Do you want to send tingles through the head and back of your viewers? Do you want to create an ASMR experience that is blissful, heavenly, cozy, soothing, and whatnot?
Well then, you need the right microphone that can capture every tiny bit of those tapping, whispering, brushing, and humming sounds.
Today we will uncover 5 best ASMR mics for beginners as well as more experienced ASMRs out there.
Read along and find out-
How Are ASMR Mics Different?
There are specific microphones that are ultra-sensitive and pick up even the slightest sounds that create goosebump-inducing effects.
These mics record in 3D and can even grasp frequencies below 20Hz. Most of them have built-in sound-dampening technology that eliminates all unnecessary distractions from your recorded audio.
You can choose USB mics that are pocket-friendly options for beginners. You can also opt for XLR mics that produce even better sound quality, come with different filters and additionals, and hence remain on the pricey side.
Dynamic Vs. Condenser Mics
While looking for ASMR mics, you might also come across terms such as DYNAMIC and CONDENSER mics.
In simple words, dynamic mics might serve you for a long time as they are more durable. However, they need an amplifier which might sometimes leave noise in the environment.
Condenser mics are more delicate and suitable for a studio-like environment. These mics need external sources to power them such as batteries. However, these mics are more sensitive to picking up sounds and cover a broad range of frequencies, making them perfect for ASMR videos.
5 Best Mics For ASMR Videos
#1 BLUE YETI SERIES
$149.99
Whenever it’s about beginner-friendly and high-performance USB mics, Blue Yeti always makes its place. This brand provides a whole series of mics that are plug-and-play and help people wanting to record ASMR, streams, podcasts, etc.
The Blue Yeti captures a wide range of sounds and frequencies, it is sensitive enough to produce all those tingles and sprinkles. Several mics in the series offer omnidirectional settings, various polar patterns, and versatility.
Specs
Polar patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo
Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 KHz
Connectivity: USB Type-A
Pros
Very affordable
Built-in stand
Four settings for various environments
No preamp required
Cons
Sherpa software might not be very useful
Mic might feel flimsy
#2 HYPERX QUADCAST
$129.99
Another great mic for entry-level ASMR enthusiasts is the HyperX QuadCast. With all the controls given and an anti-vibration shock mount, this one can really make your recordings in-depth.
Again, it’s a plug-and-play mic with pocket-friendly pricing. Not to forget, this mic offers really cool looks featuring a red and black color scheme.
Specs
Polar patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo
Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 KHz
Connectivity: USB
Pros
Feels strong
Mute button with LED indicator
Desktop stand and shock mount
Quiet
Cons
No volume knob on the mic
The shock mount is plastic
#3 RODE K2
$699
RODE K2 valve mic provides a warm, soothing sound, capturing every whisper. The mic comes with a sturdy support frame and power supply along with a multi-pin XLR cable.
You can switch between different patterns from Omni to Cardioid using the continuous rotary control on the power supply. K2 provides a similar experience to a classic tube studio mic!
Specs
Polar patterns: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo
Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 KHz
Maximum SPL: 162 dB
Sensitivity: -36 dB at 1 kHz
Pros
Warm and classy sound
Looks sturdy
Worth the price
Cons
No pad or filter controls
No low-frequency cut switch
Pricey
#4 SHURE SM7B
$399
SHURE comes with a pop filter and supports a cardioid pattern. This one also comprises an electromagnetic shield that blocks any humming from your computer or other devices from being captured.
The mic is best built for close miking and hence can be suitable for ASMRs. However, it does not catch the full spectrum that well, if that’s what you prefer, it’s better to look for alternatives.
Specs
Polar patterns: Cardioid
Sensitivity: -59 dB at 1 kHz
Frequency response: 50 to 20,000 Hz
Low Cut Filter: Bass Roll-off
Pros
Durable microphone
Detailed and clear sound
High SPL
Cons
Heavy
Expensive
#5 AUDIO TECHNICA AT2020
$99.99
Audio Technica AT2020 is one of the most affordable mics here on our list. This one works on Cardioid and is a condenser microphone. The mic holds less sensitivity which means you can capture the sounds of your choice.
The perfectly built and heightened stand offers just the right position to let you capture all those whispers and taps for unique tingling sensations. Amazing for those who want to start their ASMR recording journey!
Specs
Polar pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
Connector Type: XLR
Connectivity: Wired
Pros
Comes with a threaded stand
Can handle high SPL
Rugged construction
Cons
No shock mount
Might be a bit noisy
Factors To Consider While Choosing An ASMR Mic
Price
Determine your budget and shop accordingly. ASMR mics can cost from a hundred dollars to hundreds of dollars. If you are a beginner, always pick up the most pocket-friendly mic instead of going for the fancy, high-end mics.
Connection Type
There are two kinds of connections in microphones: XLR and USB. XLR mics charge you a little bit more and they need you to maintain some wires as well.
USB mics on the other hand can be plugged directly into your computer and also cost you less.
Polar Pattern
Polar patterns such as Cardioid and Omnidirectional refer to the range of capturing the sounds. These patterns define how much sound will be picked up from different directions. Select a mic that matches your requirements for sound capture.
Self-Noise
While looking for an ASMR mic, it’s important to consider self-noise. Microphones often produce noise of their own, however, some mics are less noisy than others. In the case of ASMR, go with a mic that produces the least self-noise.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity is a mic’s ability to capture intricate details. The higher the sensitivity level there is, the more complex details your mic would catch. For ASMR streamers, it’s best to pick up a mic with more sensitivity.
So that’s how you choose a mic for ASMR streaming. We advise you to go explore these five listed microphones and choose the one that suits your budget and preferences for features.
