The Blue Snowball incorporates Blue's revolutionary Ball microphone design with the added convenience of a USB output. The USB output enables audio signal to be fed directly to software based recording applications without unnecessary preamplifier's or hardware. The Snowball incorporates two separate capsules for true cardioid and omni-directional pick up.
The cardioid polar pattern has a more focused pick up and generally "hears" what the capsule is pointed at. The omni-directional pattern features a generous pick up area at the front and sides of the microphone capsule. The sensitivity and signal character of the Snowball results in outstanding clarity and detail while capturing vocals, guitar, drums, percussion and more. A -10dB Pad switch provides added headroom and minimizes distortion when capturing audio at excessive levels.
A definite balance between convenience, design and function, the Blue Snowball is ideal for project studio recording, web casting, voice-over recording and more.
| Transducer | Dual Capsule Condenser |
| Polar Pattern |
Unidirectional (Cardioid)
Omnidirectional |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz to 18kHz all 3 positions |
| Dynamic Range (Typical) | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Maximum Input Sound Level | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Power Requirements | Draws power from USB port |
| Output Impedance | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Output Connectors | USB Output |
| Pad | -10dB Pad |
| Low Frequency Roll-Off | No |
| Dimensions | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Weight | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
Simply the best!
The BLUE Snowball is simply amazing. As a video professional, it is an invaluable asset. Not only does the minimal, compact design allow me to bring it virtually anywhere, but the variable settings...Read complete review
The BLUE Snowball is simply amazing. As a video professional, it is an invaluable asset. Not only does the minimal, compact design allow me to bring it virtually anywhere, but the variable settings ensure that I record crystal clear, full-toned sound every time. Not to mention the fact that with it's plug & play software, it can easily move from computer to computer with no problems, recording musical performances to voice-overs with no sweat. And all at a laughably low price that makes it accessible by professionals and consumers alike. The only negative thing about it is the stand, which is a bit flimsy, but due to the Snowball's design, it can be attached to virtually any microphone stand or mount. Simply put, if you value good sound, this is a must.
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Most Liked Negative Review
Do not buy if you use Windows Vista
The microphone itself is fine, at least for the limited use I'm putting it to (podcasting). It does not work with Windows Vista, so if that's your OS, buy something else.
The microphone itself is fine, at least for the limited use I'm putting it to (podcasting). It does not work with Windows Vista, so if that's your OS, buy something else.
Blue used to have a Vista firmware alternative available for download, but they've recently removed it.
Too bad - it worked just fine. Go figure.
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Reviewed by 77 customers
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I did a week of research before buying. I listened to audio samples and read reviews.
This is a great microphone for the money. It works as advertised and as I need for podcasting.
I'm looking forward to using it on the road for covering a conference next month.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
Attention getter with dynamite performance! Works like a charm in iMovie, Final Cut Express and podcasting. Will be trying it with live singer and track, I KNOW I WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED - and neither with you. Best desk buddy, will highly recommend the Blue Snowball to anyone needing a quality piece of sound equipment at a great price.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
This Is a must have for all musicians that want to record music. It records guitar and vocals amazingly.
It is great for beginners and experienced users.
It has crystal clear sound quality.
It has a nice sturdy stand.
It's affordable and worth it's value
There's no drivers to install.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
The BLUE Snowball is simply amazing. As a video professional, it is an invaluable asset. Not only does the minimal, compact design allow me to bring it virtually anywhere, but the variable settings ensure that I record crystal clear, full-toned sound every time. Not to mention the fact that with it's plug & play software, it can easily move from computer to computer with no problems, recording musical performances to voice-overs with no sweat. And all at a laughably low price that makes it accessible by professionals and consumers alike. The only negative thing about it is the stand, which is a bit flimsy, but due to the Snowball's design, it can be attached to virtually any microphone stand or mount. Simply put, if you value good sound, this is a must.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
Great vocal warmth. Captures everything. Not so powerful that I hear the neighbors snoring on my track, but powerful enough to get clean recordings that I can mix with my guitar.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
For the price, this microphone is great. It installs easily and works with all of my programs.
I'm very happy with the purchase.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I am a retired broadcaster but still do voiceover work, with the recordings being done at professional studios. One client asked if I could do something at my home in front of my PC. After much research and with advice from people I've worked with I chose the Snowball. It was easily within my budget and clear in capturing sounds and voice. This is a durable microphone and with its USB output easily plugs in my PC for great performance and versatility.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
The product was easy to use, had great quality and the price was right. At this point, I have not run into any problems.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I use the snowball for acoustic guitar and vocals. Excellent sound quality!
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
It has helped alot for my recording style. It is nice being able to switch from different type of mic styles.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
Really easy to setup and very good quality.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
Acoustic guitar and voice recording works like a charm.MUCH improved over the Laptop mike.Plug and playThe small stand that comes with it is ok but I find I like a medium height stand and a usb extension cord.No complaints whatsoever.B&H WOWLowest price.No-one could or would even try to touch it.[...]
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I bought the Snowball just for some personal recording, and it works great. Having said that, it would be great for much, much more.
It's incredibly easy to use, I just plugged it in and my software immediately recognized it as my default mic. It's clear and crisp, and sounds just as good as some more expensive microphones I have used.
I would definitely recommend it, for novices and veterans alike.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
[...] the Blue snowball works great .I use this to record accoustic guitar directly to my computer and am very satisfied !
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I needed to upgrade my USB mic for the podcast I produce. The company I work with does sideline video production and audio voice-over and they used the Blue Snowball. I figured if it was good enough for them, it was good enough for me... and it surpasses expectations. I love the sound, and I love the fact that you can choose three different pattern configurations. I use the #2 position in most cases and it sounds excellent (#1 is great if you want absolute recreation, but it's a little too "clean and smacky" for my taste).
The sound quality between the podcast before and after its first use was very obvious (for the better). Plus, I love its retro design... makes me feel like I could be Jack Benny talking into it (especially with the Ringer shock mount, another piece of amazing tech deserving of its own review :) ).
If I had to put a negative, it's that it's a big round softball and that makes it a little less optimal if you want to travel with it, but really, that's a small price to pay for the positives.
Seriously, for the price, this is a fantastic podcasting microphone, well worth the purchase and it performs like a champ!
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
Plug-ed it into older HP laptop (1GB memory) with Win7. Installed and easily became available to Audacity.
Second try on newer Gateway desktop easily installed and worked great with Sonar
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
You can't find a better mic for the price. The thee settings make it a very useful. The audio quality is great I have recorded scratch vocals and instrument tracks and they sound great. The mice is very transparent all in all the best low budget Item I have ever bought. The quality far exceeds the price. I would buy it again. My friends who do have one love it to.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
It's a portable microphone with a stand. I use it for my podcast and really love its sound and product quality. If you try to find a portable microphone, the Snowball is one of the best choice!
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I've only used this mic for voice over so far, but it's great for that. It picked up no background noise (or at such a low level that I haven't been able to hear any). It also captured voice very accurately. I haven't even had to EQ anything that was recorded with this mic yet. The only downside that I've come across is that it is a little quite, but that is easy to fix by adjusting the level. Overall, it's been a great mic.
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Comments about Blue Snowball USB Condenser Microphone with Accessory Pack Bundle:
I had read reviews and decided this item was what I wanted months ago but I enjoy the hunt for a good deal. B&H had the bundle I wanted for the best price I could find anywhere.
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This item is usually Drop Shipped from the MFR/Distributor within 7-10 days (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at the time of placing the order with the vendor. Item is non-cancelable or returnable.