The 10 Best ASMR Microphones For All Budgets [2023] | Wedio

The Best ASMR Microphones For All Budgets

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ASMR took the internet by storm in recent years.

Millions of people swear by ASMR videos and streams nowadays, helping them relax and get the “tingles”.

Today we’ll look at the 10 best microphones you can use to film ASMR.

These microphones will help you get the best sound of what you’re recording, whether it’s your soothing voice or various sounds like tapping and brushing.

Learn about the essential camera gear needed to enhance your skills.

Editor’s Choice

AT2020 USB

The Audio Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser is one of the trendiest microphones available for podcasters thanks to its deep, rich sounds and extended frequency response, which make it the ideal microphone for voice use.

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Best Versatile Mic

ZealSound USB

This microphone produces incredibly clear sound that will dazzle and elicit a sensory meridian reaction on its own. You won’t need to install any drivers thanks to its plug-and-play setup because you’ll be up and running immediately. This mic is ideal for use with both laptops and desktop computers because to its tiny form.

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Best Sound Quality

Sennheiser MKH416

Professional ASMR musicians who are knowledgeable about their craft should use the microphone. This microphone has frequently been utilized for voice-over recordings and other movie stills.

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What is an ASMR Microphone

ASMR Microphones are mics that have sufficient sensitivity and depth to capture your voice and the sounds you make to create a relaxing ASMR.

All microphones that are good enough for recording vocals and low-level sounds should be great for ASMR. You want a mic that has a high sensitivity to capture low-level sounds but also minimizes some background noise.

In general, choosing a condenser microphone might be the better choice for ASMR. Condensers have high sensitivity, and they capture a wide range of frequencies.

For most simplicity, choose a USB mic. That way you don’t have to deal with XLR cables, stands, filters, etc. On the other hand, XLR microphones are most often of higher quality and offer better sound.

Learn more about Sound Design techniques.

Editor’s choice

1. Audio-Technica AT2020 USB

Read full review

Pros

Affordable

Can handle loud sounds without distorting

Durable

Convenient design

Cons

Need to buy additional equipment for best use

105$ at Amazon
149$ at Adorama

Specs

Form Factor

Desktop / Stand/Boom Mount

Sound Field

Mono

Capsule

Condenser

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Frequency Range

20 Hz to 20 kHz

Mounting

Mic Clip/Stand Adapter, Desktop Stand

Weight

386g

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Features

1

Adaptable and flexible

The Audio Technica AT2020USB+’s construction is what gives it its adaptability. It offers a staggering degree of flexibility thanks to a medium-weight diaphragm with a persistent cardioid polarization. This balanced USB microphone provides clear highs and deep, rich lows to give your vocals the extra boost they need for a professional sound.

2

Volume control and mix control

There are many wonderful features included with the Audio Technica AT2020USB+. The first is the headphone preamp, which provides a latency-free monitoring experience. It also have mix control, which is a feature that the finest USB mics should have to blend your microphone output with previously recorded audio. The volume control is also crucial because every situation is unique and it enables you to avoid using an intermediary device or preamplifier.

3

Perfect for vocals and speech

This USB microphone is going to be fantastic for vocal/speech applications, including gaming, streaming, voice-overs for YouTube, and more because it is an industry leader for podcasting. The cardioid pattern was expertly accomplished such that while you are close up, everyone’s focus is on you, but as you travel farther away, your audio has a fantastic ambience.

Final Verdict

As a recording microphone, the Audio-Technica AT2020 works rather well. It is robust and klutz-proof, and it sounds great enough for any informal application. Its technical specifications are similarly in the middle of the pack, with a condenser mic that has moderate sensitivity and somewhat worse-than-average self-noise, making it a respectable beginner mic but not a flawless one.

The AT2020 has some drawbacks, though, and while you can purchase attachments to help with the problems, for some it can make more sense to just purchase a better-performing, more expensive microphone.

Best Versatile Mic

2. ZealSound USB

Read full review

Pros

Built-in controls

All-metal construction

Excellent sound quality

Great compatibility

Cons

None

32$ at Amazon

Specs

Form Factor

Handheld/Stand-Held

Capsule

Condenser

Polar Pattern

Unidirectional

Frequency Range

50Hz-20kHz

Mounting

Shock mount

Weight

494g

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Features

1

Ideal for many applications

It is a cardioid-pattern condenser microphone which makes it perfect for podcasting, narrating, or ASMR content. It will produce a loud, well-balanced sound throughout the spectrum. The Cardioid pattern minimizes external sounds coming from the sides and back.

2

Easy setup

It doesn’t need any additional drivers because it was made to function as a plug-and-play microphone. Direct connection to your laptop or PC is possible thanks to the USB. It’s also perfectly compatible with Linux, Windows, macOS, and Android.

3

LED light indications

When the mic is active or muted, it will be indicated by an LED light. The push-to-operate mute button is located underneath the noise reduction control. The monitor volume is shown below that, followed by an adjustable echo feature.

4

Input monitoring

On the bottom of the microphone are a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB interface. Cable and wires are kept out of the way which is a good design element. You can monitor the input from the mic in real-time thanks to the headphone output’s latency-free monitoring capabilities.

Final Verdict

This microphone is your one-stop shop for recording high-quality audio. This microphone is a fantastic option. You won’t need to install any drivers thanks to its plug-and-play setup because you’ll be up and running immediately. This mic is ideal for use with both laptops and desktop computers because of its tiny form.

Specs

Form Factor

Stand/Boom Mount

Sound Field

Mono

Capsule

Condenser

Polar Pattern

Lobar, Supercardioid

Frequency Range

40 Hz to 20 kHz

Mounting

Shockmount

Weight

175g

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Features

1

Solid and weather-sealed

You will undoubtedly come into contact with dampness and moisture while working outdoors, which can lead to many microphones failing. With its extremely resistant to moisture RF condenser construction, the MKH 416-P48U3 allows you to dependably record high-quality audio in both favorable and unfavorable climatic situations.

2

Stellar sound

This mic’s frequency response has a precisely tailored frequency pattern. If you stay in the sweet area and avoid going too far off-axis, it has a really authentic sound that comparable to and even outperforms non-shotgun microphones. The entire spectrum of the sound is exceptionally clear, and the rich bass end it provides is absolutely amazing. There is almost no distortion, a noticeable brightening of the highs, and a lot of air and openness.

3

Great amount of rejection

The MKH416 has a moderate amount of rejection. Do not be fooled into thinking that it genuinely offers a tighter pattern; it is a shotgun, it functions like a shotgun, and it perfectly rejects a considerable amount of extraneous sounds. Its pattern is more akin to hypercardioid microphones, which are frequently employed for indoor miking. It is also one of the reasons why, in contrast to other shotguns, it is ideal for the voice over job.

Final Verdict

The MKH 416-P48U3 is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a high-quality microphone that is unquestionably among the finest in its class, despite the price tag which may cause some people to hesitate. It’s the ideal mic for giving podcasts, films, or voiceover work that polished feel that you can’t get from cheaper equipment.

Thanks to its excellent sound isolation and feedback rejection, it’s also a no-brainer for outdoor broadcasts. You, therefore, have a piece of equipment that genuinely stands out from the competition when you add that to the reputation and high level of construction that Sennheiser microphones enjoy.

Specs

Form Factor

Desktop / Stand/Boom Mount

Sound Field

Mono, Stereo

Polar Pattern

Cardioid, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional, Stereo

Frequency Range

-20 Hz to 20 kHz

Mounting

Mounting Thread, Desktop Stand

Weight

1kg

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Features

1

Multiple recording controls

One benefit of the Yeti’s 5v-powered USB construction is that it allows it to incorporate many of the most crucial recording controls. There is an integrated gain dial that is useful for preventing post-processing when recording quiet or far-off sounds.

The pattern switch, which switches between the three working modes of its triple-capsule array, is the most crucial control of all. It also has a volume knob for the live-monitoring headphone amp, a mute button to pause recording, and other controls.

2

Four polar patterns

Polar pattern modification is one of the Yeti’s unique characteristics. You can choose from 4 distinct polar patterns using Blue’s patented tri-capsule microphone array, which allows you to customize how the Yeti takes up sound.

3

Great sound quality

Since there is zero latency, you won’t be bothered by sound lagging behind the topic as they speak if you’re listening to audio through the built-in headphone jack. Once the Yeti is plugged into a USB port, your Mac or PC will automatically recognize it. You can then change the mic’s input gain on the Yeti itself, in your PC’s Settings menu, or in post-production software like Final Cut Pro or Premiere Pro.

Final Verdict

Given its sturdy construction, outstanding sound, and long lifespan, the Blue Yeti offers good value for the money. It offers a practical and economical way to raise the caliber of your sound recordings creation. If you use a home studio to record voice-overs, podcasts, or even live music, it should be a crucial component of your toolkit.

5. HyperX Quadcast

Read full review

Pros

Superb sound quality

Multiple recording patterns

Programmable lighting

Shock mount and built-in pop filter included

Cons

Shock mount is plastic

146$ at Amazon
140$ at Adorama

Specs

Form Factor

Desktop / Stand/Boom Mount

Sound Field

Mono, Stereo

Capsule

3 x Electret Condenser

Diaphragm

14mm

Polar Pattern

Cardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional

Frequency Range

20 Hz to 20 kHz

Mounting

Shockmount, Desktop Stand

Weight

710g

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Features

1

Industry-leading features

This game mic is within the desired range with a sensitivity of -36db. Additionally, it has a broad frequency response range between 20Hz and 20kHz, which is in line with industry standards. You can achieve a good level of depth and accuracy when you combine sensitivity with frequency response. Additionally, the HyperX Quadcast has an integrated anti-vibration shock mount that shields your audio from handling noises like rattling on your desk or pounding on the microphone stand.

2

Tap-to-mute sensor

All you have to do to silence the microphone is tap the top. A touch-sensitive button for muting and unmuting the QuadCast is available. Switches and physical buttons that could produce audible clicks on your recorded track are eliminated. Instead, all you need to do to silence the microphone and switch off the light is to lightly press your finger to the top of it. Additionally, you won’t unintentionally trigger the touch button because it is on top.

3

Adjustable gain control

Another crucial component is an adjustable gain control. One of the best features of USB microphones, especially if you have a loud voice, is the option to adjust the sensitivity levels of your condenser microphone. It can capture more of your voice and less of the background noise in the room, which is an advantage.

Final Verdict

For gamers who may be putting themselves out there on YouTube or Twitch, the HyperX QuadCast S is a USB microphone with a gaming-focused focus. Four recording patterns, on-mic headphone monitoring, a shock mount, and even customizable RGB lighting—a mainstay of gaming peripherals are just a few of the practical features that this mic is equipped with. It offers great sound quality and lots of flexibility.

6. Rode NT1-A

Read full review

Pros

Flat frequency response

Premium all-metal build quality

Low self-noise at just 5dB

Decently priced

Cons

Requires another device to provide phantom power

269$ at Amazon
Rent from $10/day

Specs

Form Factor

Large Diaphragm Mic / Stand/Boom Mount

Sound Field

Mono

Capsule

Condenser

Diaphragm

25.40 mm

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Frequency Range

20 Hz to 20 kHz

Mounting

Shockmount

Weight

326g

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Features

1

Simple and modern design

The NT1 has a simple, uncomplicated design that is free of switches for a pad or a bass roll off. It’s painted a very dark shade of grey for the finish. A military-grade ceramic coating makes the entire finish scratch- and mark-resistant while the machined aluminum body is nickel-plated to prevent corrosion.

The black outside mesh basket also features a robust, protective construction, and a little gold inlay provides a clear cue as to which side of the mic the sound source should be pointed.

2

Quality sound

With lots of warm low-end substance in the mix and nothing missing or sticking out in the midrange, the NT1’s vocal reproduction is clear and detailed. The top end has an airy clarity, and the discreet and efficient double-meshed pop shield.

A vocal mic is not all that the NT1 is. It can be used for a number of applications, however keep in mind that the lack of a pad may prevent you from using it to close-mic loud sources like drums or amplified guitars.

Final Verdict

The NT1A offers professional performance despite being inexpensive, both for vocal recording and general instrument use. The sound works well with a variety of singers and vocal styles and is simple to fine-tune with moderate amounts of EQ because there isn’t any overbearing presence boost. The high-end is also as wide and detailed as you could want, so you can get a vocal sound with a contemporary breathy character with little to no EQ.

7. Rode K2 Condenser Valve

Read full review

Pros

Pro-level warm and smooth sound

Versatile with several polar patterns

Great engineering, durable construction

Cons

No-low frequency cut switch

A bit pricey

699$ at Amazon

Specs

Capsule

Condenser

Diaphragm

1.0″ / 25.40 mm

Polar Pattern

Cardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional

Frequency Range

20 Hz to 20 kHz

Impedance

200 Ohms

Weight

815g

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Features

1

Adaptable

The microphone has good adaptability because it may be used with Cardioid, Figure 8, and Omnidirectional polar patterns. The frequency range is broad, and the mic responds to subtle differences incredibly well.

2

Durable build

Despite being composed of plastic, the multi-pattern tube microphone is also well-crafted and seems quite durable. The connector is an ordinary XLR that requires phantom power to function. The microphone lacks a low-frequency cut button, but this is ultimately unnecessary for the majority of ASMR recordings.

3

Accessories in the package

A plastic-molded travel case, a power supply with a 30-foot cable, and an SM2 shock mount are all included in the package.

Final Verdict

The pro-level, warm, and smooth sound of the Rode K2 Multi-Pattern condenser microphone makes it a high performer. The valve mic produces an extremely precise sound that is ideal for ASMR recording because it captures every whisper, the reason behind it, and the source in great detail.

8. Blue Snowball iCE Plug ‘n Play USB

Read full review

Pros

Affordable

Delivers crisp audio in a cardioid recording pattern

No DSP means pure signal

Plug-and-play ready

Cons

Mic stand doesn’t angle high enough for mouth alignment

44$ at Amazon
39$ at Adorama
Rent from $7/day

Specs

Form Factor

Desktop / Stand/Boom Mount

Sound Field

Mono

Capsule

Condens

Polar Pattern

Cardioid

Frequency Range

40 Hz to 18 kHz

Mounting

Desktop Stand

Weight

460g

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Features

1

Vintage design

This Blue microphone features an intriguing design in the form of a ball that has a little vintage vibe. It is supported by a tripod platform that can be adjusted so you may position it just where you need it.

2

Solid and sturdy

Although the stand is constructed of plastic, it is reasonably sturdy and unlikely to break. However, the plastic stand’s possible drawback stems from its extreme lightness. Be careful that it doesn’t tip over while using it with its tripod support.

3

No digital signal processing

Your voice recordings are captured using the cardioid polar pattern with the Blue Snowball iCE. One of the ways Blue Snowball iCE differs from its rivals in related industries is that it records audio without using digital signal processing. The microphone also works with LEDs and pressure gradients.

Final Verdict

The Snowball is the simplest and least expensive option for regular users to instantly improve their recorded sound quality without the need for technical expertise. It works by just plugging it into your computer, tablet, or even gaming console. The Blue Snowball Ice is appropriate for a variety of applications in the hands of an experienced engineer or musician with good mic technique.

9. 3Dio FS Pro II

Read full review

Pros

Immersive and realistic sound

Bass roll-off switch

Pre-installed .62-inch microphone stand adapter

Prosthetic human-shaped ear

Cons

Pricey

1999$ at Amazon

Specs

Form Factor

Handheld/Stand-Held

Polar Pattern

Omnidirectional

Capsule

Pre-polarized condenser

Frequency Range

20 Hz – 20 kH

Weight

752g

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Features

1

Two prosthetic ears

A low self-noise DPA 4060 capsule is located inside each prosthetic ear. The inbuilt 9-volt battery can provide enough power for a stereo recording, or the two XLR outputs (left and right) to an audio interface or preamp can power the microphone.

2

Clear and crisp sound

This microphone can produce stunningly clear, authentic, and genuine sounds that will astound you and your audience. The mic’s binaural recording is entirely top-notch because to its sensitivity and wide dynamic range.

3

Included accessories

The mic includes a stylish hard shell carrying bag and a base stand adaptor that enable you to place the microphone more effectively. Additionally, it has two phantom power outputs that function no matter how the 9V battery is charged.

Final Verdict

The 3Dio FS Pro II is an ASMR creator’s fantasy as one of the top binaural microphones available on the market. Binaural microphones have two artificial ears that are set up in stereo and have built-in microphone capsules. Your listening experience can be truly spectacular thanks to this innovative setup, which captures spatial sounds to replicate how the human ear senses them.

10. Marantz Professional MPM-2000U

Read full review

Pros

Quality, rich, crispy sound

Low self-noise

Very good room noise rejection

Durable and sturdy build

Cons

Lacks realtime headphone monitoring

149$ at Amazon

Specs

Polar pattern

Cardioid

Sound Field

Mono

Capsule

Electret Condenser

Diaphragm

34mm

Frequency Range

20 Hz to 18 kHz

Mounting

Shockmount

Weight

368g

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Features

1

Flawless sound

Due to its extraordinary feature set, including its studio-grade AD conversion at 48kHz/16bit, high-frequency response, and uncompromised dynamic range, the mic ensures you of flawless audio capture. The precise audio capture is also made possible by the reduced self-noise.

2

Seamless connection

The MPM-2000U provides seamless USB connectivity and a premium-quality design. Additionally, it has a carrying case that makes it portable and a specially designed shock mount that simplifies installation.

3

Versatile

A mic with lots of features and versatility is the MPM-2000U. It is a complete solution for producers with limited space or studio spaces that contain background noise and echoes, including seasoned recording professionals and hobbyists.

Final Verdict

This is a fantastic option for recording in high-quality. A studio-quality USB condenser microphone with high-end audio performance is the Marantz MPM-2000U. It is ideal for podcasting, streaming on Twitch, DAW recording, and any other application requiring clean, sharp audio capture.

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Editor’s choice

Editor’s choice

USD

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Adorama

Best Versatile Mic

Best Versatile Mic

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32

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Best Sound Quality

Best Sound Quality

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999

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1250

Adorama

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129

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130

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146

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140

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269

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USD

699

Amazon

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44

Amazon

USD

39

Adorama

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1999

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149

Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a good quality mic?

The majority of microphones cost between $5 to $5,000. The average cost of a good quality mic is between $100-$500. This price range holds mics for various purposes. Mics above $500 are suitable only in specific conditions (outdoors, pro studio).

What makes a good microphone?

A microphone with a frequency response range of around 80 Hz to 15 kHz would make a good choice for a vocal mic. However for miking snares and toms, you would look for a range that starts lower, at around 50 Hz, and for a bass drum mic, you will want a low end of 40 Hz or even lower, down to 30 Hz.

What is the best type of mic?

Condenser microphones are considered the most versatile studio microphones and can be used to record essentially any instrument. They are somewhat more fragile and sonically sensitive than dynamic mics, and they require a small electrical current to operate, so they are less popular in the live setting.

What are the four types of microphones?

  • Dynamic Microphones.
  • Large Diaphram Condensor Microphones
  • Small Diaphram Condensor Microphones
  • Ribbon Microphones

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How we picked the best

Microphone type

Due to their sensitivity and capacity to capture sound with a high level of detail, good ASMR microphones are frequently condenser mics rather than dynamic, ribbon, or shotgun mics. To create various ASMR, we also integrated microphones with polar patterns that can record sound from multiple directions.

Low self-noise

You will be compelled to post-process your audio recordings without a suitable microphone in order to get better results, which takes a lot of time. It’s important to pay attention to how self-noise your mic is producing.

Self-noise is the background buzzing, humming, or hissing that occurs when you record at low volumes. It is automatically generated by your microphone. Purchasing an ASMR microphone with decreased self-noise will help you prevent these unpleasant sound distortions.

Affordability

Most of the microphones on our list are affordable to the general consumer, except for a couple of professional ones. Even so, if you’re looking for feature-rich gear and are ready to pay a penny more, then investing in a pro-level mic might be for you.

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