ASMR stands for “autonomous sensory meridian response”, and it refers to the tingling sensation in response to certain sounds. 

Some of the most common ASMR techniques include whispering, humming, and tapping on objects. 

In order for someone to get that tingling sensation, you should record these sounds with a special microphone – a good microphone for ASMR has to be able to pick up the quietest details. 

So if you want to capture ASMR in a proper way, check out the following suggestions – these are the best ASMR microphones in the market right now. 

1. Shure SM7B – Best ASMR microphone

Shure SM7B is widely known for low noise and natural reproduction.

That said, it’s a perfect mic for recording ASMR sounds.

It’s a dynamic mic designed with recording speech and vocal performances in mind, but you can adjust the settings depending on the purpose of using the microphone.

It has a pop shield and shock mount so you don’t need any extra peripherals, and there’s a detachable windscreen for reducing plosives and breath noise.

Many broadcast studios employ the SM7B, and the mic has even been used by some of the most iconic artists in music history, such as Michael Jackson. 

When it comes to ASMR videos and recordings, the SM7B is also a popular choice.

It has excellent build and sound quality, and it has the ability to capture exquisite detail – and that’s all you need to make good ASMR audio.

2. Audio-Technica AT2020 – Best value for money

Audio-Technica AT2020 is another quality mic ideal for ASMR projects.

It delivers that iconic Audio-Technica sound and offers everything you need to capture quiet sounds and details, including superior transient response and great dynamic range.

This USB condenser is also very compact, so you can easily use it on the go.

Moreover, it has a high-definition sample resolution and low self-noise, which makes it a great fit for ASMR.

Plus, it’s reasonably priced.

So if you’re looking for an affordable condenser mic for ASMR that offers great value for money, Audio-Technica AT2020 is an excellent choice. 

3. Rode NT1 – Best condenser mic 

Rode NT1 is generally one of the best condenser microphones in the market right now.

It’s a revamped classic condenser mic, featuring a large diaphragm and cardioid pickup patterns. 

The redesign features the new HF6 capsule designed to have a sound signature similar to vintage mikes but with extremely low noise. 

In fact, the manufacturer claims this is also the world’s quietest one-inch cardioid condenser.

With a self-noise level of just 4.5 dBA, this is certainly one of the best microphones you can get in terms of low noise.

It features a protective black outer mesh basket which protects it from environmental noise. 

Plus, the mic provides excellent sound and built quality, and the vocals are clear and detailed.

That said, the NT1 is actually perfect for ASMR content. 

On top of that, it looks great, so it would fit any ASMR video.

4. Blue Yeti – Best for versatility

Blue Yeti is popular among ASMR artists because it’s well-built, well-priced, and versatile.

And it looks really unique.

One of the best things about this USB-powered condenser mic is the possibility to choose from 4 polar patterns: bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo, and cardioid polar pattern.

And this versatility is one of the reasons so many streamers and ASMR artists decide to opt for it.

But Blue Yeti is an amazing mic in terms of functionality and convenience as well – you won’t need any extra cables, audio interfaces, or power sources to use it.

That said, it’s hard to find a flaw here. 

After all, the fact that it has been a favorite for over a decade now says enough.

5. 3Dio Free Space Binaural – Best binaural mic 

This unique binaural microphone is a serious competitor to Blue Yeti, Rode microphones, and other popular mics for ASMR.

Hundreds of ASMR artists have turned to 3Dio microphones over the years.

But the 3Dio has a rather distinctive look that doesn’t work for everyone – but if you can imagine yourself whispering in someone’s ears while making ASMR content, read on.

Besides ASMR, the 3Dio Free Space is a popular choice for VR virtual reality, field recording, and recording studios.

In fact, the mic is specifically designed for ASMR and virtual reality.

It features two matched condenser capsules and an omnidirectional stereo image, so the audio is captured in all dimensions.

Moreover, this dedicated mic provides an interactive experience because you can touch and press the ear-like microphone while recording. 

It’s a fun microphone for sure, but more importantly, it’s well-built and capable of picking up the smallest details that will send tingles down your spine.

6. AKG C214 – Best for traveling 

AKG C214 is another great ASMR microphone you should check out. 

The C214 is a premium-grade condenser microphone designed for multiple recording applications, and it does a great job at recording ASMR sounds.

With a 143dB dynamic range, it will allow you to capture all the nuances of your vocals or other sounds.

In addition to a classic, sturdy build, the mic comes with a hard case, shock mount, and pop filter, so it’s suitable for different applications and traveling.

That said, the C214 will serve you well for a longer period of time.

And it will certainly meet your expectations and enrich your ASMR content-making process.

7. Sennheiser MKH416 – Best high-end small mic

If you’re looking for a small, compact ASMR microphone, you should check out Sennheiser MKH416.

This is a short shotgun interference tube microphone used for film, radio, television, and outside applications.

It’s pricey, but its design and functionality are second to none.

This is a professional microphone that will last you for a long time and provide you with top performance and excellent sound quality.

It has high sensitivity and very low inherent self-noise, so it’s a perfect mic for ASMR.

And it has a transformerless and fully floating balanced output and rugged construction suitable for all kinds of conditions and uses.

8. Samson Go – Best compact ASMR mic

This is another compact microphone ideal for traveling.

With Samson Go, you can record anytime, anywhere – it’s small and it comes with a travel pouch and a stand.

Besides portability, the Go also provides excellent recording quality, and that’s why many people use it for podcasting, recording, and web-casting. 

The sound is clear and crisp, and that’s the most important thing to look for in an ASMR mic.

The mic is versatile as well, offering two polarity settings: Cardioid and Omni.

And with a frequency response of 20Hz to 18kHz, you can capture anything you want.

There’s no doubt about it – Samson Go is one of the best mini microphones for ASMR out there.

9. Rode K2 – Best for flexibility

Rode K2 is a premium condenser valve microphone that delivers warmth and detail for vocals.

This widely used large-diaphragm microphone is ideal for ASMR content because it has a wide dynamic range and ultra-low noise.

It also has a continuously variable polar pattern for maximum flexibility.

So, whether you need an omnidirectional, cardioid, or figure-8 mic, the K2 has got you covered.

Plus, with a 1-inch gold-sputtered capsule, the mic looks great. 

All things considered, the K2 is one of the most popular mics for ASMR and recording for a good reason. 

After all, Rode is one of the most reputable audio technology companies known for manufacturing top-notch microphones.

10. BEHRINGER C-1U – Best for ASMR videos

Behringer is another popular audio equipment company that manufactures reliable microphones.

Its C-1U is probably the best choice for ASMR artists – it has a flat frequency response that allows you to capture audio accurately.

A max SPL of 136dB will allow you to capture even the smallest details.

The cardioid polar pattern will make sure that no background noise is interfering. 

And the built-in USB interface will make everything easier. 

That said, this mic is ideal for home recording and podcasting, and it’s actually intended for video bloggers.

So all things considered, the C-1U is hands down one of the best ASMR microphones you can find in this price range, and if you want to make high-quality ASMR videos, you should definitely put it on your shortlist. 

How to Choose the Right ASMR Mic

ASMR audio and videos have been around for a while now.

Although there’s still uncharted territory in terms of what ASMR includes, some of the most popular ASMR techniques include: 

• Whispering
• Crinkling
• Blowing
• Chewing
• Tapping

Since ASMR sensation is usually based on clear, crisp sound, one of the most important things in making ASMR audio or videos is a good microphone.

And some microphones are better for recording quiet sounds and details than others.

So if you’re wondering what makes a good ASMR mic, this is your answer –  the ability to capture details is hands down the most important feature here. 

Now, it all depends on how much you’re willing to invest in a microphone. 

Some high-end microphones can do an exquisite job at recording audio for ASMR, but there are also some budget-friendly options that will help you create quality ASMR content.

Besides price, some of the factors you should think about when buying an ASMR mic include:

• Connection type
• Type of mic (condenser or dynamic)
• Polar pattern
• Self-noise
• Sensitivity

A good microphone for ASMR will enable you to capture intricate details of your voice or any other sound, and that’s why audio quality, sensitivity, and self-noise matter a lot. 

Most YouTubers use condenser microphones, as they can capture audio with accuracy, so many ASMR artists decide to go for a condenser mic as well.

Depending on what you want to stream or record, you will need an omnidirectional or a binaural microphone.

A binaural mic uses two microphones with space between them, allowing you to stimulate either ear, which makes them ideal for whispering and so-called ear cleaning.

Either way, you should look for a mic with a wide dynamic range and an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, so you can capture every detail of your voice or quiet sounds.

The mic should also be easy to use, and a USB connection also usually makes it quite convenient.

Finally, choose a mic that you like – if it’s going to be visible in your ASMR videos, getting an aesthetically-pleasing mic can only make things better.

All of these features will help you create immersive ASMR content, but the final choice depends on your personal choice and priorities.

Best ASMR Microphones – Final Thoughts 

We hope our list of the best ASMR microphones helped you narrow down your search.

All of the microphones we reviewed today are popular, reliable, and capable of picking up exquisite details. 

So, regardless of what you opt for, we’re sure your mic will help you create ASMR content you’re proud of!

See also: Best Microphones for Vocals