Mackie EleMent EM-USB Review / Test (Compared to Blue Yeti, Rode NT-USB Mini)

Today I review the Mackie EM-USB, a new USB Condenser Microphone. This mic offers a more neutral sound compared to most other affordable USB microphones. One huge draw back is the fact that it does not have zero latency monitoring and no metering. I also compare it to the Rode NT-USB Mini, the Blue Yeti Nano, and the Blue Yeti.
HQ Audio Of Review: podcastage.com/rev/emusb
Buy the Mackie EM-USB (Affiliate)
Amazon: geni.us/emusb
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Amazon: geni.us/ps101
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:19 - Setup for Tests
00:38 - What’s in the Box
01:09 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
02:12 - Specifications
02:32 - Polar Pattern Test
02:53 - Plosive Rejection Test
03:06 - Distance Test
03:29 - Background Noise Test
03:48 - Treated vs. Untreated Room
04:01 - Desktop Stand vs. Boom Arm (Why Not to Use It)
04:49 - Microphone Mute Button & Click Wheel Noise Test
05:20 - Noise Floor Measure
06:02 - Comparison to Rode NT-USB Mini
07:03 - Comparison to Blue Yeti Nano
07:41 - Comparison to Blue Yeti Classic
08:33 - Latency Test
09:00 - Music Test (Electric Guitar / Acoustic Guitar / Singing)
10:14 - Pros & Cons
11:10 - Overall Thoughts
12:53 - Recommendation
13:58 - Outro
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[@RageElixir]

You’re the reason I can’t stop watching microphone videos lol

[@The1Ab0veAll]

Big fan here dude ☺️ keep up the good work !

[@Podcastage]

Excellent. Let the microphone addiction flow through you.

[@WhatIsThisHelpMe]

I can't explain it... I have a microphone and know I'll probably never need another one... But I just can't say no... Once a podcastageer, always a podcastageer.

[@rinashoe7123]

yo samee

[@Yuris72]

Same here.

[@wychwoodmusic]

Damn, I dunno why I've been watching anyone else's equipment reviews - most of them aren't actually reviews, they're more like independent ads demonstrating features I could figure out by going to the product webpage. This is a real review with super-useful info - the comparison back to back of similar mics alone is gold, and I sure like the sound of the Rode, thank you. Also I enjoy how you seem both dead inside and to be having fun where you can - those chirpy, fake personas are sure grating.

[@tonylee886]

You're the most thorough reviewer! Awesome work!

[@budgieplays]

You make the best reviews on microphones. Keep up the epicly great job

[@JondeSilva]

Back in May, I went to a local music store to see if they had a particular Audio-Technica USB microphone in stock. The guy I talked to said they didn't, but he recommended this starter kit by Mackie (never heard of the brand before then) that had the mic in the video, a good pair of headphones, and a pair of studio monitor speakers. The kit was on sale at a fairly deep discount, so I bought it. Based on your review and my experience with the mic, it's nice to know I made a good investment.

[@vitaminzeth3742]

Thanks for keeping us all up to date on all the mics!

[@JoshLintag]

Your reviews keep getting cooler and cooler!!

[@axelmaldini4218]

The EM-USB is 'Zero-latency monitoring' microphone > Connect the EM-USB to your computer > then open the Control Panel and then the Sound Settings. In the playback and recording tabs, SET the EM-USB as default > now plug your headphones to the EM-USB Mic and slowly turn up the headphones volume. That's all, have fun with this awesome Mic!

[@viewsfromthe4]

What about garage band on iphone

[@RustysAdventures]

I usually don't comment, but today i'm early. You’re the man to go to for microphone suggestions.

[@The1Ab0veAll]

Dude, really appreciate that you are still making videos about microphones 👍👍. Love from India.

[@justheathers]

Happy 2yrs of YT memberships! 🥳

[@Podcastage]

Thank you so much Heather for 2 years of support! YOU ARE AMAZING!

[@PoloJ410]

This man did every microphone test possible! Good vid bro

[@Redwolfnisly]

There is actually a way to monitor yourself with windows. It’s a little hidden feature in audio that will route any mic you are using through your ears as well so you can hear yourself, and it’s very low latency in my experience.

[@bulletproofman323]

Yo, this video is fantastic. I thought the Mackie sounded pretty good imo. I just ordered it for 79 bucks, so I'm really excited to get my hands on it. Also, as a fellow guitarist, I REALLY appreciated that you included some playing in your video. I was wondering what it would sound like, particularly with an acoustic guitar, I liked it. Great video man🤘

[@fattymc.fattyface6944]

Now that it's a year later, how has it done? Any issues with background noise?

[@igorzk]

Hey, love your videos, waiting for the MV7 review

[@chaam8082]

Friday the 13:th VI is the best. Thanks to your great reviews I didn’t buy this one, I went for the Blue Yeti that has a stereo pattern that seem to sound great on AG and piano. Keep posting reviews on any kind of pro audio stuff👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@SammySuperStar]

Great Videos as always!

[@BandrewScott]

Thanks so much Sammy. That really means a lot!

[@Sebzthesmooth]

This channel is at 200k already! I swear it was 30k not too long ago reviewing NW-700s and what not

[@swish9017]

0:40 yeah bro? I was summoned?

[@richardhui268]

Thank you for your video. I’m going to buy this mic as it is now has the nice discount in my city

[@ibrahimabueraq759]

Great video right on time Thank you awesome man

[@Podcastage]

I always aim to read people’s minds and put out a video at just the right time. Muwahahaha. My mind control is working.

[@TomBauto]

Damn this is full detailed review! Amazing! Good work. Can you review this against Samson GTrack Pro?

[@chrissneider7550]

both mikes are crap

[@Bocaelunicogrande369]

Great review ! I was thinking about buying the Blue Yeti mic sounded better. I had a Razer Siren that I returned and was looking for a mic for a while now. I recently bought the 10th anniversary edition and I'm liking it. I was disappointed to find out the Blue Voice software only works with the blue yeti x pro and gaming headset. Is there any software that does the same? Thanks!

[@theavidexperimentalist7930]

I watch every single one of your reviews and I would like your suggestion. I currently use a samson c01u USB mic and want to upgrade to a xlr condenser with an audio interface, thinking of the behringer um202. I need a mic for singing vocals, my voice is a little bassy and gets muddy with the samson quite easily. What do you recommend for high clarity singing vocals in the range of the Behringer B1 or AT2020? AT2035 is unfortunately not available here. Multiple suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Also, would an audio interface provide zero latency monitoring with effects to headphones while singing? Thank you! Some tips on how to EQ would also be appreciated.. I just cut some frequencies in the low mid and boost the highs a bit.

[@needfortweed8734]

I am hoping that you aren't burning out on video-making. I enjoyed this one.

[@txnviirrr1846]

audio gets loud in.......Thanks man you re a saviour

[@Lerberuz]

Sees a new video from Podcastage, clicks on it while disregarding everything else.

[@Podcastage]

Please don’t disregard breathing.

[@VerdonTrigance]

nice review

[@JakeRandall]

Hey! When is the Shure MV7 review coming :)

[@HenryMusic255]

Excellent videos, I’ve been stuck on this channel for an hour now. The blue yeti has a nice sheen on the top end, but overall the Mackie EM has better body & soft highs, even sounds more warm than the AT, best I’ve seen so far!! Aside of the Mackie EM, are there any other warm USB mics with soft highs that I should look out for?

[@osvaldodomingos9041]

Gain at the computer is set to "69". LMAO. I was dying. LOL

[@AryanAryasongs]

Bro.. Watching your videos since you had 10k subs...When are reviewing Manley Reference Cardioid ?

[@dunste123]

Sounds really good, especially to the other usb mics

[@MTCypher]

What do you think sounds better especially for vocals this Mackie EM-USB mic or Hyperx Quadcast?!

[@Gavanater7]

@@MTCypher the hyperx is infinitely more convient but mackie sounds a lot better to me.

[@amritshrestha2194]

Thronmax mdrill one pro Review please. It comes in studii kit as well, but main thing is how good is that microphone for singing?

[@8bittim]

Thoughts on the talk pro usb? No serious real reviews on it yet and I'm wondering how it compares to the quad cast

[@DillonMeredith]

Are you going to review the Shure MV7 that just came out yesterday?

[@Juy3Playing]

Enjoy your box man :D

[@storiesshows]

I recently bought the em-usb to replace a samson q2u for my channel, stories shows. The q2u sounds good but I just really struggle with consistency. I record my shows in a living room but have since started re-recording the audio in my homemade audio booth. On a different video you provide a couple tips for condenser mics that was really helpful. I've just now started post processing audio, an almost foreign concept from one who has been in photography 20 plus years and made a few hundred videos. I'm hopeful I've reached the consistency level now, my best so far is One fish two fish red fish blue fish, following your tips/advice. Gotta go redo Pete the Kitten now, that one I got too close to the mic and I hear gross mouth sounds, definitely 6 inches for condenser. Thank you & peace b harmony

[@Podcastage]

I am flattered that the videos were able to assist you in getting better sound out of your gear. I hope you have many years of great sounding recordings ahead of you.

[@deszczak]

blue yeti classic seemed to be the best out of these for my liking considering price as well

[@Acenis]

I think with USB mics you have to max out volume on computer before you adjust gain on mic for best results in terms of pre amp noise.

[@QarqahGame]

Great review but why u didn't review Neumann BCM 104 mic ? i really searched all over the web and guess what there is no 1 single review ?!!! why

[@sethrawson1604]

What microphone do you recommend as a plug and play for gamers? I have a mechanical keyboard but it has linear switches (Varmillo Sakura v2) so they aren’t super loud. I used an xlr set up with a phantom power supply and just wasn’t a fan of all the extra cables.

[@Zachary_Sweis]

Hey, just wanna say thanks for making this video. I'd also rather be watching movies than doing my job. Kindred spirits, bro.

[@MaverickFischer]

Thank you for the great review! I bought this microphone for my daughter along with a boom arm. For $80 it’s nice! So glad I didn’t get a Blue Yeti for $100. 😅

[@michaelreed649]

I lovevyour reviews. No other microphone reviewer eve coms close I want warn you that your Amazon link goes to the compact microphone for $95. I think the link was intended for thr pre-release of the $149 new microphone. It can be reached from that link but is confusing. I thiught ut was the correct one and on sale. I almost bought it without checking. Others might blame you if they wnd up with the wrong one and you don't deserve that hassle. Keep up the great work.

[@Podcastage]

I just checked and the link to amazon should be the same one. At least for the US amazon, it takes me to the EM-USB which does appear to be listed as “compact”, but that’s the one that matches the mic in this video. Again, this is based off the US amazon that I’m seeing this.

[@michaelreed649]

@@Podcastage That is Great!

[@guthreleonard4164]

dang would have loved to see it compared to the elgato wave 3, which so far has been my favorite USB mic.

[@guthreleonard4164]

also the mackie is on sale on amazon rn for ~95

[@dezrobeats]

Can you please review the Rockville RCM Pro microphone?

[@don1738]

Could you do like a top 5 usb/xlr mic list? I see you test alot of mics and im pretty new to recording vocals/podcasting but theres so many keyboard warriors that will say one is good then scroll down to have 3 other people trash a product. Its pretty confusing and really frustrating. Im not gonna go out like you and test 10 different mics to see which one is best. Not like I know anything about mics. Thanks

[@jr748]

Is there a review of the Pyle PDMIUSB50 coming soon?

[@jarwins649]

Can you do a review of the Comica STM-...USB mic please, i was looking to upgrade from my headset mic soon and was considering spending the $120 on it.

[@TheBackRowShow]

That mute button noise was awesome! Do it real fast so it sounds like you are playing contra!

[@thebreakfastmenu]

Legitimate question. Have all the microphones you've been reviewing lately not come with stickers? Did the companies listen to you and stop providing them with their products? Or are you destroying them off-camera?

[@keith3915]

The depressed joke got a chuckle out of me and I'm mad at you for it

[@hypno_TV]

Hi! How do you set up the Mackie EM-USB on a standard microphone boom arm?

[@mycosys]

Seems a bit of a pity not to compare the AT2020USB given how ridiculously common and meh they are at the ~same money. (but ty for the informative and entertaining review ofc)

[@barisd.3878]

Hey bud, could you actually tell me which microphone stands you can prefer ? For your table ? I want to sing/play acoustic aswell.

[@djagofficial]

For acoustic get a microphone with low noise so that it doesn’t cloud your recording. The NT1 twins or Lewitt 440 would be good for the best audio

[@superdesconocido5534]

Mackie Em USB vs Samson G Track Pro?

[@reggiep75]

What I've always thought would be nice for visual reference would be an oscilloscope display, spectral analyser (or similar) to see the desk noise, resonant frequencies and mic self noise with a little red line to say 'Oohh this is good but this.. WELL, THIS IS BAD!!' and something shows up at 5:20. Now show us the desk noise and resonant frequencies of the mic in a similar fashion or I'll send ghosts around to your house, to throw boxes at you!

[@HungryForTastyFoodAndComicArt]

I wonder what the self-noise of this mic is, since there's no mention of it in the documentation on Mackie's site. Meanwhile, Bandrew should do a Halloween ep of his top 5 mics for spoooooky voice-overs! 👻🎃

[@CoolTrainerShawn]

when you start doing the noise floor measurments, is that a piece of hardware or software that you're using to detect what frequencies are coming through?

[@suanlian8977]

It’s a stock plugin from Logic Pro X

[@RDProStikz]

Love Mackie's new microphones! Goo all-rounders!

[@nutellaontoast4281]

*When u have to make a Halloween video so u say spooky once* "It ain't much, but it's honest work"

[@zairewillis5640]

I had to return a Maono because when I sang loudly it distorted pretty badly. Will I have the same issue with this?

[@matheusbatista1371]

So, what this microfone jack does if it hasn't monitoring? It made me confused

[@timmackinnon]

I've watched some other reviews on this moc and apparently you can get headphone monitoring if you go into your sound/playback settings on your pc. Maybe Mac too?

[@Podcastage]

In my experience the issue is that that won't be zero latency monitoring. You're hearing the audio after it's been sent to your computer and routed back to you. So there will be a very noticeable delay between when you speak and and when you hear it in your headphones, and for me that is extremely distracting.

[@teamlivescope]

0:47 oh good I was hoping it came with the package.

[@MrJoeGooch]

I can confirm this microphone does have latency free monitoring. You just need to activate the microphone properties in your computers sound settings. Time for a reappraise? Cheers Bandrew. All the best, Joe👍

[@jgurtz]

I liked it on your voice in treated room and marginally ok on the acoustic. Not a fan otherwise and lack of monitoring makes it a no-go.

[@axelmaldini4218]

wrong...its Zero-latency monitoring

[@FingalPlumptonGuitar]

I just bought this mic (partly based on this review which was very useful, thanks!). I like the sound of it, but the usb-c port isn't a true usb-c port. It works if you plug in the usb-c to usb-a cable and plug the usb-a end into a laptop or dock (one cable comes with the mic, or I've tried a generic usb-c to usb-a which works too) but it doesn't work from a usb-c to usb-c cable direct into my laptop. It's annoying for me because I'm trying to settle on usb-c for all of my devices and this didn't really help with that.

[@aaronchng4795]

Hi!! Would you be able to do a review of PYLE PDMIUSB50? Can't seem to find a professional review on it. Thanks in advance!

[@allen_bernardo_jr]

"that was tight" and "I was shook" were hilarious lol well said. "That was tight" brought me back to my childhood 😂😂

[@Podcastage]

Be careful Allen. I started saying "Tight" to be ironic because it wasn't cool. Now I can't stop saying it 10 years later.

[@allen_bernardo_jr]

@@Podcastage 😂😂lol only a matter of time before it comes back in style with the cool kids lol!

[@libertyDude1775]

Personally preferred the the Blue Yeti ("Big Boy" haha). Thank you for the review! My wallet loves when a mic, on my curiosity list, is proven to be a nonstarter. No zero latency listening option? W T H are you thinking Mackie?

[@eliasarias6505]

The Mackie Element EM-USB does have Zero Latency Monitoring the mfg. has instructions for it here mackie.com/sites/default/files/PRODUCT%20RESOURCES/SUPPORT_DOCS/EM-USB%20Direct%20Monitoring%20Setup.pdf

Can you also do the top Mackie Chromium?

[@EinfachObli]

The t.bone SC 430 USB seems to be an exact copy of the EM-USB by Thomann.

[@megaboy2811]

oh hi obli, krass das man dich hier sieht :D

[@EinfachObli]

@@megaboy2811 Ich bin überall :D

[@simonebarbella4118]

Hi, can you review the Avantone CK6/CK6+?

[@FrankTheTankA1]

I think you should check out the presonus pd-70. $130 that looks A LOT like the SM7B

[@notnerd3]

I was quite surprised by this microphone. It sounds better than all of the other USB microphones you put it against (in my opinion) and I thought that for spoken word especially, it sounded quite pleasing. However, the lack of 0ms Direct Monitoring is really confusing. I can't seem to understand why they would leave this feature out.

[@Podcastage]

Yeah. That seems like such an essential feature that all usb mics ought to have at this time.

[@RocketGyan]

plz do a microphone review of Boya pm700 usb microphone!!

[@Priyanshurohillatech]

I would have picked this up!! But no 0 latency is a deal breaker for me

[@axelmaldini4218]

wrong...its Zero-latency monitoring

[@kumarabhishek1091]

Sir, can you please review the Sennhiser XS1 microphone... With Shure sv 100\ 200

[@timothythompson3068]

"Sniffzilla" @3:24 was definitely the worst sounding! 😂🤣😂

[@toomuchfandango]

can you do review on Rode NT3?

[@ciggsy]

this mic is actually pretty good, damn

[@chrissneider7550]

its crap don't buy it

[@BobbieDraper]

@@chrissneider7550 what do you recommend?

[@prinsonmonthero]

please review the presonus pd 70 microphone

[@lllKTG]

will you review razer seiren mini?

[@raunak_saha]

Hey what would be the best xlr mic under $200 (I honestly couldn't decide so plz help)

[@VaderWhoop]

I hope you get a tape measure for Christmas.

[@awhcozmo780]

This is on sale for 99 on amazon right now.

[@IraPromasantiRachmadewiIrMEng]

can you compare MACKIE EM-USB vs AT2020USB+

[@franktntx]

Mackie EM-USB the sound is fuller and has more body compared to the other microphones.

[@VerdonTrigance]

I heard that USB mics are sensitive to electric noise in USB. Is it true?

[@ArabianDesertKing]

Good Mic

[@marciorosebud]

Hi, I`m purchase the Mackie EM usb interface but the recording I made with it into Bandlab Cakewalk daw have been accelerated and distorted, could you tell me what could be the reason for this problem?? Thanks, best regards

[@tomit.prakoso3420]

This review is 2 years ago as when I wrote this. I found in electronic marketplace today that this very mic has 3.5 jack input at the bottom to direct-monitor what you say to the mic. Just FYI.

[@Podcastage]

Thanks for the input. I'm not sure why I wasn't getting zero latency monitoring out of mine.

[@samva2364]

I wish u compared it with AKG Lyra too bro.

[@kemalasaridina1898]

Sadly blue yeti and rode are extremely expensive in my country. The blue yeti nano alone costs twice as much as mackie element here (around 250 usd) 😭

[@khghangman]

please do a review for PreSonus Revelator USB-C Microphone

[@vikrambhati7667]

Please make a review on mackie -91cu

[@Ulalayumyum]

Could you review boya microphones pm500 and pm700?

[@almog3875]

I like the Mackie the most