8 Best Microphones for Apple Macs
Every Mac owner wants a high-quality microphone, but they don’t have one. See, the built-in mics are only ‘OK’ at best, but they can’t compete with the external options. This guide looks at 8 outstanding USB choices in microphone for Macs. There are different sizes, shapes, and prices, and some are better than others for certain applications. So, how can you choose the one that’s right for you?
Budget |
---|
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TONOR TC-1020 |
4.8/5.0 |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Pickup: Cardioid |
Plug-n-play, metal build, long USB cable, headphone port, volume control, value. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
---|
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Shure MV5 USB |
4.6/5.0 |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Pickup: Cardioid |
Clear sound, wide compatibility, PnP, 2 styles, stand, headphone port. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
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HyperX QuadCast USB |
4.7/5.0 |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Pickup: Multi |
PnP, tap-to-mute, bright LED, on-body gain dial, headphone jack. |
Check Amazon |
What Do You Use a Mic For?
What do you use—or intend to use—your Mac microphone for? Knowing the answers to those questions is the best way to help narrow down your Mac mic choices. Some folks only use a mic for multiplayer gaming, and others like to chat online with family or friends. There are people who work from home too. They may need clear and consistent audio communication over Skype and similar programs.
Podcasters, voice-over artists, YouTubers, vloggers, singers, and musicians are other users. You get the idea. Microphones serve different purposes hence the variety, and that’s the point. One that’s perfect for speech may not be so impressive for vocals or instruments.
USB Mic Defined
USB microphones plug into a Mac or iOS device’s USB port. Many are ready to use the moment that happens and are called plug-n-play (PnP). Unlike traditional mics, the USB options need an analog-to-digital converter or A/D for short. PnP mics also have built-in preamps to boost their audio signals. These circuits are what make USB mics for Macs easy to use and so appealing.
Applications for USB Microphones
USB mics used to be slightly better than the built-in ones. Their main appeal was that you had the freedom to position them closer to the sound source. Today, though, some USB mics can produce pro-level audio. Indeed, many YouTuber presenters, singers, and musicians use USB mics with great success. Other uses include podcasts, interviews, voiceover, and general on-the-go recording.
What to Expect from a USB Mac Mic
Simplicity, portability, and much better audio than the built-in mics are the main attractions. Most USB mics are the condenser variety, and the good ones produce a detailed response. You can expect to see attractive prices with many of the popular USB microphones for Mac. Moreover, they don’t need external hardware like a preamp or digital audio interface.
The better ones provide ultra-clear signals with very little interference from background noise. A decent USB mic is void of self-noise that can manifest as humming in inferior products. It’s wise to look for a minimum quality of 16-bit and preferably 32-bit.
Pickup (Polarity) Patterns
Choose your polar pattern with care as it determines the direction a mic hears. The usual ones for USB mics are cardioid and omnidirectional. The cardioid pattern picks up sound mostly from the front. It’s ideal for home recording as it’s less sensitive to sound at the sides and back. Thus, a cardioid pickup reduces unwanted room noise like fans or anything else that may be going on around you.
Omnidirectional mics pick up everything from every direction. An Omni pattern is the best choice if you want the surrounding ambiance to be part of the recording. An open discussion around a table is a good example. Also, omni mics are less sensitive to plosives, i.e., B, T, and P-popping sounds. Some USB mics now offer multi-pattern choices that users can change via a simple switch or dial.
Downsides of a USB Mic
Simplicity and versatility have their price. It’s only possible to record with one USB microphone at a time. The sound quality is outstanding compared to what it used to be. Despite that, most USB mics can’t produce the same high quality as their analog (XLR) counterparts. Some have latency issues too. That’s the short delay that occurs when the sound enters the mic and exits the headphones.
Mac USB Microphone Buying Considerations
Make a note of your microphone needs and expectations. The list you begin with may change as you read through the reviews. The point is to get down what you think you want as a starting point. Some on-body switches and dials may be useful to you. Typical examples include a mute button, a filter switch, gain dial, a headphone jack, and volume control.
Stay mindful of what you want the mic for. Every ad is going to say it sounds great, but your question should be… for what? It’s no good buying a mic that’s perfect for signing if you only need it for speech, for example. And if you want to mic instruments, does the product work for that?
About My ‘Microphone for Macs’ Guide
There are 8 USB microphones here for Mac computers. These are not random reviews but cherry-picked products based on personal research. They also have plenty of positive feedback from real users and a thumbs-up from industry experts. I have included different types of microphones across all price categories. The first 3 are the Editor’s choice for Top Budget, Top Value, and the Top Pick.
Microphone for Macs Comparison Table
Make and Model | Mic Type | Pickup | Price |
---|---|---|---|
TONOR TC-1020 Elegant Desktop Mic for Mac | Desktop condenser | Cardioid | Check Price |
Shure MV5 USB Digital Mic for Mac | Desktop condenser | Cardioid | Check Price |
HyperX QuadCast USB Gaming Mic for Mac | Desktop condenser | Multi | Check Price |
Movo M1 USB Lavalier Microphone for Mac | Lavalier lapel | Omni | Check Price |
Samson Meteor USB Studio Mic for Mac | Desktop condenser | Cardioid | Check Price |
Logitech C922x Pro Webcam for Mac | Webcam w/ Mic | Stereo | Check Price |
Blue Yeti USB Microphone for Macs | Studio condenser | Multi | Check Price |
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio Bundle for Mac | Studio condenser | Cardioid | Check Price |
1. TONOR TC-1020 Desktop Mic for Mac | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The Best Budget microphone for Macs goes to the TONOR TC-1020. It’s a smart condenser type mic that simply plugs into your computer and is ready to use.
- Best feature 1: Modern upright style with a chic finish
- Best feature 2: Ultra-bright, clear sound
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, metal build, long USB cable, headphone port, volume control, value
- Minus points: Non-detachable cable, sensitive to background noise
TONOR TC-1020 Mic Highlights
Microphone Compatibility: Windows and Mac computers, iPad, iPhone w/ Lightning to USB adapter.
The TONOR TC-1020 is a slick microphone of vertical design with a clean white finish. It takes up little space on the desktop and comes with a 5.5ft cable for easy positioning. This mic uses solid aluminum alloy in its build, which makes it both durable and resistant to knocks. There’s an on-body 3.5mm port for headphones and a volume dial. That gives real-time latency-free monitoring for those who need it.
This mic provides audio quality that far surpasses that of any built-in microphone. Consider the TC-1020 by TONOR if you want to enhance your audio. It’s perfect for online chat, podcasting, streaming, recording, and streaming, etc.
The Not So Good
The cable is connected permanently, so the microphone becomes defunct if you damage it. TONOR’s TC-1020 is also quite sensitive and may pick up some background room interference. That’s something to be mindful of if you want to isolate the mic from ambient sounds. That’s less of a problem with the volume set at 50% and by speaking a little closer to the diaphragm.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: TONOR |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Connection: USB |
Cable Length: 5.5ft (2m) |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Power: Plug-in device |
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20Khz |
Sensitivity: -40dB+2dB |
Max SPL: 110dB |
Signal to Noise Ratio: 98dB |
Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 5.1 x 4.3” |
Product Weight: 25.44 oz. |
Warranty: 2 Years |
The Pros |
---|
Modern, chic upright style |
Ultra-bright, clear sound |
Plug-n-play Simplicity |
Metal construction |
Rubber bottom to protect surfaces |
Long USB cable |
3.5mm headphone port |
Volume control |
Value for money |
The Cons |
---|
Permanently attached cable |
Sensitive to background noise |
2. Shure MV5 USB Digital Mic for Mac | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
Shure makes the Best Value slot with its MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone. It comes with a USB and Lightning cable for use with most modern Apple devices.
- Best feature 1: Auto audio optimization controls
- Best feature 2: Three DSP preset modes
- Plus points: Clear sound, wide compatibility, PnP, 2 styles, stand, portable, headphone port
- Minus points: Small size, tiny LEDs, short Lightning cable
Shure MV5 USB Microphone Highlights
Microphone Compatibility: Windows PC, Mac computers, Apple iPhone, iPod, and iPad (no need for additional conversion kits or adapters).
This mic has a unique design with a full rounded head that adds to its aesthetic appeal. You can position it upright with the included stand if that’s your preference. Or, you can use it unattached for even easier placement and convenient portability. It’s what you might call an anytime, anywhere mic. You can choose the MV5 in two colors, i.e., black with contrasting red foam, or gray with black foam.
There’s plenty to appreciate with Shure’s MV5, like its convenient design and plug-n-play easiness. It produces beautiful crisp sound for speech, vocals, and some musical instruments.
Recording Made Easy
The mic’s 3 DSP Preset Modes make recording a cinch whatever your level. You simply choose between Vocal Mode, Flat, and Instrument, and you’re good to go. Another standout feature is the automatic functions that remove the need for manual adjustments. They include auto Gain, auto EQ, auto Compression, and Limiting. There’s also a headphone jack and volume dial for low-latency monitoring.
The Not So Good
The MV5 is smaller than it looks in the ads and even tinier when detached from its stand. That’s convenient, but it also means you need to lean in for the best results. Also, the mic’s little LED indicators are not easy to see. Some complain that the 3ft Lightning cable is too short, though that depends on individual use. The last con is the mute button, which is at the rear of the mic.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Shure |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Connection: USB/Lightning cables |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Power: Plug-in device |
Recording Quality: Up to 24-bit / 48kHz |
DSP Presets: Voice, Instrument, Flat |
Product Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 4.5” |
Product Weight: 10.1 oz. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Stylish design |
Two colors available |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Auto audio optimization controls |
3 DSP preset modes |
Ultra-clear audio |
Wide compatibility |
Desktop stand included |
3.5mm headphone port |
Volume control |
Mute button |
The Cons |
---|
Smaller than it looks |
Tiny LEDs |
Short Lightning cable |
Mute button at the back |
3. HyperX QuadCast Gaming Mic for Mac | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The Mac microphone Top pick goes to the HyperX QuadCast. It’s a USB condenser mic with a distinct red and black finish with dynamic backlighting. It looks classy on any desktop, but that’s not all.
- Best feature 1: Anti-vibration shockmount and built-in pop filter
- Best feature 2: Four switchable polar patterns
- Plus points: PnP, tap-to-mute, bright LED, on-body gain dial, headphone jack
- Minus points: One finish only, cannot turn off the LED, no headphone volume
HyperX QuadCast USB Mic Highlights
Mic Compatibility: Mac computers, Windows PCs w/ Win 10, 8, and 7 OS. It also works seamlessly with PS4, XSplit, Skype, Mumble (VOIP), and other compatible applications.
The HyperX QuadCast offers USB PnP simplicity and needs no drivers or complex set up. It’s compact design with a detachable stand and removable USB cord makes it ultra-portable. The mute function works with a simple tap to the top of the body. A second tap un-mutes it. The bright LED backlight shuts off so that you can see when the mic is live and in mute status.
QuadCast’s 4 Polar Patterns
One of the mic’s bestselling features is its 4 switchable polar patterns. They include stereo, cardioid, omnidirectional (omni), and bidirectional. But why does it matter how the mic picks up sound as long as it does? Because different recording applications benefit from different polar patterns.
- Cardioid pickup: a popular choice for solo speakers and vocalists
- Omni pickup: perfect for recording ambiance and group discussions, etc.
- Stereo pickup: ideal for some vocal and instrument applications
- Bidirectional (figure-8): best choice for performing duets and 2-person chats
On/Off Body Features
The all-metal frame and desktop stand adds to the QuadCast’s strength and slick finish. The built-in anti-vibration shockmount looks fantastic. It does a sterling job at vibration and mechanical shock isolation too. And a built-in p-pop filter improves voice clarity by reducing plosives sounds and muffles. Real-time monitoring is also possible thanks to the mic’s 3.5mm headphone jack.
There’s a large, silky smooth gain dial located at the bottom of the body with status markers. Lastly, the mic comes with a 3/8” to 5/8” stand adapter. That’s handy if you want to attach it to a boom arm. The HyperX QuadCast here is currently one of the best multipurpose microphones for Apple fans.
The Not So Good
There are no other colors to choose from if the red and black finish doesn’t appeal to your taste. The red color comes from the LED backlight, and you can’t turn it off while the mic’s active. It looks cool, but it can also be a distraction when working in low light. The final con is that there’s no separate on-body volume control for the headphones. That’s a surprise considering the price of this model.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: HyperX |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Connection: USB |
Polar Pattern: Multi (see review) |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Mic Support: Multiple OS and devices |
Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz |
Sensitivity: -36dB 1V/Pa @ 1kHz |
Package Dimensions: 5.05 x 4 x 9.8” |
Product Weight: 9 oz. |
Warranty: 2 years limited |
The Pros |
---|
Gorgeous red/black finish |
Bright red LED backlight |
Portable design, detachable stand |
Sturdy metal construction |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Attached anti-vibration shockmount |
Built-in pop filter |
4 switchable pickup patterns |
Tap-to-mute function |
Large gain dial |
Headphone jack |
The Cons |
---|
One finish only |
Cannot turn off the bright LED |
No headphone volume dial |
4. Movo M1 USB Lavalier Microphone for Mac
Editor’s Rating: 4.2/5
Meet the Movo M1. It’s a highly affordable lavalier clip-on type microphone for Mac and PC. It comes with a long 20ft cable that give users plenty of freedom to move as they record.
- Best feature 1: Exceptional sound quality for a mic in its class
- Best feature 2: Ultra-long mic cable
- Plus points: PnP, discreet design, clear audio, sturdy aluminum clip, windscreens, value
- Minus points: Skinny cord, picks up background noise
Movo M1 Lavalier Mic Highlights
USB lavalier mics have come a long way in recent times with regards to reliability and audio quality. This one sounds fantastic despite its small, discreet design and affordable price. It’s a plug-n-play (PnP) mic, so it’s ready to go once it’s attached to a computer’s USB port. The small aluminum lapel clip grips well to most types of fabric without sliding.
Consider the Movo M1 if you need an ultra-portable, no fuss microphone that you can take anywhere. It’s way better than the one built into any computer in terms of audio quality and flexibility. There’s a couple of windscreens (mic hats) to protect it against spit and wind noise when recording outdoors.
The Not So Good
The 20ft cord length is welcome, but it’s skinny and seems overly fragile, so needs handling with care. The mic’s omnidirectional polar pattern makes it prone to picking up lots of ambient noise. That’s not unusual for omni mics, but it does mean the wearer should be extra vigilant. Some ambiance makes a recording more ‘real.’ Other noises like clicking keyboards and whirling fans are less welcome.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Movo |
Mic Type: Lavalier condenser |
Connection: USB |
Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Cord Length: 20ft cable (6 meters) |
Frequency Response: 35Hz to 18kHz |
Sensitivity: -30dB+/- 3 dB |
Signal to Noise Ratio: 78 dB |
Dimensions: 5 x 4.4 x 1.6” |
Weight: 3.2 oz. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Affordable lavalier microphone |
PnP USB simplicity |
Compatible w/ Mac & PC |
Impressive audio for its class |
Extra-long USB cable |
Strong, aluminum lapel clip |
Two foam windscreens |
Excellent value |
The Cons |
---|
Skinny, potentially fragile cable |
Vulnerable to background noise |
5. Samson Meteor USB Studio Mic for Mac
Editor’s Rating: 4.4/5
The Samson Meteor Mic has a futuristic look that you either love or loathe. It has plenty of bling for an entry-level desktop mic, along with a bunch of impressive features to boot.
- Best feature 1: Lightweight and portable
- Best feature 2: Foldable legs
- Plus points: PnP, attaches to mic stands, large-diaphragm, headphone jack, volume dial, mute
- Minus points: Cheap volume dial, legs block USB port
Samson Meteor USB Microphone Highlights
Microphone Compatibility: MAC OS, Windows PC (10, Win 7, and VISTA), and most other computing platforms that recognize USB audio devices.
The tripod legs of the Samson Meteor microphone fold up flush to the side of its body. That makes this small mic even smaller, and thus easy to store or carry around if you’re mobile. And if you want to mount it onto a conventional mic stand, you can do that too. Inside the capsule is a large-diaphragm. It’s bigger than most diaphragms found in USB mics and contributes to the smooth, ultra-clean audio.
This mic has a built-in jack for headphones to give users zero-latency monitoring. There’s also a volume control and a mute switch. Samson’s Meteor Mic is an incredibly versatile audio tool, compatible across many computing platforms. That includes some tablets and smartphones.
The Not So Good
The volume dial tends to be a tad resistant and plasticky. New buyers may get lucky with the former, but you’re stuck with the latter. It’s quite common—for some unknown reason—to find cheap dials on otherwise solid mic bodies. Another annoyance is that you must unfold the mic’s legs to access its USB port. A detachable arrangement would have been a better design.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Samson Technologies |
Mic Type: Desktop condenser |
Connection: USB |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid pickup |
Resolution: 16 bit 44.1/48kHz |
Power Supply: Plug-in devices |
Diaphragm: 25mm (large) |
Product Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 5” |
Product Weight: 10.6 oz. |
Warranty: 1 year |
The Pros |
---|
Lightweight and portable |
Comes in four finishes |
Rugged, quality construction |
Foldaway legs |
Plug-n-play simplicity |
Attaches to standard mic stands |
Large-diaphragm |
Headphone jack |
Volume dial |
Mute Function |
Soft storage case |
The Cons |
---|
Cheap volume dial |
Folded legs block USB port |
6. Logitech C922x Pro Webcam w/ Mic for Macs
Editor’s Rating: 4.3/5
The C922x is a mic with a difference. It comes attached to a Pro Stream Webcam with a 1080p HD camera. It’s primarily a tool for live video streaming on entertainment and social media websites.
- Best feature 1: Microphone and quality webcam combined
- Best feature 2: Background replacement technology
- Plus points: Easy to set up, quality build, tripod mount, clear video, low-light performance
- Minus points: Average audio, short cable
Logitech C922x Webcam/Mic Highlights
Logitech C922x is the new and updated version of its C920. The latter is still available and offers excellent value at around 60 dollars—a saving of about $20. The build is good and has a quality finish. The built-in mics of both models provide comparable stereophonic audio. However, there are better mic options out there if you don’t need the camera/mic combination (see below).
However, the C922x is a handy portable device for Mac users who want a full webcam/mic system. The newer C922x also boasts 720p @ 60fps (frames per second) and has a better low-light sensor. It can also put a virtual background onto your live stream. Both these Logitech webcams have their critics, though. Despite that, they sell incredibly well, and that tells us something.
The Not So Good
The audio is an acceptable average, but it won’t blow you away. If your focus is audio quality above video, then choose another microphone. Or, put the C922x on your shortlist if you want a convenient all-in-one webcam for social gaming and to live stream. The pre-attached cable that comes in the box is only 5ft (1.5m), so some users will need an extension.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Logitech |
Mic Type: Stereo condenser |
Connection: USB |
Polar Pattern: L/R stereo |
Power: Plug-in device |
Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.71 x 3.74” |
Product Weight: 5.8 oz. |
Warranty: 1 year limited |
The Pros |
---|
Stereo mic/webcam combined |
Background replacement technology |
Easy to set up and configure |
Quality build with a smart finish |
Tripod mountable |
Clear video |
Excellent low-light performance |
The Cons |
---|
Average audio |
Short, fixed USB cable |
7. Blue Yeti USB Microphone for Macs
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The Blue Yeti is a success story when it comes to desktop condenser microphones. Even those who don’t favor its style still admire the quality and performance of this beauty.
- Best feature 1: Plug-n-Play for Mac and PC
- Best feature 2: Four polar pickup patterns
- Plus points: Broadcast-quality sound, on-body audio controls, positional design, superb value
- Minus points: Big and heavy, cheap, tacky gain and volume dials
Blue Yeti USB Mic Feature Highlights
Shortlist the Blue Yeti USB if it’s within budget and you want a mic that lives at home. Microphones come and go, but the first version of these series came out in 2009. That alone tells us plenty about the success of this beauty, and it continues to sell well. The Yeti USB offers plug-n-play simplicity with any Mac OS or Windows PC. That’s it—the mic’s ready to record and stream right off the bat.
The rich, broadcast-quality studio sound is about as good as it gets with a USB type microphone. That’s thanks to several factors, but especially the Yeti’s proprietary tri-capsule technology.
Blue Yeti’s On-body Controls
This is a big mic, and that means there’s lots of space to accommodate its on-body audio controls. There’s a 3.5mm headphone jack and a headset volume dial for latency-free monitoring. Other manual controls include a polar pattern selector (see next), a mute button, and a microphone gain knob. These things combined put the user in total control, and it’s so easy to use.
Polar Pattern Selector Switch
The polar pattern selector is priceless for those who do more than solo recordings. The pickup patterns determine the angle that the mic becomes most sensitive to sound. Here’s a quick breakdown of how polar patterns benefit different recording applications:
Cardioid Pickup | Omnidirectional Pickup | Bidirectional Pickup | Stereo Pickup |
---|---|---|---|
Online chat Vocals Instruments Podcasting Online gaming Voiceovers | Group meetings Conference calls Capture surround ambiance Hands-free demonstrations Choirs and musical groups | 2-person interviews Singing duets | Conference recordings Musical performances Instruments |
Away from the Desktop
The Blue Yeti comes with a sturdy, preinstalled desktop stand. The angle of the microphone is easy to change with its adjustable pivot. You’re not restricted to the stand either. There’s a standard thread at the base that allows you to connect the Yeti to regular mic supports if you prefer. Or, you can attach it to Blue’s Radius Microphone Shock Mount (sold separately).
The Not So Good
One of the Blue Yeti’s attractions is its solid build and large size. Some prefer lightweight portability over heft, and this mic doesn’t offer any of that. It’s not the kind of device you can throw into a small bag and take with you. It’s a beast, and better off with a permanent home. The last con is the cheap, tacky on-body Volume and Gain dials. They seem so out of place on an otherwise high-quality body.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Blue |
Microphone Type: Studio condenser |
Connection: USB 2.0 |
Polar Pattern: 4 polar pickups |
Power Supply: Plug-in device |
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz |
Max SPL: 120 dB |
Bit Rate: 16-bit |
Max Sample Rate: 48kHz |
Dimensions: 4.8 x 4.7 x 11.6” |
Weight (No Stand): 19.2 oz. |
Weight (Stand): 35.2 oz. |
Warranty: 2 years limited |
The Pros |
---|
Plug-n-Play for Mac and PC |
Four polar pattern selector |
Broadcast-quality sound |
Headphone Jack |
Headphone volume dial |
Gain control |
Mute button |
Mic stand thread |
Positional design |
Superb value |
The Cons |
---|
Large size and heavy weight |
Tacky dials |
8. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Mic Studio Bundle for Mac
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5
The last Mac microphone review goes to the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio. It includes the CM25 Mk III condenser mic, a 3rd Generation USB audio interface, and a few other items.
- Best feature 1: Full recording solution for Mac and PC
- Best feature 2: Decent condenser microphone
- Plus points: Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface, XLR cable, recording software, headphones
- Minus points: No shockmount, no pop filter, low-average headset
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Mic Bundle Highlights
Microphone Compatibility: Apple Mac OS X 10.10 or higher, Windows PC OS Win 7 or higher.
The CM25 MkIII electret condenser microphone is one of the kit’s main attractions. It has a 2mm capsule, a 16mm diaphragm, and a fixed cardioid pickup pattern. The mic has substantial heft and seems highly durable. That includes its mesh grill. The CM25 MkIII comes with a stand mount and a 3/8” to 5/8” thread adapter. The sound quality is crystal clear and void of any muddiness.
Bundle Contents
The cost of this bundle is hard to beat, considering what’s in it. It’s not quite the all-in-one solution advertised, but it is close. There’s the Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface, a 10ft XLR cable, and some free software upon registration. That includes programs from Focusrite, Ableton, Avid, Softube, Splice, and XLN. You also get a pair of closed-back HP60 MkIII headphones. More on those next.
The Not So Good
There’s no shockmount included in the bundle, which is a surprise as it needs one. You can find decent isolation mounts for only a few dollars, but a bundle at this price should have included one.
This package would be close to perfect if it weren’t for the headphones. Luckily, they’re not the main selling product, so it’s not a deal-breaker. Even so, the headset has a weak, plastic construction and is not built to last. They also make the ears sweat after a few minutes of wearing. The sound quality is average, i.e., not bad, not good. The only plus is that they’re ultra-lightweight.
Tech Specs |
---|
Brand: Brand: Focusrite |
Mic Type: XLR Condenser |
Mic Connection: 3-pin XLR |
Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
Power Supply: Phantom |
Mic Sensitivity: -36dB |
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20Khz |
Impedance: 200 ohms |
S/N Ratio: 74dB |
Product Dimensions: 18.6 x 13 x 8.6” |
Bundle Weight: 6.35 lbs. |
Microphone Weight: 17.49 oz. |
The Pros |
---|
Full recording solution for Mac |
Decent condenser microphone |
Crisp, clear audio |
Mic stand mount |
3/8” to 5/8” adapter |
Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface |
XLR cable included |
Recording software bundle |
Closed-back headphones |
The Cons |
---|
No shock mount |
No pop filter |
Poor quality headphones |
Contents
- What Do You Use a Mic For?
- USB Mic Defined
- Applications for USB Microphones
- What to Expect from a USB Mac Mic
- Pickup (Polarity) Patterns
- Downsides of a USB Mic
- Mac USB Microphone Buying Considerations
- About My ‘Microphone for Macs’ Guide
- Microphone for Macs Comparison Table
- 1. TONOR TC-1020 Desktop Mic for Mac | Best Budget
- TONOR TC-1020 Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 2. Shure MV5 USB Digital Mic for Mac | Best Value
- Shure MV5 USB Microphone Highlights
- Recording Made Easy
- The Not So Good
- 3. HyperX QuadCast Gaming Mic for Mac | Top Pick
- HyperX QuadCast USB Mic Highlights
- QuadCast’s 4 Polar Patterns
- On/Off Body Features
- The Not So Good
- 4. Movo M1 USB Lavalier Microphone for Mac
- Movo M1 Lavalier Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 5. Samson Meteor USB Studio Mic for Mac
- Samson Meteor USB Microphone Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 6. Logitech C922x Pro Webcam w/ Mic for Macs
- Logitech C922x Webcam/Mic Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 7. Blue Yeti USB Microphone for Macs
- Blue Yeti USB Mic Feature Highlights
- Blue Yeti’s On-body Controls
- Polar Pattern Selector Switch
- Away from the Desktop
- The Not So Good
- 8. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Mic Studio Bundle for Mac
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Mic Bundle Highlights
- Bundle Contents
- The Not So Good