USB microphones can be used to record music, though these days, they're just as likely to be used for podcasting or streaming. The Sennheiser Profile Streaming Set ($199 with a boom arm) is clearly geared toward the latter. We like the cardioid mic’s clear, relatively transparent signal for vocals, but it really stands out for its onboard gain, headphone level, and mixing knobs. Simply put, few mics offer as clean a signal with this much control, earning the Sennheiser Profile our Editors’ Choice award.Excellent Controls and a Quality Boom Arm The Sennheiser Profile is available in two packages: with a desktop stand for $129 or with a boom arm for $199. This review covers the latter, which Sennheiser calls the Profile Streaming Set. The cylindrical Profile mic has a sturdy metallic build, measures roughly 6.0 by 1.9 inches (HW), sports physical controls on the front, and offers connections on the rear. It’s a side-address condenser mic with Sennheiser’s KE 10 cardioid-pattern cap...
The Sennheiser Profile Streaming Set is an excellent all-in-one vocals solution thanks to its combination of an easy-to-use USB mic and a sturdy boom arm.
Quality vocal mic with transparent signal; Onboard gain, mix, and headphone controls; Sturdy boom arm; Long cable
Lacks software with effects and presets; Doesn't include pop filter