (cheaper than 4500 - 5000 rubles) does not justify itself. The sound quality is poor or additional devices are required for normal equipment operation.
Therefore, it makes sense to initially purchase reliable equipment from reputable manufacturers. Moreover, when ordering via the Internet, prices may differ by as much as 30%. On the same AliExpress (if there are promotions), discounts reach 50%.
Condenser
As intended, the equipment may be better suited for recording podcasts, instruments and vocals or interviews. Stationary microphones are used for both specially prepared (studio) and unprepared (apartment) indoor spaces.
M Samson Meteor USB
This model is one of the most popular among youtubers. When watching videos, you can often see the Samson Meteor with a distinctive stand shape, reminiscent of a small spaceship, made of silvery metal.
According to buyers, the combination of price and quality of the equipment is optimal, there are a lot of convenient features - vibration-damping rubber pads on the legs, a USB connector that allows you to directly connect to a camera or computer. Directivity - cardioid, maximum frequency 20,000 Hz, minimum - 20 Hz.
Benefits:
- high-quality professional sound;
- high sensitivity;
- there is a microphone mute button;
- easy to use (does not require additional software);
- automatic volume control;
- low price;
- compactness, light weight (263 g);
- nice retro design.
Disadvantages:
- requires additional purchase of a pop filter;
- note a slight hum when recording in a room without isolation.
Samson C01U
This model is also the leader in popularity ratings among the middle price segment. The equipment is positioned as a studio recording device suitable for podcasts.
It is also equipped with a USB connector and does not require the installation of special software. Also comes with a dedicated podcasting kit. Includes headphones, desk stand and carrying case.
Some characteristics are weaker than Meteor (sensitivity -30 dB, maximum frequency 18000 Hz).
Benefits:
- high-quality sound;
- good sensitivity;
- zero latency monitoring;
- easy to use (suitable for beginners);
- low price;
- high-quality noise reduction;
Disadvantages:
- requires the purchase of add-ons (windscreen, pop filter);
- note a little noise.
Blue yeti pro
The model is popular due to its versatility for recording podcasts, for instruments and vocals. Sensitivity - 47 dB, frequency range 20 - 18000 Hz. Comes with a desk stand. The diagram is bi-directional radial.
Benefits:
- high-quality "studio" sound that requires almost no processing;
- versatility;
- there is a shutdown button;
- good design;
- easy setup (suitable for beginners).
Disadvantages:
- relatively high price;
- note the inconvenience of adjusting the stand;
- large size (30 cm), covers the monitor;
- heavy weight;
- too sensitive to extraneous noise.
Audio-Technica AT2020 (studio)
Proven model for years of use for video recording and especially vocals and instruments. Buyers note reliability, resistance to damage, surround sound, accurate transmission of individual voice sound.
The body is made of metal, painted black. The orientation of the device is cardiac. Sensitivity - 37 Hz. The frequency range is 20-20000 Hz. The kit includes a holder, adapter, case.
Benefits:
- high-quality sound;
- high noise reduction;
- lightweight diaphragm;
- low price;
- strict design.
Disadvantages:
- heavy weight;
- there is no rack included, you will have to buy it separately;
- it is recommended to add a pop filter.
Boya BY-M1
Like most lavalier devices, it is well suited for interviews and video recording outdoors and indoors. Has a compact size, convenient attachment. Battery operated, 6m cord attached. Compatible with iPhone.
Benefits:
- low price;
- easy;
- the set includes a windscreen;
- compact;
- relatively high quality sound.
Disadvantages:
- no battery indicator;
- note recording errors (rustling);
- not suitable for recording vocals and instruments.
Dynamic microphones
For podcasts, and especially for recording music, dynamic microphones are used.
Shure VP64A
This manufacturer is widely known among sound engineers and musicians. Popular for sound quality, sensitivity, durability. According to buyers, it is good for recording vocals and instruments.
Hand-made construction requires additions in the form of a holder. Frequency range: 50-12000 Hz, sensitivity - 52 dB. The chart is a pie chart.
Benefits:
- high-quality sound;
- good noise reduction;
- easy;
- laconic design;
- does not require additions;
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- not suitable for recording some instruments;
- requires the purchase of a holder.
Shure SM7B
A quality microphone that belongs to the premium segment. These microphones are often used in professional recording studios. The manufacturer guarantees high build quality and materials. The model has a built-in wind protection.
The equipment provides professional recording of vocals and instruments, video content, game sound.
Benefits:
- quality. surround sound;
- good noise reduction;
- wide range;
- good design;
- includes an additional windscreen for outdoor use;
- Includes a mounting bracket and adapter for attaching the microphone to a stand or stand;
- there is switching of the cutoff frequencies.
Disadvantages:
- large weight (720 g);
- high price (more than 30,000 rubles).
Best electret models
The leader in this category is the devices from the Rode company, which produces high-quality equipment of various designs.
Rode VideoMicro Pro
The model is designed to be inserted into a camcorder. This microphone is small and internally powered. The equipment is reliable and of high quality. Good noise reduction is noted.
Benefits:
- high-quality sound;
- good noise reduction;
- good range;
- little weight.
Disadvantages:
- poor wind protection;
- relatively high price.
Rode VideoMic Go
The equipment is also designed to be mounted directly on a video camera. Made of black plastic. The microphone has good sensitivity (-35 dB), frequency range: 100 to 16000 Hz. Unidirectional, with a supercardiac diagram.
Benefits:
- anti-vibration suspension;
- works without a battery;
- lightweight (73 g);
- resistant to mechanical stress;
- average price.
Disadvantages:
- poor noise reduction.
Tape
Ribbon microphones are suitable for home and studio use. The most expensive type of equipment used by professional musicians for high quality recording of vocals and instruments.
The devices are distinguished by good noise reduction, high sensitivity.
The Royer 121
This producer has received a technical Grammy award for achievements in the development of the recording industry. The Royer 121 is a legendary microphone with a Lifetime First Owner Warranty. Premium segment with a very high cost (from 111,000 rubles).
In addition to the lifetime warranty, the manufacturer receives a replacement tape free of charge. Sometimes a special wooden case is included. It is made of metal and weighs 245 g. There are models with a nickel surface and matt black.
Benefits:
- surround, high-quality sound;
- excellent noise reduction;
- high sensitivity;
- durability and quality materials;
- withstands high input pressure;
- premium design;
- lifetime warranty.
Disadvantages:
- prohibitively high price (inaccessible for non-professional buyers).
Audio-Technica AT4080
Audio Technica AT4080 also belongs to the equipment of the expensive segment for studios. However, it costs 2 two less than Royer.
The manufacturer guarantees high quality and durability of the device, and the owners note the accurate transfer of all the nuances of performance, "warm", beautiful sound.
The microphone is designed for professional recording of video clips with vocals and instrumental music (brass, drums, guitar, orchestra) in a studio and at concerts. Directional pattern - figure eight. Range: 20 - 18000 Hz.
Supplied complete with carrying case and carrying case. Model AT4081 is sold with stand and windscreen.
Benefits:
- surround, high-quality sound;
- withstands high inlet pressure;
- strong and durable;
- high accuracy of sound transmission;
- high-quality manual assembly only in Japan;
- thanks to the directionality, it removes sounds well from the space around the performer;
- many patented innovative solutions.
Disadvantages:
- high price (from 54,000 rubles).
Octava ML 52-02
A studio ribbon bi-directional microphone that is popular with self-recording musicians. It has a high-quality sound transmission and is more affordable for its segment (the plant is located in Russia), is recognized in the world, and is supplied to the countries of the European Union.
However, a condenser microphone from the same manufacturer (model MK-319) is more suitable for podcasts.
Benefits:
- low price for its segment (from 17,000 rubles);
- withstands high inlet pressure;
- suitable for portable recording studios;
- especially proved itself when recording bass guitar, low male vocals, percussion instruments (has a pronounced rise in low frequencies);
- includes cords included, no need to purchase extra.
Disadvantages:
- more used as an additional microphone;
- is not universal;
- less durable than foreign models, breaks more often.
Add-ons that are important
For the best result of using the microphone, it is also recommended to take care of such useful additions as a pop filter, windscreen, anti-shock spider suspension.
The anti-shock mount is designed primarily to dampen the vibration to which studio microphones are sensitive. For a home studio, it will also be useful, because the sound insulation in it is not perfect.
The pop filter (metal plate) is designed to prevent sound interference in the form of pops, hum, noise when pronouncing explosive sounds, or air flows on the capsule during exhalation, barely noticeable to the human ear. It also blocks droplets of saliva, preventing them from getting on the equipment.
Windscreen - a device to protect against direct air flow, which reduces the quality of the recording. It comes in the form of a foam or "fur" cover for the microphone.
Choosing the right hardware and add-ons will allow you to create decent video content with minimal need for additional processing.
