Want a good gaming mic or a greater voiceover that doesn’t break the financial institution?- let’s take a look at the traditional, and considerably controversial Blue Yeti microphone.
As a music producer and beginner voiceover expertise trying to enhance my at-home recording high quality, I just lately obtained out my unique, Youtube-favorite Blue Yeti USB microphone from the depths of a crowded tech drawer.
After testing it out extensively after a few years of working with different mics, I’ve discovered that the Yeti delivers surprisingly good audio for smaller audio tasks for private/social functions.
If you happen to’re an aspiring podcaster or voice actor on a price range, it’s a stable possibility to contemplate.
Audio High quality — Crisp and Clear for the Value
The Yeti makes use of a tri-capsule array to seize sound from a number of instructions and helps a number of polar patterns.
This lets you change between varied pickup patterns utilizing the controls on the system.
I primarily used the cardioid setting which data what’s immediately in entrance of the mic.
General, I discovered the Yeti captured crisp, broadcast-quality vocals with wonderful constancy within the mid and excessive frequencies.
The sound is decently detailed and clear, permitting delicate tones and inflections to return by way of within the audio output.
There’s a slight boominess to the low-end which requires EQ adjustment in post-production.
Nevertheless, some heat is preferable to a totally flat response for voice recording.
With some minor enhancing and EQ, I achieved clear, skilled outcomes on par with dearer podcast mics generally discovered on locations like Amazon.
Versatile Options for Voiceovers and Devices
A serious benefit of the Yeti is its versatile array of options.
Particularly, I made intensive use of the headphone output with zero-latency monitoring.
This allowed me to listen to my stay voice whereas recording — best for voiceovers.
The mic additionally has very low self-noise, a vital trait when capturing delicate tones.
Mixed with the headphone jack, it supplies an in depth sense of the way you sound vs your perceived voice.
Moreover, the Yeti shines when recording acoustic devices like guitar and piano.
The stereo and mid-side pickup patterns can obtain an immersive, room-filling ambiance.
Whereas I wouldn’t use it as a main studio mic, the Yeti fills in properly for fast demos and transportable setups.
Rugged Design — Constructed to Final
Regardless of the affordable value level, the Yeti has a sturdy desktop stand and rugged metallic chassis. I by no means fearful about breaking it whereas adjusting the place or packing it for transport.
The knobs have a top quality really feel and the bottom has adequate weight to remain firmly planted in your desk.
In comparison with different USB mics, the Yeti feels extra sturdy and is made to face up to frequent dealing with.
I additionally appreciated that Blue features a helpful USB cable together with a fundamental mic stand adapter.
The threaded base and customary mount imply you’ll be able to connect the Yeti to a conventional increase arm or radius shock mount.
Easy Plug and Play Utilization
Like most USB mics, the Yeti operates by way of straight plug-and-play. You merely join it to your PC or Mac, choose it as your enter system, and begin recording.
No particular drivers or complicated setups are required.
It’s appropriate with all main recording software program from Adobe Audition to Audacity and Garageband.
Simply choose it as your enter system and modify ranges as wanted.
There are fundamental controls on the system itself for headphone quantity, sample choice, and prompt mute. I discovered them helpful for fast changes whereas recording voice tracks.
Downsides — Delicate Pickup and Restricted Options
Whereas the Yeti delivers nice high quality for the worth, it does include some limitations.
As a side-address mic, it picks up numerous peripheral sound. You want a quiet, handled recording area to attain clear outcomes with out background noise.
It additionally lacks extra superior options like a high-pass filter and pad change. These assist decrease low-end rumble and clipping from extraordinarily loud sources.
Nonetheless, they aren’t important for fundamental voice and acoustic recording functions.
I also needs to word that the Blue design is moderately giant and heavy in comparison with some compact USB mics.
It might dwarf your laptop computer or require a sturdy stand to help it. That is simply one thing to bear in mind concerning portability.
The Backside Line — Glorious Worth for Novice Recording
If you happen to’re a hobbyist podcaster, voice actor, or musician trying to improve to professional-quality sound on a price range, the Yeti is a superb match.
Its versatile polar patterns, stable development, and headphone monitoring place it a minimize above opponents in an identical value class.
Whereas not flawless, the Yeti delivers spectacular broadcast-ready outcomes for below $150. The rugged design and simple operation additionally make it best for newbies.
General, it’s the very best USB microphone worth I’ve discovered for beginner house studio vocal and acoustic recording.
Professionals
- Broadcast-quality sound with crisp element
- A number of pickup patterns
- Stable construct high quality and design
- Helpful controls and headphone output
- Plug-and-play utilization
Cons
- Delicate — picks up background noise
- Massive, heavy type issue
- Lacks pad and high-pass filter
So when you’re looking for an inexpensive USB microphone to launch your podcast or voiceover profession, put the Yeti in your listing.
Earlier than dropping $400+ on a Neumann or Shure SM7B, think about giving the Yeti a attempt.
It’s an outstanding entry-level mannequin that received’t break the financial institution and improve your audio for a enjoyable gaming session or YouTube voiceover.
