For the full use of some computer programs, you must have a microphone. These devices are distinguished by a number of characteristics that should be considered when choosing a suitable computer microphone.
By type of mount, computer microphones are:
- Desktop, with stand. A common option consists of a stand on which the microphone itself rests. Usually, it is placed in front of the keyboard and slightly on the side of the mouth so that there is no noise from exhaled air. And in order to reduce this noise, you can put a cover from the polyester on the microphone. It is undesirable to set it directly in front of you because then it will begin to pick up keyboard noise and other sounds that are transmitted through the surface of the table. Therefore, it is better to put the microphone on a piece of thick foam, felt. The advantage of such microphones is their low cost. The main disadvantage is that when you change the position of the head, the distance from the mouth to the microphone will change, which means that the volume level will also change.
- On clothes – with a clip. Typically, the clip is suitable for the monitor and laptop cover. Since the distance from the mouth to the microphone remains virtually unchanged, the volume level will also change slightly.
- Capacitor. Wireless, plug directly into the appropriate connector on the laptop. For desktop computers are not suitable.
- Wired/wireless headset. The advantages of such headphones are obvious: you do not need to buy a separate microphone, which takes up space on the table. There is no need to constantly lean during negotiations on the Internet or in the process of playing something. The microphone will be located all the time at the same distance from the mouth, even when turning the head.
Today, there are a considerable number of brands on the market that produce different models of microphones for different needs and at different prices. You can read more about these brands in this article.
What requirements for microphones should be presented in order not to miscalculate with a purchase?
- suppression of external noise. With so many types of mics on the market today, you owe it to yourself to let Bring in The Noise recommend one to you. The microphone should emit a voice, and not reproduce the noise of cars on the street, a blow of wind in the window. Pay attention to the frequency of the range: the average person speaks within 100-10000 Hz;
- structural strength and cord. A microphone is a mobile design, it is often necessary to move it, and its durability depends on the reliability of the performance;
- high sensitivity so that you don’t have to talk every time very close to the microphone;
- compactness. Especially with limited space on the desktop or the need to take it with you;
- directionality of signal catching. Some models can catch the frontal sound, they will not react to sound from the side;
- sound pressure. A microphone can receive a signal, but process and transmit it in terrible quality. This parameter determines how well the signal will be transmitted.
In the end, it is worth saying that if you own a laptop, you should remember that modern laptops are equipped with stationary microphones, which are more than enough for communicating via the Internet.
It is difficult to find a universal microphone model – because of the design features, materials, and so on, one model may suit a particular person, the other may not. It’s best to check the sound of the microphone before purchase.