The 10 Best ASMR Microphones
This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in November of 2018. If you're hoping to make a name for yourself in the ever-growing world of online ASMR-tists, you'll need a decent camera and an exceptional microphone capable of capturing crystal-clear sound with minimal intrusive background noise. Take a bit of time to peruse the options we've compiled here, and you'll be sure to find something that'll soothe the minds of your dedicated followers. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII
2. Blue Baby Bottle
3. Neumann TLM 107
Editor's Notes
September 28, 2020:
Taking a close look at our previous ranking, we felt there were a few too many standalone recorders like the Zoom H4N Pro and the Zoom H2N, which were the only two of that subcategory we kept on the list. This is in part because the other two options either lacked XLR connectivity or suffered from mediocre sound quality, but it's also because ASMR channels on Youtube and other platforms often rely on visual components to complement their audio work, and these models are a bit too unattractive.
That inevitable video consideration is why we included the Audio-Technica AT2020V Limited Edition, the chrome finish of which makes it especially well-suited to video content, and the price point of which makes it a wise investment for anyone starting out in the field. The fact that it comes from a reputable brand in the recording industry, who makes a lot of very fine studio equipment, is an added bonus.
Most of the new mics on our list are condensers, as these tend to offer the best voice recording quality compared to other types. However, the specific pickup pattern of a given mic is also important, which is why the AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII gets such high marks. It's one of the most adjustable options out there, and its large diaphragm capsule sounds great in any of its configurations.
November 20, 2018:
Included cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional models. Be sure to check OS compatibility on any USB models before making a purchase. Keep in mind, the right selection depends heavily on the type of content you're creating, so you should have a thorough understanding of what you're looking to achieve before going forward.
Special Honors
Omni8 Audio TF08 Serious performers who are looking for the last mic they'll probably ever need would do well to consider this option, which is lauded as one of the most beloved vocal mics in the music industry. It offers a trio of polar patterns, a wide frequency response, and other impressive specs, but it's the way they all combine to create the character of the piece that makes it worth the investment. omni8audio.com
4. 3Dio FS Pro II
5. Rode K2 Multi-Pattern Dual Condenser
6. Zoom H4N Pro
7. Rode NT1-A
8. Blue Yeti
9. Audio-Technica AT2020V Limited Edition
10. Zoom H2N
Daniel Imperiale holds a bachelor’s degree in writing, and proudly fled his graduate program in poetry to pursue a quiet life at a remote Alaskan fishery. After returning to the contiguous states, he took up a position as an editor and photographer of the prestigious geek culture magazine “Unwinnable” before turning his attention to the field of health and wellness. In recent years, he has worked extensively in film and music production, making him something of a know-it-all when it comes to camera equipment, musical instruments, recording devices, and other audio-visual hardware. Daniel’s recent obsessions include horology (making him a pro when it comes to all things timekeeping) and Uranium mining and enrichment (which hasn’t proven useful just yet).