Blue's latest gear for the iPhone and computers

Blue Microphones at Macworld 2010 introduced its second-generation Mikey attachment for iPhones and iPods, while the company's recently-released Yeti mic was also on hand. MacNN had a chance to take a closer look at both of the new microphones, along with the Blue FiRe app for making high-quality recordings on the iPhone and iPod touch.

The second-generation Mikey builds upon the features of its predecessor, which had received a positive rating in a MacNN review. The latest model is said to feature a new acoustic circuit for improved recording quality, especially at high-volume events, such as concerts, that require attenuation to avoid clipping.

Blue utilizes the same three-position gain switch as the original Mikey, rather than a variable knob or slider. The housing also holds two of the company's condenser capsules for stereo recording. A new 3.5mm port now allows users to connect another input source, such as an instrument or soundboard, while a USB pass-thru connection enables the iPhone or iPod touch to be charged without interrupting the recording.

The Mikey now features a seven-position hinge between the mic housing and the dock connector, allowing users to adjust orientation. Range is extended to 230 degrees, far enough to pull the microphone to the back of the iPhone when simultaneously recording video and audio.

Blue FiRe, an iPhone app announced several months ago, is designed to take advantage of the improved sound quality of the condenser mics. Quality settings range from 11.025kHz up to 44.2kHz, with file options including WAV, AIFF, and CAF. The app interface also provides level meters for both channels, helping to provide a visual indication when the sound reaches the maximum limit.

The Yeti is Blue's answer to many of the USB-attached mics currently available on the market. The housing is larger than it appears at first glance in the press photos, with a form factor that adopts several elements from the company's high-end Bottle mics. The Yeti appears to be a well-built microphone, especially considering the comparatively low price.

Blue chose to integrate separate boards for components such as the DA converter and discrete headphone amp, helping to avoid crosstalk and interference. Unlike many other USB-attached condenser mics, the Yeti features an array of three capsules and a selector switch for omni, cardioid, stereo and bidirectional pickup patterns. Users can also directly connect headphones for zero-latency monitoring.

The Yeti is currently available for $150, while the second-gen Mikey is expected to start shipping in March for $100. The Blue FiRe app is available as a free download on the App Store.

By Electronista Staff