Both professionals and amateurs utilize USB microphones. In addition to numerous other uses, these mics can be used for podcasting, gaming, and video conferences. The majority of these gadgets have the disadvantage of having subpar audio quality compared to a traditional microphone.
Even with identical equipment, you might be startled to hear that your content doesn’t automatically sound like your favorite albums, streamers, or podcasts; don’t worry about it.
Even the most experienced engineers constantly pick up new abilities because audio production requires practice.
For voice recording, many individuals use USB microphones. But their audio quality is poor. If you fall into this category, this article can show you a few simple actions to take to improve the quality of your voice.
In this post, we’ll go through some simple techniques for enhancing the sound of your USB microphone so that your recordings sound better overall.
First, we will understand different causes that are reasons behind the low quality of mic sound.
Causes for Low-Quality Mic Sound
Here are some of the major causes that can encounter this problem.
Faulty hardware
Hardware quality is typically the main issue in most situations. The common belief is that because it is a USB microphone and will function on all devices, it must be of high quality.
That’s not the case, though. Even when linked to high-end PCs, cheap USB microphones typically have very low quality.
Faulty software
The second most crucial element in a decent USB microphone’s audio performance, after hardware, is software quality. The noise reduction plugins in various audio recording programs vary.
The plugin won’t make much of a difference in the sound of your microphone if you don’t have high-quality audio recording software. Also, if your blue snowball microphone driver is outdated or corrupted, it can also lead to this problem.
Background noise
The first step in dealing with a noisy room is to turn down the volume. Make every effort to soundproof the space where you will be recording. To lessen the background noise, you might also try utilizing a white noise generator.
Noise through hardware
Check to see whether there is no electronic interference with your USB cable. Check to see if the USB cable is secured. If it isn’t, replace it with a high-quality, protected one.
Not using the proper type of Mics
Dynamic or condenser USB microphones are available. Poor sound can be expected when a microphone is used outside of its intended application or in an environment where it is not appropriate.
Condenser microphones are more effective at capturing sounds coming from all angles. Dynamic microphones, on the contrary hand, can only take up noises that are right ahead of them.
Dynamic microphones are excellent for recording at close range, whereas condenser microphones are better for “roomy” sounds.
Let us now see the solutions to all the above problems and improve the quality of your mic sound.
Ways to Increase the Sound Quality of Mic
Here are a few simple techniques for enhancing microphone sound quality.
Utilize the external interface
Purchasing an external audio interface would be among the simplest solutions. These items will function as external sound cards when plugged into a USB port on your computer.
Additionally, it includes headphone connectors and volume control knobs so that you can hear the microphone in real-time.
Use windscreens and pop filters
Utilizing a pop filter to lessen the “P-pop” or sibilance your breath produces is just another thing you must accomplish. You should also use a windshield to reduce the popping noise your “P”s and “B”s generate.
Utilize noise-reducing plugins
The majority of audio editing tools come with noise-reduction plugins. You can use these plugins to reduce the hissing noise your microphone creates. There won’t be a complete disappearance of the noise, but there will be a reduction.
Use another cable
Another option you may do is to swap out your microphone’s USB cable for a shielded one. The two wires of a typical USB cable may cause a buzzing noise to appear on your recordings. You can replace this cable with an insulated one to stop your microphone from creating noise.
Place your mic correctly
Most USB microphones are omnidirectional, which means they can pick up sounds coming from all angles. You must position your microphone such that it can only pick up your voice.
Avoid making the error of placing it close to your monitor or television. Additionally, make sure the road to your mouth is clear.
Conclusion
It is possible to improve the sound of any microphone, no matter how old or inexpensive it is. All you have to do is take your time while recording and adhere to the instructions in this post. You must be able to create a professional-sounding USB microphone using the aforementioned methods. You might anticipate fantastic outcomes if you follow the appropriate procedures.
