I’ve seen other reviews on the Fifine mic and bought it based on those reviews a couple of months ago. I recently set it up with the WaveXLR and all I can say is WOW! I am not surprised at its performance for this video. I’ve been impressed with it for a while. So crisp and clean. And for the money, you can’t beat it! Spending $400 for a mic is just not necessary for quality sound and performance. I love the Fifine K688!
You deserve an award for coming to the conclusion, that expensive isn't always better. Especially when talking about the SM7B. It's just overhyped af....
I recently got a Fifine K688 with an Elgato Wave XLR and I think the quality of my voice is night and day from my previous condenser mic. I'm very pleased with how this is mic sounds, especially for the price.
Loved the video. This is the second video of yours that, based solely off sound, I ending up picking the Fifine mic as the one I thought sounded the best. I recently picked up the SM7b and, for me, it's a bit of a hassle to get it picking up my voice correctly and still have to deal with hiss. I appreciate the video. Earned a sub too!
hey, i was wondering about different audio softwares or if there are any that you could reccomend. I am just getting into the audio game so I don't have much knowledge about it.
SM7B is hands down the best, the warm, pleasing to listen to. Blue Sona is not worth 350$ as podcastage and others said, you can make it sound good, but not better than SM7B not in the price range
Sir, if I use the original Shure SM 58 mic With Universal Volt 1 Audio Interface. Can I get a good recording? Noise will not come in the recording ? Will I get crisp sound quality?
This was the video that solidified my purchase decision. I'm getting the K688 and will be using it on USBC mode until I can get my hands on a goxlr mini. Thank you for the video. I will be expecting the usb vs xlr mode review.
I bought the sm7b a while ago and felt the same. Even bought a cloudlifter and I think just doesn’t go with my voice well. I liked mic #4 the most…#2 and #4 (Sm7b and FIFINE) sound the best. The other two are just “meh” to me. Have you tried mixing vocals with the FIFINE over music? Curious how it sits in a mix.
Yes. I’m a classically trained violinist as well as vocalist and have recorded instruments and vocals on the microphone. I will say that you need to pull some of the higher end (2k+) to remove some nasal sounds if you naturally have a nasally singing voice. That being said, I definitely had to EQ it less than the SM7B. To play devil’s advocate, this mic I do believe tops out at 16khz for recording, so having that 16-20khz range from the SM7B is useful if you enjoy the harmonics and presence of that range, even though most people age 16 and older can’t even hear that spectrum.
Hi. My friend and I are planning to start recording podcasts together, but we can't agree on whether the quality difference between expensive and affordable microphones is really necessary. I suggest buying at least an MV7 or an SM7B, while my friend prefers microphones in the Podmic price range. Do you think the difference between these two microphones would be noticeable for listeners? Do you think we should go all out and choose established, high-end products, or would more budget-friendly microphones suffice? Thank you for your recommendations :)
You're welcome! I have a video coming out in an hour or so that compares even more mics. Might be worth the watch before your purchase. My opinion is to go on the cheaper side to start with your first two mics. If things go well, grab 2 more expensive mics. Those cheaper mics could be used for special guests or as back-up mics when needed.
@@DarkenedCyrus Please help me, I've been sleepless for four days, researching only this topic. I admit that I am overly obsessed, but I want to do my job properly and cleanly. I am very talkative and warm-hearted, never hesitant to laugh, and I usually laugh a lot. I used to do Twitch streaming before, so I have knowledge about how to gain viewers. Now, I want to sleep, please tell me which microphone and sound card I should get.
Hi just bought the k688 and a Scarlett solo based on your reviews. Does the k688 need a lot of gain? I'm speaking 4inch from the mic and I need to be at 100% gain to be able to hear my voice. I'm thinking I might've gotten a bad mic
I had same problem with it, but I used USB. :( Gain on knob 100%, gain in system 100%, and still quiet as F. Unusable for me. I sended it back. :( I think their quality control is where they lack a lot. If you get proper working one, it is very nice mic, but you can laso get broken one.
Just saw this comment. I run about 53db of volume on this microphone and talk within 3-5 inches of the end of it. It isn’t meant for far distance recording as it is a dynamic microphone and not a condenser mic. By design, it’s meant to isolate your voice from right in front of it
I would have to say if I chose one of course the Rhode Sm7B would be the winner. I have a deep voice so anything that gives a solid depth of sound would be a clear winner. The price tag for a guy on a budget makes it tough though. 2nd would be the Fifine. It has a good clarity to it but does need a little help in the low end. The other 2 just sound tinny. The Logitech just sounds like a headset microphone to me which is rough at almost the price of the SM7B. The pod mic is a good price point but would need the most help on your EQ settings so if you dont have a good XLR you might struggle to get the bang for the buck.
Reaper plugins in OBS is the easiest way for recording. If you want it for everything, I'd look at VoiceMeeter, Steel Series Sonar, or programs like that.
Would you recommend the Fifine AM8 or the Fifine K688? I got my research down to these to mics. And I would be very thankful if you could recommend an audiomixer going along with one of the mics. Thanks!
Is the pop filter on the K688 actually grey like in the picture, or is it black. In every video i've seen it looks black but pictures make it look very light grey.
My personal favorite was the 4th mic. edit. OMG, its the fifine mic, I was not expecting the cheapest to be my favorite, I genuinely thought that it was the Shure sm7b, not the fifine. wow that's eye opening
@@georgelee7135 I mean I spent 5 years of my life studying to get a degree in broadcast production, which covers audio tech and more, but what does a degree mean?
@@georgelee7135I emphasize generally because if you don’t have a deeper voice, it doesn’t automatically mean you can’t use it. It just generally compliments deeper voices
Was not expecting that packaging! When you were showing Blue’s elaborate packaging, I was totally expecting a bracing contrast-eg, a brown paper bag or beige rough clamshell wrapped in a black & white-printed poster board “box”. How can Fifine accomplish this? Are they dumping product at a loss to gain market-share (or exploiting labor), or are the other brands exploitatively pricing?
Have to be, but the product performs well above its price point. They done have the brand name markup that a lot of these microphones have either, so that has to be taken into account
The sm7b was so clearly the most capable mic. The depth and realness.. or the 3d sort of quality- that's why people spend the money. This mic will take EQ or any other processing you throw at it better than any of the other mics, however the last one, number 4 was decent as well. Definitely a great podcast mic or streaming mic!
@@nicbarnett4707 That's a setup issue, not a mic issue. Gain adjustment must have been cranked, or he normalized all audio in order for them to be similar in the video. I have a SM7B running through a MG16XU mixer, and have for nearly 7 years - Literally never has it picked up my airconditioner even when compressing the audio. I do run a light touch of gating through reaper, but its far from necessary and mostly to counter-act some of the other processing Im doing. Ive tested countless far more "premium" alternatives, including Aston's Spirit - NT1-A from Rode, the AKG C451 B and I have both the SM7B and Sennheiser MK4 permanently, all of these mics have their own characteristics and usecases, I own the sm7b and MK4 because the MK4 is an active mic with a far more "crispy" sound - but the SM7B is by far the most balanced and easy to fine-tune with post processing than the rest. It being a dynamic mic makes background noise far less likely to be picked up by default.
What I thought each mic was: 1 - Rode 2 - Sona 3 - Fifine 4 - Shure The one I liked best was 4 then 3. So, looks like I'm buying Fifine. 😁 Thanks for such an amazing review.
In the blind comparison for voice overs I liked # 2 and 4, #1 and 3 sounded kind of bad, as if you were using a cellphone in a treated room as a recorder. The fifine is an unbelievable value. That being said, and I've said this a couple of times in different videos, know the room you will record in. I had a RODE NT1, tried a couple of different mics and now I have a shure SM7B. The only microphone that could deal with the reverbiness of my room without sounding robotic and without requiring a LOT of post was the SM7B because that thing is QUIET. The issue with the SM7B is that, realistically speaking, it's a 450~500 USD microphone purchase for most people as, if you have a noisy pre-amp, you will need to get a cloudlifter, fethead or a mic activator. Imo, it's still the best dynamic microphone for untreated rooms simply because of the design that it has, the capsule sits in the back of the microphone's grid and it is a super quiet microphone by design.
I completely agree with your comment and agree, the room almost decides your mic and influences your sound a lot. The K688 is a shocking value as you mentioned, which blows me away as it's priced so cheap in comparison, even with a USB connection. Even though the SM7B isn't on my main PC, it still is a part of my content because it is versatile for recording in untreated spaces, as I'm currently in myself.
06:00 Before you reveal the results, here are my thoughts: Microphones 2 and 4 delivered the most satisfying sound quality. Their clarity and warmth were exceptional, setting them apart as the top choices.
@@DarkenedCyrus its unfortunately not available on amazon at the moment :( my initial choice was the podmic but the fifine is really tempting me if its availabe when i actually want to go for it
the rode podmic sounds decent on your voice I would add the ws2 wind screen and it would add more low end, the sm7b surprisingly sounds bad on your voice, the blue sona sounded the best and the k688 is just above the podmic
mic1 sounds thin/shrill - rode podmic mic2 sounds much better - sm7b mic3 upper end is clipped / muted - logitech mic4 i like this, upper clear, like as much as mic2 - fifine k688 It would be good to have 2 measurements for fifine k688 - both the USB sound and the XLR sound.
To be honest, nr 3 sounded for me the most pleasing, i need to grab my studio earphones, but on kz zs10 pro+ iem's, #3 sounded most natural, calm, smooth and flat. Disclaimer im not mic guy and have no idea whats actually good, come here bc i ordered k688 yesterday
I think the SM7B sounds best. It's more rounded off, but it's target is "broadcast" style sound, so I mean, that's a given. To my ears tho, the K688 is a strong runner up. I rank them 2 4 3 1.
Love this! It's hard to compete with the SM7B. I've had the K688 at my main setup for almost a month now and I have found that mixing it in post for videos is still easier to level out the sound, but both sound very similar after EQ, compression, and basic tone adjustments
My thoughts before the big reveal: 2 and 4 both sound really similar, and I would place them first. 3 sounds the next best. 1 trails in last place. None of them are bad though.
First off, I'm using a V-MODA Crossfade 3 which MSRP shows it still cost $300. No EQ was set. My thoughts before I see the REVEAL. I think #1 is the PODMIC for sure with how bright it sounds and just, ugh. It hurts to listen to sometimes but it's passable. HAS WAY TOO MUCH BACKGROUND NOISE that it's picking up on, probably because it's so bright in it's EQ. I can literally hear a Fan or Air Conditioning System going. Stay away. #2 Has got to be the Blue Sona (or the FIFINE...) because it sounds great, has a Broadcast vibe going, but is a little brighter than #3, but it's not quite there in quality IMO. It deals with Background noise well but I do hear a stupid Hiss or something that is just a tiny bit too loud IMO, so basically, it sounds like it has a high self-noise. It's Like it's trying to be #3 IMO. *#3 Has to be the SM7B* (or maybe I just want it to not be the Sona lol) because it has the lowest Background Noise Levels but I did hear a little self-noise/hiss but it's not ANNOYINGLY high. It also sounds really dark/warm. Possibly not enough clarity, but it's got a nice broadcast vibe going which can make it sound a bit muffled, but it doesn't sound bad. #2 sounds like it's TRYING to be the best (which, if you didn't know already, I think this one, #3 is the best. @5:03 #3 picked up on some weird distortion on the word "FIVE" but it was barely noticeable, is this reverberation or what? I wonder where this guy recorded. I would love to know if the Mic was on a Boom Arm or on a Table. It could be that the Mic was on a Table or too close to a surface) #4 has gotta be the FIFINE because it sounds clear but maybe too much Clarity just like #1 YET, it also has a muffled sound at the same time. IMO, No Mic is going to sound like this IMO if it's over $100 USD. If this Mic sounds like this and it's over $100, this company doesn't deserve to be in the Mic Business. @5:27 This might be due the acoustic treatment in your room but when you said "LIFE and DEATH" I heard a terrible distortion noise in the word "LIFE" Also when you said "FOUR... The Commander" @5:55. If your room is treated well and this still happened, I'd stay the hell away from whatever Mic this was just like #1 IMO. I'd STAY AWAY, but only if the uploader's room was properly acoustically treated at the time that those ugly distortions were picked up from. I have written this before seeing the Reveal. I am paused @ 6:11. I spent 20 minutes hearing this over and over again about 10 times each one. In order of BEST to worst, TOP to bottom (before I see the reveal) #3 #2 #4 #1 ISTG if #3 ends up NOT being the SM7B, this mic is so overhyped IMO and there is definitely a new contender for King of Dynamic mics at under $400. The Dynamic Mic that I've seen you review, that BLEW me AWAY from a *USB CONNECTION* (yes, not even an XLR) was the Maono PD400x. It had a beautiful Warmth on the Deep Setting in the Maono app but it actually still had such clarity and good mids. Sad it wasn't here haha.
ISTG if #3 Ends up being the FIFINE I'm going to lose my mind because- 1, that's a really cheap mic, but 2, That would kind of explain why it sounds SO Broadcast-y. If you were making an affordable mic, why would you NOT try to make it sound like this? This is the sound that the SM7B is known for and it's the best-selling Dynamic Mic ever. The only reason I can't see it being the FIFINE K688 is becuase... Well... How the hell would a Mic that cheap be THAT GOOD at rejecting Background noise and have such a low self-noise? Anyway, I will reply to this comment after I see the official reveal.
#1 is the PodMic. I KNEW IT!! That Mic always hurts my ears from Vocals. I'm surprised the Background noise was so high. Jesus. It sounds ALIEN. ROBOTIC. IDK. Omg... #2 was the SM7B?!?!?! I thought it was the Blue Sona! I knew the SM7B had a lot of self-noise in this one Joe Rogan Podcast I had seen so I didn't completely put it past it to be #2 BUT I just thought, "for sure this can't be the SM7B just because the Vocals of #3 sounded a tiny bit better and the Low Self Noise and Background Noise was handled so well." I also thought, WELL, the Most expensive Mic (SM7B) in this list HAS to be #3 because the price likely reflects the Quality. #3 was the Blue Sona!!! YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. Even though I was wrong about my Guess here, I'm so happy because that means the Blue Sona might actually be better than the more expensive SM7B that REQUIRES a CloudLifter or some Gainer of some kind. Ayeeee. Personally, I think you sounded best with this one! I also agree with your take! It lacks Presence but that's probably why the Logitech Software literally has a EQ setting called that for it haha. #4 is of course, the FIFINE. THe cheapest Mic has the most amount of Distortions.... Surprise. Still a little better than that PodMic.
Can I give u a really interesting tip. When u have sponsors videos and also tests microphon videos . U can record your sponsor ad with the different microphones (blind test). That way u will make your audience see the sponsor andnot skip it. Because u can just put a title saying mic1, mic 2, during the sponsor part. hehe. Thanks for the video
My ranking is sm7b - 1 / K688 - 2 / Blue Sona - 3 / Pod mic - 4 /. There is a big "BUT" ranking based on sound only. If I need to place a mic in a video podcast I'd never buy k688. Others are much more sexy in a shot.
Great video, but… I feel the reviewer is being super harsh with these mics. Cmon you are looking for the perfect mix for your unique voice 😂 you’ll have to have a mic build specifically for your voice identifying where your vocals are harsh and help you. Thanks for all the hard work editing!
Totally am being harsh. Microphones are totally built for a specific voice, but I have many review on my channel where you can compare to other mics. Love the comment, but that’s the point of the review
When I heard the 4th mic that is the fifine one I was shocked it sounded soo clear and natural . Thanks for the review and comparison can you compare them but with the fduce sl40 ❤
interesting stuff, I have one comment though, ditch the music, we hear the same track over and over repated multiple time... it's your voice and your comment we want to hear, not music... but that is my opinion... thanks for the tests...
I love Fifine Products. Bought my first Fifine mic 2 years ago and just purchased the k688! My friends could tell the difference the moment i started talking. Ill be buying a few more.
True, but it also says it's one of the most popular microphones in content creation, so people automatically assume it's the greatest microphone to use.
@@DarkenedCyrus i've used some scarlett mics too and to be honest the quality comparison is really really close when it comes to the warmness of my voice and the noise suppression, i'm now using a shure mv7x and i think it's better than the smb7 when it comes to noise cancellation 💯
1st I will say the podmike, the sound is clear but not a radio voice, is a good sound but not a hight quality sound 2nd SM7B obviously, the sound is extremly clear a hight quality sound like a radio voice 3rd USB mike for me is the badest sound by far, like if he has speak with a tissue between his mouth and the mike 4th I will say the bluesona, for me it's the 2nd better sound, I know is not a sound I like but for me is the mike can try to beat the SM7B, and the prize of the bluesona influence me to say the 2nd better sound is the 2nd most expensive mike 2 > 4 > 1 > 3 edit : oh shit the bluesona is sooooooooooooo bad for me, I feel bad for poeple have buyed it to replace the GOAT
Wow, I don't expect that our K688 mic can place 1st!😃Highly appreciate it!! And I enjoyed your blind mic comparison test a lot. It was super helpful~
My pleasure!
Tho I'm saidly still waiting for a seller in germany. Love the mice tho.
@@just2it874 Im waiting for a seller in Netherlands haha!
@@just2it874 I picked up mine on Aliexpress before it was even available in Canada ;)
@@reuzehagel They have an official store on Aliexpress, thats where I picked up mine!
I’ve seen other reviews on the Fifine mic and bought it based on those reviews a couple of months ago. I recently set it up with the WaveXLR and all I can say is WOW! I am not surprised at its performance for this video. I’ve been impressed with it for a while. So crisp and clean. And for the money, you can’t beat it! Spending $400 for a mic is just not necessary for quality sound and performance. I love the Fifine K688!
Totally agree. It’s crazy how good these budget microphones stand up against “professional” mics
You deserve an award for coming to the conclusion, that expensive isn't always better.
Especially when talking about the SM7B.
It's just overhyped af....
I really appreciate your time and effort to compare these super-relevant mics.
Just purchased the Fifine through your link ;)
Awesome, thank you!
I recently got a Fifine K688 with an Elgato Wave XLR and I think the quality of my voice is night and day from my previous condenser mic. I'm very pleased with how this is mic sounds, especially for the price.
Love this! Glad this was a great pairing!
I just bought both these things today! I can’t wait!
Loved the video. This is the second video of yours that, based solely off sound, I ending up picking the Fifine mic as the one I thought sounded the best. I recently picked up the SM7b and, for me, it's a bit of a hassle to get it picking up my voice correctly and still have to deal with hiss. I appreciate the video. Earned a sub too!
Thanks! So glad it was helpful
hey, i was wondering about different audio softwares or if there are any that you could reccomend. I am just getting into the audio game so I don't have much knowledge about it.
SM7B is hands down the best, the warm, pleasing to listen to. Blue Sona is not worth 350$ as podcastage and others said, you can make it sound good, but not better than SM7B not in the price range
Sir, if I use the original Shure SM 58 mic With Universal Volt 1 Audio Interface. Can I get a good recording? Noise will not come in the recording ? Will I get crisp sound quality?
Your review helped me convince my frugal self to get the K688. Thank god new stocks arrived just when I ordered it.
what do you use for your audio processor/connection for xmb
I got the Pod Mic and the Sona correct but had the sm7b and the finefine switched! WOW.
This was the video that solidified my purchase decision. I'm getting the K688 and will be using it on USBC mode until I can get my hands on a goxlr mini. Thank you for the video. I will be expecting the usb vs xlr mode review.
Awesome! Have a video coming out next that will feature the mic in both modes.
If compare K688 to PD400X which one would be the winner?
No to figure which interface to get with the K688 🤔
I immediately recognized the Podmic because of the crazy sibilance, and the SM7B because I use it all the time. Best surprise was the Fifine 688.
Nice review! Just one question, does the RK 345 windscren for Shure SM7B fit on Fifine K688?? Thanks!!
It doesn't unfortunately!
I bought the sm7b a while ago and felt the same. Even bought a cloudlifter and I think just doesn’t go with my voice well. I liked mic #4 the most…#2 and #4 (Sm7b and FIFINE) sound the best. The other two are just “meh” to me. Have you tried mixing vocals with the FIFINE over music? Curious how it sits in a mix.
Yes. I’m a classically trained violinist as well as vocalist and have recorded instruments and vocals on the microphone. I will say that you need to pull some of the higher end (2k+) to remove some nasal sounds if you naturally have a nasally singing voice.
That being said, I definitely had to EQ it less than the SM7B.
To play devil’s advocate, this mic I do believe tops out at 16khz for recording, so having that 16-20khz range from the SM7B is useful if you enjoy the harmonics and presence of that range, even though most people age 16 and older can’t even hear that spectrum.
Hi. My friend and I are planning to start recording podcasts together, but we can't agree on whether the quality difference between expensive and affordable microphones is really necessary. I suggest buying at least an MV7 or an SM7B, while my friend prefers microphones in the Podmic price range. Do you think the difference between these two microphones would be noticeable for listeners? Do you think we should go all out and choose established, high-end products, or would more budget-friendly microphones suffice? Thank you for your recommendations :)
You're welcome! I have a video coming out in an hour or so that compares even more mics. Might be worth the watch before your purchase.
My opinion is to go on the cheaper side to start with your first two mics. If things go well, grab 2 more expensive mics. Those cheaper mics could be used for special guests or as back-up mics when needed.
@@DarkenedCyrus Please help me, I've been sleepless for four days, researching only this topic. I admit that I am overly obsessed, but I want to do my job properly and cleanly. I am very talkative and warm-hearted, never hesitant to laugh, and I usually laugh a lot. I used to do Twitch streaming before, so I have knowledge about how to gain viewers. Now, I want to sleep, please tell me which microphone and sound card I should get.
How do you have configured the Shure SM7B ? i mean gain levesl, cloudlifter or without it? Great video by the way!
No cloud lifter, 63db. Adding a cloudlifter adds another cost that it doesn’t need
This is great. You saved me hundreds. Thank you. Quick question... Does the Fifine k688 need a pop filter?
I never added one and it performed great without it. Just use what’s included
@@DarkenedCyrus Copy that. Thank you very much.
Can you compare the usb and xlr modes? I don't have a audio interface yet but might get one someday
The K688 full review is the next video coming out on the channel! Should be up either later this week or next!
Hi just bought the k688 and a Scarlett solo based on your reviews. Does the k688 need a lot of gain? I'm speaking 4inch from the mic and I need to be at 100% gain to be able to hear my voice. I'm thinking I might've gotten a bad mic
I had same problem with it, but I used USB. :( Gain on knob 100%, gain in system 100%, and still quiet as F. Unusable for me. I sended it back. :( I think their quality control is where they lack a lot. If you get proper working one, it is very nice mic, but you can laso get broken one.
Just saw this comment. I run about 53db of volume on this microphone and talk within 3-5 inches of the end of it. It isn’t meant for far distance recording as it is a dynamic microphone and not a condenser mic. By design, it’s meant to isolate your voice from right in front of it
I would have to say if I chose one of course the Rhode Sm7B would be the winner. I have a deep voice so anything that gives a solid depth of sound would be a clear winner. The price tag for a guy on a budget makes it tough though. 2nd would be the Fifine. It has a good clarity to it but does need a little help in the low end. The other 2 just sound tinny. The Logitech just sounds like a headset microphone to me which is rough at almost the price of the SM7B. The pod mic is a good price point but would need the most help on your EQ settings so if you dont have a good XLR you might struggle to get the bang for the buck.
Hi! How do you eq the K688 (usb mode)?
Reaper plugins in OBS is the easiest way for recording. If you want it for everything, I'd look at VoiceMeeter, Steel Series Sonar, or programs like that.
I wonder what is better thou, maono pd400x or fifine k688.
I've done an updated comparison video that you could look at that has sounds from both of those microphones in it.
Would you recommend the Fifine AM8 or the Fifine K688? I got my research down to these to mics. And I would be very thankful if you could recommend an audiomixer going along with one of the mics. Thanks!
K688 all the way.
Also, Wave XLR is the best costing mixer with some amazing software.
@@DarkenedCyrus Thank you
@@DarkenedCyrus do you have a link for the Wave XLR?
amzn.to/3ZCcfES
Is the pop filter on the K688 actually grey like in the picture, or is it black. In every video i've seen it looks black but pictures make it look very light grey.
It’s grey
@@DarkenedCyrus great! thank you! Im still watching the video. Just had that question because im thinking about getting it. So thank you.
My personal favorite was the 4th mic.
edit. OMG, its the fifine mic, I was not expecting the cheapest to be my favorite, I genuinely thought that it was the Shure sm7b, not the fifine.
wow that's eye opening
My thoughts exactly!
2>4>3>1 (2 & 4 are very close to point individual voice can tip the balance)
The Sm7b generally needs a cloud lifter and usually compliments people with naturally deeper voices
I wouldn't say that Michael Jackson had a deep voice!
Michael Jackson used the SM7, not this microphone. It still has a different sound
@@georgelee7135 I mean I spent 5 years of my life studying to get a degree in broadcast production, which covers audio tech and more, but what does a degree mean?
@@georgelee7135I emphasize generally because if you don’t have a deeper voice, it doesn’t automatically mean you can’t use it. It just generally compliments deeper voices
Was not expecting that packaging! When you were showing Blue’s elaborate packaging, I was totally expecting a bracing contrast-eg, a brown paper bag or beige rough clamshell wrapped in a black & white-printed poster board “box”.
How can Fifine accomplish this? Are they dumping product at a loss to gain market-share (or exploiting labor), or are the other brands exploitatively pricing?
Have to be, but the product performs well above its price point. They done have the brand name markup that a lot of these microphones have either, so that has to be taken into account
My mom bought me this for Christmas, lol. Thanks dude!
Hope you enjoy it!
your mum bought you all these mics lol
Came here after my shure sm7 broke a month after the 2-year warranty, looks like ima try out the Fifine K688.
Rode offers 10 year warranty on some of their mics. I think SM7B is over rated.
The sm7b was so clearly the most capable mic. The depth and realness.. or the 3d sort of quality- that's why people spend the money. This mic will take EQ or any other processing you throw at it better than any of the other mics, however the last one, number 4 was decent as well. Definitely a great podcast mic or streaming mic!
its background noise was much louder than 3 and 4 though
@@nicbarnett4707 That's a setup issue, not a mic issue. Gain adjustment must have been cranked, or he normalized all audio in order for them to be similar in the video. I have a SM7B running through a MG16XU mixer, and have for nearly 7 years - Literally never has it picked up my airconditioner even when compressing the audio. I do run a light touch of gating through reaper, but its far from necessary and mostly to counter-act some of the other processing Im doing.
Ive tested countless far more "premium" alternatives, including Aston's Spirit - NT1-A from Rode, the AKG C451 B and I have both the SM7B and Sennheiser MK4 permanently, all of these mics have their own characteristics and usecases, I own the sm7b and MK4 because the MK4 is an active mic with a far more "crispy" sound - but the SM7B is by far the most balanced and easy to fine-tune with post processing than the rest. It being a dynamic mic makes background noise far less likely to be picked up by default.
What I thought each mic was:
1 - Rode
2 - Sona
3 - Fifine
4 - Shure
The one I liked best was 4 then 3. So, looks like I'm buying Fifine. 😁
Thanks for such an amazing review.
I got the Rode correct. i thought the Logitech was #2, SM7b #3
In the blind comparison for voice overs I liked # 2 and 4, #1 and 3 sounded kind of bad, as if you were using a cellphone in a treated room as a recorder.
The fifine is an unbelievable value.
That being said, and I've said this a couple of times in different videos, know the room you will record in. I had a RODE NT1, tried a couple of different mics and now I have a shure SM7B. The only microphone that could deal with the reverbiness of my room without sounding robotic and without requiring a LOT of post was the SM7B because that thing is QUIET.
The issue with the SM7B is that, realistically speaking, it's a 450~500 USD microphone purchase for most people as, if you have a noisy pre-amp, you will need to get a cloudlifter, fethead or a mic activator. Imo, it's still the best dynamic microphone for untreated rooms simply because of the design that it has, the capsule sits in the back of the microphone's grid and it is a super quiet microphone by design.
I completely agree with your comment and agree, the room almost decides your mic and influences your sound a lot. The K688 is a shocking value as you mentioned, which blows me away as it's priced so cheap in comparison, even with a USB connection.
Even though the SM7B isn't on my main PC, it still is a part of my content because it is versatile for recording in untreated spaces, as I'm currently in myself.
By lower "background sound" do you mean lower noise floor? I know you are simplifying for people who might not understand "tech terms". TIA
Yes, and totally am trying to simplify the terminology and use knowledge that they have. My teaching years come into play a lot in these videos lol
Your voice sounds great through any microphone. Voice matters more than the mics.
maybe it cuz im not a audiophile but i rlly cant hear a differnce with any of em. they all just sound how a mic should sound
06:00 Before you reveal the results, here are my thoughts: Microphones 2 and 4 delivered the most satisfying sound quality. Their clarity and warmth were exceptional, setting them apart as the top choices.
Love this. What are your thoughts after?
i bought Fifine K688 in this day and this sound is amazing.
Appreciate your appreciation!🥰
2 and 4 were my faves. 👌🏻
same, 2 turned out to be sm7b, 2 had slight bg noise
amazing review. just what i was looking for. bought k688. but too be honest i love the Rode PodMic more. Voice vs money Fifine Wins
Glad I could help!
Holy shit the fifine is actually so good for how cheap it is, might need that as i want to start streaming!!
Exactly!
@@DarkenedCyrus its unfortunately not available on amazon at the moment :( my initial choice was the podmic but the fifine is really tempting me if its availabe when i actually want to go for it
@@DarkenedCyrus also just wanted to say your video quality is really good and your video was structured really nicely, earned a sub from me!
#2 was it for me and would fit my voice more....was hoping it would be the cheapest one but noooooo, its not .......i currently have the Rode Podmic
Great video..however the background music is a tad loud and it gets annoying..just my thoughts... Keep the vids coming..
I liked the sound of mic 2 the most. I may end up buying the Fifine eventually for what you get, versus the price.
Two was my least favorite 😂. Interesting how that works
the rode podmic sounds decent on your voice I would add the ws2 wind screen and it would add more low end, the sm7b surprisingly sounds bad on your voice, the blue sona sounded the best and the k688 is just above the podmic
Interesting take. I just did another head to head with the k688 and the SM7B and I’m still leaning K688 overall
The real surprise is the shure sm7b for how bad the proximity effect is.
mic1 sounds thin/shrill - rode podmic
mic2 sounds much better - sm7b
mic3 upper end is clipped / muted - logitech
mic4 i like this, upper clear, like as much as mic2 - fifine k688
It would be good to have 2 measurements for fifine k688 - both the USB sound and the XLR sound.
Luckily for you, I already did that video! th-cam.com/video/yNKHKGioW30/w-d-xo.html
I got a fifine as a Xmas present. If I get one for me I'll use your affiliate link :-).
i preferred #2 in the Test, before i even knew its the sm7b.. place 2 was #1 for me, with only the highs where a problem
Wow I liked 2 and 4 - I've been on the egde of getting the fifine. This coinfirms it.
You won't be disappointed
To be honest, nr 3 sounded for me the most pleasing, i need to grab my studio earphones, but on kz zs10 pro+ iem's, #3 sounded most natural, calm, smooth and flat. Disclaimer im not mic guy and have no idea whats actually good, come here bc i ordered k688 yesterday
4 sounded best. I was surprised which one it was
I think the SM7B sounds best. It's more rounded off, but it's target is "broadcast" style sound, so I mean, that's a given. To my ears tho, the K688 is a strong runner up. I rank them 2 4 3 1.
Love this! It's hard to compete with the SM7B. I've had the K688 at my main setup for almost a month now and I have found that mixing it in post for videos is still easier to level out the sound, but both sound very similar after EQ, compression, and basic tone adjustments
My thoughts before the big reveal:
2 and 4 both sound really similar, and I would place them first.
3 sounds the next best.
1 trails in last place.
None of them are bad though.
Couldn't agree with you more Thank you
ayo i managed to get them right 😁
Just bought the K688, but honestly still prefer the SM7B sounds kindy muddy but in a good way :)
It definitely is a unique sound. Maybe it's just my voice then that it just sounds too muddy as you mentioned and I don't prefer that.
@@DarkenedCyrus Definitely suits your voice better. Got lucky, was able to get one for around $47 :)
In your life you've probably heard the Shure sm7b 10,000 times and so it's how people SHOULD sound - familiarity!
before revealing mics Im picking in order 4/2/1/3
What are your thoughts after watching it?
@@DarkenedCyrus I bought the fifine on your affiliate link as soon as the video finished .
Liked 4 then 3. With processing couldn’t say which.
First off, I'm using a V-MODA Crossfade 3 which MSRP shows it still cost $300. No EQ was set.
My thoughts before I see the REVEAL.
I think #1 is the PODMIC for sure with how bright it sounds and just, ugh. It hurts to listen to sometimes but it's passable. HAS WAY TOO MUCH BACKGROUND NOISE that it's picking up on, probably because it's so bright in it's EQ. I can literally hear a Fan or Air Conditioning System going. Stay away.
#2 Has got to be the Blue Sona (or the FIFINE...) because it sounds great, has a Broadcast vibe going, but is a little brighter than #3, but it's not quite there in quality IMO. It deals with Background noise well but I do hear a stupid Hiss or something that is just a tiny bit too loud IMO, so basically, it sounds like it has a high self-noise. It's Like it's trying to be #3 IMO.
*#3 Has to be the SM7B* (or maybe I just want it to not be the Sona lol) because it has the lowest Background Noise Levels but I did hear a little self-noise/hiss but it's not ANNOYINGLY high. It also sounds really dark/warm. Possibly not enough clarity, but it's got a nice broadcast vibe going which can make it sound a bit muffled, but it doesn't sound bad. #2 sounds like it's TRYING to be the best (which, if you didn't know already, I think this one, #3 is the best. @5:03 #3 picked up on some weird distortion on the word "FIVE" but it was barely noticeable, is this reverberation or what? I wonder where this guy recorded. I would love to know if the Mic was on a Boom Arm or on a Table. It could be that the Mic was on a Table or too close to a surface)
#4 has gotta be the FIFINE because it sounds clear but maybe too much Clarity just like #1 YET, it also has a muffled sound at the same time. IMO, No Mic is going to sound like this IMO if it's over $100 USD. If this Mic sounds like this and it's over $100, this company doesn't deserve to be in the Mic Business. @5:27 This might be due the acoustic treatment in your room but when you said "LIFE and DEATH" I heard a terrible distortion noise in the word "LIFE" Also when you said "FOUR... The Commander" @5:55. If your room is treated well and this still happened, I'd stay the hell away from whatever Mic this was just like #1 IMO. I'd STAY AWAY, but only if the uploader's room was properly acoustically treated at the time that those ugly distortions were picked up from.
I have written this before seeing the Reveal. I am paused @ 6:11. I spent 20 minutes hearing this over and over again about 10 times each one.
In order of BEST to worst, TOP to bottom (before I see the reveal)
#3
#2
#4
#1
ISTG if #3 ends up NOT being the SM7B, this mic is so overhyped IMO and there is definitely a new contender for King of Dynamic mics at under $400.
The Dynamic Mic that I've seen you review, that BLEW me AWAY from a *USB CONNECTION* (yes, not even an XLR) was the Maono PD400x. It had a beautiful Warmth on the Deep Setting in the Maono app but it actually still had such clarity and good mids. Sad it wasn't here haha.
ISTG if #3 Ends up being the FIFINE I'm going to lose my mind because-
1, that's a really cheap mic,
but
2, That would kind of explain why it sounds SO Broadcast-y.
If you were making an affordable mic, why would you NOT try to make it sound like this? This is the sound that the SM7B is known for and it's the best-selling Dynamic Mic ever. The only reason I can't see it being the FIFINE K688 is becuase... Well... How the hell would a Mic that cheap be THAT GOOD at rejecting Background noise and have such a low self-noise?
Anyway, I will reply to this comment after I see the official reveal.
#1 is the PodMic. I KNEW IT!! That Mic always hurts my ears from Vocals. I'm surprised the Background noise was so high. Jesus. It sounds ALIEN. ROBOTIC. IDK.
Omg... #2 was the SM7B?!?!?! I thought it was the Blue Sona!
I knew the SM7B had a lot of self-noise in this one Joe Rogan Podcast I had seen so I didn't completely put it past it to be #2 BUT I just thought, "for sure this can't be the SM7B just because the Vocals of #3 sounded a tiny bit better and the Low Self Noise and Background Noise was handled so well." I also thought, WELL, the Most expensive Mic (SM7B) in this list HAS to be #3 because the price likely reflects the Quality.
#3 was the Blue Sona!!! YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. Even though I was wrong about my Guess here, I'm so happy because that means the Blue Sona might actually be better than the more expensive SM7B that REQUIRES a CloudLifter or some Gainer of some kind. Ayeeee. Personally, I think you sounded best with this one! I also agree with your take! It lacks Presence but that's probably why the Logitech Software literally has a EQ setting called that for it haha.
#4 is of course, the FIFINE. THe cheapest Mic has the most amount of Distortions.... Surprise. Still a little better than that PodMic.
I like fifine products very much and maybe it can be put in the second place in terms of price performance. but quality 2 3 1 4 easy for my ears.
Most expensive to cheapest also
Can I give u a really interesting tip. When u have sponsors videos and also tests microphon videos . U can record your sponsor ad with the different microphones (blind test). That way u will make your audience see the sponsor andnot skip it. Because u can just put a title saying mic1, mic 2, during the sponsor part. hehe.
Thanks for the video
100% love this. Saving for future vids
My ranking is sm7b - 1 / K688 - 2 / Blue Sona - 3 / Pod mic - 4 /. There is a big "BUT" ranking based on sound only. If I need to place a mic in a video podcast I'd never buy k688. Others are much more sexy in a shot.
3 is best bro
i liked 2&4 for being brighter the other 2 sounded quiet
Before watching your raking, mine was 2, 3, 4, 1.
Thank you for this! What was your thoughts of how you ranked them?
mic 3 sounds best for me
Great video, but… I feel the reviewer is being super harsh with these mics. Cmon you are looking for the perfect mix for your unique voice 😂 you’ll have to have a mic build specifically for your voice identifying where your vocals are harsh and help you. Thanks for all the hard work editing!
Totally am being harsh. Microphones are totally built for a specific voice, but I have many review on my channel where you can compare to other mics.
Love the comment, but that’s the point of the review
Mic 2 sounde good
Jeez the fifine k688 sounds way better than the shure sm7b and really all of them
Appreciate your support!❤
I thought 2 and 4 sounded the best. Hated 1, but 3 was okay.
“I just pooped all over it” quote of the year XD
before I see the reveal. I like the 4th one the best.
Oooo you’ll like it then
I like mic 2 .
I like Mic 4 the best.
When I heard the 4th mic that is the fifine one I was shocked it sounded soo clear and natural .
Thanks for the review and comparison can you compare them but with the fduce sl40 ❤
3 and 4
My my choice 3>4>1>2
Let me give you guys something better. FIFINE AMPLIGAME AM8
Yep, reviewed it multiple times on my channel 👍
@@DarkenedCyrus yessir, I actually bought it because of your review. Loved it ever since
Appreciate your appreciation!🥰
interesting stuff, I have one comment though, ditch the music, we hear the same track over and over repated multiple time... it's your voice and your comment we want to hear, not music... but that is my opinion... thanks for the tests...
1,4,3,2
MIC#2 completely different ballpark
My order before reveal: 2/4 (tie), 3, 1
Love this! I still love the SM7B, but it's been awesome to see others ranking the 4th microphone so high
I love Fifine Products. Bought my first Fifine mic 2 years ago and just purchased the k688! My friends could tell the difference the moment i started talking. Ill be buying a few more.
Love this!
OGM, Really appreciate it!❤
I prefered the Logitech. Interesting.
I liked 2
My first choice would be Mic #4, second Mic #2, third Mic #1, least Mic #3
1-2. 2-4. 3-1,3. But not equivalent volume. Not fair comparison.
i think it's funny how everyone always compares microphones against the sm7b 😆 that says something about the quality of the sm7b tbh
True, but it also says it's one of the most popular microphones in content creation, so people automatically assume it's the greatest microphone to use.
@@DarkenedCyrus i've used some scarlett mics too and to be honest the quality comparison is really really close when it comes to the warmness of my voice and the noise suppression, i'm now using a shure mv7x and i think it's better than the smb7 when it comes to noise cancellation 💯
1st I will say the podmike, the sound is clear but not a radio voice, is a good sound but not a hight quality sound
2nd SM7B obviously, the sound is extremly clear a hight quality sound like a radio voice
3rd USB mike for me is the badest sound by far, like if he has speak with a tissue between his mouth and the mike
4th I will say the bluesona, for me it's the 2nd better sound, I know is not a sound I like but for me is the mike can try to beat the SM7B, and the prize of the bluesona influence me to say the 2nd better sound is the 2nd most expensive mike
2 > 4 > 1 > 3
edit : oh shit the bluesona is sooooooooooooo bad for me, I feel bad for poeple have buyed it to replace the GOAT
Love this comment! I think it also proves my point that even budget mics can sound decent
I thought the sm7b was the 4th it just sounded the best
Pretty surprising then?
Late to the party, but my blind ranking was 2 (by a mile), 4, 3, 1
Not late at all. Love the rankings though! Can you tell me, what did you like more about #2 over #4?
4231 lol k688 won for me
I think MV7 sounds better than MV7b.
Music is so distracting. Sorry.
Best to worst 4,3,1,2
MIC 2 is my vote. MIC 4 is next to it. I won't vote for MIC1 and MIC 3.
My pick in order was 4, 2, 3 then 1. 2 was best for reading imo but I do harsh vocals and 4 sounded like it might be better for that.
Love this! I'm glad we were on the same page. It really is an amazing mic for the price