Apogee MiC Plus and Apogee HypeMiC — portable USB microphones for PC, Mac and iOS devices
The Apogee MiC Plus and HypeMiC update the Apogee MiC products that have sold successfully since 2011. These portable USB microphones work with computers and mobile iOS devices. The first 2011 model was fairly simple, with standard features. The new microphones have a modernized design, a headphone output for latency-free recording monitoring, and much better internal electronics. They support recording up to 24-bit/96 kHz.
The Apogee MiC Plus and HypeMiC look almost identical, but differ inside. The HypeMiC adds hardware dynamics processing to compress the recorded signal. Processing takes place in the analog path before conversion to digital. That is why the description refers to a built-in analog compressor. Analog processing in digital devices is not unusual, but we have not seen it in other USB microphones. It gives the HypeMiC a unique feature and adds to its appeal.
In practice, dynamics processing is useful for broadcasts and online conversations where post-processing with plugins is not possible. If real-time processing is unnecessary, the MiC Plus is more attractive because it saves a third of the microphone's price. The HypeMiC does, however, include a much richer accessory package.
The new-generation Apogee MiC Plus arrived before the HypeMiC, in 2017. Even this model included a desktop tripod and three cable types for computers and iOS devices.
The HypeMiC compressor model appeared more recently, in 2019. Along with hardware processing, it gained a taller stand, a pop filter, and a storage and carrying case.
MiC Plus and HypeMiC specifications
| Type | Condenser |
| Capsule | 12 mm electret |
| Polar pattern | Unidirectional, cardioid |
| Maximum SPL | 130 dB |
| Sensitivity | -36 dBfs |
| Noise level | -108 dBfs |
| Gain | 46 dB |
| Connections | Micro USB |
| Operating formats | 16/24-bit, 44/48/96 kHz |
| Power supply | USB bus power |
| Headphone output | Mini-jack |
| Hardware controls | Gain, mute |
| Dimensions | 124 × 38 × 38 mm |
| Weight | 200 g |
From the manufacturer's photos alone, the Apogee microphones may look much like traditional studio models. Seeing them in person makes the meaning of portable clear.
The photo clearly shows their small size. The compact microphone looks natural beside an iOS phone or tablet. Small dimensions and low weight are also valuable when traveling or recording on location with many other items to carry.
The compact size does not reduce features or ease of use. The capsule and electronics fit comfortably inside, and the front controls are positioned for easy adjustment.
The microphones have cast-metal housings. As on studio models, a metal grille protects the capsule at the top. A button and a stepped endless rotary control adjust hardware settings. Multi-function indicators show operating modes.
The rotary control adjusts gain only. Headphone volume is set in software, through the mobile application or computer control panel. Pressing the HypeMiC control cycles through compressor presets. On the MiC Plus, pressing it mutes the microphone.
The button above the control adjusts the monitoring balance between the microphone and other sounds. Five input/output ratios are available: 90/10, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, and 0/100. The first number represents the input and the second the output. During gain adjustment, the indicators conveniently show the input level. Green LEDs turn red on overload. Monitoring and compression presets use blue and purple illumination according to the selected mode. Operation is simple and convenient.
The microphones have one fixed cardioid polar pattern. A 12 mm electret diaphragm is used. A special frame with a rubber support isolates the capsule from housing vibration. Extra foam protects the diaphragm from breath, dust, and moisture.
The HypeMiC also includes a gooseneck pop filter. It attaches securely between the tripod and swivel mount and can be positioned to match the microphone angle. Interestingly, the filter uses very fine metal mesh rather than fabric. It handles its main task of reducing plosives very well. Even with close voice recording, it softens air impacts effectively, preventing breath noise and clipping.
Connections are on the bottom of the housing. A micro-USB port connects to a computer or mobile device. All necessary cables are included, with USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and Lightning plugs. Headphones connect through a mini-jack socket.
The microphone uses a threaded mount. A swivel adapter screws into the rear housing, allowing any microphone angle. Another threaded hole underneath the adapter accepts the supplied tripod, a microphone stand, or a boom arm.
The more expensive HypeMiC includes a small storage and carrying case. Cutouts hold the microphone and all structural parts, protecting them from physical damage. Nothing moves around during transport. An extra zippered pocket in the lid holds the connection cables.
The Apogee microphones use a CY8C34 PSoC chip. Compared with the MiC Plus, the HypeMiC circuit is almost unchanged apart from the added dynamics-processing components.
A separate THAT4320 chip provides analog compression in the HypeMiC. Conversion uses an AK4558 codec with good specifications: dynamic range 108 dBA, ADC THD+N 92 dB, and DAC THD+N 100 dB. The TPA6130A2 integrated headphone amplifier also looks good, with a stated 127 mW output into 16 ohms.
The Apogee microphones have interesting electronics. Converter quality matches modern affordable audio interfaces and exceeds typical budget USB microphones.
No special drivers are needed for normal computer use. The microphones work as soon as they are connected. Recording in professional Windows applications does, however, require the universal ASIO4ALL driver.
We tested the Apogee microphones with an iOS device and a Windows computer. We had no problems or difficulties in either case. Both microphones performed well and clearly suited professional use. This is not just about the more expensive model's hardware processing: the microphones themselves are good. Voice sounds natural and clear, with good low-frequency body. There are none of the internal resonances common in cheap capsules. Recorded material is high quality. Headphone volume is sufficient for comfortable monitoring and music listening, with a little headroom. It is a pity that headphone volume cannot be adjusted directly on the microphone.
The HypeMiC compression is interesting. Three modes provide different amounts of compression. Shape is the gentlest and has little effect on dynamics. Squeeze applies clearly audible compression to the input. Smash is an extreme mode that deliberately compresses the full range, making background sounds and room acoustics audible. The first two modes are most suitable for voice, making it clearer, denser, and brighter. We strongly recommend them for broadcasting and speech. Smash is more useful for creative effects or instrument recording. If compression is not needed, it can be disabled completely and the recording processed more flexibly afterward.
Conclusions
The Apogee MiC Plus and HypeMiC will mainly interest bloggers, active iOS users, and people who record frequently while traveling or on location. The lack of a dedicated ASIO driver supports that positioning. Compared with other manufacturers' USB microphones, these portable Apogee models are more attractive because of their better converters and the HypeMiC's hardware processing. They also cost more than competitors. Clear strengths include support for up to 24-bit/96 kHz, high recording quality, portability, and simple, convenient operation.
Note. This is an adapted machine translation into English. It follows the “In simple terms” approach. Read the original article at https://prosound.ixbt.com/microphones/apogee-hypemic.shtml.