When choosing a microphone to buy, it is important that you should take into consideration where the product will be used for, the quality of audio output needed, and your budget. After listing those down, it’s time to look for the brand and model that would satisfy those qualifications.
These days, the microphone is normally used for interviews, podcasts, audio recordings, and voiceovers. Since everything now is done digitally, and all audio outputs are usually needed instantly, USB microphones became popular. Gone are the days when microphones are used to record onto cassette tapes that would then need to be digitized. Moreover, using a mixer to connect a microphone to the computer is a thing of the past.
Being able to connect directly to the computer is a major requirement when choosing any digital device. For instance, when one wants to buy a mobile phone or a digital camera, one of the main considerations is if it has a slot for a cord that would allow it to be connected directly to the computer. The same is true for microphones.
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Dansrue Home Studio USB Condenser Microphone
A USB microphone is almost the same as regular microphones except that it has two other circuits. The first is an onboard preamp, so it does need to be connected to an external preamp or mixer. The other one is the analog-to-digital converter that transforms the analog input into a digital output that is recognizable by the software being used in the computer.
Using USB microphones make the whole recording process easier without losing the quality of the audio output. Dansrue USB Microphone is one of the best USB microphones on the market today because of its exceptional qualities that will be discussed below. Click here to see latest prices
Features
Dansrue USB Microphone is one of the smallest and lightest microphones available on the market. Such quality makes it portable and easy to use. It is sure not to get in the way of the user even when he or she is talking directly to the built-in camera of the laptop computer.
This mic is also easy to set up and use. It can quickly be attached and unscrewed from its tripod and is compatible with all common operating systems and apps. There is no installation required as the computer quickly recognizes it once plugged.
It is also made of high-quality materials, specifically; the microphone is made of aluminum alloy mesh. This makes it able to withstand rusting. The package also comes with a sponge cap to protect the head of the mic, a user manual, and 70-inch cable.
Summary
Dansrue USB Microphone is a great USB microphone because it gives value for money; it is perfect for recording with built-in laptop cameras; it has a long cable, and it is also great for recording music with vocals.
However, the manufacturer might consider including FAQs and troubleshooting guide in the user manual. It would also help if the content of this manual would be revised and reprinted into a bigger version.
Comparison
The Verdict
It gives value for money
This product is more affordable than other products that almost have the same specs and inclusions. It also looks elegant for its price. It is also affordable considering the fact that its microphone head is made of aluminum alloy mesh. This is one of the most durable kinds of aluminum.In addition, other similar products do not include a sponge cover. This high-quality sponge cover could also serve as a pop filter. It makes sure that words with plosives (such as p, b, t) do not produce blasting sound when spoken.
It is perfect for recording with built-in laptop cameras
USB microphones are often used when recording YouTube videos directly onto computers. A lot of YouTube videos are tutorials or product reviews that require the YouTuber to sit in front of the built-in camera to discuss.The tripod that comes with this kit is just the right size and height. It will never interfere with the recording of the user. It is also made of hard metal to make sure that it will not easily topple over. The user can confidently hold something with their hands, show it on the camera, without worrying that the microphone might fall.
The neck of the mic that connects to the tripod is also movable. It can tilt up or down up to 90 degrees. Since the microphone is omnidirectional, it can be placed near the mouth of the speaker with some adjustments.
It has a long cable
The long cable is one of the best things about this product. This 70-inch cord gives the user the freedom to move around the studio or the room to show the viewers something. This long cord also makes the microphone usable even outdoors.The cable is also evidently high-quality and durable. A high-quality cord transmits sound waves effectively, ensuring there will be no unnecessary sound produced during transmission. A good quality cord also preserves the integrity of the voice of the speaker.
It is also perfect for recording music with vocals
Dansrue USB Microphone works great not only with narration or voiceovers. It also does an exceptional job recording music with vocals. This condenser microphone is able to make sound waves coming from different sources distinct from one another. It isolates the primary sound (for instance, the vocals) from the background (from musical instruments), creating beautiful music.
Does not include instructions for troubleshooting
This kit comes with an instruction manual that covers the basic steps on setting up the microphone for use. However, this manual does not include clear troubleshooting information for common issues that might arise. For instance, what should the user do if his or her computer does not recognize the microphone? What are the possible reasons why the voice of the user sound like a chipmunk and what are the potential solutions?Including basic troubleshooting steps and FAQ would surely make the experience of using this microphone better.
Manual needs to have bigger texts and should be more reader-friendly
The manual could also use some proofreading and revising. It is not that reader-friendly. It would be better if the user manual is written for the layman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are USB microphones any good?
If you are only looking to sit in front of your machine to record your voice (for example, in a podcast or a video chat), then a USB mic is a simple and easy way to do so.
The quality of the USB mic depends on its soundcard, which in turn depends on sensitivity, pick-up pattern, and other parameters.
Why are USB mics bad?
The answer to this question has a lot to do with perception and legacy. But the main problem is that a USB mic has the mic, convertor, and preamp crammed together in one place, which means each of them is smaller. USB bus power can also be poor. It all combines to make a poor-quality mic.
What are USB microphones used for?
The most important use is mobility and cost. USB mics are not super high quality, but you need to limit the amount of gear you are carrying when you are on the road, and USB mics are a very simple plug-and-play option. Similarly, they are a cheaper option.
For example, musicians who are on tour but need to make a quick demo track. Video conferences and meetings, where sound quality matters due to the size of the gathering. Another example is reporters and journalists who need to take interviews on the run.
Are USB mics worse than XLR?
Each has its advantages. USB mics are more portable and a lot cheaper. XLR mics usually have better quality and more technical adjustability. But they need technical know-how to set up because you need to know how to connect the XLR mic to a mixer. On the other hand, you can connect a USB mic directly to your laptop or phone.
Are USB mics better than 3.5 mm MICS?
The key difference is that USB mics process the sound internally, whereas 3.5mm mics use the hardware of the computer for processing. So if your computer has a high-end sound card, you might want to prefer a 3.5mm Mic, but if your sound card and hardware are not so great, a USB mic will be a better option.
Best Studio Mics was started by a husband and wife team who love the sound and the technicals behind recording it. Both are professional theatre artists, one with a stage management background and one more on stage. One also has experience in film and television work and the different audio requirements of that arena.