Can you use a USB mic with a tablet?
Using a USB microphone with a tablet can significantly improve audio quality for a variety of use cases. The built-in microphone on most tablets is convenient but lacks in quality, especially for applications like:
- Recording podcasts or voiceovers
- Making music or singing
- Video calls on Skype, Zoom etc.
- Live streaming games or video
An external USB microphone typically provides much better sound pickup, reduces background noise, and enables more control over your audio. Professional-grade mics can make your voice sound richer, clearer, and more professional. This guide will cover everything you need to know about setting up and using a USB mic with your tablet.
Tablet Compatibility
The availability of a USB port that supports microphone connectivity varies across popular tablet models and brands. According to Rode, many Android tablets and some Windows tablets have full-size USB ports that can accept a USB microphone via a USB-OTG adapter. For example, many Samsung Galaxy Tab models contain USB-C or micro-USB ports compatible with external mics using an OTG adapter cable.
For iPads, connectivity is more limited. Older models with Lightning ports do not support USB mics directly. However, using Apple’s official Lightning to USB camera adapter makes it possible to connect a USB mic to an iPad. This adapter accessory is required to enable external mic support on iPads like the base iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro and iPad Mini.
In contrast, the newer iPad Pro models with USB-C ports can connect directly to USB microphones without any adapter. So an iPad Pro 11-inch or 12.9-inch model with USB-C is the most seamless option for using an external USB mic.
While many Android and Windows tablets technically can handle a USB microphone, research recommends verifying a specific model’s compatibility. Some cheaper tablets may lack full USB host support required for external mics even if a USB port is present (Source: Using A USB Microphone With Your iPad, iPhone or Other Mobile Device).
Wired vs Wireless
When it comes to using an external microphone with a tablet, you have two main options – wired USB microphones or wireless Bluetooth microphones. There are pros and cons to each approach:
Wired USB microphones connect directly to your tablet via the USB port. The main benefits of wired mics are:
– Reliable connection that doesn’t dropout or have interference issues.
– Lower latency, meaning less lag or delay in the audio.
– Higher audio quality as there is no compression from wireless transmission.
– Many professional grade condenser mics designed for music/podcasting use a wired USB connection.
However, wired microphones also have some downsides:
– Limited mobility and range, as you need to be near the tablet.
– Potential cabling issues or lack of available ports on some tablets.
– Need to be plugged in and unplugged each time you want to use or packup the mic.
Wireless Bluetooth microphones connect to your tablet via Bluetooth, without any cables. The benefits of wireless mics include:
– Completely cordless operation, allowing full mobility and flexibility.
– Quick and easy to set up. No ports or cables to connect.
– Allow tablet to be placed anywhere within Bluetooth range.
– More discreet for vlogging/video calls vs a large condenser mic.
However, potential limitations of Bluetooth mics include:
– Audio compression during wireless transmission can reduce quality.
– Potential for interference, connectivity issues or dropout of signal.
– Slightly higher latency/delay compared to wired connection.
– Limited range of 30-50 feet depending on environment.
– Battery powered, so requires charging.
(Quora, 2022) (Expert-Velocity, 2021)
Mic Setup
Connecting a USB microphone to a tablet is straightforward, though the specific steps depend on your device. For Apple iPad and iPhone models, you’ll need a Lightning to USB adapter or dongle. Simply plug the dongle into your iOS device, connect your USB mic to the dongle, and you’re ready to go. According to Rode, “The simplest way to connect your iPhone or iPad to the USB mic is via a Lightning Accessory Cable.”
On Android devices, you can use an OTG (On-The-Go) adapter to connect a USB microphone. As 9to5google explains, “Most modern Android smartphones support OTG and can easily interface with USB microphones.” Attach the OTG adapter to your Android tablet or phone, connect the USB mic, and you should be set. Some specific Android models like certain Samsung tablets may need extra drivers to recognize a USB mic.
Once connected via a dongle or OTG adapter, the tablet should detect the USB microphone automatically. You can then select it as an input option within any recording, music, or voice chat apps you use. Adjust audio settings as needed, and monitor levels to ensure a clean signal.
Mic Compatibility
Many USB microphones will work with tablets, but some are more compatible than others. Here are some of the most recommended USB mics for popular tablets like the iPad and Samsung Galaxy Tab:
The Blue Yeti is one of the most popular USB mics and works great with tablets via an adapter or USB-C connection. It provides excellent sound quality in a versatile design (NYTimes).
The Samson Go Mic is compact, portable, and connects directly to tablets via USB. It’s lightweight and doesn’t require extra cables or power, making it highly compatible (SoundGuys).
The Shure MV5 is another flexible USB mic offering both USB and Lightning connections for easy use with mobile devices and tablets. It’s known for clear audio and simple plug-and-play use.
For Android tablets, the FIFINE USB mic is a budget-friendly option that connects easily via USB-OTG with no drivers required. It produces quality sound for vocals, streaming, and podcasts.
With the right adapter or connection, most quality USB microphones can work effectively with modern tablets. Choosing one suited for mobile use and your specific tablet will provide the best experience.
Mic Apps
There are various microphone apps available for tablets that allow you to use a USB microphone. Some popular options include:
WO Mic is an Android and iOS app that lets you use your smartphone or tablet as a wireless microphone (Source). It allows you to connect to a computer wirelessly over WiFi and use the device’s microphone input.
Microphone Live is an iOS microphone app that turns your iPhone/iPad into a live microphone when connected to a stereo system via headphone jack or lightning port (Source). It provides effects like reverb and echo.
For Android, some top microphone apps include Extra Mic, Microphone by Wonder Grace, and Microphone by Gaz Davidson. These apps allow you to configure audio settings and utilize effects (Source).
Using these kinds of apps along with a USB microphone connected to your tablet provides flexibility in recording, broadcasting, and applying audio effects.
Audio Settings
Most tablets will allow you to select a USB microphone as the audio input source in the settings menu. Here are the steps for some common tablets:
iPad:
- Go to Settings > General > iPad Storage
- Under Audio Inputs, select your connected USB microphone
Android:
- Open the Settings app and go to Sound & vibration > Advanced
- Under Input, select the USB microphone
Windows 10:
- Go to Settings > System > Sound
- Under Input, select your USB microphone
On most tablets, you’ll need to have the USB microphone connected before it shows up as an option. Once selected in the audio settings, the tablet will use the USB mic for any application requiring audio input.
Tips for Best Audio
When using a USB microphone with a tablet, there are some tips to optimize the audio quality:
Use a microphone stand or shock mount to minimize vibrations. Mechanical noise can be picked up through the stand, so use a shock mount or place foam/cork under the stand (Source: https://reaper.blog/2021/01/usb-mic/).
Position the mic close to your mouth, around 4-6 inches away, to maximize voice pickup. Further away will increase background noise.
Speak directly into the mic to utilize the microphone’s polar pattern and avoid plosives. Angle the mic slightly to the side if needed.
Record in a quiet space without echo or reverb to achieve a clean sound.
Use a pop filter to limit plosives and breath sounds that can cause distortion.
Adjust audio settings on the tablet to boost the microphone gain for optimal levels without clipping or distortion.
Consider using an external preamp between the mic and tablet to provide extra gain if needed.
Use a USB cable rather than Bluetooth for a more reliable connection without latency or dropout issues.
Limitations
There are some limitations to be aware of when using a USB microphone with a tablet:
Not all tablets support USB microphones – Some Android tablets and many budget models may lack USB host support needed for external mics. Always check your tablet’s specs before purchasing a USB mic.
You may need an adapter – Most tablets use USB-C or micro-USB ports, so you’ll likely need an adapter to connect a USB-A mic. Adapters can affect audio quality.
Tablets may supply insufficient power – USB mics require power from the device. If your tablet can’t provide enough power, the mic may not function properly or at all.
Latency can be an issue – Audio processing in tablets may introduce latency, which can be problematic for real-time monitoring when recording audio or video.
Limited app support – Most standard audio apps don’t recognize USB mics on Android. You’ll need an app with USB audio support like Open Camera.
No XLR connections – Tablets lack XLR inputs, so you can’t use professional condenser mics. You’re limited to consumer USB mics.
Difficult mic setup – Tablets lack full OS interfaces, so mic setup and tweaking settings can be tricky compared to laptops.
Interference from other components – Tablets cram a lot of components in a small space, which can cause interference and impact audio quality from an external mic.
Limited accessories – You miss out on mic boom arms, shock mounts, and pop filters that require stand/tripod mounting.
Conclusion
In summary, using a USB microphone with a tablet can greatly improve your audio quality for recordings, live streams, video calls, podcasts, and more. Tablets have built-in mics that often pickup background noise and have limited controls. Adding an external USB mic allows you to capture clear, professional sound by getting closer to the audio source. There’s a range of USB mics with various form factors and features to consider based on your needs and tablet compatibility. With the right setup and settings adjustments, you can dramatically enhance your tablet audio. The benefits include portability, flexibility, and convenience compared to traditional XLR mic setups. While there are some limitations depending on your tablet and mic, the audio boost a USB mic provides makes it worth exploring for content creators and professionals using tablets.