Blue (a logitech company) is introducing the Yeti nano ($99.99), a high-quality desktop microphone that connects over USB to a computer or compatible phones (via a USB OTG adapter). Designed for recording and streaming, the Yeti nano is a more compact and more affordable version of the universally praised Yeti microphone ($129.99).
Size aside, there are differences that explain the lower price, but ultimately it seems like Yeti nano is well positioned as a package that has quality, design, and affordability in one microphone.
Differences with the original Yeti
• 2x condenser mic capsules (vs. 3x for the Yeti)
• 3x pickup patterns (cardioid & Omni), (vs. the Yeti’s 4, cardioid, omni, bi-directional & stereo)
The differences highlighted above show that while the more massive Yeti might be better for music and omnidirectional recording, those are features that may not be missed as much by gamers and YouTubers who tend to focus on voice recording. Therefore, tweaking the Yeti nano for these use cases may increase the value, without much impact on the audio outcome.
The microphone can record in 24-bit/48KHz, which is on paper better than the original CD quality. Suffice to say that these are specs that should be sufficient and that the microphones are used to their maximum potential.
The user interface does not let the user control the gain (sensitivity) via knob, but you can switch mode and mute the microphone with one button press. The micro USB connector is located at the base of the microphone, along with a 3.5mm audio output in case you want to control the sound via headphones. It should be possible to control the gain via the Sherpa companion app, however.
Many videographers who run their own show like the Yeti design because it not only records good audio, but it also looks great on camera. That’s not something many microphones can brag about.
If you end up getting one, follow this tip: disable the Automatic Gain Control (AGC) feature of your audio app. Typically, AGC is a way to optimize audio recording via software by continuously changing the volume to adapt to the current audio conditions. The Yeti microphones don’t need it and work better without it.
Filed in . Read more about IFA, IFA 2018, Logitech and Microphone.