Hey there Sea Changers. Today we are going to take a look at the audio aspects of blogging with my 3 best USB microphones for bloggers to chat on this year. In general, blogging is traditionally undertaken via written posts on websites and social media etc. however on more and more occasions, other avenues such as video and audio recording is being incorporated into these steps as well.

This means that on occasion, you will need a microphone for your setup so that you can record voice and other audio requirements for uses such as:

• YouTube/TikTok/Twitch videos
• Webinars
• Live Streaming
• Video conferencing
• Podcasts

And, as with most computer hardware options these days, there are a few variations in options so let’s check them out…

I will review these in more detail below but if you just want to get moving without all the carry on, my 3 are listed here for your convenience:

	Microphone	Price	Get it
	JOUNIVO JV601 USB Desktop Microphone	$	CURRENT PRICE
	FIFINE USB Recording Microphone	$$	CURRENT PRICE
	Blue Yeti USB Mic	$$$	CURRENT PRICE

In technical terms, a microphone is “a device that captures audio by converting sound waves into an electrical signal” that can be then amplified for an audience or converted to a digital file for online use – which is where we are looking at things here.

In most cases, a simple laptop for blogging will contain an inbuilt webcam and microphone that will more than handle anything that most of us creating simple video and/or audio files will need. As usual however, there are some variations in componentry that you can look into when it comes to a USB microphone.

These are:

• Use – As we start to look at these it is important to keep in mind here that we are looking for a microphone that will give us a little better quality in our voice recordings for the uses as outlined above. If however you are planning to sing or play an instrument into it, then you may need to do a bit more research for some better fit for purpose options.
• USB Connection – If you look around the online stores, you will find microphones that connect to a laptop in a number of ways including USB, headphone jacks or even wirelessly via Bluetooth. I have used all three and found the USB options to be the simplest and easiest to connect and use. They interact with most recording software without the need for extra drivers etc. and provide great quality.
• Polar patterns – Polar patterns specify where the microphone will pick up sound from. Examples here include:
  • Front only – The microphone will pick up sound from directly in front – great for video recording (often referred to as Cardioid)
  • Omnidirectional – Will pick up sound from all round – use this if podcasting or video conferencing at a round desk etc.
  • Bidirectional – accepts ‘noise’ from front and back – use for interviews
  • Stereo – If your microphone can handle music and instrumental input – then set to stereo settings

• Frequency settings – Ok, this part is really far outside of my area of knowledge (by a looonnggg way) however I do not that sound works on frequencies. Hence, microphones are manufactured to work within and accept certain frequencies. For simple voice recording a microphone should be able to accept frequency levels of 80 Hz to 15 kHz.
• Gain control – Gain control works with the amplification of your mic. Put simply (again, knowledge is low here), if you are close to your mic and there is no ambient noise, keep gain low. If you are further away, then maybe turn it up a little.
• Mute button – These are great if you need to switch off the mic quickly without having to go into your software or online meeting platform.

There is a lot, lot more to this of course. However, the above should give you some idea of what to keep in mind as you look through your options.

Now, before you go headlong into your purchase, as always there are some things to think about as you look for something that will suit you as you build out your blog in whatever subject or niche that you are working in.

The main thing to keep in mind here is the realistic uses that you will have for your microphone. My advice is to get the best that you can afford as sites such as YouTube (the second largest search engine in the world) pay a lot of attention to high quality videos including audio.

There are however some other variations to consider as you plan your microphone purchase. These include:

Connection requirements – As above, most connect via a USB port whether it be a USB 2.0, USB 3.0 or USB-C connection. Ensure your laptop or PC can accommodate these.

Stand – How are you going to keep it on your desk. Many come with a desk stand however if you want it above you, then you will need to check compatibility with larger stand options.

Portability – Whilst not many are large enough to be a problem here, but if you are moving around you will need to make sure that your microphone can be easily moved as well.

Compatibility – When it comes to computers, there are two main operating systems that manage the interface – the screen you see and ‘click around’ on. These are Microsoft Windows (IBM) and iMacs (Apple). Most plug and play components are compatible with both these days however it will always pay to double check compatibility prior to purchase.

What do I use

I use a Blue Yeti USB Mic (the third option below) with multi input location capabilities and gain adjustment. It is perfect for what I use it for (YouTube videos and online conference calls) as well as the online Pilates classes that my wife runs. It does not give any audio delay on the final video output and captured high quality audio every time.

I have tried wireless headphones connected to small ‘mixers’ with headphone jack etc and to be honest, the audio quality and ease of use here blows everything else out of the water. It is extremely easy to use in that I simply plugged it in and it worked with both my PC and the recording software that I have installed without the need for any further drivers etc.

It is connected to my laptop via UBS 3.0 to USB-C adapter due to connection limitations and works without fault.

So, based on the information above, and my own experience, I recommend the following:

1. JOUNIVO JV601 USB Desktop Microphone

This first option is a good one for those who want something that is easy to use and will handle all general audio needs without any fuss. It lacks the settings of the more expensive options however will record straight voice with ease and is compatible with most online video/audio software recording platforms. Its specifications include:

• Connection – USB 2.0 and up – no drivers needed
• Polar patterns – Omnidirectional
• Mute button – Yes
• Stand – Desktop

Other inclusions:

• Intelligent Noise-Canceling Tech
• 360 Degree Position Adjustable Gooseneck
• 6ft USB Cable
• Compatible with Windows(7, 8, and 10) and macOS

Why have I chosen it?

This is a great option for those who want a simple, cost effective USB microphone that will allow them to undertake their

gaming, meeting, podcasting or streaming activities simply and easily in a number of locations. It will also work perfectly for such platforms/uses as Zoom, video calling, Twitch, YouTube and online school as well.

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2. FIFINE USB Recording Microphone

My second option is for those looking for a little more ‘front on’ quality in their video recordings, online gaming, social media uploads and other general audio needs. Its specifications include:

• Connection – USB 2.0 and up – no drivers needed
• Polar patterns – Cardioid
• Mute button – Via dual volume/mute button (i.e. volume button turned off)
• Stand – Tripod desk stand

Other inclusions:

• 5.9ft USB Cable
• Compatible with Windows, Vista, XP, 2000 and Mac OS X
• Volume control allows for voice input adjustment

Why have I chosen it?

This is the perfect option for those working mainly with voice recording that will provide professional quality outputs for entertainment sites such as YouTube and Twitch. It will work without the need for extra software and compatible with most editing software programs necessary for the above needs.

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3. Blue Yeti USB Mic

As above, the third unit I have chosen is a the exact model I use to for all of my audio recording needs with crystal clear voice recording in a number of environments from YouTube videos to online fitness classes. It again works without the need for any extra software however does come with an optional online platform to allow for setting adjustment and configuration. Its specs include:

• Connection – USB 2.0 and up – no drivers needed
• Polar patterns – cardioid, Omni, bidirectional, and stereo
• Mute button – Yes – on front
• Stand – Removable desk stand

Other inclusions:

• 6ft USB Cable
• Gain control button
• Headphone jack at base
• Compatible with Windows 10 or higher, macOS 10.13 or later

Why have I chosen it?

As above, this is the exact option I use and have found it to more than manage everything I need. However, for those who want the absolute peak quality audio within their videos, then you could not go past this one.

So… There are my 3 best USB microphones for bloggers to chat on this year. I hope it has been helpful for you as you look to work with your own audio creation processes and as usual, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, need some advice or have any experiences to share. Oh, and especially comment if you have any experience with these, or any other hardware options as well.

Until next time

Have fun

Paul

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