Have you ever wondered how your favorite artists' recordings take on a three-dimensional quality and how the vocals can seem to float above the sounds of the other instruments? It's all thanks to compression, but not the kind we usually associate with digital files. It's all about the dynamics processor, which operates on the audio signal, particularly the vocals.
Such a processor can be used with special equipment in the studio or through computer plug-ins during mixing. However, according to many sound specialists and music producers, the best results can be achieved by using a compressor already when recording vocals or other sound sources.
It is to this end that the Apogee HypeMiC offers studio-quality, analog compression when recording. What's more, the device is easy to use and provides a "magical sound" for vocals, backing vocals, instruments, percussion and podcasts - basically, for anything you record!
With the Apogee HypeMiC and a connection to a smartphone (such as an iPhone) or computer, you can now create recordings anywhere, and they will sound as if they were created in a professional studio.
Vocal recording
HypeMiC's unique analog compression significantly improves sound quality. The three compression settings available with HypeMiC provide a truly balanced and "mixed" recording, reducing the need for intensive processing and mixing.
Recording instruments
HypeMiC brings a new level of smoothness and warmth to recording acoustic instruments. Built for high SPL levels, HypeMiC provides greater clarity and detail when recording loud acoustic instruments, from drums to horns.
Voice recording and streaming
Podcasts, voiceovers, interviews, YouTube appearances, live broadcasts and conference calls. HypeMiC balances audio dynamics for greater clarity, resulting in better broadcast-ready recordings. It's compatible with any Mac/PC and an iOS app that lets you choose your audio device. So you always have a professional studio when you're on the go.
Special recordings
Apogee HypeMiC is a tool that allows you to enrich your recordings with new and exciting sounds, even in the absence of a USB connection. It is possible to connect an analog audio signal from the stereo output and connect it directly to your mixer, another audio interface or a standalone recorder. This allows you to capture the sound that passes through the HypeMiC's preamplifier and analog dynamics processor.
Compression mode settings
The Apogee HypeMiC offers three analog audio compression modes that you can easily switch between using the button on the front panel of the microphone.
Try all the settings with any source and adjust them to your liking. Set the level before selecting a compression setting, and remember that compression will accentuate any noise that is around you while recording.
Low
Ideal for most vocal recordings and acoustic instruments. This mode preserves the naturalness of the sound while subtly smoothing out dynamic differences for a professional sound.
Medium
This mode is an excellent choice for recording very powerful vocals and loud instruments (such as drums). It also works well for recording podcasts, interviews and streaming, With this mode, you can get a powerful sound that further emphasizes the expressiveness and clarity of your performance
High
It's ideal when you want a really powerful and "crushed" sound for a big effect. This mode is great for recording voice for commercials, dubbing and vocals with a strong and expressive character, especially in rap music.
Try all the settings with any source and adjust them to your liking. Adjust the level before selecting a compression setting, and remember that compression will accentuate any noise that is around you while recording.
Features
- The only USB microphone with built-in studio-quality studio analog compressor
- PureDIGITAL digital technology providing audio signal conversion to digital format with quality up to 24-bit/96kHz
- Top class condenser microphone with cardioid characteristic
- Built-in headphone output with high-quality digital-to-analog audio conversion (on a computer, smartphone or tablet). This allows you to connect headphones, active speakers or a home audio amplifier, and infinitely adjust the level of the outgoing signal using the knob on the front panelHypeMiC. This feature is not standard on USB microphones
- The BLEND function is built into the headphone output, allowing you to listen to the recorded sound source (e.g. vocals, voice, guitar, etc.) without delay (known as latency). This allows you to hear yourself during the recording at exactly the same time as you are singing or playing, without the "echo" effect
- Included are high-end accessories: a sturdy tripod, a pop filter on a gooseneck arm and a carrying case
- The microphone works as soon as it is plugged in, no configuration required.
- Compatible with iOS, Mac OSX and PC/Windows devices
Specification
Input: Micro USB
Connections: Lightning, USB (Type-C), USB (Type-A)
Length: 124 mm
Width: 38 mm
Height: 38 mm
Weight: 0.20 kg
A/D conversion and microphone preamplifier
Max SPL: 130dB (1% THD at 1kHz)
Sensitivity: -36 dBfs (94 dB SPL. 1 kHz)
Noise level: -108dBfs (A) at 0 dB gain
Maximum preamp gain: 46 dB
Included together is the Multi-Mic, First Take application ( which we wrote about here)
First Take provides easy plug and play operation with up to 4 Apogee USB microphones. This means you can add hosts and guests and start a podcast without having to change the configuration.
Immediate listening to recordings
Enjoy the convenience of simultaneously creating a stereo mix of your recording and individual files for each connected microphone. First Take gives you full control over the editing process if you decide to do further post-production work.
For more information, visit the manufacturer's website.
Distributor: ESS Audio
