The 10 Best ASMR Microphones
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
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.