Have you considered creating your podcast of yourself, posting videos on YouTube, or even live-streaming your video game skills on platforms like Twitch? If you answered "yes", you have probably thought what tools you would need to achieve it. If you are already knowledgeable, you have probably already started looking into the technology and, ideally, some of the greatest microphone deals.
Different types of Streaming Mics
To create compelling content, a crucial tool you should possess is a microphone. Its purpose is to capture your voice effectively, enabling audience members and listeners and listeners to pay attention to your message. Microphones are available in various forms and sizes, providing you with multiple options. You can choose between a convenient USB microphone of desktop or explore more advanced alternatives that utilize XLR connections.
A convenient choice is to utilize the microphone that is built-in, which found in some of the top gaming headsets. Over the years, these microphones have significantly improved as companies recognize the needs of streamers and the growing popularity of communication software like Discord. As a result, there is now greater emphasis placed on the caliber and clarity of microphone audio in gaming headsets.
What then do you choose? I have numerous options at my disposal to make it possible for me to stream occasionally on Twitch and record the occasional audio clip for videos. My limited budget prevents me from spending a lot of money that is on items that I would hardly use, be able to easily duplicated, or could be cleaned up by other applications.
How to get increasingly professional?
If you're considering upgrading your current USB setup to XLR and adding mixing hardware like a GoXLR or similar device, it's important to be aware that this might require a higher budget. To give you an estimate, the TC-Helicon GoXLR is currently priced around $400, and significant price drops are usually seen on Black Friday. Unlike the simplicity of plug-and-play with USB connections, utilizing an XLR interface would require the connection of a sound card or audio mixer equipped with an XLR jack to your PC in order to enable its functionality.
However, opting for a hardware setup like this has its advantages, as it allows for easier configuration and on-the-fly adjustments while live streaming. This means you can modify settings without the need to pause or restart your streaming or recording software, making it more convenient to apply alterations or make changes and experiment with new configurations.
The comprehensive solution
When it comes to mixers, XLR mics, USB microphones, and DACs, there is a wide array of options available. It is important for you to conduct research and determine which equipment best suits your specific needs and budgetary considerations. In my experience, gaming headsets have seen remarkable improvements in quality over the past decade. While dedicated gaming audiophiles may prefer a good set of headphones and a desktop microphone, choosing a gaming headset can be a satisfactory compromise if you are not overly concerned about achieving the ultimate sound setup.
In conclusion, you should base your choice of equipment on how far you are willing to stretch your budget (for cost might soar fast), and what you need it to accomplish. If you are using the same location to record a multi-person podcast, you should either use a cardioid microphone for each individual, a bidirectional microphone for two people, or an omnidirectional microphone for several people seated close to a table.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option specifically for streaming your gaming sessions on platforms like YouTube, a single-purpose gaming headset could be the most affordable choice. However, if you have additional funds available, it is worth considering investing in a separate microphone (USB or XLR) along with your preferred combination of audio mixer and DAC for a more professional and customizable setup.