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:
- Best Streaming Software
- Beginner Streaming Setup
- Streamupgrade: Twitch Growth Service
- Good Twitch Stream Ideas
Table of Contents
What Do You Need to Start Streaming?
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.
Microphone for Live Streaming: Does It Really Matter?
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.
Things to Look for When Choosing a Microphone for Live 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:
- Cardioid or Unidirectional – receives directly from the front. Best for game streaming, podcasts, vlogs, video calls.
- Bidirectional – receives sound from the front and the back. Best for a two-person podcast.
- Stereo – receives sound from the front, left, and right. Best for podcasts with 3 people.
- Omnidirectional – receives sound from all directions. Best for conference calls or to capture the surrounding sounds to make the listener feel like they are there with you.
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. Blue Yeti USB Microphone
#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
- Plug and play, no need to install any programs to run it
- Aesthetic retro design
- Multiple pickup patterns let you do the work of different microphones
- High fidelity microphone
- No-latency monitoring means you can hear yourself in real-time
- Has instant mute on the mic
Cons
- No pop-filter
- Doesn’t come with a boom arm
2. ZINGYOU Condenser Microphone Bundle
#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
- Sounds great
- Really cheap for a beginner setup that already has everything you need for your audio
Cons
- Needs a dedicated microphone jack on your PC because the mic gets more noise the more connections you use
- Materials are cheap and flimsy
- The USB adapter that comes with the bundle cannot power the microphone properly. Might need to purchase a Phantom power supply
3. Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone
#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
- The sound quality is clear
- Build feels heavy and sturdy
Cons
- Doesn’t come with an XLR cable
- Picks up background noises easily
- The sound is as good as other cheaper microphones
4. ZealSound Studio Recording Microphone
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
- Clear and crisp sound
- Echo function
- Background noise is filtered well
- Small size takes up little space and doesn’t cover the face
- Plug and play for all PC, Mac, mobile devices, tablets, PS4 and PS5
- Built-in sound card with volume and echo buttons
- Rechargeable Built-in Lithium Battery lasts 4-6 hours
Cons
- Needs a sound card adapter if you’re using a MacBook
- Doesn’t feel sturdy when held
5. SUDOTACK Professional Cardioid Condenser Mic Kit
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
- Best sound quality at this cheap price
- Sounds even better than pricier mics
- Comes as a complete set which is very convenient
- Mic feels heavy and durable
Cons
- Picks up background noise easily
- Mic stand has a cheap build and cannot properly support the microphone’s weight
6. MAONO Condenser Mic Kit
#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
- Plug and play to any PC
- Only takes 1 minute to set up the arm clamp, attach the mic, and plug it into the PC. Then you can use it immediately
- All metal build feels sturdy
- No need for a separate power supply
Cons
- Needs an OTG adapter if you want to use it on your mobile device
- Not compatible with Xbox
7. Bonke USB Condenser Microphone for Computer
#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
- Plug and play
- Volume and Echo dial
- Crisp and clean sound
- Easy to assemble
- Doesn’t take up too much space on your desk
Cons
- Made of cheap material
- Mic arm doesn’t hold well
- Screws that hold the mic are not that good
- USB cable is short
- Cannot be used on a mobile device
8. IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio
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
- Sounds great
- Comes with a portable tripod tabletop stand. Convenient for traveling.
- Has multicolor LED status that lets you see input signal levels
- Integrated headphone output lets you monitor your audio input in real-time
- Has physical headphone volume knob and gain knob
- Comes with a suite of IK apps that will enhance performance on Windows PC
- Comes with three cables to connect to any device (USB, Micro-USB, iOS Lightning cable)
Cons
- Not that good for recording instruments
- Not compatible with other apps
- A lot of users had trouble with the cable connectivity
- Doesn’t connect to a lot of Android devices
A good mic is a good investment
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.
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