I recently installed Windows 10 on my Macbook pro (Mid 2012 version) and everything works fine except the Audio. Basically as far as my limited knowledge goes in this, when you install a Windows 10 on your Mac using BootCamp (BC), it installs all the drivers on your Windows on the first boot and it did. But I am unable to hear any audio. Shop for macbook pro microphone at Best Buy. Find low everyday prices and buy online for delivery or in-store pick-up.
When it comes to audio recording, external microphones have a separate fan base. Practically, whether you want to record a podcast or want to use Skype, the inbuilt microphone of your MacBook Pro is not sufficient for that. It can’t provide the desired performance for your specific application. So, an external microphone is a necessary item for you to perform your tasks effectively using your MacBook Pro.
To experience the high-quality performance, you need to buy the best microphone for your MacBook Pro. While choosing the right product, you may get confused due to the presence of several kinds of microphones in the market. Here, we have prepared a guide to help you in finding the right microphone for you. You can read this guide thoroughly to select the right product for you and experience exceptional performance.
Best External Microphone for MacBook Pro 2020
#1. FIFINE USB microphone for MacBook Pro:
This is a best USB microphone for MacBook Pro from FIFINE. It can be used with Macs as well as PCs. With a user-friendly design, this external microphone is ready to be used anytime. This product can be used for recording high-quality audio for YouTube videos. If you are looking for an efficient microphone for recording purposes, then this is the perfect product for you. This microphone can exclude the background noise from the recorded audio effortlessly. With a volume control knob, you can adjust its input voice easily. It has an excellent frequency response so that it can be used for field recording, voiceover use, home studio recording, or podcasting.
This external microphone is made of metal, so it offers high durability. This product includes a tripod stand for portability. With this stand, you can use this microphone on the tabletop easily.
Pros:
FIFINE USB microphone can be used for multipurpose usages.
It has a user-friendly design for easy recording.
This microphone eliminates the background noise during the recordings.
This USB microphone from Alvoxcon is a great product for excellent audio recordings. It comes with a desk stand for ease of use. This microphone can be used for singing, podcasting, YouTube, and many other purposes. To use this microphone, you just need to plug in the USB cable into the USB port of your Mac or PC and select USBMIC1 as default audio input. This USB microphone can be installed without any drivers and record crystal clear sound. Is has a cardioid cartridge for noise cancellation during your recordings. For an extensive recording experience, you can go for this microphone.
This best external USB microphone for MacBook pro supports varieties of operating systems to offer a great user experience. You can use this microphone for meetings, presentations, tutorials, Facebook, commentating, etc. It has a frequency range of 30Hz to 20 kHz, so great for several purposes.
Pros:
This microphone has a metal body and mesh grill for high durability.
It includes a tripod stand.
It contains a ball-type windscreen to prevent popping sound.
Cons:
It doesn’t have provision for volume adjustment.
#3. JOUNIVO USB microphone for MacBook Pro:
With a flexible design, this USB microphone from JOUNIVO can be used for several purposes. It comes with a desktop base for efficient support on the tabletop. This microphone can record a smooth sound without background noise. Because of its intelligent noise cancellation system, this product is great for professionals. You can use it for gaming, YouTube, dictation, podcast, Skype, etc. It includes a mute switch with an LED indicator, which helps you to know about the status of PC microphone.
This USB microphone has an omnidirectional polar pattern to sense sound from 360 degrees. This feature offers you great flexibility. It comes with JOUNIVO upgrade chip to record clear sound during gaming. This microphone is compatible with Windows as well as Mac. It has a robust construction to provide quality performance.
Pros:
For volume adjustment, this microphone includes a volume knob.
It has a unique ABS stand for proper support.
It can sense sound from 360 degrees.
Cons:
NA
#4. ZaxSound professional microphone for MacBook Pro:
It is a high-quality microphone from ZaxSound for excellent audio recording. This microphone has a unique design to provide great performance. It uses a cardioid pickup pattern for recording high-quality audio. You can use this product for YouTube recording and live to webcast effectively. This product offers great compatibility with a wide range of devices. So, by using this microphone, you are going to have an exceptional experience. This professional microphone offers a sensitivity of -34db for ease of use. This product can sense the sound from a distance of 12 inches, allowing you high flexibility.
This microphone can be used with a 3.5mm audio jack. You can directly connect it to your PC and start recording without needing any driver or software. It comes with a flexible tripod stand for tabletop usages.
Pros:
With a 6 feet cable, this microphone can provide you with high flexibility while recording.
It includes noise cancellation feature for accurate recording.
This microphone has both USB and TRRS 3.5mm audio adapter for the interface with PC/laptop.
Cons:
Not ideal for gaming.
#5. CMTECK USB microphone for MacBook Pro:
This USB microphone is great for recording crystal clear sound effortlessly. It includes advanced noise-canceling technology to ensure that you are experiencing clear sound without any noise. If you are looking for an effective microphone for superior performance, then you should go for this microphone. This USB microphone is a superb option to use instead of traditional microphones. For recording with this microphone, you just need to plug it into your PC and start recording. It doesn’t require any extra driver or software for operation. CMTECK microphone is compatible with Mac and Windows system.
This USB microphone comes with a mute button, so you can quickly mute or unmute it whenever needed. It has LED indicators to let you know about the working status; green light indicates a proper connection, flashing green light indicates working mode, and the red light indicates the mute mode.
Pros:
It has 360 degrees sensing capacity.
CMTECK microphone can be used for a variety of purposes.
This microphone has a compact design.
Cons:
NA
#6. MAONO USB microphone for MacBook Pro:
This is a premium quality microphone to use for several purposes. You can use it for recording or calling from indoor or outdoor easily. It has a unique design to perform well in any situation. MAONO USB microphone is ideal for meeting, gaming, recording, broadcasting, etc. Because of its cardioid polar pattern, it can record clear sound. This microphone has a frequency response of 30Hz to 16 kHz, which makes it a multipurpose product in the market. It is great for singing, voiceover, and speech. For a professional quality experience, you should go for this microphone.
It comes with USB 2.0 for easy connectivity with your PC or laptop. You can simply connect the microphone and your PC/laptop via a USB cable for use, as it doesn’t require any additional driver or software for operation. This microphone has a 16mm electric condenser transducer to provide efficient sound with bass.
Pros:
This microphone is compatible with all Operating Systems.
It has a pop filter and foam windscreen to eliminate noise.
The microphone has high sensitivity.
Cons:
NA
#7. IUKUS professional microphone for MacBook pro:
With a wonderful design, IUKUS professional microphone is a superb product for recording. You can use this microphone for recording, gaming, YouTube, Skype, chatting, etc. This microphone comes with a 3.5mm plug for easy interface with your laptop/PC. It includes a tripod stand to allow you to keep it on the table. Also, this microphone has an audio speaker adapter for simple connectivity. The tripod stand has an adjustable feature that allows you to adjust up to an angle of 180 degrees. So, you can easily fit its angle according to your comfort.
This microphone provides a wide range of functions with a frequency response of 50Hz to 16 kHz. This microphone has a noise canceling feature to provide crystal clear sound. It includes a warranty for 1-year. To get exceptional audio experience, this microphone is a great product.
This is an outstanding microphone for recording, singing, or podcasting. This microphone has a simple design and easy to use. You can install this product easily using a USB cable, as it doesn’t require any driver for operation. TKGOU microphone is compatible with both Mac and PC. For excellent support, this microphone comes with a foldable metal tripod stand. The neck of the metal stand is 360-degree adjustable to provide you with the utmost flexibility and comfort. You can use this product for several applications effectively. It includes a windscreen made of double-layer mesh to provide you with noise-free recordings.
The microphone has a frequency response of 20Hz to 20 kHz to be suitable for multiple applications. You can use this product for singing, speech or voiceover effectively. It uses a cardioid polar pattern to produce noise-free sound. If you are looking for a microphone for gaming or streaming purpose, then you should go for this product.
Pros:
It is easy to install this microphone.
It is great for gaming.
This microphone includes an adjustable stand.
Cons:
NA
#9. FIFINE Technology USB microphone for MacBook Pro:
This microphone comes with a driver-free design to allow you to install it easily. With the USB port installation facility, using this product is easier than traditional microphones. This microphone can produce premium quality sound without any noise. You can use this product for podcasting, streaming, gaming, etc. The microphone is made of metal for high durability and flexibility. It includes a desktop stand with a detachable facility.
With a wonderful design, this USB microphone can be used for a variety of purposes. For live audio recording or streaming, this microphone is a great option. With a frequency response of 50Hz to 15 kHz, this microphone is ideal for a wide range of applications. Another great feature of this microphone is it includes a 3.5mm audio jack to allow you to listen to your recorded audio.
Pros:
The microphone comes with a 6.56 feet USB cable.
FIFINE Technology USB microphone includes a 2-year warranty.
Metal is used in the construction of this device.
Cons:
It is expensive.
#10. KLIM Talk USB microphone for MacBook Pro:
It is a user-friendly microphone from KLIM to provide quality audio experience. It has an elegant design to allow you to use it efficiently. Many professionals have appreciated this microphone for superb performance. It includes a patented audio filter to filter out the noise and produces a clear sound. It uses USB for installation, so you no need to spend more money on drivers. It has a durable design and can offer high stability.
KLIM Talk USB microphone is made of metal and plastic. This robust microphone is a highly reliable product to opt for. If you need a simple and sturdy microphone for office use, then this microphone is the perfect option for you.
Pros:
This microphone is excellent for gaming applications.
KLIM Talk microphone is ideal for office usages.
This microphone comes with a 5-year warranty.
Cons:
NA
Conclusion:
External microphones are very important for recording, singing, video calling, etc., as the microphone of your MacBook Pro can’t do that. They make your audio recording experience exceptional and provide you with high flexibility. Also, external microphones include several features for a better user experience. But, choosing the right microphone for you can be a difficult task. This article includes reviews of some top-performing microphones to help you in getting the right product. I hope you will find the best microphone for you from this article.
Many people will never give their computer microphone a second glance, how about you?
It isn’t really something you check the quality of when choosing a MacBook to buy, and most people tend to assume that whatever is built in will be satisfactory for their occasional use.
However, there comes a point where the built-in microphone simply doesn’t cut it. Whether your voice isn’t getting picked up properly while using Skype or if you want to start recording your own podcast, an external USB mic is a great place to start rectifying this problem.
In this guide, we’ll point out some of the best mics in portability, versatility, and recording power. We’ll also guide you through picking a mic that suits your needs — whether you’re an everyday user, amateur recorder, or a professional.
Quick Summary
For something ultraportable but geared primarily towards communication needs (i.e. business conference calls, narration), the Blue Snowflake USB Microphone folds into a small rectangle that is easy to take to/from work on the daily.
Does your recording demand versatility? With multiple recording patterns the Blue Yeti offers a flexible design and endless ways to take your audio quality to the next level. It also includes a zero-latency headphone jack.
The Apogee MIC PLUS is the best choice if you’re completely committed to Apple and looking for a product that feels the same. Well integrated with all of Apple’s products and extremely portable, this mic is ready to rock whenever and wherever you are.
To step up your audio game at home, the Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Mic has you covered. Its classy design and brand reputation imply a degree of quality, you’ll be able to experience first hand whether you’re recording your guitar or narrating a home video.
Do I Need a Mic for My MacBook Pro?
An external microphone is not usually a cheap investment, and those who purchase them usually need them for a regular task.
That could be as mundane as frequent video-conference calls for work where you need others to be able to understand you clearly or as technical as creating your own music in a home recording studio, but the occasional Skype with an old friend will probably be just fine using your Mac’s built-in microphone.
Buying a USB Mic for MacBook Pro: What to Consider in 2020?
Size
Depending on your intended use for your microphone, you’ll be comfortable with different levels of portability. For example, if you only plan on recording at home a larger microphone with a bigger footprint may be perfectly fine. However, if you need the mic while at work or have another need to take it wherever your laptop goes, you’ll want to look for something that can become quite a bit more compact.
Recording Pattern
What you plan on recording has a significant impact on which mic you choose. Microphones come in different polar patterns, which is what determines how well they pick up sounds at specific angles (see the “Additional Tips and Tricks” section below to help decide what you’re looking for). This is key to making sure your mic works effectively and records only what you want it to.
Recording Quality
Buying a USB mic means you’re already looking for something a step above what’s built into your Mac, but even so, they come in many different recording qualities. Measured in bits/kHz, the higher this rate is the higher quality your sound will be. Don’t be tricked into paying for something much more technical than you need though – the final file format of your recording could make that rate obsolete, so this isn’t something to worry about if you’re just going to hook up the mic when using Skype.
The Best External Mics for MacBook Pro: Our Picks in 2020
Please note that the mic products recommended below are chosen based on the criteria listed above, plus our personal preferences. They are, however, not intended to be ranked in this order.
1. Blue Snowflake USB Microphone
This microphone is one of the most ideal if you’ll need high-quality recording wherever you go. The compact case expands into a stand that can clip on the top of your MacBook with ease, and the whole device is only about 2.5” thick, making it for easy transport without sacrificing quality since it has a sample rate of 16bit/44kHz.
Pros: It covers all the bases with both an eye-catching design and spot-on functionality. A cardioid condenser, it’s perfect for home narration, podcast recording, or voice calls from your Mac. Also, it doesn’t require any drivers, so works perfectly as soon as you plug it in.
Cons: Not an optimal choice for musicians; quality is more than sufficient for communication but would likely be found lacking when it comes to recording a track.
2. Blue Yeti USB Microphone
If you need something versatile and top-tier quality, the Blue Yeti has you covered. With four different recording patterns available in a single mic, it’s ready for any possible recording situation, from voiceovers to a new record track. You can also connect your headphones directly to it for a complete recording experience.
Pros: The ability to choose between cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional & stereo recording patterns means you’ll never sacrifice recording quality no matter the situation. It includes gain control and a mute button. And it’s backed by a two-year warranty so you never have to worry about defects.
Cons: Not built for portability. At almost a foot tall, this mic is meant to stay in one place, such as your home office or recording studio.
3. Apogee MIC PLUS
If you want a mic truly built for Mac, Apogee is the way to go. Besides recording as normal when connected to your MacBook, it also has the ability to connect to your iPad or iPhone and integrate with Garageband for optimal productivity. This is a cardioid condenser microphone.
Pros: At only a bit more than a pound and less than 5 inches tall, this mic is ready to go anywhere and everywhere with you. In addition to a tabletop stand, It also comes with an adapter so that it can fit securely into an existing microphone stand. It’s a great choice for musicians.
Cons: There are some users say that you cannot use the Garageband functionality with iOS 11, although Apogee has been working on the issue.
4. Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Mic
Alright, so the Blue Snowball doesn’t actually come in blue… but the round snowball shape associated with the brand has a reputation for performance for a variety of recording situations. A bit over a pound and close to a foot tall when mounted on the included stand, this mic is ready to go straight out the box with no drivers to install.
Turn Off Macbook Pro Microphone
Pros: This driverless mic is ready to put in work as soon as you are, with a cardioid pickup pattern and sturdy design that will leave you more than satisfied with the sound. It’s also Skype-certified, lending credibility for the sound quality of any communications you may use it for. Should work nicely for a single-player recording as well.
Cons: Since it picks up sound in front and behind the mic, you may experience some buzzing or humming if you aren’t in a properly arranged space.
Additional Tips & Resources
Where Is The Mic On My Macbook Pro
Picking up on all the lingo of a new technical product or field can be difficult and confusing. When it comes to microphones, one of the key things to learn about is the polarity pattern of your potential purchase. This pattern determines how well sound will be picked up at different angles, which becomes more or less important depending on how you plan to use it. This guide will give you a great explanation of what each pattern means and when each is most useful.
Apple mac cordless mouse. Once you have the right mic, you’ll also need to make sure to set up your recording properly as well. While it may seem like the best settings are simply pushing all sliders to the max, this actually isn’t the case, and this discussion will help guide you through picking a sampling rate and bit depth that works for what you need.
Best Microphone For Macbook Pro
Final Words
Buying a mic is heavily dependent on what you plan to use it for, and you should always make sure to thoroughly research any model you consider.
All of the models we’ve listed connect to your mac through the USB port, but other types of mics may use the mic/headphone port or some other method, which is also something to consider. Additionally, many come with different kinds of stands or adapters that you may find useful- always check for these!
Do you currently use a USB mic? We’d love to hear what you think of your model and what you look for in picking a new one.