Live streaming has become a staple source of income these days, especially during this pandemic. Content creators, especially gamers, are flocking to Twitch to be seen. The 2.7 million-strong daily viewers are a definite pull to these people.
If you want to start your own Twitch channel, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will teach you how to get viewers on Twitch by simply choosing the best streaming microphone.
And when you’re finished, take a look at our other Twitch guides:
Table of Contents
The basic streaming setup consists of a strong PC, high-definition camera, good quality microphone, and proper lighting. You will also need a quiet recording space to keep unwanted noise from interfering with your stream.
These things can get quite pricey, and you might want to scrimp in some areas. However, this is not a good idea. Every piece of equipment is essential and would contribute to the quality of stream you can produce.
The best way to go about this is to hunt for the best bang for your buck. Fortunately, we’re here to make it easier for you to choose the best mic for streaming.
We put stress on acquiring an excellent microphone because your sound quality can make or break your budding channel. Here’s why…
When people watch a live stream, they are there to watch what you are doing and listen to what you have to say. A lot of content creators stream the same game, but people still choose certain streamers because of their reactions and insights. What you have to say is an integral piece to your success. It is, therefore, highly important to have a good microphone
Your microphone plays a prominent part in how you connect with your viewers during a stream. If you cannot be heard clearly or your mic picks up all the background noise, your interaction with your viewers is compromised. Sad to say, but poor audio quality can be a deal-breaker for your followers. They may simply choose to watch a different streamer that offers a better viewing experience.
Since one cannot discount the significance of a quality microphone, let’s talk about how you can choose the best mic for your needs. You might think it’s simple, however, there are a lot of aspects that you would need to consider.
Fear not, for we will guide you in choosing the best microphone for streaming.
There are so many specs to consider when shopping for a mic that it can get confusing. We’ve narrowed them down for you to make it easier.
Dynamic Microphones vs Condense Microphones
Dynamic microphones are the mics you see most of the time when you watch your favorite band. They are good at capturing loud sounds like a live band at a concert. These are cheaper and more durable and do not require a power source.
Condenser microphones, on the other hand, are best at capturing more delicate sounds. You see them used for vocal tracks at recording studios. Condenser mics are more sensitive and can catch soft and quieter sounds like a human’s voice. Though they are more expensive and require a power source like a battery, this is the best microphone type that you should choose if you want to stream on Twitch at home.
Polar Patterns (a.k.a. Pickup Patterns)
Refers to how sound is picked up by the microphone. There are 4 types:
Connection Method
The traditional XLR microphones attach to a PC via the XLR cable (X Connector, Locking Connector, Rubber Boot). This is used to get high-quality audio input from your microphone. These are pricier and would need other paraphernalia like an external sound card and power supply to connect it to your PC.
The more popular type these days are the USB microphones. All computers, gaming consoles, and even mobile devices can mount a USB microphone. These mics are usually cheaper and easier to use. Most of them come in a plug-and-play design.
Pop-Filter
A pop-filter is a screen, usually made of stretched fabric, that is used to reduce noise entering the microphone. The popping sound made by fast-moving air when you speak is effectively filtered by this simple device. It also doubles as a shield to protect your delicate mic from saliva.
Sensitivity Rating
High-sensitivity mics can pick up sounds clearly from the source. Good active or condenser microphone sensitivity ratings are between 8 and 32 mV/Pa (-42 to -30 dBV/Pa). Go for mics within this range.
Frequency Response
The frequency response is the range of frequencies that your microphone can pick up. This range determines the sound signature of your mic. The frequency response range that is best for vocals is 80 Hz to 15 kHz.
List of the top 8 microphones for streaming
We have compiled a list of the best microphones for streaming. This is based on genuine ratings by customers on Amazon. Weigh the pros and cons of each to choose the best streaming microphone for you.
#1 in Computer Microphones
Customer Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5 (33,379 ratings)
Price: $118.18
Specifications
Model number: 988-000100
Type: Condenser
Polar pattern: Multipattern (Cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional, and stereo pickup)
Color: Blackout
Connector Type: USB
Power Source: Corded Electric, 1 Lithium-ion battery
Max. SPL: 120 dB
Sensitivity: 4.5 mV/Pa
Item Weight: 3.68 pounds
Material: Metal
Hardware Platform: PC, Mac
Pros
Cons
#6 in Vocal Condenser Microphones
Customer Rating: 4 stars out of 5 (14,118 ratings)
Price: $36.99
Specifications
Model number: BM-800
Type: Condenser
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Color: Black
Connectivity: 3-pin XLR to IEC
Power Source: Corded Electric
Sensitivity: -34 dB±2 dB
Max. SPL: 132 dB
Signal/noise ratio: 78 dB
Item Weight: 3.3 pounds
Material: Aluminum, Metal
Hardware Platform: PC/Mac
Pros
Cons
#4 in Vocal Condenser Microphones
Customer Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5 (10,163 ratings)
Price: $99.00
Specifications
Model number: AT2020
Type: Condenser
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Colors: Black
Connector Type: XLR Connector
Power Source:
Max SPL: 144 dB
Sensitivity: -37 dB
Item Weight: 1.32 pounds
Material: Metal
Hardware Platform: PC, Mac
Pros
Cons
Customer Rating: 4 stars out of 5 (7,255 ratings)
Price: $32.98
Specifications
Model number: k08
Type: Condenser
Pickup pattern: Omnidirectional
Colors: Gold, Rose Gold, Silver
Connectivity: 3.5 mm Auxiliary, Y Splitter for PC that has 2 separate microphone and earphone ports
Power Source: Battery Powered
Sensitivity: -38dB/Pa
Max SPL: 112 dB
Item Weight: 7.15 Ounces
Material: Aluminum
Hardware Platform: PC, Mac, all smartphones, tablet, PS4, PS5
Pros
Cons
Customer Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (6,794 ratings)
Price: $48.99
Specifications
Model number: ST-800
Type: Condenser
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Color: Black
Connector Type: USB
Power Source: Corded Electric
Audio Sensitivity: -38dB+/-3dB
Resolution & Sample Rate: 24bit/192khz
Item Weight: 2.83 pounds
Material: Metal
Hardware Platform: PC
Pros
Cons
#1 in Instrument Condenser Microphones
Customer Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5 (5,906 ratings)
Price: $49.99
Specifications
Model number: AU-A04
Type: Condenser
Polar pattern: Unidirectional
Color: Black
Connector Type: USB
Power Source: Corded Electric
Sampling Rate: 192kHz/24bit
Item Weight: 2.94 pounds
Material: Metal
Hardware Platform: Laptop, PC
Pros
Cons
#5 in Computer Microphones
Customer Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5 (5,497 ratings)
Price: $33.98
Specifications
Model number: M900
Type: Condenser
Color: Black
Connector Type: USB
Power Source: Corded Electric
Item Weight: 2.9 pounds
Material: Cotton
Hardware Platform: Gaming Console, PC, Mac
Pros
Cons
Recommended by a lot of sites
Customer Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5 (201 ratings)
Price: $149.99 on Amazon
Specifications
Model: IP-IRIG-MICSTDBLA-IN
Type: Condenser
Polar pattern: Cardioid or Unidirectional
Colors: Black, Silver
Connector Type: USB
Power Source: Corded Electric via USB
Freq. response: 20Hz – 20kHz ±3dB
Sensitivity: -42±3dB
Max SPL: 133 dB
Resolution & Sample Rate: 24 bit, 44.1kHz / 48kHz
Item Weight: 7.7 Ounces
Hardware Platform: Mac/PC, Android, iPhone, iPad
Pros
Cons
We’ve presented you with a selection of highly-rated microphones, some with crazy affordable prices. Choose any one of these to complete your streaming setup. You might have to part with some cash, but trust us, it’s money well-invested. A good stream production is sure to garner a lot of viewers, followers, and subscribers on Twitch.