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In this buyer’s guide, we take a closer look at the best ASMR microphones. We’ll also discuss some of the things you should look out for, and explain the different microphone types available so that you can find the very best equipment for ASMR purposes.
What are the Best ASMR Microphones?
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ASMR Microphones Reviews
Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone
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Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone Review
If you are looking for the best ASMR microphone and affordability is a top priority, it is worth taking a closer look at the AT2020USB+ USB Microphone from Audio-Technica. The microphone is easy to use and can capture the sound of your voice, along with various other sounds, making it perfect for ASMR recording.
The design of the microphone is based on the AT2020, which enjoys an excellent reputation, and it includes both a microphone jack and a volume control dial. The clarity of sound recording possible through the microphone makes it well suited for use at home, or in a studio setting, but it can be used in almost any other situation too.
Sold complete with a tripod stand, allowing it to be used on desks or similar flat surfaces, the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone is a great ASMR mic for those who want high quality at an affordable price.
Rode NT1 Microphone W/ Shock Mount and Pop Filter
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Rode NT1 Microphone W/ Shock Mount and Pop Filter Review
If you have a little bit more money to work with and are seeking a good ASMR microphone for eliminating any unwanted sounds during your recording, the Rode NT1 could be the right choice. The microphone is able to boast a self-noise reading of just 4.5dB, making it one of the most quiet studio condenser options on the market today.
It is sold with a SM6 combination shock mount, which helps to prevent it from picking up any unwanted sounds caused by vibrations to the microphone holder or microphone stand. Additionally, it comes with a pop filter, which is useful for reducing ‘pop’ sounds associated with fast-moving air passing over the microphone.
Furthermore, an XLR output allows the microphone to be connected to a mixer, for studio-level performance. Ultimately, its features give you plenty of control over the way the microphone picks up sound, and this makes it one of the best ASMR microphone options for those who want professional quality at a relatively low cost.
Rode NT-USB Mini USB Compact Condenser Microphone
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Rode NT-USB Mini USB Compact Condenser Microphone Review
The most affordable ASMR microphone on this list, the Rode NT-USB Mini USB Condenser Microphone is a fantastic option if you are looking for good sound quality in a simple, easy-to-use package.
The microphone’s USB output means it is compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, while its compact design is perfect for almost any setting and helps to make it more transportable. The Rode NT-USB Mini has also been carefully designed to pick up as much of your voice as possible, without the unwanted background noise.
A built-in pop filter helps to reduce any ‘pop’ noises associated with plosive sounds, while a headphone amp assists you with monitoring the audio you record. Moreover, the swing mount provides great versatility when it comes to the positi
Warm Audio WA-47 Tube Condenser Microphone
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Warm Audio WA-47 Tube Condenser Microphone Review
Another contender for the best microphone for ASMR comes in the form of the WA-47 Tube Condenser Microphone from Warm Audio. Based on the classic ’47 microphone used by the likes of Frank Sinatra, it delivers supreme flexibility thanks to its nine pickup patterns, including unidirectional, omnidirectional, figure-8 and various others.
The microphone is versatile enough to sound great when recording vocal sounds and other noises, which makes it well suited for ASMR purposes. It is also sold with both a shock mount and a wooden presentation box, making it resilient and easy to carry, while the XLR output allows it to be connected to a mixer or a similar interface.
Although it is the most expensive option on this list, this is very much an example of getting what you pay for. If you have more advanced needs or want to achieve professional quality recordings, you need the very best ASMR microphone and it is difficult to look beyond the range of features offered by the Warm Audio WA-47.
sE Electronics X1 S Vocal Bundle
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sE Electronics X1 S Vocal Bundle Review
Finally, the sE Electronics X1 S Vocal Bundle provides another great option for those seeking a great ASMR microphone at an affordable price. The high-quality condenser microphone is ideal for recording everything from your own voice and other common ASMR noises, through to musical instruments and sounds from other objects.
A fixed cardioid pickup pattern makes the mic valuable for eradicating unwanted background noise, while a built-in low-cut filter allows you to make some important adjustments to the sound pickup too.
An XLR output ensures the microphone can be connected to a mixer, allowing for even greater sound customization. Meanwhile, the sE Electronics X1 S Vocal Bundle also includes a variety of extra accessories, such as a shock mount and a pop filter, and both of these can help to preserve your overall sound clarity.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Find the Best Mic for ASMR
Autonomous sensory meridian response, or ASMR, is a growing field and many people are only beginning to understand the sensations it provides. Naturally, those who have experienced ASMR triggers often become interested in creating ASMR video or audio content themselves and this requires a microphone or several microphones.
What Features Do You Want?
Many buyers are unsure of exactly what features they should be looking for on a microphone and there are a few things you need to be aware of. The first is the difference between a condenser microphone and a dynamic microphone.
Generally speaking, for ASMR, a condenser microphone like the Rode NT1 is going to be a better choice. These microphones are more sensitive to quieter sounds, although they will generally require an external power source. Dynamic microphones are less sensitive and may not be as well suited to ASMR, but they are usually powered internally, which has its advantages.
Other features to look out for with an ASMR microphone like the Audio-Technica AT2020USB include low self-noise and a good microphone stand, which allows you to position the microphone in different ways. A pop filter can also be great. However, experimentation is important and there may be times when you want to remove the pop filter and experiment with air effects.
Different Microphone Pickup Patterns
Another major consideration when selecting microphones for ASMR purposes is the different pickup patterns on offer. An omnidirectional microphone like the Warm Audio WA-47 Tube Condenser will be able to record audio from every direction. This is ideal for instances where you cannot necessarily control where sound is coming from, but it does mean background noise is harder to eliminate.
By contrast, a cardioid or unidirectional microphone will be most effective when picking up sounds coming from the front. Noise from the sides will be picked up, albeit at a reduced volume, while sounds from the rear will be substantially reduced. Alternatively, a figure-8 microphone will focus on front and rear sounds only.
The precise pickup patterns you opt for with your microphones will depend on the sounds you are looking to create. For ASMR purposes, it can sometimes even be beneficial to have multiple microphones with different pickup patterns.
XLR vs. USB Connectivity
Finally, you will need to choose between a microphone with USB output or a microphone with XLR output. The former is by far the best choice if you are seeking an ASMR mic with great compatibility, or if convenience is a priority for you. These microphones can be connected directly to USB-compatible devices, including desktop and laptop computers.
With an XLR output, things become slightly more complicated, because the microphone will need to be connected to a mixer or a similar interface first, before connecting to devices like PCs. However, XLR microphones like sE Electronics X1 S also tend to be more advanced and better suited for more professional uses and the connection to a mixer offers benefits of its own.
Ultimately, your decision here may depend on how far you are wanting to take your ASMR recording. For instance, if it is going to be more of a hobby, a USB microphone like the Rode NT-USB is likely to be perfect, whereas if you want it to become your profession, there may be a greater case for investing in a more advanced microphone with an XLR output.
