9 Best ASMR Mics (For Spine-Tingling Audio) – 2023

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• What makes a good ASMR mic?
• What are the best ASMR mics?
• Are any cheap mics good for recording ASMR?
• Also, check out our post on the best budget microphones under $50!

ASMR mics come in a vast range of price points, ranging from under $100 to thousands of dollars.

This review will look in-depth at 9 different microphones across various price points and for every type of ASMR use you can imagine.

We include excellent large diaphragm condensers, an ASMR-specific Binaural microphone, USB-powered condensers, and dynamic microphones, all sharing the single most important common feature for ASMR content creators, which is their ability to capture detailed audio.

What Makes A Good ASMR Mic?

ASMR stands for “autonomous sensory meridian response,” which is another way of referring to the tingling sensation “ASMRtists” seek to cause members of their audience.

Some common ASMR techniques include whispering, tapping fingers on various objects, and otherwise making interesting noises carefully using unlikely “instruments.”

One of the key aspects of creating ASMR videos or audio recordings is the microphone. Theoretically, the microphone must capture sound in high detail to achieve the desired effect.

What Are The Best ASMR Microphones?

The RØDE NT1-A is a powerful large-diaphragm condenser microphone that picks up the quietest noises in exquisite detail.

Even better, at a price point of around $200, it will not break the bank. For especially restricted budgets, though, consider checking out our budget pick, the Blue Yeti USB Microphone.

Here are our top 9 picks for the best ASMR microphones available in 2022:

1. RØDE NT1-A (Our Pick)
2. Blue Yeti USB Microphone (Best Value)
3. 3Dio Free Space Binaural Microphone (Best Binaural)
4. RØDE K2 Condenser Valve Microphone (Best Premium)
5. AKG C214
6. Audio-Technica AT2020 USB
7. Blue Snowball iCE Plug ‘n Play USB Microphone
8. Samson Go
9. Shure SM7B

1. RØDE NT1-A (Our Pick)

Our Pick

Rode NT1-A Condenser Microphone

The RODE NT1-A cardioid condenser microphone is one of the world’s quietest microphones, and it comes complete with a ton of essential accessories! Its ultra-low self-noise means you’ll effortlessly capture clean, clear audio. The NT1-A can handle 137dB SPL so you can be confident that even in front of loud guitar cabinets, your recording won’t distort due to overload. 

Why We Love It:

• Dynamic range: > 132dB

• Cardioid polar pattern

• Maximum SPL: 137dB

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Why We Love It:

• Excellent large diaphragm condenser microphone

• Budget-friendly

• One of the quietest microphones in the world

Overview

RØDE NT1-A microphone is one of the most sought-after condenser microphones for ASMR videos under $200 USD.

It is also known as one of the world’s quietest microphones, which means it limits background noise.

It is a cardioid condenser microphone, and the famous ultra-low self-noise will allow ASMRists to record the quietest of noises while not having to worry about the annoying background noise from the microphone. 

Features

The RØDE NT1-A is a great ASMR mic choice for both professionals and complete beginners because the high-quality condenser microphone comes with an all-inclusive package including a shock mount, a pop screen, a dust cover, and an XLR cable.

The condenser microphone itself has a great dynamic range that handles up to 137dB SPL so that it can cover anything from a quiet whisper to a screaming guitar amplifier. 

It is worth noting that these studio-quality condenser microphones require 48-volt phantom power.

This means that the ASMRtist requires an audio interface or some other power supply in the signal chain in order to power the RØDE NT1-A microphone. 

Verdict

Between the superb quality for the price and the all-inclusive package to get one started, the RØDE NT1-A is our pick for the best overall ASMR mic.

2. Blue Yeti (Best Value)

Blue Yeti Blackout Microphone

A long-time bestseller, this USB condenser microphone features a triple-capsule array so you can record in four polar patterns — cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo.

Why We Love It:

• Extremely flexible

• Has stayed a favorite for over a decade

• High-quality condenser capsules

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At just over $100, the Blue Microphones Yeti (known as Blue Yeti) is the go-to choice for many new online streamers and ASMRtists.

It is a USB-powered condenser microphone that captures quite a detailed audio signal for the price.

Why We Love It:

• Convenient USB-powered microphone

• 4 Polar patterns for maximum versatility

• Excellent pricing

Overview

Blue Yeti is our best value pick because of its affordability, ease of use, and high quality.

While the Blue Yeti USB microphone is not as sensitive or quiet as the RØDE NT1-A, it is nevertheless impressive in its ability to record detailed ASMR noises.

It is a solid, if cheap ASMR microphone. The Blue Yeti is known for having a crisp and airy sound, which is well-suited for creating ASMR videos and audio recordings. 

Features

The Blue Yeti allows users to switch between four different polar patterns – bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo, and cardioid polar pattern.

These patterns refer to the directions in which the microphone records, thus allowing for versatility in the ASMR recording experience. 

Because it is a USB-powered condenser, Blue Yeti offers the huge advantage of plug-and-play functionality: users do not require additional cables, audio interfaces, or power supplies.

The Blue Yeti comes with a heavy desk stand, which allows the user to place the microphone on their desk to record, but a more adaptable microphone stand can be purchased and used with the Blue Yeti for greater versatility.

Verdict

Our best-value microphone, the Blue Yeti, packs so much versatility and comfort into one microphone.

If you don’t require the highest quality recording and prefer convenience and versatility, the Blue Yeti is a great choice for you.

3. 3Dio Free Space Binaural Microphone (Best Binaural) 

Best Binaural

3Dio FS XLR Binaural Microphone

The 3Dio FS XLR Binaural Microphone is an upgraded version of the world’s most popular 3D microphone for ASMR, VR virtual reality, field recording, and recording studios.

Why We Love It:

• Unique design

• Affordable

• Quality build

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3Dio Free Space is a special kind of microphone that is specifically designed for ASMR and virtual reality.

This microphone is one of the most affordable 3D audio-capturing microphones on the market, and serious ASMRtists interested in binaural ASMR benefit a lot from using these binaural microphones for ASMR videos.

Why We Love It:

• Most affordable and popular binaural microphone model

• Two matched condenser capsules 

• Omnidirectional stereo image 

Overview

3Dio Free Space simulates a real human listening experience. Recording using this microphone allows the user to capture 3D audio, in which audio is captured in all dimensions. 

If you are a fan of ASMR, chances are you have heard this microphone’s work in ASMR recordings. It provides a very different experience from the standard large diaphragm condenser microphone. 

Features

The 3Dio Free Space microphone requires a 1/8inch stereo jack to record and creates a binaural recording experience by using two matched condenser capsules placed in the ear-shaped ports of the model. 

The 3Dio Free Space provides an interactive recording experience because you can touch and press on the human ear-like microphone.

By talking, whispering, tapping, and otherwise touching the prosthetic human-shaped ears surrounding the microphone capsules, the user is able to capture a lot of cool binaural ASMR sounds in the hopes of creating an experience for the listener. 

Verdict

3Dio Free Space Binaural Microphone is certainly a one-of-a-kind microphone for ASMRtists, in that it is the most affordable of the binaural microphones for ASMR videos.

For users for whom price is no object, the same company sells more sophisticated models for significantly heftier price points. 

4. RØDE K2 Condenser Valve Microphone (Best Premium)

Best Premium

RØDE K2 Condenser Valve Microphone

RODE’s K2 represents an excellent value in a tube microphone, combining incredibly low noise, low distortion, and high SPL with the type of fantastic, lush sound you’d expect from a high-end tube microphone.

Why We Love It:

• 3 polar patterns available

• Luxurious, durable satin nickel finish

• Exceptionally lush and warm sound

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The RØDE K2 is our premium pick, and this microphone is certainly the most expensive microphone featured on our list.

That said, the RØDE K2 is a beautifully-crafted tube microphone that offers the user everything they could possibly need and more. 

Why We Love It:

• Class A valve circuitry tube microphone

• Exceptionally lush and warm sound 

• 3 polar patterns are available – omnidirectional, figure-8, and the cardioid polar pattern

• Luxurious, durable satin nickel finish

Overview

The RØDE K2 Condenser is as detailed as it gets, offering a flattering lush sound that the other microphones on this list could not dream of capturing.

This microphone has a valve inside, providing the classic studio sound of the 50s and the 60s. 

Although originally meant for recording vocals, the exceptionally quiet, sensitive, and versatile RØDE K2 Condenser is likely the best ASMR microphone available for those who can afford it. 

Features

This high-end condenser microphone is powered by a tube and requires the provided power supply just to power on.

Considering the hand-picked tubes, the RØDE K2 is quite a good value, even at over $500 USD. 

It provides super low noise, low distortion, and high SPL recording, and it has an amazing lush high end. All of these factors make it a perfect choice for ASMR enthusiasts.

Like the RØDE NT1-A, the RØDE K2 comes with a low-noise mic cable, RØDE case, and shock mount. The K2 additionally comes with a dedicated power supply. 

Verdict

Given the extra power supply and delicate sensitivity of this microphone, it’s not particularly travel-friendly.

But that aside, the RØDE K2 likely remains the best ASMR microphone money can buy. 

5. AKG C214

The AKG C214 is the little brother of the legendary AKG C414, and it provides an affordable experience akin to that of the legendary AKG C414.

Why We Love It:

• Widely-renowned industry standard microphone

• Similar build to the legendary AKG C414 for a fraction of the price

• Versatile, all-around ASMR microphone

Overview

The AKG C214 is the cheaper version of the famous C414, which costs over $1200. The AKG C214 is just a fraction of the cost yet features the same classic, studio-quality build. 

It is a smaller-sized large-diaphragm condenser compared to the above RØDE condensers, but it packs in a 143dB dynamic range for natural transient recording. 

Features

The AKG C214 was built for many recording uses, from drums and guitars to vocals.

That said, it is also among the best microphones for ASMR videos. Since ASMR often involves tapping and various percussive sounds, the versatile AKG C214 with its capacity for capturing transients, will be able to convey all sorts of ASMR-inducing sounds. 

Built with double mesh and an all-metal grille, the AKG C214 is definitely one of the most roadworthy condenser microphones on the list.

It comes with a durable hard case, shock mount, and pop filter, making it perfect for traveling ASMRtists who need a versatile workhouse. 

Verdict

The AKG C214 is a roadworthy, versatile condenser microphone with which an ASMRtist can record all sorts of ASMR-inducing sounds, from voice to percussive noises.

6. Audio-Technica AT2020 USB

Audio-Technica AT2020

$87.00

The AT2020 gives you classic Audio-Technica sound quality at an incredibly low price! Capture the subtleties and nuances of vocals and acoustic guitars, then take on screaming guitar amplifier cabinets – all with one mic.

Why We Love It:

• Ideal for home studios

• Superior transient response

• Great dynamic range

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Next up, we have another USB condenser microphone at a similar price point as the Blue Yeti: the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB.

Audio-Technica is one of the best-known brands in the audio industry, and the AT2020 USB provides a solid and reliable USB microphone for ASMR.

Why We Love It:

• Affordable USB condenser microphone

• Low-mass diaphragm design

• Sample resolutions up to 16-bit, 44.1/48.kHz

Overview

For ASMRtists looking for an alternative to the Blue Yeti that is more compact and travel-friendly, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great option.

It is an extremely popular USB condenser microphone, and it has its own unique low-mass diaphragm with a huge frequency response range.

Its high-definition sample resolution and its low self-noise make the AT2020 a suitable microphone for ASMR.

Features

The updated Audio-Technica AT2020 records at a higher sample rate and has a headphone output built into the microphone.

The microphone is essentially its own audio interface, and it is one of the market’s most convenient, user-friendly condenser microphones. 

In addition to low self-noise from the microphone, it features a crisp high-end and general sensitivity that makes it one of the great microphones for ASMR videos and sound recordings.

Verdict

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB condenser microphone is a great alternative to the Blue Yeti with a built-in headphone output and high-quality sound. 

7. Blue Snowball iCE Plug ‘n Play USB Microphone

Blue Snowball iCE USB

$39.99

Powered by Blue’s custom condenser capsule, Snowball iCE delivers crystal-clear audio quality that’s light-years ahead of your built-in computer microphone.

Why We Love It:

• Crystal-clear audio quality

• Captures your voice with clear sound

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The Snowball iCE USB microphone is by far the cheapest option on this list, and it’s a popular option for many streamers and podcasting. 

Why We Love It:

• Quite the bargain

• Great beginner microphone

Overview

The Snowball iCE USB microphone is an extremely affordable microphone with recording quality one might expect from a more expensive microphone.

The recording quality does not come anywhere near that of the high-end large diaphragm condenser microphones, but it is a great starting mic for brand new ASMRtists. 

We would not recommend this microphone to users trying to make professional-sounding ASMR content, but it is a good learning tool for ASMRtists.

It is a convenient, easy-to-use microphone for conference and video calls and recording entry-level podcasts as well. 

Features

The Blue Snowball iCE has a unique ball-shaped design that separates it from the crowd. It is an extremely simple plug-and-play microphone.

The user needs only to plug in the microphone via a USB port, and they can completely bypass having to learn how to use an audio interface. 

Inside the ball is a condenser with a cardioid polar pattern that is fully equipped to capture the essence of the audio.

The high-end is not particularly warm, nor is the low-end all that clear, but this microphone will capture the basics.

Verdict

The Blue Snowball iCE USB Microphone is the perfect learning microphone for ASMR first-timers, and it doubles nicely as a plug-and-play microphone for video calls and the like.

8. Samson Go

The Samson Go is the ultimate travel microphone in terms of size and durability.

At an incredibly cheap price, this USB microphone is super compact and even offers two different pickup patterns for versatility. 

Why We Love It:

• Extremely compact 

• Very easy to use

• Self-contained and feature-rich

Overview

The Samson Go microphone comes in a sleek rectangular package, hands-down the best mini microphone we have encountered.

With a full package including a travel pouch and a stand, the Samson Go offers the ASMRtist-on-the-go the possibility of recording anywhere. 

For its petite size, the recording quality is clear and crisp, and the mic was designed with speech in mind.

Because this device is tailored for recording brilliant high-end, it is one of the better microphones for recording ASMR videos in this price range.

Features

This mini microphone offers two polarity settings: Cardioid and Omni. Cardioid can be used to record a single source, like a voice, while Omni works to record an entire soundscape.

With a frequency response of 20Hz to 18kHz, it might be the best mini-condenser microphone out there.

Verdict

Samson Go is built-to-last, very compact, and super easy to record ASMR while traveling. 

9. Shure SM7B

Last but certainly not least, the Shure SM7B is a high-end dynamic microphone.

Although dynamic microphones are not typically used for recording ASMR due to their intentionally limited frequency response and relative lack of sensitivity, this is one of the best microphones for recording vocals.

With the right settings, the Shure SM7B can also make for a great ASMR microphone. 

Why We Love It:

• Essential microphone for dialogue 

• Effective built-in pop filter

• Yoke mounting with captive stand nut for easy maneuvering

• Distinct sound from most common ASMR microphones

Overview

The Shure SM7B is one of the most well-known microphones for vocals, famously used by singers worldwide.

Although it is not commonly seen in ASMR, the Shure SM7B is a go-to microphone for recording podcasts and vocals. 

The SM7B is exceptionally versatile, and it can capture everything from drums to high sopranos.

Due to its ability to singers with high voices in super high fidelity, the Shure SM7B is perfect for ASMRtists.

Features

Shure SM7B has a built-in pop filter system and is shielded against any electromagnetic hum that can be critical to an ASMR recording.

Its flat and wide-range frequency response makes it suitable for picking up soft-spoken voices or whispering. 

The SM7B features a dual-band switchable passive EQ with low cut and presence boost options. By activating low cut, it is best suited to male vocals and dialog.

But by turning on the presence boost, the SM7B will encapsulate the female vocals and dialog very well. 

The SM7B’s shock mounting system makes it easy to move around and find a perfect position. This comes in very handy for recording ASMR videos and using props.

Verdict

Although a dynamic microphone, the SM7B is a versatile microphone for both male and female ASMRtists, particularly.

Wrapping Up

To capture all the tingle-inducing sound needed for ASMR recordings, ASMRtists need a sensitive microphone that can record very slight noises.

The most affordable microphones will not always have the sensitivity and fidelity to get the job done. 

The nine microphones listed above represent various approaches to microphones for ASMR videos. If cost is no object, try the RØDE K2.

For something less expensive but similarly high quality, the RØDE NT1-A might represent the optimal intersection of value and cost.

The Blue Yeti might be the best option for a cheap and easy mic that will still get the job done. In addressing your specific needs, any one of the mics on the list might be worth checking out.

Before you go, check out our guide to the 7 Top Microphone Brands (Every Musician Should Know)!