Blue is coming to the Consumer Electronics Show 2019 with a brand new microphone. Known for its affordable plug-and-play USB options, the new Blue Ember brings professional XLR connectivity to the start-up podcast level market with a price to match.
Podcast and online content creation has really never been more popular and Blue’s usual USB microphones are the perfect companion to any fledgling media outlet. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with a USB mic, the pro-level XLR connection on the new Blue Ember is aiming to offer a more refined sound to those that are upgrading or have already jumped up to an interface-based setup.
As a quick refresher, XLR mics require some kind of USB interface or input device to connect with your Mac/PC. Something along the lines of an Apogee Duet is a great example but they come in all shapes, size and prices. You’ll also need to make sure your interface can provide phantom power for this kind of mic and most XLR condensers.
Blue Ember Mic
The Ember mic is specifically designed with a tight cardioid pickup pattern. This allows Blue to cut out some of that unwanted room noise your USB mic has been picking up. Anyone recording voice overs or audio in general with a mic will generally be plagued with room noise unless there is some kind of baffling setup or the room is treated for such things. This design will hopefully negate the need for a completely controlled studio space and expensive room sound barriers.
Along with a thin, almost pencil-like form factor, the new Blue Ember is compatible with all standard mic stands, clips and boom arms. You won’t find of that kind of hardware included in the price but any old pre-owned or affordable Amazon add-ons will work just fine.
Pricing and Availability
You’re looking at a 38 Hz-20 kHz frequency response range and release date sometime in February according to Blue. The microphone is already up for pre-order starting at $99.99 shipped. Considering there are loads of USB mics out there for even more, including some Blue models, this is a pretty competitive price tag for an XLR mic. It also leaves you more than enough room for the interface, speakers and other home studio necessities. Pre-orders should be live anytime, but we have yet to see any listings.
Keep it locked to our CES 2019 Guide for all the most interesting releases coming out of Las Vegas this week.
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