The Best Cardioid Microphone For Streaming In 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: HyperX SoloCast – USB Microphone, for Cardioid Streaming
The HyperX SoloCast is a USB microphone that allows you to stream with great sound. This mic comes with boom arm and mic stand threading, which means it can fit 3'8-inch or 5'8-inch threaded setups. It is compatible with most mic stands or boom arms and is certified by Discord and TeamSpeak, as well as working on major streaming platforms like Streamlabs OBS, OBS Studio, and XSplit. Read Review
2. Best Performance: Elgato Wave:1 - Premium Cardioid USB Microphone for Streaming
Elgato Wave:1 is a premium cardioid USB microphone for streaming and recording. It features up to 24-bit/48 kHz analog to digital conversion for the highest audio fidelity. The mic also has an unidirectional pickup pattern that is perfect for capturing instruments, vocals, and game commentary. Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission without pops or distortion. Read Review
3. Best Sound Quality: Samson Technologies Samson G-Track Pro Professional USB Microphone
A professional USB mic with an audio interface, Samson G-Track Pro is the perfect tool for recording your voice and instrument at the same time. The die-cast zinc construction and heavy gauge mesh grille make it durable and ready to stand up to the rigors of a studio or live performance - while the integrated desktop base keeps it in place while you're recording. Read Review
4. Best Audio Performance: USB Microphone Podcast Recording Kit - Audio Cardioid for Streaming
With the Pyle USB Computer Microplane, you can easily record high-quality audio from your computer. It features a plug-and-play operation. Simply plug it into your computer or laptop’s USB port, select it as your input in your software settings, and create your own audio. Read Review
If you are looking for the best cardioid microphone for streaming, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will go over everything from what a cardioid microphone is, why you should use one, and which ones are worth your money. More often than not, people watch videos on their mobile devices these days. Therefore, getting the right audio is imperative in order to keep viewers interested and enthralled.
Unfortunately, not every person has the technical expertise necessary to properly evaluate microphones before making a purchase. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you have to spend countless hours reading through detailed reviews and listening tests as well.
Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found the HyperX SoloCast – USB Microphone, for Cardioid Streaming is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance. If you're looking for another one, consider Elgato Wave:1 - Premium Cardioid USB Microphone for Streaming.
RELATED: We evaluated the best microphone for recording singing from 11,459 customer reviews. Read this article to determine which is the best option for you.
Our Top Picks
- Flexible, adjustable stand: The easy-to-position stand swivels to support a variety of setups. You can even fit under a monitor if your setup is tight on space.
- Multi-device and program compatibility: Get great sound whether you’re connecting to a PC, PS4, PS5 or Mac. SoloCast is certified by Discord and TeamSpeak, and works on major streaming platforms like Streamlabs OBS, OBS Studio, and XSplit.
- Plug N Play audio recording: Get quality audio recordings with this easy-to-use USB condenser microphone. The cardioid polar pattern prioritizes sound sources directly in front of the microphone.
- Tap-to-Mute sensor with LED status indicator: Simply tap the top of the mic to mute, and the signature LED indicator lets you immediately see whether or not you’re broadcasting.
- Boom arm and mic stand threading: Versatile microphone fits 3'8-inch and 5'8-inch threaded setups, making it compatible with most mic stands or boom arms.
- Use the Wave Link app to control Wave: 1 and up to 8 other audio sources, plus create 2 independent mixes
- Superior circuitry ensures seamless audio signal transmission
- Condenser capsule with a tight cardioid polar pattern captures speech with precision
- Included components: Wave: 1, USB-C Cable, Desktop Stand, Boom Arm Adapter, Quick Start Guide
- Proprietary Clipguard technology makes distortion virtually impossible
- Up to 24-bit / 48kHz analog to digital conversion delivers lush detail
- Connect: 1/4" instrument input for connecting guitars or line level devices
- Built for the studio: Dual 1" (25 millimeter) condenser capsules with three selectable pick up patterns - Cardioid (unidirectional), bidirectional and omnidirectional
- High Definition Audio: 24-bit, 96kHz resolution. Plug-and-play, no driver installation required
- At your fingers: Front panel mixer with microphone level, instrument level and headphone volume controls. Selectable Mono or 2-Track recording modes and Direct Monitor on/off.
- All-in-one: Professional USB microphone with audio interface. Record your voice and instrument at the same time.
- Listen: 1/8" stereo headphone output with level control for zero-latency monitoring
- The right mic: Ideal for streaming, gaming, podcasting, and recording music
- Built tough: Die-cast zinc construction with heavy gauge mesh grille and integrated desktop base
- ADJUSTABLE POP FILTER: The pro broadcast mic starter bundle kit features a gooseneck adjustable pop filter which eliminates popping sounds for a crisp vocal pickup and high precision audio clarity. Lab tested for stage and studio quality performance
- INCLUDES STORAGE CASE: The USB gaming microphone comes complete w/ mic shock mount, pop filter, USB cable, mic stand, foam cover & a portable plastic travel case for quick transport & setup. Microphone features fast mute switch on top & LED indicator
- PLUG AND PLAY: The Pyle USB Computer Microphone features a simple USB plug-and-play operation. Simply plug it to your computer or laptop’s USB port, select it as your input in your software settings, and create your own audio
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The compact desk microphone kit is ideal for everything from studio vocals to gaming, singing, streaming, podcasting to desktop recording. Works w/ Windows PC, Mac & Linux operating systems. For home, office and business use
- FREESTANDING PLACEMENT: Features freestanding placement on any desktop, counter or table w/ the included microphone stand. It has a distinctive cardioid pickup pattern with a back electret condenser microphone, perfect addition to recording equipment
- EXCELLENT SOUND QUALITY: The microphone gives you up to 24bit/192khz bit sample rate, so your recordings will be crystal clear. And it has a wide frequency response (30 hz to 16khz) and provides superb sound reproduction quality for high-resolution audio
- HIGH COMPATIBILITY: It can fully compatible with most mainstream operating system such as windows and mac os. The microphone can also use for mobile phone, but you need an adapter(not included) Note: This microphone is not compatible with XBOX.
- NOISE ELIMINATION ACCESSORIES: The microphone comes with a microphone stand, shock mount, table clamp, anti-wind foam cap, usb a to b cable, and a pop filter. These accessories can effectively minimize the noise from unwanted vibrations or plosives
- USB PLUG & PLAY: High quality desktop recording is made simple! just plug the usb microphone into you computer’s port, it even works automatically with your mac or pc. No drivers required
- CARDIOID PICKUP PATTERN: The cardioid pickup pattern offers pristine and accurate capture. It records sound sources that are directly in front of the microphone, reducing unwanted background noise
- adaptive capsule array - four-capsule mic array provides four user-friendly capture modes
- headphone output and mix controls - zero latency monitoring while tracking with full control over output volume, mic gain and mute
- modern design with vintage appeal - camera-ready styling for on-screen appeal
- versatile mounting options - use with the integrated desktop mic stand or mount to a standard or boom mic stand
- easy setup and universal compatibility - intuitive, plug-and-play setup and operation with support for mac and pc, plus ios and android tablets and phones
- ultra-hd quality audio - 24-bit/192khz high-resolution converters
- Power source type: Corded Electric
- SIMPLE AND RUGGED: No screws, washers, or fumbling to place Capsule on a boom arm. Internal shock mounting relieves any worry of your mic bumping into your desk mid-game.
- STREAMING MICROPHONE: Designed for single sound-source gaming and streaming use, the Capsule delivers high-resolution voice pickup while suppressing unwanted background noise
- HIGH QUALITY AUDIO: Incredible analog-to-digital conversion technology ensures your voice will be the best in the lobby.
- DESIGNED FOR GAMERS: Unidirectional cardioid polar pattern ensures you'll have minimal background noise. Internal capsule is tuned for speech in a gaming environment, optimizing vocal clarity.
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: USB-C to USB-A Cable, Mic thread adapter (length 32mm): Male 1/4” to Female 3/8”, Stand quick-release cover
- BOOM ARM STYLE: Features a height adjustable boom arm style placement that works on any desktop, counter or table. It has a distinctive cardioid pickup pattern with a back electret condenser microphone, perfect addition to recording equipment
- ADJUSTABLE POP FILTER: The pro broadcast mic starter bundle kit features a gooseneck adjustable pop filter which eliminates popping sounds for a crisp vocal pickup and high precision audio clarity. Lab tested for stage and studio quality performance
- COMPLETE PODCASTING KIT: USB gaming microphone comes complete w/ metal shock mount, pop filter, wind foam, USB cable & boom arm stand perfect for podcasting & other applications. Mic construction material is engineered metal alloy & metal iron base
- PLUG AND PLAY: The Pyle USB Computer Microphone features a simple USB plug-and-play operation. Simply plug it to your laptop’s USB port, select it as your input in your software settings, and create your own audio
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The compact desk microphone kit is ideal for everything from studio vocals to gaming, singing, streaming, podcasting to desktop recording. Works w/ Windows PC, Mac & Linux operating systems. For home, office and business use
- Integrated shock mount attenuates noise, shock and vibration transmitted through mic stands, booms and mounts
- Dynamic microphone delivers warm, assertive broadcast sound that’s perfect for podcasting; Large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise
- Hypercardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear for maximum vocal isolation
- Includes pivoting stand mount, 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter, and a soft protective pouch
- Multistage foam mesh windscreen provides superior internal pop filtering
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The compact desk microphone kit is ideal for everything from studio vocals to gaming, singing, streaming, podcasting to desktop recording. Works w/ Windows PC, Mac & Linux operating systems. For home, office, and business use
- COMPLETE PODCASTING KIT: USB gaming microphone comes complete w/ metal shock mount, pop filter & boom arm stand w/ 2.9m USB cable insert, perfect for podcasting/other applications. Mic construction material is engineered metal alloy & metal iron base
- PLUG AND PLAY: The USB Computer Microphone features a simple USB plug-and-play operation. Simply plug it into your laptop’s USB port, select it as your input in your software settings, and create your own audio
- ADJUSTABLE POP FILTER: The pro broadcast mic starter bundle kit features a gooseneck adjustable pop filter which eliminates popping sounds for a crisp vocal pickup and high precision audio clarity. Lab-tested for stage and studio-quality performance
- BOOM ARM STYLE: Features a height-adjustable boom arm style placement that works on any desktop, counter or table. It has a distinctive cardioid pickup pattern with a back electret condenser microphone, perfect addition to recording equipment
What to Look For in a best cardioid microphone for streaming?
A valuable product is determined by many factors (included below). The process of researching the best cardioid microphone for streaming is pretty significant because of these features related to the products. However, rest assured that we are here to support your challenges.
Having a closer look at the following factors would benefit you a lot. These are the most important things among various ones you need to consider:
Frequency Response
Polar Pattern/Directionality
Impedance
Maximum Sound Pressure Level
Type Of Microphone
Connections
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.
Attenuation Switch
Response Flatness
RELATED: Our team of experts compiled top 10 best mic for background noise by gathering about 10,552 customer reviews. Check them here.
FAQs
How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?
Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?
A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?
The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?
It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?
Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?
Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?
Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?
A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.
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