ZDNET’s key takeaways
- The JBL Quantum Stream mic is out there now on Amazon for $150.
- This mic affords wealthy sound and a bunch of options to make it punch properly above its value level.
- Nonetheless, it does not embody a low-pass filter.
I’ve used fairly a number of mics through the years, however my go-to has been the CAD E100S for fairly a very long time. It has been laborious to seek out one other one that provides the identical degree of high quality and sound. Do not get me incorrect, I’ve discovered some that come shut (with out reaching into the stratosphere for value) however few have surpassed it.
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That does not imply I am by no means impressed by a mic. Working example, the JBL Quantum Stream. After I first acquired it, my first thought was that it was a nice-looking piece of tech, however I had my doubts it may punch excessive sufficient to impress me.
It did not take lengthy for it to show me incorrect. Not solely is that this mic straightforward to make use of, it affords a few options that assist make it stand out.
JBL Quantum Stream tech specs
- Triple, 14 mm electret condenser mics
- 96kHz sampling charge
- Energy output (RMS) – 45mWrms per channel (load=32 ohms)
- Energy required – 5V 500mA
- Driver sensitivity at 1kHz/1mW (dB) – –37 ± 3 dB (1 kHz @ 1 Pa, 0 dB=1 v/Pa)
- Dynamic frequency response vary (Hz) – 20 Hz – 20 kHz
- Impedance (ohms) – >16
- Mute/unmute
- USB Kind-C connection
- 3.5 mm headphone jack
- RBG ring indicator mild round quantity knob to point you are stay in addition to quantity degree
- Reversible stand for simple mounting
- Selectable pick-up patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, bi-directional, and stereo)
After I first unboxed the Quantum Stream, I have to admit: I assumed it was cute, however I did not take it critically. what they are saying about assumptions.
Sure, I used to be incorrect. This little mic packs a severe punch. After connecting it to my iMac, I loaded Audacity and hit document. After about 30 seconds, I performed again the sound and was shocked by the richness and depth for which it was succesful. It may not be able to the heat present in my CAD mic, but it surely sounded much better than a whole lot of different mics I’ve examined at this value level.
After the preliminary check, I made a decision to check out the totally different pick-up patterns. There is a button on the underside of the mic capsule that cycles by means of the 4 patterns. The distinction between every sample is refined but when what you are listening for, it is there. For a single voice, the cardioid sample is the most effective setting as a result of it focuses totally on the voice in entrance of the mic but additionally picks up ambient sound (which makes the recording extra pure).
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You probably have two voices, nevertheless, it is best to place the mic between them and choose the stereo sample. That may permit the mic to select up every voice equally (all issues being equal). Simply remember the fact that it’s going to take a little bit of testing with the location to get the suitable pick-up sample to your wants and setting.
One other function I actually respect is the RGB mild ring across the quantity management know, which not solely signifies that sound is being picked up, but additionally serves as a quantity meter. In case you see crimson within the ring, flip the mic quantity down since you’re in all probability peaking (which is able to distort the sound).
The opposite function that is available in very helpful is the mute button on high of the mic. To mute the mic, simply faucet it, and the inexperienced mild that encircles the highest of the machine will flip crimson. Faucet it once more to unmute — the sunshine turns inexperienced, and you are stay.
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You will additionally discover a 3.5mm headphone jack on the again facet of the mic. I all the time use headphones when recording voice as a result of I discover it provides you a extra correct illustration of what the mic is selecting up.
Lastly, you possibly can unscrew the flat base and screw the Quantum Stream onto a normal mic stand, which is a giant plus (and means it’s also possible to use a pop filter).
ZDNET’s shopping for recommendation
The JBL Quantum Stream may not stand as much as my favourite mic, the CAD (which is 3 times the price) but it surely comes surprisingly shut. It has a wealthy sound that provides loads of depth, a smoothness between lows and highs, and a presence that you just may affiliate with mics twice the value.
This mic could be completely at house recording podcasts, streaming, and gaming. And with selectable pick-up patterns, straightforward muting, and RGB quantity meter, comes with all of the helpful options you want and nothing you do not. For $150, this mic is a steal for anybody trying to enhance their podcast recreation.