When it comes to setting up your home studio, choosing a high-quality microphone is one of the most challenging decisions you’ll have to make. The ultimate goal is to get a mic that captures crisp audio, at a decent price. Evidently, this isn’t quite easy to find.
Nonetheless, after conducting plenty of research, we concluded that the Blue Yeti USB Microphone might be a decent candidate for the purpose. Hence, we decided to test the product and review it for you. This way, you won’t buy it unless you know for sure that it the best one for your needs.
Source: accessories.us.dell.com
So, what is there to know about this microphone? Keep on reading to find out!
About The Product
Before we start talking about the pros and cons of the microphone, and our experience with it, let’s do a quick recap of its main characteristics, shall we? Let’s have a look at its primary features.
- Multi pattern: bidirectional, omnidirectional, cardioid and stereo.
- Try-capsule array: that enables you to record almost anything.
- Compatibility: you can connect it to Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP (home and professional), as well as Mac OS X (10.4.11 or higher than that). Installing it necessitates at least 64 MB of RAM.
- It has THX certification, which guarantees optimal sound quality and frequency range.
- Solid full metal body.
- Useful headphone output.
Overview
The first thing that caught our attention was the fact that this microphone is advertised as being easy to use. That is 100 percent true. In fact, we would advise you get this item, especially if you’re a beginner.
The microphone is fairly affordable, features a durable, sturdy construction, and optimal sound quality.
Also, the Yeti is equipped with an adjustable stand. We found that it was easy to use and set up, which is another pro.
Rest assured, if you find the process a tad overwhelming, the instructions inside the box will serve as guidance.
Aside from the ease of use, this microphone is portable. Evidently, that serves as a nice feature, as well. Especially if you intend to use the microphone in different recording settings.
We also think that this product is an excellent all-purpose microphone. That is thanks to the various modes of use, namely cardioid, stereo, bidirectional and omnidirectional modes.
Source: newegg.com
For example, the cardioid mode provides the recording of a full-bodied, rich sound.
Therefore, it works perfectly for voiceovers, podcasts, as well as vocal and instrumental performances. If you do use this mode, you should record from the front of the microphone.
Meanwhile, if you intend to record choir or acoustic guitar, the stereo mode is your go-to. This mode captures the sound coming from the right and left channels.
People who want to record duets or anything of the sort should go for the bidirectional pattern. As for the omnidirectional pattern, it works excellently in case of live performances, conference calls or even multi-person podcasts.
That’s what we would call a versatile, multi-purpose microphone!
What Other People Say
Now you know that we believe this product to be a good purchase. Still, what do other customers have to say on the matter? Are we on the same page with them?
From what we’ve seen, this microphone has been given a high rating by most reviewer.
The bottom-line is that most customers find the microphone to be a good investment. The quality of the sound is excellent, as noted by most reviewers, and the price paid for the mic is more than decent.
On the other side, some customers have complained that sometimes it can take a while until the microphone connects to the computer. Meanwhile, there have been some complaints concerning the mic stand mount, which isn’t the best.
What We Like
We like that this USB microphone is effortless to set up and use. That’s one of the things that make it a good investment for beginners. Concurrently, the fact that you can use four distinct picking patterns, stereo mode included, makes it a nice purchase.
In other words, for the price, you get a multi-purpose, versatile microphone that can be used for numerous recording scenarios.
Also, the solid metal construction of the mic is another advantage. That’s because durability remains a top priority for us when it comes to home studio equipment.
And last, but undeniably not least, the sound quality is the thing that convinced us to recommend you get this product. The sound captures is crisp, full-bodied and rich.
What We Don’t Like
Until now, we talked about how much we like the Blue Yeti USB Microphone. While that is true, there are some potential drawbacks that should be noted. One of these is that it comes in a non-standard size.
As a result, you will have trouble finding a fitting shock mount. Aside from that, you should know that the control buttons appear a bit flimsy. So, the microphone could do with some improvements. Overall, though, it offers a good price-quality ratio.
Buying Advice
On some occasions, you might be lucky enough to get the Blue Yeti USB Microphone for less than $100. Nevertheless, that doesn’t happen every day. Typically, though, you can order it on Amazon for under $150.
Another thing you should know is that your purchase will be backed up by a 2-year limited warranty.
Final Thoughts
The Blue Yeti USB Microphone is an excellent purchase if you’re on the lookout for a high-quality mic. If you’re serious about recording, you’ll definitely be happy with the item.
It combines versatility, ease of use, and performance, not to mention that it is perfectly suitable for a variety of recording scenarios. Also, if you don’t intend to commit to XLR cables, the USB connection definitely adds a plus of convenience.
That being said, we would earnestly recommend this microphone. We find that it is one of the most trustworthy candidates for the price point.
