Hands-On Review of the Apogee MiC

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The MiC from Apogee clearly demonstrates that advances in technology can deliver exceptional quality at ever lower price points. But that’s not the main feature of this condenser microphone. Rather, it is a solidly built, supremely easy to use USB microphone designed to record to Apple’s iOS devices and Mac computers. Plug it in and go.

The microphone turns an iPhone or iPad into a compact and great sounding recording solution. Whether you need to record a vocal or acoustic instrument, create a podcast, do an interview or do a voice-over, record a song idea anywhere, the MiC takes care of all these scenarios with renowned Apogee quality. This hands-on video review covers all the features and provides examples of use.

Type Cardioid condenser
Conversion 24-bit, 44.1/48 kHz
Gain 40 dB
Display Multicolor LED for status indication and input level monitoring
Construction All metal
System Requirements

iOS: iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad, iPad 2, new iPad
iOS version: 4.3 and later
Connection: Dock connector port (no batteries required)
Made for GarageBand on iPad, iPhone
MiC also works with other applications

Mac OS: Mac computer with Intel processor
OS X 10.6.4 or later
1GB RAM minimum, 2GB recommended
USB 2.0 Full Speed
Software: GarageBand, Logic Pro, MainStage, Pro Tools (v. 9 or higher) or any Core Audio-compatible application

 

6 Comments

I like the features of the Mic by Apogee.  I am using an imac computer OSX 10.7.5 and creating music in Garageband 11, version 6.0.5.   I had been using a Yeti Blue Pro USB mic (for my voice) but the volume output was too low, even after making internal mic adjustments on my mac. I ended up cranking up the gain and volume on the Yeti which gave an unsatisfactory result.  I no longer have the Yeti and need a good quality mic but don't want the same low volume issues.

I usually create songs with several tracks, and add my voice to all of that.  Could you tell me if you are familiar with the volume issue on the Yeti or if there are any low volume output issues from Mic from Apogee?  And if the Apogee is a good fit for my imac computer?

Thanks

 

Hi Maria -

This mic has been discontinued and has been replaced by the new and improved MiC 96k USB Microphone for Mac & iOS Devices with Lightning Cable from Apogee Electronics. It is more robustly built and will deliver superior audio compared to the mics you have used in the past.  It is designed to provide studio-quality recordings to your compatible iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, or Mac computer in resolutions up to 96 kHz/24-bit. It is compatible with Lightning- and 30-pin-connector equipped iOS devices, and includes a Lightning connector.

The MiC 96k has a multicolor LED display that illustrates input level and device status, giving a visual reading of your input levels. It has an all-metal, die-cast zinc body and a side-mounted gain control knob for quick adjustments of your levels. Apogee also includes a standard USB cable, tabletop stand, and mic stand adapter, allowing you to get started recording to your Mac or iOS device right out of the box.

Studio Quality
MiC 96k is a digital microphone designed to deliver studio-quality recording you can take anywhere. Use MiC 96k to record vocals, spoken word, acoustic guitar, piano, drums, and more. Inspired by revered and classic microphones, MiC 96k is designed to provide excellent sound and be easy to use with your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac
Three Products in One
MiC 96k combines a microphone, microphone preamp and an A/D converter into one compact device. Apogee has carefully designed each part of MiC 96k to deliver low noise and a high-quality signal
High-Definition Recording
Up to 24-bit / 96 kHz studio HD recording for high fidelity
Works with iOS and Mac.
Direct connection with Lightning or 30-pin iOS devices (iPhone, iPod touch, iPad) and USB connection to Mac
 

Please contact us via e-mail if you have additional questions:  [email protected]

 

Is the mic 96 a good one if I want to create music on the iPad (using garageband) and need to record voice over several tracks of digital iPad instruments while monitoring from the headphones? Or does the latency issue kill it for this use?

Hi Rishio -

This is a top choice and highly recommended for any iOS device.  There is virtually no latency to worry about.

APOGEE MiC 96k is designed to deliver studio-quality recording you can take anywhere. Use MiC 96k to record vocals, spoken word, acoustic guitar, piano, drums, and more. Inspired by revered and classic microphones, MiC 96k is designed to provide excellent sound and be easy to use with your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch or Mac

Please contact us via e-mail if you have additional questions:  [email protected]

 

Apparently the latency kills it. I got the 96K apogee mic from Amazon for recording n live singing purposes. While live streaming or live singing, the mic will get me lots of distortions or interferences, whereas there is NO such issue with the headphone's inline mic or iPhone's built-in mic, so I assume this is caused by the unacceptable latency of 23ms. But recording is quite good. 

Latency IS an issue. 

This mic is unacceptable for voice-over work. On the iPad there is some latency, which is a bit of a distraction. But on a Mac it is MUCH longer and makes it unusable. You begin to slur your words as you slow down to let your voice catch up to your speech. 

The Mic sounds great. Just not suitable for my use scenario so I will be returning it.