Best Microphones for Twitch Streaming in 2020
This post was originally published on Sound Mind | The Blue Journal on March 19, 2020.
Finding the best microphone for streaming can be tough. It’s a big investment, and there are a lot of options to choose from. That’s why we put together this handy guide to help you find the perfect streaming microphone to complement your setup.
BEST USB MICROPHONES FOR STREAMING
If you’re just getting started on your live streaming adventure, the simplest solution is a USB microphone. USB mics are quick, easy and affordable. They plug right into your computer and sound light-years ahead of your built-in microphone. Whether you’re looking for something simple to get you started or something with a little more flair, Blue has you covered — check out our list of the best USB microphones for streaming.
YETI X: BUILT-IN VOCAL EFFECTS
Designed for serious streamers, Yeti X is the ultimate mic for gamers. Under the hood, it’s got a custom four-capsule condenser array for improved focus and clarity. The new high-res LED meter gives you real-time visual feedback on your voice levels, and the multi-function smart knob lets you control mic gain, headphone volume, and blend — putting you in charge of your on-stream sound. Yeti X seamlessly integrates with the Logitech G HUB platform for even more control. Best of all, Yeti X is equipped with Blue VO!CE technology, which lets you fine-tune your sound with just a few clicks using a suite of broadcast vocal effects.
YETI NANO: COMPACT DESIGN
Yeti Nano packs everything streamers love about the original Yeti USB microphone into a more compact design that fits neatly on even the smallest desktops. With streamlined controls and a built-in headphone output, Yeti Nano makes it easy to get great sound fast. And with advanced control via the free Sherpa companion app, you can fine-tune your sound even further. Yeti Nano features two pickup patterns for recording or streaming different types of productions. Cardioid mode captures sound directly in front of the microphone, while Omni mode picks up sound equally from all around the mic.
SNOWBALL AND SNOWBALL ICE: HIGH-QUALITY, LOW PRICE
If you’re just starting out, you may not need all of the features provided by the Yeti family. Snowball and Snowball iCE are great alternatives with professional sound quality and affordable price tags. With a compact design and built-in tripod stands, Snowball series USB microphones are great for smaller streaming rigs. The $69 Snowball features Cardioid and Omni pickup patterns, while the $49 Snowball iCE is cardioid-only, making them both great choices for solo streamers.
BEST XLR MICROPHONES FOR STREAMING
USB microphones are great for streamlined setups, but if you’re looking for more control over your signal path or want to utilize additional pro audio equipment like mixers and preamps, then you’ll want an XLR microphone.
Whether you want to use an analog signal processor to keep your levels from getting too high during intense moments or set up multiple microphones for a LAN party-style stream, XLR mics offer plenty of flexibility for streaming in any situation.
SPARK SL: BROADCAST STUDIO SOUND
From LoriiPops to JdotB, some of the world’s most beloved streamers rely on Spark SL for its impressive sound and sleek design. As an analog large-diaphragm condenser microphone, Spark SL is equipped with a professional XLR connection, making it easy to interface with additional audio gear. And with a cardioid pickup pattern and custom JFET electronics, Spark SL gives your voice that classic radio sound. A switchable 100 Hz high-pass filter helps remove unwanted low-end rumble, while the -20 dB pad gives you more headroom for recording louder voices.
EMBER: COMPACT, STREAMLINED DESIGN
Ember delivers clear, detailed sound that helps your voice cut through the clatter of your in-game sound effects and chat notifications. The cardioid pickup pattern helps reduce unwanted background noise by rejecting sound from the sides and back of the microphone, making it a perfect choice for solo streaming. Thanks to its compact side-address design, you can easily tuck Ember off-screen while streaming.
YETI PRO: BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Yeti Pro is the only USB microphone that features a dual XLR breakout cable, giving you the freedom to connect to mixers, high-end preamps and other professional studio gear. And with a USB connection, you can easily connect to your laptop or computer and quickly start streaming. Just like the original Yeti USB microphone, Yeti Pro includes a three-capsule array with four pickup patterns and easy-to-use controls. Plus, Yeti Pro captures ultra-high resolution sound up to 24-bit/192 kHz, giving your live streams and voice over recordings stunning depth and clarity. Yeti Pro is the perfect option for streamers who want to start simple but leave plenty of room to grow.
STREAMING AND GAMING BUNDLES
It takes more than a quality streaming microphone to create a popular channel. With professional accessories, easy-to-use editing software and top-selling titles, Blue bundles have everything you need to game and sound like a pro.
YETICASTER: PROFESSIONAL STREAMING ACCESSORIES
The Yeticaster bundle transforms the Blackout Yeti USB microphone into a whole new beast. The Radius III shockmount helps protect Yeti from vibrations, reducing unwanted noise and rumble, while the Compass microphone boom arm enables perfect mic placement in any scenario. Convert your desktop into a full-fledged streaming studio with the Yeticaster bundle for just $199 — a $78 savings!
BLUE GAMING BUNDLES: GET YOUR GAME ON
Quality sound is a crucial component of any popular game stream, but so is the title you’re playing. That’s why Blue offers a variety of gaming bundles that combine best-selling Blue USB microphones with award-winning titles like PlayerUnknown’s Battleground (PUBG), Overwatch, Fallout 76 and more. And with options ranging from $54 to $149, there’s a Blue gaming bundle out there for everyone.
