The popularity of streaming has been soaring, with experienced and amateur streamers vying to secure an audience in the ever-crowding industry. Twitch and YouTube Live are arguably the most recognisable - and competitive - broadcasting platforms, though many other sites like Steam are catching up.
But what does it take to be a good streamer? One important thing is equipment, which includes having a good mic. Be it podcasters, gamers or even VTubers, quality audio recording is crucial for a clear and entertaining stream. Below are our picks for the best microphones for streaming.
Table of Contents
- List of Best Microphones for Streaming in Malaysia
- Dynamic vs Condenser Microphones for Streaming
8 Best Microphones for Streaming in Malaysia
- Elgato Wave:3 - Best portable microphone for streaming
- Røde Procaster Microphone - Best streaming microphone
- Shure MV7 - Best dynamic microphone for streaming - great for professionals
- PreSonus PD-70 - Best mid-range XLR microphone for streaming
- HyperX SoloCast - Best budget microphone for streaming - under RM300
- Blue Yeti - Best USB microphone for streaming
- Sony ECM-AW4 - Best wireless and wearable microphone for streaming
- Shure SM58 - Best handheld microphone
Table of Contents
Why This is Our First Pick
“The Elgato Wave:3 is designed for streamers, with one of its highlights being the ability to work alongside the creator-tailored Wave Link audio mixing software, dubbed as “the best-in-class” by many experts.”
Overview:
The lightweight Wave:3 comes with a detachable U-mount desktop stand, making it easy to store and carry around. Besides that, the condenser mic has a capacitive mute button on top plus a multipurpose central dial coupled with LED indicators.
Performance:
Its compatibility with Wave Link allows streamers to conveniently control up to nine audio channels, even while live. Audio peaks will be a thing of the past, as Elgato equips the USB mic with its proprietary Clipguard technology to ensure a clean sound.
Ever wondered what professionals who handle audio all the time use? We have your answer right here. The Shure SM58 is a veteran yet iconic mic in the music scene.
Overview:
Because it has a spherical, steel mesh grille to protect its dynamic capsule from physical damage, moisture and the wind, adequate longevity of the XLR mic is ensured. Aside from that, the cardioid capture pattern keeps the user’s voice distinct and isolated from background noises.
Performance:
With Shure’s one-of-a-kind pneumatic shock mount, the SM58 is able to tolerate handling noises, generating a vibration-free audio despite being constantly handheld. Plosives are of no concern either, tribute to its integrated pop filter. Experts also loved the fact that it is very reliable, sound and integrity-wise.
When discussing USB mics, the Blue Yeti by Blue Microphone is sure to pop up in the conversation. Blue Microphones one of the biggest producers for anything audio equipment and goes as far into creating them for audio professionals, musicians and, of course, consumers.
Overview:
The Yeti boasts not one, not two, but four polar patterns, comprising cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional and stereo, all serving certain fortes. On top of that, the condenser mic is fitted with headphone volume and mic gain knobs as well as a mute button, emulating basic studio controls.
Performance:
Users can tinker their mics with the Blue VO!CE software. It packs industry-grade voice modulators, enhanced vocal effects and HD audio samples to enrich stream quality. Streaming on-the-go with a plug-and-play mic has never been more convenient and entertaining.
Need to record professional gigs? Do consider the sleek-looking Shure MV7.
Overview:
As the MV7 is a hybrid XLR/USB mic, it is suitable for a professional studio recording session or even a quick plug-and-play setup on the computer. What’s more, users can access handy mic attributes via the free ShurePlus MOTIV desktop app should they choose to utilise its USB connection.
Performance:
This dynamic mic showcases a cardioid capture pattern which promises to remove any undesirable background noise while focusing the user’s voice. Furthermore, the app’s Auto Level Mode calibrates mic input levels in real time, producing a consistent sound.
Get the broadcast-quality Røde Procaster mic to pair with the Røde’s reputable PSA1 boom arm.
Overview:
The XLR mic incorporates a dynamic capsule and a cardioid capture pattern. Being fully made of metal, it is best to mount it to a boom arm like the PSA1. The boom arm in question happens to feature a robust desk clamp, suitable for the heavy Procaster.
Performance:
To reduce the mic’s handling noise, Røde has opted for an internal shock mounting for the capsule whereas a built-in pop-filter is present to suppress plosives. Meanwhile, the PSA1’s internal springs enable quiet and flexible manoeuvring.
Mid-range… neither too basic nor extravagant. If you’re a dedicated hobbyist of the streaming world and looking for decent equipment, the PreSonus PD-70 offers premium quality sound at a moderate price tag.
Overview:
The dynamic PD-70 has an all-metal design with a cardioid pickup pattern. Additionally, the XLR mic has a swivelling yoke mount and a removable windscreen as company. On the former, it is useful for positioning and angling your mic, be it whether on desktop stands or boom arms.
Performance:
Users reported a bright, crisp sound signature, suppressing unwanted environmental noise to focus on clearer speech. Its complimentary windscreen only further solidifies its performance by reducing plosives and sibilance. Some even felt it sounds similar to, if not, the same as the pricier Røde Procaster!
Just starting out or not sure whether a full-fledged mic is needed? We think the HyperX SoloCast can help kick off your debut.
Overview:
What makes this condenser mic special is that it provides a tap-to-mute sensor alongside an LED status indicator, with the former being an attribute that budget mics tend to neglect. And like many other streaming mics, it incorporates a cardioid capture pattern to pick up the softest sounds possible.
Performance:
The SoloCast’s simple reliance on USB makes it a good choice for rookie streamers. Moreover, it comes with an adjustable desktop stand, so they won’t have to scour for a boom arm – not especially if they are still inexperienced regarding audio performance.
You might not have realised this, but audio can easily distort during outdoor streams. Sony tackles that problem with its wearable ECM-AW4.
Overview:
In the system, while one unit is labelled as the mic, both are actually capable of picking up voices. With complimentary earpieces, the Bluetooth system enables a coherent-sounding, two-way communication between faraway subjects.
To make it easy for recording on-the-go, the mic can be attached to any camcorder as long as it has a mic input mini jack (3.5mm).
Performance:
Sony claims that the ECM-AW4’s transmitter unit is capable of working within 50 metres from the receiver, though some users have described that it could go even further! There is also a pouch to slip the transmitter into, which is helpful for preventing audio from being battered by strong winds during recording.
Is a Condenser or Dynamic Mic Better for Streaming?
Although there is an ongoing debate as to which type of mic is better for streaming, it essentially comes down to your needs and preference. Here are some things you should factor into your decision-making.
Mic Sensitivity:
- If you are aiming for a delicate and intricate sound, condenser mics will be your best buddy. This is simply because they have a higher sensitivity than dynamic mics.
- However, a dynamic mic’s decreased sensitivity is not necessarily a disadvantage.
- In fact, a dynamic mic’s low sensitivity is actually helpful in situations where background noises can be a nuisance.
- Not only that, but they are designed to handle loud sounds, making them good for instances where there might be peaks in volume.
Recording Environment:
- With its heightened sensitivity, condenser mics perform best in a proper recording studio. Plus, they require a power source to function, unlike their dynamic counterparts.
- Meanwhile, Dynamic mics are favoured for live recordings as well as outdoor use, due to their superb ambient noise rejection and durability respectively.
Type of Content Creation:
- Condenser mics are perfect for those that need exceptional audio quality, such as podcasters or vocalists. In addition, their sensitiveness allows them to pick up soft, quiet sounds, fundamental for a true ASMR experience.
- On the other hand, dynamic mics are great for events that do not require super-accurate sound reproduction or noisy venues, like gaming commentaries and live-at-location interviews. They are also suitable for capturing the sound of heavy instrumentals.
Conclusion
A word from us; as long as you know what content you want to make, then observe the quality and features you need to make that kind of content as well as your settings. You should be able to identify which mic suits your needs.
All the best in making a name for yourself in the world of streaming!
Source: Porch.com