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So you have your eyes set on a new microphone but are unsure whether you should get a USB or an XLR mic? Or perhaps you were puzzled as to why one microphone offered both an XLR analog output and a USB digital output and questioned the need for two different connectors. Well, keep reading to learn about the differences between USB and XLR microphones and which one is right for you.
When you enter the world of microphones, you will find they are available in two types. USB and XLR. And with so many microphones available, deciding which type to choose can be challenging, especially if you are unfamiliar with the differences between the two. Both USB and XLR microphones have their benefits and drawbacks; it all depends on your needs and what you plan to record with your microphone. So let’s explore the differences between the two and help you find your perfect mic.
What is an XLR Mic?
XLR (External Line Return) mics are the most popular type of mics that you’ll see in professional recording studios and live performances.
The XLR refers to the analog cable used to connect the microphone to the audio interface/preamp. There are different versions of XLR cables that come with three to seven pins, with the most popular type being the three-pin cable that has a male and female three-pin connector on either end of the cable.
An XLR cable is also balanced, meaning it carries two signal wires and one ground wire, which allows for little to no sound distortion compared to an unbalanced wire.
Due to the crystal-clear, high-quality audio that XLR microphones provide, professional music producers and audio engineers prefer to use them, and you’ll frequently see them used on stage.
Pros:
- XLR is the standard format in almost all recording studios.
- Balanced audio and sound clarity.
- XLR cables provide protection from electrical damage.
- Due to higher sampling rates and bit depths, XLR microphones have more access to higher-resolution audio.
- Versatile and flexible. (Use the same mic on different audio interfaces, preamps, or other recording gear.)
- XLR cables are very durable.
Cons:
- XLR cables are more expensive than USB cables.
- You need an audio interface/preamp to connect your XLR microphone, as computers don’t have XLR inputs.
- Aren’t plug-and-play ready.
What is a USB Mic?
USB (Universal Serial Bus) microphones are plug-and-play mics designed to easily connect to a computer or laptop using a USB cable and the USB port. This operation is possible thanks to its built-in analog-to-digital converter that allows your computer to communicate with your microphone.
All you have to do is plug in your microphone and launch your recording software to start recording your vocals.
Pros:
- USB mics are plug-and-play ready and require no audio interface or any additional equipment.
- Very easy to use.
- Most USB microphones are cheaper than XLR mics.
- You can set them up anywhere using any computer/laptop.
- Even though most USB mics are cheaper than XLR mics, you can still get a USB mic that delivers excellent audio quality.
- A lot of USB microphones offer multiple polar patterns.
- Most USB mics offer plenty of user controls. (Mute/volume/gain, etc.)
Cons:
- Might experience latency problems.
- Sound quality might not be as good as that of XLR microphones.
- You can’t record more than one mic at a time.
- USB microphones aren’t very flexible and have limited use.
Top 3 XLR and USB microphones
If you’re in the market for a new microphone, our research has led us to the top 3 XLR and USB microphones that provide excellent audio quality at a reasonable price. We recommend checking out these 6 mics, as they are all developed by renowned companies with a reputation for high-quality audio and durability.
Top 3 XLR Microphones
1. Shure SM7B
Used by artists like Ed Sheeran, Armin Van Buuren, Skrillex, and many others, the Shure SM7B dynamic microphone has become a legend and an industry standard in the broadcast and vocal recording world. It delivers incredible vocal reproduction clarity and impressive audio performance for both vocalists and podcasters.
Features:
- Cardioid pickup pattern meaning it picks up sound perfectly from the front and sides, but not so well from the back, cutting down handling noise.
- 50 Hz – 20 000 Hz frequency range.
- Output Impedance of 150 ohms.
- Flat response that provides accurate and natural-sounding reproduction of vocals.
- An industry standard for vocal applications.
- Bass roll-off and midrange emphasis.
- Enhanced electromagnetic hum rejection and broadband interference shielding for computer monitors.
- Internal “air suspension” shock isolation for eliminating mechanical noise transmission.
- The A7WS detachable windscreen helps reduce plosive sounds and provides a warmer tone.
- Yoke mounting with captive stand nut.
- Robust construction with great cartridge protection, preventing damage and ensuring durability.
- Connectivity: XLR.
- Weight: 1.11 lbs.
Pros:
- Delivers a flat and accurate response.
- Pristine, crystal-clear, and high-quality sound.
- Offers a warm tone for vocals.
- Highly versatile.
- Rugged and durable build quality.
Cons:
- Somewhat expensive.
- Will need a preamp or an audio interface to get optimal results.
2. Rode NT1-A
One of Rode’s best-selling products, the NT1-A, is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that has been a studio staple for years. Whether it’s due to its warm and transparent sound, amazing sound quality, impressive features, or incredibly low self-noise, the NT1-A is an affordable microphone that outclasses its more expensive competitors.
Features:
- Cardioid pickup pattern meaning it picks up sound perfectly from the front and sides but not so well from the back, cutting down handling noise.
- 20 Hz – 20 000 Hz frequency range.
- Output Impedance of 100 ohms.
- Maximum SPL of 137dB.
- Flat response that provides accurate and natural-sounding reproduction of vocals.
- Ultra-low self-noise. (5dB(A))
- 1-inch gold-plated capsule.
- Complete recording kit, including a Rode SM6 shock mount and pop filter.
- Robust all-metal construction, preventing damage and ensuring durability.
- Connectivity: XLR.
- Weight: 0.72 lbs.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Pristine, crystal-clear, and high-quality sound.
- Ultra-low self-noise.
- Wide frequency range.
- Offers a warm tone for vocals.
- Rugged and durable build quality.
Cons:
- Will need a preamp or an audio interface to get optimal results.
3. Shure SM58
This legendary microphone needs no introduction. The Shure SM58 has been leading the world of live performances for the past 56 years. It’s been used by artists, comedians, world leaders, and pop stars. And the reason the SM58 is so special is because of the clarity and warmth it offers and the rugged build it’s known for, all while being cost-effective and more affordable than high-end microphones that aren’t even close to being as good as the SM58.
Features:
- Cardioid pickup pattern meaning it picks up sound perfectly from the front and sides, but not so well from the back, cutting down handling noise.
- 50 Hz – 15 000 Hz frequency range.
- Output Impedance of 150 ohms.
- Maximum SPL of 94dB.
- Built-in spherical wind and pop filter.
- Pneumatic shock-mount system that reduces handling noise.
- Break-resistant stand adapter that rotates 180 degrees.
- Legendary Shure build quality, preventing damage and ensuring durability.
- Connectivity: XLR.
- Weight: 0.66 lbs.
Pros:
- Highly affordable.
- High-quality sound.
- Lightweight.
- Leaves room for EQing.
- Portable and travel-ready.
- Offers a warm tone for vocals.
- Rugged and durable build quality.
Cons:
- Might require an extra pop filter for studio recordings.
Top 3 USB Microphones
1. Blue Yeti
The Yeti USB microphone is one of Blue’s best-selling microphones. From Twitch streaming to Youtube videos to professional podcasting, the Blue Yeti promises to deliver high-quality sounds to your audience while being affordable, versatile, and highly accurate.
Features:
- Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns, for different uses.
- 50 Hz – 15 000 Hz frequency range.
- Output Impedance of 16 ohms.
- Maximum SPL of 120dB.
- Blue VO!CE software for broadcast vocal effects and voice modulation.
- Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and microphone gain controls.
- Connectivity: USB.
- Weight: 1.2 lbs.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Multi-pattern condenser microphone.
- Has user controls for microphone gain, pick-up patterns, headphone volume, and mute/unmute your microphone.
- Great sound quality.
- THX certified.
- Vast frequency range.
- One of the best USB condenser microphones for podcasts on the market. Plug and play ready.
- Feature the new and advanced Blue VO!CE software.
- Available in three colors. Black, blue, and silver.
- Slick and flexible design.
- Number 1 best-selling USB microphone for YouTube and Twitch.
- Doesn’t require an interface to function.
Cons:
- Not a very flat response. The output is a bit polished.
- Not suitable for professional vocal recordings.
2. Shure MV7
The Shure MV7 is unquestionably one of the best podcast microphones on the market. Although it took inspiration from the infamous Shure SM7B dynamic microphone that we previously mentioned, this one has been designed for speech applications. The Shure MV7 is a very versatile microphone that provides a ton of user controls and the ability to fully manipulate your sound. And let’s not forget that it offers the legendary Shure build quality that guarantees durability and longevity.
Features:
- Cardioid pickup pattern meaning it picks up sound perfectly from the front and sides, but not so well from the back, cutting down handling noise.
- 50 Hz – 16 000 Hz frequency range.
- Output Impedance of 314 ohms.
- Maximum SPL of 132dB.
- ShurePlus™ MOTIV app that lets you manipulate your sound.
- Voice Isolation Technology that draws attention to your voice only without background noise.
- Auto Level Mode or Manual Mode that lets you manually EQ your sound.
- Built-in headphone monitoring.
- Connectivity: USB, XLR.
- Weight: 1.2 lbs.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Versatile.
- Great sound quality.
- One of the best USB condenser microphones for podcasts on the market.
- Plug and play ready.
- Slick and flexible design.
- Available in black and silver.
- Offers both USB and XLR connectivity.
- Doesn’t require an interface to function.
Cons:
- The mini-USB input is not very stable.
3. Fifine K669
The Fifine K669 makes a great portable microphone for voiceovers and live streamers. It offers a clear sound on both the high-end and mids but might lack on the bass or low-end side of the spectrum. So, recording vocals or live instruments in a professional environment might not be in the Fifine K669’s job description. However, it is an excellent mic for podcasts and any real-time audio recording and will perform perfectly if this is your purpose.
Features:
- Cardioid pickup pattern meaning it picks up sound perfectly from the front and sides, but not so well from the back, cutting down handling noise.
- 20 Hz – 20 000 Hz frequency range.
- A vertical and horizontal adjustable pivot mount.
- Volume control.
- An all-metal construction.
- Connectivity: USB.
- Weight: 1.2 lbs.
Pros:
- Highly affordable.
- Good value for money.
- Great sound quality.
- One of the best USB condenser microphones for podcasts, live-streamers, and voiceovers on the market.
- Plug and play ready.
- Compact and travel-friendly design.
- Available in black, silver, blue, and green.
- Doesn’t require an interface to function.
- olidly built.
Cons:
- Lack of mic-monitoring.
- Not great for recording singing vocals or instruments.
- Isn’t compatible with Xbox.
Differences between XLR and USB mics
- A USB mic is connected via a USB cable. (USB-C, Type-A, micro-USB.) An XLR mic is connected to an audio interface via an XLR cable. (XLR3 – XLR7.)
- A USB microphone is directly connected to your computer, whereas an XLR microphone must be connected to an audio interface, which is connected to your computer.
- A USB mic doesn’t need any additional gear to function, unlike an XLR mic.
- XLR microphones generally offer higher quality audio than USB mics with less noise and latency.
- Most USB mics are more affordable than XLR mics.
- A USB microphone is rarely used on stage for live performances.
- XLR mics are more versatile than USB mics.
- XLR mics produce balanced audio, unlike USB mics.
- XLR mics are compatible with industry-standard audio equipment. USB mics are compatible with only computers.
- Professionals typically use XLR microphones. Beginners often use USB microphones.
- XLR mics have an analog signal type, whereas USB mics are digital.
- Unlike XLR mics, you can’t record more than one USB mic at a time.
Which Type of Microphone is Right for You?
If you’re a content creator or someone who simply needs a plug-and-play microphone for streaming, playing video games, or taking calls, and have no interest in having studio-quality audio, then a USB microphone is the right choice for you.
However, if you want to professionally record your vocals or set up a home studio to record your instruments and upgrade your gear as you develop as a musician, then you might want to go for an XLR mic.
Keep in mind that buying an XLR mic will require a higher budget since you’ll need an audio interface or a preamp to give your mic the boost it needs.
So if you don’t mind the extra gear and want better audio quality, check out the top XLR mics we mentioned earlier.
Check our guide on the Best Settings for AT2020 USB & XLR Microphones
USB vs XLR – Final Verdict
Both types of microphones were ultimately created with the same objective in mind. It all depends on what you plan to record with your microphone and how important high audio quality and the microphone’s versatility are to you. We hope we have provided enough information to help you learn about the differences between these two microphone types and make your decision easier.
Don’t forget to look into the six USB and XLR microphones we highlighted earlier, as they are all excellent candidates for your new purchase.