Why not USB mics?

A brittle tone may be one thing, but the most deadly reason could just be the connectivity.

Why is connectivity even a problem?

Since there’s no proper way to plug a USB mic into pro gear like an outboard compressor, you can’t even hook it up with a decent audio interface that is the essential step to start your workflow.

In what cases will USB mics be the perfect fit?

But what if the whole setup that you own or would like to use is just your mic, a pair of headphones and your laptop, like how you prepare for an online class? Then you will be in for a surprise with nowadays’ USB mics.

Built as a condenser mic, 

Prone-to-get-clipping in the treble is no longer the prominent characteristic of all USB condenser mics, at least not in the case of this FIFINE Profile3.

but doesn't act like one?

Hearing the audio of it the first time, you may not notice how good it sounds as a USB mic, but will definitely be surprised by how warm it is as a condenser mic.

Such rich bass tone alone sets it apart from the generic USB condenser models, making it one of the top picks for smoothing the sound for a more pleasant voice-over or even podcast that require some radio tone.

Distinctive clarity from condenser mics doesn't miss

But don’t think it will muddle up your voice, after all it comes with a condenser capsule under part of its deep tone.

So it still gets enough treble up the top and wide enough frequencies to pick your voice with enough clarity and details. If you accidentally turn up the mic volume too high, it may even get over-clear to capture some of the background.

Hearing the audio of it the first time, you may not notice how good it sounds as a USB mic, but will definitely be surprised by how warm it is as a condenser mic.

Is it EQ or rumbling noise reduction?

The tone isn’t set in stone like the other USB mics that only can be equalized when you bother with third-party apps. It has the Ace “down” its sleeves - the low-cut switch to shape your voice without tapping any plugins, especially for those who sound bassy. But it does more than an EQ button, actually, it cuts off the rumbling sound around you as well to serve as the noise-suppression feature that’s not too aggressive.

On paper alone, this USB mic is different!

If you’re onto some professional, the outboard gear is the key to getting the audio into different leagues, the same can be found on the consumer equipment. In the world of USB mics, a higher bit rate may not work wonders in dynamic range as the external interface, but it gives a step further into the attempt of better post-production headroom or even just more details. At least the bit-depth and sample rate are no longer the specs. that drags you behind, no matter your purpose for using a USB mic is just Team calls, video recording, or even singing.

What comes as standard?

Just as how you will be amazed by the sound quality of USB mics, you will not be surprised to know that the latency-free headphone monitoring jack is just a standard feature now. Though it’s more important to hear how the mic picks you up in voice recording whether it’s for video or podcast, it could also be useful if you’re a game who always needs the sidetone of your headset enabled, especially if that pair comes with this feature but its boom mic doesn’t sound good at all. 

By the measure of the live monitoring headphone jack, it’s even more common to have microphone volume control as standard.

What strikes you as a surprise?

To pack the best combo as a USB mic for recording conveniently, it’s equipped with not just headphone main control, but the party piece - the monitoring mix dial. Even though you’re not that into live podcasting or streaming, the least you can do with the it is to cut yourself off from hearing the mic sound without refiguring the setting or reconnecting the headphone.

Specifications

TypeCondenser
Polar PatternCardioid
Output ConnectionUSB type-C (mic end) to type-A 2.0 (computer end)
USB Power ConsumptionUSB 5V power
Bit Depth/Sample Rate16-bit/24-bit, 192k Hz
Frequency Response70Hz-20kHz (Low-cut off)
150Hz-20kHz (Low-cut on)
Sensitivity-42±3dBV
Shipping Weight 1.2 kg
Frequency Response Chart