Are you thinking about starting an ASMR channel on YouTube? To achieve this, you will need a very sensitive microphone that is going to pick up every sound in extreme detail. That way, your audience can submerge themselves in your video or audio production.
In this post, I will present to you the best microphones for ASMR, providing you with different options to choose from, starting with budget units, and moving up to more expensive ones.
At the end of the article, I have included a short, to the point buyer’s guide to help you choose your next ASMR microphone.
These are the best microphones for ASMR available in the market today:
- Blue Yeti
- Zoom H3-VR 360°
- Samson G-Track Pro
- HyperX QuadCast
- AKG Lyra
- Blue Yeti X
Let’s take a close look at each one of them and find out why they would be a perfect choice for recording or live streaming ASMR.
1. Blue Yeti USB Condenser Microphone
The Blue Yeti is a USB condenser microphone that has three 14mm proprietary condenser capsules. They are strategically placed inside the protective head of the microphone to pick up sound from each direction, depending on the polar pattern selected.
Blue Yeti Features
This plug and play microphone connects to your computer by the provided USB cable. It is fully compatible with Mac and Windows PC. Inside of the mic, there is a circuit that works as an audio interface converting the analog sound signals from the tri-capsule array to digital signals that are sent to the computer for processing.
Thanks to the three capsules, you have four pattern options to select from. These are cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo. When recording ASMR, you can use either the stereo or cardioid pattern. This will deliver the best results because they are more sensitive settings, and that’s what you need to be able to get a crisp, detailed sound.
In front of the microphone, you have a mute button and a headphones volume control. Use the mute button anytime you want to cut the audio from being recorded or streamed. Plus, it has a handy red LED that lets you know when the microphone is active or on.
The Blue Yeti comes with a handy stand that lets you position the microphone in the best way so that you can pick up the sound as best as possible. If you rather install the mic on a stand, it has a thread at the bottom for this.
In the back of the mic, there is a knob to set the sensitivity or gain of the microphone. Also, there is a selector to choose from the four different polar patterns.
At the bottom of the microphone are the USB and headphones connectors, respectively.
Sound Characteristics of the Blue Yeti
Thanks to its very sensitive condenser capsules and high gain, this mic is one of the best options available for ASMR performers. The sound it produces is very crisp, bright, and detailed. You can speak in a whispering tone, and it will pick up every nuance.
Sounds such as brushes, food eating, whispering, etc. used in ASMR are picked up in the brightest detail when used in the stereo or cardioid pattern.
You can whisper from 1 to 3 feet, and the mic, if set at a high gain it will pick up every sound with detail, even breathing sounds.
Advantages
- Zero-latency headphones output. What this means is that there is no delay between the time it picks up the sound, and when you hear it on your headphones.
- Durable construction made with an all-metal body.
Disadvantages
- Some customers have complained that Blue does not provide good customer service.
- The mic is big and bulky.
2. Zoom H3-VR 360° Audio Recorder
When recording ASMR videos, audio is the most crucial feature because it will be what triggers and stimulates tingles. You need to use a very sensitive mic, and if possible, one that records sounds using the Ambisonics method.
As defined by Wikipedia Ambisonics, is a full-sphere surround sound format. In addition to the horizontal plane, it covers sound sources above and below the listener. This method is perfect for recording all kinds of triggers with extreme detail. The Zoom H3-VR 360° is an audio recorder than records using the Ambisonic method.
Sound Characteristics of the Zoom H3-VR 360°
The H3-VR 360 comes with 4-condenser unidirectional mics arranged in an Ambisonic array capsule. This way, the microphones can capture the sound with extraordinary precision in 360-degrees. With this microphone, you can enhance your 2D video productions with 3D audio.
With the Zoom H3-VR 360°, you get three recording modes: ambisonics, stereo Binaural or standard stereo.
When recording in the Binaural 3D Stereo mode, the H3-VR provides a hyper-realistic spatial recording that enhances your audio.
Features of the Zoom H3-VR 360°
The main feature of this recorder is the four built-in mics arranged in an Ambisonic array providing you with a full-sphere surround sound recording, perfect for recording any ASMR
You get single-knob gain control of all input levels, making it easy to control the input volume level of all four mics at once.
If you prefer stereo recording instead of ambisonic, you have three recording modes to choose from Ambisonics, Stereo Binaural, or Standard Stereo. All modes are recorded up to 24bit/96kHz.
It is possible to monitor the sound right from the recorder using your headphones. It also provides a line out signal.
Another excellent feature is the Auto Mic Position Detection using a 6-axis gyroscope (upfront, endfire, upside-down, endfire inverted).
Control the device remotely using wireless iOS available through the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (optional accessory).
The companion Zoom PC/Mac post-production software helps change a direction, and convert recordings to binaural, stereo, and 5.1ch surround files.
It is powered by 2 AA batteries or USB bus power.
Records to SD card up to 512GB.
The H3-VR also enables you to live stream ASMR videos providing your fans with realistic sound.
All of these great features are what make Zoom H3-VR one of the best microphones for ASMR.
Recommendations
The H3-VR 360 is a multitrack recorder. If the video is being recorded by the camera and the audio by the multitrack recorder, a way to synchronize the audio with the video file is to do a sync clap before each take for easy synchronization.
Before each take, make sure to clap, wait a few seconds, and then start the ASMR video. After you are done, transfer the video and audio files to your favorite editing software, find the clap audio peak and use it as a reference to sync it with your camera’s recorded audio.
After checking that the audio is synchronized to the video, delete the audio file recorded by the camera and use the one from the multitrack recorder. This method makes it easier to sync an audio file to the video take.
3. Samson G-Track Professional USB Condenser Microphone
The Samson G-Track is an all in one solution for your recording needs. It is a USB condenser mic with an audio interface that allows you to record your voice but also gives you the flexibility of recording your instrument at the same time.
Being the case that we are reviewing the microphone for use in ASMR recording, most likely, you will not use that function, but it is good to know that in case you want, the option is there.
Samson G-Track Pro Features
As with most USB microphones, the Samson G-track is a plug and play device that doesn’t require driver installation. It’s compatible with Windows PC and Mac.
This mic comes with a dual back 1″ (25mm) electret condenser capsule that provides you with three different selectable pickup patterns which are Cardioid (picks up only from one direction), bidirectional (sound is picked up from the front and back), and omnidirectional (picks up from all directions)
In front of the mic, there are some controls. On the top left side, there is a selector switch that allows you to choose the polar pattern. In the center, there is a multi-color LED that lets you know if the mic is on. If the sound is too high and its clipping, it blinks. If the mic is muted it’ll let you know.
Next to the LED towards the right, there is another selector switch that lets you select if you want a mono recording or a 2 track recording. The 2-track recording is mostly used if you have a guitar or another instrument connected to the mic. Remember, this mic also serves as an audio interface.
There is also a mute button, a gain knob for the mic itself, and a gain knob for the instrument. Lastly, there is a volume control that allows you to set the desired volume to your headphones.
In the back, there is a switch to turn on or off monitoring (headphones). There is also a 1/8″ input jack to connect the headphones and a 1/4″ input jack to connect the secondary sound source, namely an instrument.
It comes with a table stand mount so that you can get recording as soon as you get the mic.
Sound Characteristics of the Samson G-Track Pro
As mentioned previously, this mic has a dual 1″ pickup capsules. Being that this is a bigger capsule, it would be more sensitive than their smaller counterparts. The Samson G-track has an input sensitivity of -40 ± 3 dB/Pa, perfect for recording low volume sounds such as ASMR sounds.
With this mic, I recommend using the cardioid or directional polar pattern for best results, because it will focus the pickup pattern towards the sound source. This mic will perform well for ASMR sounds such as whispering, tapping, scratching, blowing, plastic and other materials crinkling, buzzing, etc.
For whispering and food eating ASMR sounds, I recommend using this mic no more than 4 feet away from the sound source.
Setting Up the Samson G-Track Pro
Advantages
- Monitoring using headphones has a zero-latency output.
- 1″ condenser capsules translates in better detail and crispier sound.
- High-quality die-cast zinc construction with heavy gauge protecting mesh grille
- Well-designed integrated desktop base
Disadvantage
- Some customers have complained that this microphone doesn’t work with an iPhone or iPad. The reason is that it draws too much current, and the portable devices can’t deliver enough power for it to work.
- It’s big and could get on the way. For this reason, you might need a different stand, but that depends on how you want your setup.
4. HyperX QuadCast – USB Condenser Microphone
The HyperX QuadCast is a standalone recording and streaming solution. The mic is built using three 14mm condenser capsules. It is marketed as a gamers or podcasters mic. Still, it can be used for ASMR video or audio production because it’s sensitive enough to pick up subtle and delicate sounds.
HyperX QuadCast Features
It’s straightforward to install in Windows and Mac because it is a plug and play device, no drivers needed.
Designed and built with three 14mm electret condenser capsules and strategically placed to provide four polar patterns. This mic is flexible enough thanks to its four polar patterns: cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional and stereo. In the back of the mic is the polar pattern selector switch.
It comes with a built-in anti-vibration shock mount made from elastic rope that isolates the mic from unintentional rumbles and bumps while recording. It also includes a mount adapter in case you want to install the mic to a different stand.
You won’t have to buy a pop filter for this mic because it comes with an internal pop filter so that your sound is free of sudden hiss or pops.
Another cool feature is the sensor switch on the top of the mic’s head. It allows you to mute/unmute the mic by just tapping it. The built-in red LED indicator will let you know if the mic is muted or not.
At the bottom of the mic, there is a big easy to handle gain control knob to set the sensitivity.
It comes with a small table stand so that you can start recording right away.
Sound Characteristics of the HyperX QuadCast
With its three 14mm capsules, the sensitivity is -36dB (1V/Pa at 1kHz) being within the range for ASMR sound recording. The polar pattern I recommend with this mic is cardioid and stereo, but you can explore with the other patterns to see which one you like the most.
Just remember that with a stereo pattern, all capsules are active, meaning that it will pick up ambiance sound around you. So if you are not recording in a quiet area, you won’t get good results.
The mic can be used for recording or streaming regular ASMR sound sources such as whispering, food eating, tapping, scratching, etc. Just set the gain until you get the desired result.
Setting Up the HyperX QuadCast
Advantages
- Tap to mute/unmute Instantly with the touch sensor switch.
- Large Led Indicator.
- Latency free headphone monitoring.
Disadvantages
- Some customers complain that the mic is too sensitive because it picks up the noise of the keyboard when typing.
- Some customers don’t like the LED indicator because it’s too bright.
5. AKG Lyra Ultra-HD USB Condenser Microphone
AKG is one of the best professional audio brands in the market. Their products always meet or exceed the customer’s expectations. And the AKG Pro Audio Lyra is no different. It was designed inspired by classic studio microphones to deliver high-quality audio like the legendary AKG C414. Let’s see what makes the Lyra special.
AKG Lyra Features
One of the outstanding features of this mic is that it was designed with four high-quality condenser capsules placed in an array to maximize output level while decreasing noise level. The design takes into consideration many features such as element overload prevention and sound diffuser in each capsule so that the sound picked up is as clear and natural as possible.
The AKG Lyra is a plug and play device, which means that it works seamlessly with Mac, iOS, Windows, and Android devices. Everything you need is inside the unit; that way, there is no need to have a separate audio interface or mixer; it works out of the box.
The mic has simple controls. In the front, there is a volume control for your headphones, the polar pattern indicator, and a mute button. In the back, there is a rotary switch to select between the four patterns (Front, Front + Back, Tight Stereo, Wide Stereo) and a sensitivity or gain control. Underneath the mic, there are two connection ports, one is a USB type C port, and the other is a 1/8″ headphones connector.
Sound Characteristics of the AKG Lyra
When using this mic for recording or streaming ASMR sounds, I highly recommend that you use it in the cardioid (front) or tight stereo pattern, especially if you are recording at a table. With the tight stereo pattern, it will pick up every sound close to you without picking up surrounding sounds, making it ideal.
If your channel is about food eating ASMR, it will make an excellent tool for your recordings. If you have the advantage of being in a very quiet area for recording, use the wide stereo feature, it would create a sound like if the listener was right there.
Setting Up the AKG Lyra
Advantages
- High-Quality 24-bit/192kHz HD-Resolution Audio Quality
- No latency headphones monitoring.
- In comes bundled with Ableton Live 10 to make it easy to record, edit and produce your songs or ASMR recordings.
- Very easy to set up, no assembly required, get ready, and recording within minutes.
Disadvantages
- Some people don’t like the retro look, in my opinion, this is one of the coolest looking mics out there.
- There are few complaints that the wide stereo pattern is too sensitive, picks up a lot of ambiance sounds.
6. Blue Yeti X Professional Condenser USB Microphone
Just like the AKG Lyra, the Blue Yeti X is an outstanding microphone making it perfect for ASMR audio production. Thanks to its four condenser capsule array design, it can capture sound with greater focus and clarity.
Blue Yeti X Features
This mic is a plug and play device on both Mac and Windows PC. No need to download drivers.
Blue uses four proprietary electret condenser capsules placed in a carefully designed array to maximize the pickup sensitivity of the mic while rejecting noise. Your recordings and broadcast content will sound natural and with great clarity.
In the front of the mic, there is a multi-function smart knob that is used to mute, adjust the gain and adjust the volume on your headphones as well as to blend the signal coming from your computer with your own voice. This last function is used if, for example, you are recording a song using backing tracks.
Around the knob, there are 11 multi-colored LED to visualize the voice level and know if it is too high or clipping. These LEDs are customizable to the color you want by using Logitech’s free G HUB platform that can be downloaded from Logitech.com.
Even more, you can use Blue Voice broadcast effects by downloading and installing G HUB or Blue Sherpa to gain access to many available presets for achieving professional sound. It can be found at bluedesigns.com/Sherpa.
Sound Characteristics of the Blue Yeti X
Using the mic’s cardioid, omnidirectional or stereo pattern and placing the sound source close, it will deliver rich, full-bodied sound that will make the listener feel like they are right there. This is the kind of experience you want to provide when working with ASMR. Leave your audience happy and ready for more thanks to the natural sound this mic can deliver.
It is a perfect choice for ASMR sound sources like whispering, tapping, scratching, blowing, crinkling sounds, etc.
Advantages
- The Blue Yeti X is a state-of-the-art USB mic specially designed for streaming, podcasting, and YouTube productions.
- Bit depth is 24-bit, and the sample rate 48khz.
Disadvantages
- Some users have complained that some of the software available for Windows is not available for Mac.
- It doesn’t come with USB-C port; it still uses the older micro-USB.
Choosing the Best Microphone for ASMR – Buyer’s Guide
ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response and, according to Wikipedia, is a tingling sensation that typically begins on the scalp and moves down the back of the neck and upper spine. To achieve this, ASMR video producers need a good quality microphone with enough sensitivity to pick up all the sounds and soft nuances in a clear, crisp manner.
For ASMR, the recommended mic is a condenser, not just any condenser, but one that is designed with more than one pickup capsule to increase the sensibility, thus producing an accurate, crisp sound that makes your audience feel like if they are right there.
When shopping for a mic to be used in ASMR video or audio production, take into consideration the following features.
Sensitivity
The sensitivity or gain of a microphone is an important specification you need to check when buying a mic for ASMR. The sensitivity in a mic is the output level you get from a given input. In our case, the input is the sound source like whispering, tapping, scratching, blowing, crinkling sounds, etc.
I am not going to bore you with a detailed technical explanation, but what you need to know is that sensitivity is measured in dB (decibels) and the number is negative. The closer the number is to “0” (zero), the more sensitive it is. For example, a mic with a sensitivity of -36dB is more sensitive than a mic with a sensitivity of -55dB. Make sure you check this spec before you buy.
The specs of All the mics reviewed in this article were checked to make sure the sensitivity or gain was good for ASMR recordings so that even the most subtle nuances are pickup, making sure your audience enjoys the experience.
Monitoring Latency
Make sure that the microphone you decide to buy has a zero-latency for headphones monitoring. Basically, you’ll want a mic that doesn’t have a delay between the time it picks up the sound and the time you hear it on your headphones. The latest USB microphones have zero latency, but make sure that the one you want to buy complies with this feature.
Multiple Polar Pattern
For recording ASMR, you want a mic that is flexible in exploring and experimenting with different polar patterns to hear which one gives you the best result. All mics reviewed in this article have at least three patterns, but most have four. You’ll want front, front + back, omnidirectional, and stereo.
With these pickup patterns, you’ll test and find which one sounds better for you. My recommendation is to use cardioid (front), omnidirectional, or stereo.
Gain Setting
You’ll want a mic that has enough gain so that if the sound source is too low, which tends to be the case when recording ASMR sounds, it will pick up and amplify the signal enough to make a professional sounding ASMR recording or stream.
Conclusion
I hope that this article helps you navigate the overwhelming number of different types of microphones available in the market so that it makes it easier for you to choose the right mic for your ASMR video and audio production.
I was careful to choose and recommend the best microphone for ASMR available today. If you have any questions or comments, please leave a comment, and I will be happy to respond to you within three business days. Thank you for reading my blog.