While a microphone may be crucial for various applications such as online conferencing, podcasting, and digital tabletop sessions, it is often overlooked in favor of other essential computer components. I’ve relied on my trusty Neat Bumblebee 2, a cardioid USB microphone from an organization that clearly knows its stuff at home – compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs. As of now, snag a remarkable bargain on this microphone from Woot, where it’s currently priced at just $16.99 for the next four days or until supplies run out.
The mannequin’s cardioid microphone effectively filters out ambient noise, while its included headphone jack enables real-time audio monitoring, allowing for precise adjustments to be made as needed to ensure optimal sound quality. I’ve been fortunate enough to have had the Bumblebee 2 on my desk since its release in 2018, a constant companion during countless video calls and gaming sessions. I appreciate its intuitive design, boasting a distinctive mute button that triggers the illumination of a discreet yet prominent purple LED, ensuring that all auditory cues are effectively silenced for those around you. The central feature is a versatile dial that enables you to control and modify the tone of your voice, allowing for precise adjustments.
Founded by innovators with a passion for sound quality, Neat Microphones boasts a rich history that has earned it recognition within the industry, even if you may not be familiar with its name yet. The company founded Blue Microphones, whose innovative products like the Blue Snowball and Yeti microphones achieved immense success, ultimately prompting Logitech to acquire the business in the 2010s? Neat’s parent company, Turtle Seaside, acquired Neat in 2021.