Having a successful streaming career like Ludwig is a dream for many YouTubers. The guy is a great example for those who still underestimate the idea of making money through streams and podcasts.
But since YouTube’s monetization has some essential prerequisites, sound quality is one of its main areas of focus after the video content. Although a bad microphone can still get you monetized, you might not be able to get views because of bad audio quality.
So to save you from losing the audience, this article will tell you everything about Ludwig’s microphone setup. Reading this article will let you know about the microphone he uses, his audio interface, and the stand and headsets he keeps.
Table of Contents
Who is Ludwig Ahgren?
Born on July 6, 1995, Ludwig Anders Ahgren, famously known as ‘Ludwig,’ is a US-based YouTuber, streamer, competitor, and esports commentator. With 1.3 billion views and 4.94 million subscribers, Ludwig is a YouTube star known for his gaming channel. However, he began his journey from Twitch in 2018 to 2021. Later he switched to YouTube and is still actively participating in producing new content.
While Ludwig has various other non-gaming channels, he is mostly watched for gaming reviews and gameplay videos. His increased popularity has earned him several sponsorship and brand ambassador opportunities. The guy has inspired several young YouTubers, and his microphone setups are just amazing.
Which Microphone Does Ludwig Use?
Ludwig use the Shure SM7B microphone. It has a flat, smooth, and wide-range frequency response best for speech and music. Moreover, it can be used in all professional audio recordings. One of the secrets to why Ludwig has the lowest ‘hum’ sound in his videos is because of the SM7B shielding.
The microphone protects the electromagnetic hum sound generated through surrounding electrical devices, such as neon lights and computer monitors. Furthermore, the mic comes with an additional A7WS windscreen that is ideal for close-talk applications. The Shure SM7B also has an RPM602 switch cover plate and a 5/8 to 3/8 inch thread adapter.
Features of Shure SM7B Microphone
- Classic cardioid polar pattern dialog microphone
- Midrange emphasis and bass roll-off control for recording various voice ranges
- Built-in air suspension with shock isolation to eliminate mechanical transmission noises
- Yoke mounting with a captive stand nut for quick mounting and dismounting
- Rugged construction for daily rough use
Specifications of Shure SM7B Microphone
Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
Color | Dark grey |
Net Weight | 1.69 lbs |
Mic Type | Moving coil (Dynamic) |
Frequency Response | 50 to 20,000 Hz |
Hum Pickup | 11 dB |
Output Impedance | 150 ohm |
Mic Sensitivity | -59 dBV |
Build Material | Steel case and enamel aluminum |
The Rest of the Ludwig’s Microphone Setup
So you know the type of mic that Ludwig uses in his videos. Let’s overview his remaining audio setup, like the audio interface, microphone stand, and headset.
1. The Audio Interface of Ludwig
An audio interface is necessary if you want your system to catch clean microphone signals. It converts your mic signals into a format your recording software and computer recognize. It provides better sound quality than your PC’s built-in sound card.
Ludwig uses Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface that makes him sound clear on the mic. It is one of the best USB audio interfaces with two upgraded microphone preamps, allowing you to connect two mics simultaneously. Both of them are 24-bit/192kHz DA/AD high-performance converters with dedicated gain structures.
The mic preamps also feature Air mode that gives the desired air effect, resulting in brighter and crystal clear sound. Scarlett 2i2 is a suitable audio interface for YouTube projects where you can independently control monitor outputs and headsets.
Features of Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
- Extremely low latency
- Indicators for halo levels
- 3rd-generation microphone preamps
- Real-time monitoring of plug-in effects
- Balanced and controlled L/R TRS monitor outputs
- Software bundle included for Windows/MAC
- Also supports iPad Pro
Specifications of Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Microphone Inputs | ||
Impedance | 3000 ohms | |
Gain range | 56dB | |
Max input level | 9dBu | |
Noise EIN | -128dBu | |
Total harmonic distortion + noise | <0.0012% | |
Dynamic range | 111dB | |
Frequency Response | 20Hz to 20000kHz | |
Line Inputs | ||
Impedance | 60000 ohms | |
Gain range | 56dB | |
Max input level | 22dBu | |
Total harmonic distortion + noise | <0.002% | |
Dynamic range | 110.5dB | |
Frequency response | 20Hz to 20000kHz | |
Instrument Inputs | ||
Impedance | 1.5M ohms | |
Gain range | 56dB | |
Max input level | 12.5dBu | |
Total harmonic distortion + noise | <0.03% | |
Dynamic range | 110dB | |
Frequency response | 20Hz to 20000kHz | |
Headphone Outputs | ||
Impedance | <1 ohm | |
Max output level | 7dBu | |
Total harmonic distortion + noise | <0.002% | |
Dynamic range | 104dB | |
Monitor/Line Outputs | ||
Impedance | 430 ohms | |
Max output level | 15.5dBu | |
Total harmonic distortion + noise | <0.002% | |
Dynamic range | 108dB | |
Connectivity | USB port (900mA) | |
Supported Sample Rates | 192kHz, 176.4kHz, 96kHz, 88.2kHz, 48kHz, and 44.1kHz |
2. The Microphone Stand that Ludwig Uses
Ludwig uses the RODE PSA1 microphone arm stand. It is a suitable and affordable option if you’re into broadcasting, podcasting, or YouTubing for fun. It is a complete professional studio boom mic arm with hassle-free microphone placement. It is easy to adjust its direction with around 3 feet of vertical and horizontal reach.
The PSA1 has a state-of-the-art parallelogram design that keeps your mic stable once you have made the adjustments. Another great thing about it is the internal springs that hold the arm movement quieter. You can rotate it in any direction without making any mechanical noise.
Features of RODE PSA1 Mic Arm
- Supports up mic weight up to 1.1 kilograms
- Full 360-degree rotation for easy mic positioning
- Hook and loop wraps to keep microphone cables neatly
- Desk mount clamp and threaded desk insert attachments included
Specifications of RODE PSA1 Mic Arm
Total product weight | 1.74 kilograms (1740 grams) |
Min mic weight supported | 1.1 kilograms (1100 grams) |
Max mic weight supported | 0.7 kilograms (700 grams) |
Arm’s vertical reach | 33 inches (840 mm) |
Arm’s horizontal reach | 32 inches (820 mm) |
Arm’s material | Steel |
Thread size | 3/8″ |
3. The Headset that Ludwig Uses
Ludwig has been seen using different headphones over the years. Previously, he was wearing the Sennheiser hd599s and BOSE QuietComfort series. He also wore Phillips SHP9500s. Currently, Ludwig uses the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headset in his videos.
The DT 990 PRO is pure German-made and has some amazing qualities that make it an excellent choice. The headset is easy on your ears. It is comfy and doesn’t pressure your ear structure, even if you wear it for several hours. This headphone outputs detailed sounds of the actual audio with precise bass and boosted treble without making you sound sharp.
DT 990 PRO has a single-sided cable fitted to a gold-vaporized 3.5mm stereo jack and an adapter to ensure movement freedom. It has an open-back design offers great space and a wide tonal range.
Features of Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Headset
- Handmade
- Replaceable parts
- 3-dimensional sound
- High-frequency range
- Soft, viscose earpads
- Dynamic and open headset
- Rugged headband for regular use
Specifications of Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Headset
Weight | 250 grams (without cable) |
SPL | 96 dB |
Headphone Type | Wired, circumaural, and open-back |
Earpads color | Silver grey |
Impedance | 250 ohms |
Cable length | 3-meters coiled cable |
Audio quality | Spatial, transparent, and analytical |
Ideal usage | Podcasters, streamers, musicians, and producers |
Conclusion
You need the same equipment to get a perfect sound like Ludwig in your audio while streaming or podcasting. He uses the Shure SM7B microphone with Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface. He positions the mic on the RODE PSA1 arm stand and wears Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO on the ears.