Omnidirectional Microphones

Lilliana Barr
11 min readMar 29, 2024

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Welcome to our informative roundup of Omnidirectional Microphones that captures the essence of their versatility and performance. In this article, we explore the fascinating world of these microphones, their unique features, and why they’re worth considering for your audio recording needs. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or videographer, our comprehensive guide will help you make an educated decision about these handy tools. So, sit back, relax and let us take you on a journey through the realm of Omnidirectional Microphones.

The Top 6 Best Omnidirectional Microphones

  1. Samson XPD2 USB Lavalier Wireless Microphone System for Broadcasting and Presentations — The Samson XPD2 Lavalier Wireless System provides professional, full-range sound for broadcasting, presentations, and performances at an affordable price, with easy plug-and-play set up for Mac, Windows, iPad, and Android devices.
  2. Omnidirectional Microphone with 6-Feet Cable — Discover the power and precision of audio with the Giant Squid Audio Lab Omnidirectional Microphone, boasting a 20–20,000 Hz frequency response, low noise ratio, and 6 feet of cable.
  3. Omnidirectional Microphone with 3.5mm Jack and Foam Windscreen — The Williams Sound MIC014-R Plug Mount Microphone provides exceptional audio quality with its wide frequency range and easy connectivity to various devices, making it a top choice for users seeking a reliable and versatile microphone solution.
  4. USB Plug & Play Omnidirectional Microphone — Experience crystal clear voice capturing and effortless online communication with this compact, plug-and-play USB microphone, perfect for work-from-home setups, remote learning, and content creation.
  5. Omnidirectional Condenser Boundary Microphone — The CAD Audio U5 Omnidirectional Condenser USB Boundary Microphone delivers exceptional 360-degree audio capture for podcasting, interviews, meetings, and more, with up to 20 feet of coverage, built-in noise cancellation, and a plug-and-play design.
  6. Omnidirectional Boundary Microphone for Conferences — Radio Shack’s Omnidirectional Microphone delivers superior sound quality and compact design for seamless meetings and conferences with a wide frequency response of 30–18,000 Hz.

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Reviews

Samson XPD2 USB Lavalier Wireless Microphone System for Broadcasting and Presentations

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As a content creator, I’ve been using the Samson XPD2 Lavalier for quite some time now. This wireless system has been a game-changer for me, especially when I need to record audio on-site without the cable mess. The plug-and-play feature makes it incredibly easy to set up and use, while its compatibility with Mac, Windows, and even iPad and Android devices makes it a versatile choice.

One of the highlights of this wireless system is its incredible audio quality. Samson’s digital transmission technology ensures that your audio always sounds as good as using a wired microphone. The RXD2 USB stick receiver is a convenient addition, allowing me to connect directly to my computer or any Samson Expedition Series Portable PA system with USB wireless connection.

In my experience using the XPD2 Lavalier, the sound quality has been consistently good. The built-in micro-receiver technology ensures that you can roam freely while still maintaining excellent audio clarity. However, it may take some time to figure out the correct placement of the microphone and understand how to get it to stay in one place, especially if you have long hair.

The only concern I have with this wireless system is the slim wire connecting the headset to the belt pack. It feels quite delicate, and I worry that an accidental tug might break the connector. Fortunately, the non-standard configuration of the connector means replacing the wire probably requires replacing the entire headset, which can be expensive.

Overall, the Samson XPD2 Lavalier has been an essential tool in my content creation journey. Its ease of use, compatibility with various devices, and professional full-range sound make it a top choice for anyone in need of a high-quality wireless microphone system.

Omnidirectional Microphone with 6-Feet Cable

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When I got my hands on the Giant Squid Audio Lab Omnidirectional Microphone, I was eager to test it out on my music recording projects. The 20–20,000 Hz frequency response ensures that every nuance of sound is captured perfectly, while its sensitivity rating of -35 decibels +4 decibels allows for crisp and clear audio quality.

I found the low sound to noise ratio > 62dB especially impressive as it significantly reduced the amount of background noise present during recordings. Additionally, the included 6 feet of cable made positioning the microphone a breeze, and the molded 1/8 inch (3.5 mm) stereo mini plug provided a secure connection to my recording device.

However, it’s important to note that this microphone is not compatible with all devices. It requires a “plug-in power” source with a voltage output between 1.5 to 10 volts, which means it won’t work with mixers or cameras that provide phantom power. I also discovered that most smartphones and cameras are not designed for high-quality audio, so they may not be the best choice for use with this microphone.

Overall, the Giant Squid Audio Lab Omnidirectional Microphone has been an excellent addition to my recording setup. Its high fidelity performance, combined with its sensible design, makes it a must-have for any serious audio enthusiast.

Omnidirectional Microphone with 3.5mm Jack and Foam Windscreen

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My experience with the Williams Sound MIC 014-R has been nothing short of fascinating. As a reviewer who’s always on the lookout for new gadgets, I’m quite impressed with this microphone’s performance. The first thing that caught my eye was its frequency range — a whopping 20Hz to 16kHz. This offers an immersive audio quality that I’ve not seen in many similar products.

The foam windscreen was another feature that stood out for me. It helped reduce vibration and noise significantly during my outdoor recordings, making it perfect for those looking for a durable and reliable microphone.

However, there were some cons as well. The weight of the microphone felt a bit heavier than I expected, which might be an issue for some users. Additionally, the compatibility might also be a concern as it only works with devices having a standard 3.5mm mini microphone input.

All in all, the Williams Sound MIC 014-R is a decent buy if you’re in the market for an omnidirectional microphone. Its superior audio quality, combined with the foam windscreen, makes it a strong contender in its category. But do keep in mind the weight and the connectivity options before making your purchase decision.

USB Plug & Play Omnidirectional Microphone

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I recently had the chance to use this incredible conference microphone for my daily video calls, and I must say, it has been a game-changer. The USB interface allowed me to easily connect it with my laptop, and the 6.5-inch cable made sure I didn’t have to stretch awkwardly to reach the microphone. Its sleek metal design not only looks great but also ensures durability.

A standout feature was the clarity of the voice capturing. Its 360-degree sensitivity range made sure my voice was picked up perfectly, even during those lively group discussions. Its compact size made it incredibly easy to carry around, fitting nicely in my pocket or briefcase. However, there was one downside — it wasn’t compatible with some of my devices like Raspberry Pi, Linux, Android, or Xbox.

Overall, this little microphone has greatly improved the quality of my video calls. Its ability to capture crystal clear audio and simple plug-and-play set-up make it a must-have accessory for anyone looking to enhance their online experience.

Omnidirectional Condenser Boundary Microphone

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Sure, I can help you with that.

Recording your voice with a professional sound has never been easier thanks to the CAD Audio U5 Omnidirectional Condenser USB Boundary Microphone. This little device is packed with features that make recording and capturing your voice as easy as plugging it into your computer.

Just the other day, I used it for an online meeting with my team. Even though we were in a room with a lot of echo and background noise, the U5 picked up my voice clearly and helped me deliver my ideas effectively. Its 360-degree recording capability ensures that everyone in the room can be heard with equal clarity. And its ability to pick up signals from up to 20 feet away means I can record from the comfort of my chair without having to huddle near the microphone.

One feature that really stands out is the noise cancellation. It helps to filter out unwanted background noise, which can be a real lifesaver in noisy environments or when recording in spaces with poor acoustics. And the quick access mute button is a small but mighty feature, especially during those awkward pauses or when you need to sneeze without broadcasting it to the world.

However, one thing I wish could be improved is its range. 20 feet is impressive, but on a few occasions, I found that the sound started to falter a little when I was recording from the far end of the room.

All in all, the CAD Audio U5 Omnidirectional Condenser USB Boundary Microphone is a great tool for anyone looking to record high-quality audio without the need for an elaborate setup. Its ease of use, noise cancellation feature, and omnidirectional capabilities make it a worthy addition to any recording setup.

Omnidirectional Boundary Microphone for Conferences

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I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Radio Shack Boundary Microphone Omnidirectional, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer for my meetings and conferences. The omnidirectional pick-up is truly impressive, capturing sound from all directions with astonishing clarity. Its wide frequency response of 30–18,000 Hz ensures that no detail is lost, making it perfect for capturing every nuance of your discussion.

The compact design is a bonus too — it simply blends into any tabletop setup, looking stylish yet unobtrusive. And did I mention the included battery, battery control box, and 20-foot cable with gold-plated right-angle mono plug? This is convenience at its finest!

However, there’s always room for improvement. While the sound quality is brilliant on this microphon, the absence of a physical volume control or mute button on the unit can be a little inconvenient. Some users might prefer an integrated solution rather than dealing with separate cables and boxes.

Yet overall, I’m absolutely thrilled with my Radio Shack Omnidirectional Microphone. It’s quickly become an indispensable part of my office setup, transforming my audio quality in every conference or meeting. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-performing microphone that offers great flexibility without sacrificing on sound, look no further!

Buyer’s Guide

Important Features

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Omnidirectional microphones, often shortened to ‘omni mics’, are a type of microphone that can pick up audio equally from all directions. Unlike other types of microphones, omnidirectional ones don’t have a specific directional pattern. Instead, they can capture ambient sound as well as voices and instruments. Their ability to record sound with less distortion and noise makes them an ideal choice in professional settings such as filming, vlogging, podcasting, and music production.

Considerations

There are several things you need to consider when choosing an omnidirectional microphone. Firstly, you must decide on the quality and type of microphone that best suits your needs. There are both analog and digital options available in various price ranges.

Secondly, think about the audio quality you require. Omnidirectional mics come with different frequency responses and sensitivity levels. The higher these are, the better the audio quality will be.

Thirdly, consider the size and portability of your microphone. If you plan to travel with your microphone or use it in different locations, then a smaller, more portable option might be best.

General Advice

Omnidirectional microphones can be highly beneficial due to their flexibility. However, they are not perfect for every situation. For example, they may not be suitable for high volume levels or in environments with strong wind.

Therefore, before making your purchase, it is essential to evaluate your specific needs and intended use for the microphone. Take time to understand the product specifications and read reviews from other users to make the best choice.

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FAQ

What is an omnidirectional microphone?

An omnidirectional microphone picks up sound equally well from all directions, making it ideal for capturing the ambiance of a room or environment. These microphones are often used in live performances, field recordings, and teleconferencing systems.

How do omnidirectional microphones differ from other types of microphones?

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Omnidirectional microphones differ from cardioid and figure-eight microphones because they have a 360-degree pickup pattern, while cardioid microphones primarily capture sound in front of them and figure-eight microphones capture sound from both the front and back while canceling noise from the sides.

Why would someone choose an omnidirectional microphone over another?

Someone might choose an omnidirectional microphone if they need to record sound in a 360-degree environment, such as capturing the ambiance of a live performance or recording a teleconference meeting. Omnidirectional microphones can also provide a more natural sound compared to other microphones with more directional pickup patterns.

What are some common applications for omnidirectional microphones?

Some common applications for omnidirectional microphones include capturing field recordings, live performance audio, teleconferencing and video conferencing, and surveillance systems.

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How can I ensure high-quality recordings with an omnidirectional microphone?

To ensure high-quality recordings with an omnidirectional microphone, make sure to use the right microphone for your application, place the microphone in an optimal location, minimize background noise, and choose a suitable recording format. Additionally, consider using a windscreen or pop filter if needed to reduce plosive sounds and wind noise.

How is the polar pattern of an omnidirectional microphone different from that of other microphones?

The polar pattern of an omnidirectional microphone is a 360-degree circle, meaning it picks up sound equally well from all directions. This differs from the polar patterns of cardioid microphones (heart-shaped pickup pattern) and figure-eight microphones (figure-eight shape).

What factors should I consider when choosing an omnidirectional microphone?

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When choosing an omnidirectional microphone, consider factors such as the type of environment you will be recording in, the distance from the sound source, your budget, and the overall quality of the microphone. Also, read reviews and seek recommendations from experts to find the best microphone for your specific needs.

How can I maintain and store an omnidirectional microphone properly?

To maintain and store an omnidirectional microphone properly, follow these steps: * Keep the microphone clean, especially the mesh or grille, using a soft brush or compressed air.

  • Store the microphone in a protective case or pouch to prevent dust and moisture accumulation.
  • Store the microphone in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Are there any specific accessories that can enhance the performance of an omnidirectional microphone?

Some specific accessories that can enhance the performance of an omnidirectional microphone include windscreens, pop filters, shock mounts, and microphone stands. These accessories can help reduce noise, vibrations, and unwanted sound artifacts, resulting in cleaner recordings.

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