Streamplify Mic Pro Review: An affordably stylish professional

I’ve been in the market for a new mic for a long time. Ever since I had to return my dad’s expensive and cumbersome microphone, I’ve relied on my Mac. Even though my Mac has done a decent job during interviews, there’s always been an unpolished aspect to my audio, made worse by every shuffle in my chair or the rustle of a concealed bag of sweets.

Despite knowing a better microphone is required, I’ve been loath to make such an investment, especially when I don’t regularly use one. It just didn’t feel enough of a necessity to warrant paying a hefty price.

Then, as if a higher being heard my quiet cries, I discovered the Streamplify Mic Pro. Like so many of us, I’ve been conditioned to read the word “pro” and automatically assume the price will make my eyes water – thanks Apple(!) However, I’m happy to report that the cost of this piece of equipment is more than reasonable, especially considering the level of quality you receive.

You'll want to have all the correct kit if you intend to stream the Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake

Marketed as a “studio-quality” microphone, I can confirm that it offers crisp audio even when you’re but a humble novice with few editing skills. Not to sound like a boomer, but I need my tech to be easy to set up otherwise I get stroppy. Cue the dramatic Disney princess collapse onto a bed, frustrated and upset.

With the Streamplify Mic Pro, all I had to do was plug it in via my USB-C port and it was ready to use. Granted, those of you who enjoy fine-tuning your streaming setup may want to fiddle about with settings, but for a simple gal like me, I just needed an instantaneous arrangement.

If you’re starting to doubt my ability to put this microphone through its paces to ensure it’s up to scratch, I can assure you that it was subject to vigorous testing. Wrangling my cat to help, I made sure he noisily walked across my desk, taking pens as he went. I also left my office window open so the sound of the great outdoors wafted in (by which I mean lawnmowers and barking dogs).

My tests weren't complete. I then arranged different video calls with friends and family, not to mention how many mini monologues I recorded that I pray remain hidden until my Mac's dying day. Sadly, I had no upcoming interviews in my calendar to utilise my mic for, so I had to get inventive. Nonetheless, while I had to create ample opportunities, it paid off in confirming what I’d thought from my very first test run: the Streamplify Mic Pro is every bit a professional minus the steep cost. You can purchase it for just £69.99.

Not only can you adjust audio with greater precision in real time without hindering your stream and/or video call, but the audio sampling rate averages 192kHz/24bit. Say goodbye to tinny, low-quality. Arguably, one aspect that further helps to maintain audio quality is the anti-vibration mount. This simplistic but sleek stand isolates the mic to greatly reduce vibrations that normally affect audio. That said, this isn’t a rigid setup but rather one that reminds me of a bridge: it’s sturdy because of its flexibility.

Although it would be a lie to say none of the disruption I sought to cause wasn't captured during my recordings, the unwanted noise was minimal. Furthermore, with a maximum of four different polar patterns - Stereo, Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Bidirectional – this versatile mic can adapt to suit any situation.

For aesthetically conscious individuals, this mic is a looker. While its design doesn’t appear overly flashy, it has a few surprises hidden within its chic casing. It comes with a diverting array of lighting options, meaning you can add a “stylish flair” to whatever call you’re on, even if it’s a dull work meeting. I typically opt for a cascade of rainbow colours, however, if you’re more of a minimalist you can select a single colour instead.

Mood lighting, while important, isn’t the only perk of this vibrant light show there’s also a practical side as well. When transitioning between muted and unmuted, the lighting of the mic changes accordingly to indicate which mode you’re in; white for unmuted, red for muted. As an absentminded individual who talks while muted, I welcome such an unmistakable reminder.

What more is there to say? It’s stylish, it’s affordable, it delivers on quality typically kept behind a higher price threshold.