Apogee HypeMiC Review
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In this Apogee HypeMiC review, we will be tackling all the ins and outs of this tiny but mighty USB mic. With the ability to deliver professional-grade recording capabilities while retaining a compact and portable package, the Apogee Hype MiC certainly has a lot going on that in our opinion, makes it one of the best USB mics out there.
So, if you’re a musician, podcaster, content creator, or enthusiast with a budget, then do yourself a favor and continue reading this Apogee HypeMiC review! Trust us, you won’t regret it.
About the Apogee HypeMiC
Brand | Apogee |
| Model Name | HypeMiC |
| Connectivity Technology | Micro USB |
| Type | Condenser |
| Color | Champagne gold with black highlights |
| Pickup Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 24-bit/96 kHZ |
| Audio Sensitivity | -36 dB (94dB SPL at 1kHz) |
| Maximum Gain | 46 dB |
| Item Weight | 7.2 ounces |
| Item Dimensions | 4.88 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches |
| Recommended Applications | Streaming, gaming, podcasting, voice recordings, voiceover, instruments (acoustic guitar, personal |
| Inclusions | Apogee HypeMiC, Desktop tripod, Microphone stand adapter, Pop filter, Carrying case, Micro-USB to USB-C cable, Micro-USB to USB-A cable, Micro B-to-Lightning cable, Quick start guide |
The Apogee HypeMiC is a compact USB microphone designed to deliver professional-grade audio capabilities in a portable package. It features Apogee’s Analog Compression technology, ensuring clear, rich audio with minimal noise and distortion. Supporting up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution, it captures detailed sound suitable for music, vocals, and instruments.
The microphone includes a headphone output with a Blend button feature for real-time monitoring and level control, enhancing recording accuracy. Its sturdy build and compact size make it easy to transport and set up anywhere, complemented by a desktop tripod stand and microphone stand adapter for versatile placement options.
Ideal for musicians, podcasters, and content creators, the HypeMiC connects seamlessly to iOS, Mac, and PC devices via USB, offering plug-and-play convenience without needing additional drivers. Its compatibility with popular recording software makes it a versatile choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking high-quality audio capture in any setting.
Benefits of the Apogee HypeMiC
For a tiny mic, the Apogee HypeMiC sure packs a lot of features and benefits! Here are some of the key features that make this mic so great.
Professional-Standard Sound Quality
Not all USB microphones can say they can deliver professional-standard audio quality but the HypeMic does so in an exceptional way. From capturing detail and clear instrumental sounds to eliminating unpleasant sibilance in one’s voice recordings, the HypeMiC can give more presence to your overall performance.
Starting with its high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz audio capabilities, the HypeMic can do more than just be your mic for Zoom meetings. Use it to record one’s voice for official voiceover work, capture every string of your acoustic guitar, conduct live streams, hold podcasts, or give out clear commands in your next gaming session. Trust us, this baby can handle all the signal peaks, noise performance, and more.
Speaking of more mic signals, the HypeMic allows you to adjust mix levels, shifting from more mic signals to more playback signals from your recording app or software of choice. If you’re an audio engineer, then you know what this feature alone can unlock!
The built-in analog compressor also helps further enhance the quality of your recordings. It does so by managing the range, resulting in balanced and polished recordings that will require minimal post-processing (and even equalizing on your end).
Overall Easy Use
Ease of use is a significant benefit of the HypeMic. The plug-and-play straight-to-the-USB port functionality alone should tell you just how easy it is to set up and use this microphone. Simply plug the cable at the port found on the bottom panel and connect it to your device, and you’re good to go. Apogee does you even better by not requiring additional drivers or software to use the HypeMiC!
Its wide range of compatibility with iOS, Mac, and PC devices makes it extremely easy and convenient to use as well. This allows for flexibility for various environments, setups, and of course, devices.
Packed and Versatile Functions
The HypeMiC is equipped with a range of versatile functions designed to meet diverse requirements and applications. The compression mode settings alone will allow users to tailor the mic’s response to their specific needs, from subtle dynamics control to more pronounced effects. With four compression modes (Hype, Shape, Squeeze, and Smash), this mic definitely has plenty to offer.
Beautiful Design
At first glance, one can see right away the beautiful design of the HypeMiC. Its champagne gold color is a sure standout and elevates the overall look of this mic. However, the stunning design of this microphone goes beyond aesthetics.
The HypeMic makes use of premium-quality materials to ensure its durability. Its fairly large grille protects the cardioid capsule and it even has a built-in pop filter inside of it!
In the topic of durability, Apogee makes sure that your HypeMiC stays protected by throwing in a sturdy but collapsible tripod with a swivel mount to be used as a mic stand. Yes, the sleek and vertical design of the microphone was made that way so you can easily mount this baby on a stand, tripod, or even a boom arm of your choice!
What is HypeMiC?
HypeMiC is a compact USB microphone by Apogee designed for professional-grade recording. It has features like Analog Compression technology, high-resolution audio support, and connectivity with Mac, PC, and iOS devices, which makes it a great first microphone for anyone who’s serious about the audio quality of their recordings.
While this Apogee mic is not a studio microphone, the HypeMiC has an impressive overall performance that makes it ideal for musicians, podcasters, and content creators seeking portable yet high-quality recording solutions.
It may be a bit pricier compared to other USB microphones but with its compression settings, analog signal processing, digital signal processing, and to be honest from looks alone, you can already tell it’s well worth the price!
How to Use the Apogee HypeMiC
Similar to other USB mics, you simply have to connect the Apogee HypeMiC to your Mac, Mac OS, PC, or iOS device via USB. This USB mic operates as a plug-and-play recording device, requiring no additional drivers. To make it even easier and more convenient for you, Apogee has included a micro-USB to USB-C cable, micro-USB to USB-A cable, and a micro B-to-lightning cable when you purchase the Hype MiC.
Aside from including these cables, Apogee also threw in a headphone output for your ease in real-time monitoring. This also allows you to adjust input levels using the integrated control found in front of the USB mic.
There are also level indicators and three multicolor status LEDs above the gain knob to help with monitoring the output level, input gain, and more.
With all that said, you can say that using this USB mic is pretty easy. Since it has more functions and features than other USB mics, Apogee does provide a quick start guide in the box to help you navigate your way through the HypeMiC.
What are the Compression Mode Settings for HypeMiC?
The Apogee HypeMiC offers four distinct compression modes—Hype Mode, Shape Mode, Squeeze Mode, and Smash Mode—each designed to provide different levels and types of range control, catering to various recording needs and preferences.
Hype Mode
This mode is the most subtle of the compression settings. It gently smooths out the range, providing a slight enhancement to the audio signal. This mode is perfect for recordings that require a natural and transparent sound, such as acoustic instruments and vocals. It helps maintain the original character of the audio while ensuring consistent volume levels, making it ideal for applications where subtlety is key.
Shape Mode
This mode offers a moderate level of compression, providing more noticeable control over the audio dynamics. This mode is suitable for a wide range of recording scenarios, including vocals, instruments, and spoken word. Shape Mode helps to even out the peaks and troughs in the audio signal, resulting in a well-balanced and polished sound. It is particularly useful for recordings where a bit more control and presence are desired without overwhelming the natural sound.
Squeeze Mode
This mode applies a higher degree of compression, making it more effective at taming dynamic fluctuations in the audio signal. This mode is ideal for recordings with a wide range, such as live performances or energetic vocal tracks. This compression feature ensures that all parts of the recording are clearly audible, enhancing the overall clarity and consistency. It is especially beneficial for situations where maintaining a steady volume level is crucial, preventing quieter parts from getting lost in the mix.
Smash Mode
Out of all the HypeMiC’s compressor settings, this is the most aggressive compression feature there is. It significantly reduces the range, creating a more compact and upfront sound. This mode is perfect for applications that require a highly controlled and punchy audio signal, such as rock vocals, broadcasting, or any scenario where a powerful and consistent output is needed. Smash Mode ensures that every detail of the recording is prominent and clear, making it an excellent choice for high-energy and impactful recordings.
Pros and Cons of the Apogee HypeMiC
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Has a built-in preamp and compressor feature with four different modes ✔️ Beautiful and functional design ✔️ Easy to use and carry ✔️ Professional-standard audio quality ✔️ Features a high-pass filter | ✖️ Others claim that there’s a lack of official Android support in case of issues ✖️ Quite expensive |
What People Are Saying About It
While you can’t exactly call this a new Apogee HypeMic, seeing as it was initially released back in 2019, this mic still gets a lot of fans and loyal users because of its many features and benefits. Hear what one has to say about the HypeMiC!
“I anticipated my search for the ideal portable microphone to take much longer than this. But Apogee has pretty much solved all of the issues for me. Except for the considerable one of price. At $349, the Apogee HypeMic asks a lot, though Apogee does also offer the $259 Mic Plus, which shares the same basic construction and specs, but lacks the HypeMic’s built-in compressor. I suppose it’s really a matter of how serious you want to be about your recordings: podcasts are growing into a legitimate career choice these days, and if quality and portability are important to you, the HypeMic is hard to beat.”
VLAD SAVOV – THE VERGE
Where to Buy the Apogee HypeMiC
With everything said, we’re sure that you may want to snag your own HypeMiC by now. Compared to previous models, the HypeMiC is a league of its own.
However, we do acknowledge that this mic comes at a rather high price. If you think about all the functions and features it comes with though, then it just makes more sense why it’s priced that way.
Nonetheless, if the price is still stopping you from adding this to your cart, then we have a great Amazon deal for you to sweeten up the pot!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Apogee USB mic work with Windows?
Yes, the Apogee HypeMiC works with Windows. You can simply connect it via USB without needing additional drivers or software. This makes it easy to set up and start recording high-quality audio on any Windows PC, ideal for musicians, podcasters, and content creators.
Does the Apogee HypeMiC come with a mic stand?
Instead of the usual “mic stand”, Apogee does you one better by including a desktop tripod stand! This accessory is particularly useful because it provides a stable and convenient setup for recording on a desk or any flat surface.
The tripod stand ensures the mic is positioned at the optimal height and angle for capturing clear, high-quality audio. This is especially beneficial for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who need a reliable and portable recording solution that can be easily set up and adjusted to suit various recording environments. The desktop tripod enhances the HypeMiC’s versatility, making it a practical choice for both home studios and on-the-go recording sessions.
What is the HypeMiC’s compressor for?
The HypeMiC’s compressor is an analog compression feature designed to manage and enhance the range of audio recordings. A compressor works by automatically adjusting the volume of the audio signal, reducing the level of louder sounds and boosting quieter ones. This process results in a more balanced and consistent sound.
The primary purpose of the HypeMiC’s analog compressor is to smooth out peaks in the audio signal, preventing distortion and clipping that can occur when the audio level exceeds the maximum capacity of the recording device. By taming these peaks, the compressor ensures that the audio remains clear and undistorted, even during louder sections of the recording.
Additionally, the compressor enhances the quieter parts of the audio, making them more audible and maintaining a consistent volume level throughout the session. This is particularly useful for vocal recordings, where variations in volume can be more pronounced, as well as for musical instruments with a wide dynamic range.
Having a built-in analog compressor, such as the one used by HypeMiC, is advantageous because it simplifies the recording process, allowing users to achieve professional-quality sound without needing extensive post-processing. It provides polished, radio-ready audio straight out of the microphone, saving time and effort in the editing phase.
Apogee HypeMiC
The Apogee HypeMiC is a versatile and powerful USB microphone designed for high-quality audio recordings. It features professional-standard sound quality with 24-bit/96kHz resolution and an integrated analog compressor.
The microphone offers four compression modes—Hype, Shape, Squeeze, and Smash—allowing users to tailor the dynamic range control to their specific recording needs.
Its plug-and-play functionality ensures ease of use, compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS devices, and includes a headphone output for real-time monitoring. The sleek and compact design, along with an included desktop tripod stand, makes it ideal for both home studios and portable setups.
Overall, the Apogee HypeMiC delivers exceptional audio quality, ease of use, and versatility, making it a top choice for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who want to elevate the audio quality of their craft.
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