3 best stereo microphones

Stereo microphones are specialized microphones designed to capture audio in a manner that replicates the natural stereo sound perception of human ears. They are commonly used in various audio recording applications, including field recording, studio recording, and capturing live performances. Here is some information about stereo microphones:

Stereo Recording Techniques: Stereo recording aims to capture the spatial characteristics of sound, creating a sense of depth and directionality. There are several stereo recording techniques, including:
- X-Y Configuration: In an X-Y setup, two closely placed microphones are angled at 90 degrees or less. This technique provides a balanced stereo image with good mono compatibility.
- Mid-Side (M-S) Configuration: The M-S technique uses two microphones: one in the center (mid) and one figure-8 microphone (side) placed perpendicular to the mid microphone. The stereo width can be adjusted during post-processing, making it highly flexible.
- Blumlein Pair: This technique employs two bidirectional (figure-8) microphones positioned at 90 degrees to each other. It captures a natural and spacious stereo image.
- ORTF (Office de Radiodiffusion-Télévision Française) Technique: The ORTF setup uses two cardioid microphones spaced at 17 cm and angled at 110 degrees. It provides a wide stereo image with good localization.
Types of Stereo Microphones: Stereo microphones come in various designs, including:
- Single-Body Stereo Microphones: These microphones have two capsules integrated into a single housing, making them convenient for portable recording.
- Dual-Capsule Microphones: Dual-capsule microphones consist of two separate microphone capsules mounted closely together. Users can adjust the spacing to control the stereo width.
- Shotgun Stereo Microphones: Some shotgun microphones are designed for stereo recording and are often used in video production and field recording.
Applications:
- Field Recording: Stereo microphones are commonly used for capturing ambient sounds, wildlife, and natural environments in field recording applications.
- Music Recording: In music production, stereo microphones are used for recording instruments, vocal ensembles, and live performances to create a realistic stereo soundstage.
- Film and Video: Stereo microphones are utilized in film and video production to capture immersive soundscapes and ambiance.
- Broadcasting: They are also used in radio and television broadcasting for interviews, live events, and location sound.
Accessories: To achieve the best results with stereo microphones, users often employ accessories like shock mounts, windshields, and boom poles to isolate the microphones from handling noise and environmental factors.
Polar Patterns: Stereo microphones may have various polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and bidirectional.The choice of polar pattern depends on the desired recording characteristics.
Price Range: Stereo microphones are available at different price points, from affordable portable options to high-end studio-grade models. Higher-priced models often offer better build quality and more advanced features.

When choosing a stereo microphone, consider the specific recording scenario, the desired stereo technique, and your budget. Selecting the right stereo microphone can greatly enhance the quality and realism of your recordings.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best stereo microphones on the market

FingerLakes 3.5mm Microphone Assembly Mic for Car Vehicle Head Unit Bluetooth Enabled Stereo Radio GPS DVD

FLTP

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

External Microphone Assembly For Car Radio Head Units With 3.5mm Input. Includes Microphone With 3M Cord, Visor Clip, Dash Mount & Foam Filter. Technical Details: Polar pattern: Omni directional 3.5mm connector Sensitivity:-30dB+/-2dB Frequency Range: 50Hz-20KHz Output Impedance: ≤2.2 kΩ SNR: >58dB Standard Operation Voltage: 4.5V Operation Voltage: 1.0V-10V.DC Wire Length: 3 m (9.84ft) For: Kenwood - KMR-M308BT, KMR-D562BT, KMR-D558BT, KMR-D362BT, KMM-BT312U, KMM-BT308U, KIV-BT901, KIV-BT900, KDC-X998, KDC-X997, KDC-X996, KDC-X995, KDC-X994, KDC-X898, KDC-X897, KDC-X896, KDC-X895, KDC-X798, KDC-X797, KDC-X796, KDC-X697, KDC-X696, KDC-X695, KDC-X599, KDC-X598, KDC-X597, KDC-MP362BT, KDC-BT958HD, KDC-BT955HD, KDC-BT952HD, KDC-BT948HD, KDC-BT855U, KDC-BT852HD, KDC-BT848U, KDC-BT762HD, KDC-BT758HD, KDC-BT752HD, KDC-BT742U, KDC-BT652U, KDC-BT648U, KDC-BT645U, KDC-BT562U, KDC-BT558U, KDC-BT555U, KDC-BT362U, KDC-BT358U, KDC-BT318U, KDC-BT310U, DNX9990HD, DNX9980HD, DNX9960, DNX9140, DNX8120, DNX771HD, DNX719VHD, DNX7190HD, DNX7180, DNX7160, DNX7140, DNX7020EX, DNX7000EX, DNX6990HD, DNX6980, DNX6960, DNX6190HD, DNX6180, DNX6160, DNX6140, DNX6040EX, DNX6020EX, DNX6000EX, DNX571EX, DNX570TR, DNX5180, DNX5060EX, DDX896, DDX8901HD, DDX814, DDX812, DDX790, DDX771, DDX7701HD, DDX770, DDX719, DDX714, DDX712, DDX616, DDX5901HD, DDX491HD, DDX471HD, DDX470, DDX419, DDX418, DDX372BT, DDX371, DDX370 Sony: MEX- GS610BT, MEX-N5100BT, MEX-GS8100BH, MEX-N6000BT, MEX-M70BT, MEX-M50BT, XNV-660BT, XNV-770BT, XAV-72BT, XAV-712HD, XAV-70BT, XAV-701HD, XAV-68BT, XAV-62BT, XAV-622, XAV-602BT, XAV-64BT, XAV-601BT, WX-GT90BT, MEX-N5000BT, MEX-GS600BT, MEX-BT5000, MEX-BT5700U, MEX-BT4700U, MEX-BT4000P, MEX-BT4100P, MEX-BT39UW, MEX-BT3900U, MEX-BT3800U, MEX-BT38UW, MEX-BT3700U, MEX-BT3100P, MEX-BT31, MEX-BT3000P, MEX-BT2900 Alpine: INA-W910, INE-NAV40, INE-S920HD, INE-W927HD, INE-W940, INE-W957HD, INE-Z928HD, IVE-W535HD, IVE-W555BT, UTE-42BT, UTE-52BT, CDE-W265BT,

Adopting electret condenser cartridge with high sensitivity , low impedance , anti noise and ant jamming capability ,
Aftermarket microphone works with most car radios with 3.5mm Mic input.
With fast and accurate data transmission, which could guarantee the voice clearly and stably under kinds driving occasions,
Includes Dash Mount & Visor Clip.
Wire Length 3 M (9 Feet)

User questions & answers

Question:	What’s the maximum distance recommended to get clear voice capture
Answer:	Mine is opprox 400mm and work perfect.
Question:	Will this work on a gopor hero4. I have and adapter for the gopro to connect to a 3.5mm jack
Answer:	I have a Hero5 and it DOES work, using the GoPro USB>3.5mm adapter.
Question:	will this work with alpine ilx
Answer:	If it has a standard mono 3.5mm mic input, I am sure it will work.
Question:	Can i sing to music with this mic
Answer:	yes thank you

Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone for iPhone/iPad/iPod via Lightning Connector, Professional-Quality Sound, Digital Stereo Condenser Mic for Vloggers, Filmmakers, Music Makers & Journalists

Shure

Check latest price

Product description

With an innovative mid-side architecture for clean, clear stereo sound, the MOTIV MV88 Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone directly connects to any Apple iPhone, iPod or iPad equipped with a Lightning connector to capture high-quality recordings on the go. The mid-side microphone element is mounted to a unique 90-degree hinge with built-in rotation that allows for highly flexible microphone position, even in video applications. Five built-in DSP preset modes (Speech, Singing, Flat, Acoustic Instrument, Loud) can be accessed via the Shure Plus MOTIV Recording App, a free download from the Apple App Store. The MOTIV app also allows for real-time adjustments including microphone gain, stereo width, and high-quality 24-bit/48 kHz recording for optimal results in virtually any environment. Shure-tested, all-metal construction provides confident performance in any environment.

Adjustable Gain Range0 to +36 dB

iOS LIGHTNING CONNECTION: Apple MFi certified and compatible with all iOS devices with a Lightning connector
POCKET-FRIENDLY: Capture powerful audio recordings on the move without the need for large and heavy audio equipment
FULLY ADJUSTABLE: Flexibility to tilt, flip and rotate the microphone up to 90° to get stereo clarity, whatever your sound source
TWO FREE APPS: ShurePlus MOTIV Audio & ShurePlus MOTIV Video allow you to customize the performance and set-up of the microphone for professional audio and video capture. Download directly from App Store
NO WIND NOISE: Includes a black foam windscreen (part number AMV88-WS); please note that the windscreen comes attached and can be removed if desired
BUILT TO LAST: All-metal construction and quality Shure engineering that has stood the test of touring and live stages across the world over the past 90 years
PROTECTION IN TRANSIT: High-quality zip carry case included for protection when traveling
IN THE BOX: 2-Year Warranty, MV88 microphone, foam windshield, carry case, headphone monitor adaptor cable

User questions & answers

Question:	Will i need an extender to fit this onto an iphone with a otterbox defender case
Answer:	You can connect straight to a laptop and record with Audacity. You don't need anything else. The software will detect right away.
Question:	Has anyone used this to try and capture loud live performances? does it handle very loud music well with the compressor in the app? thanks
Answer:	Thanks for your support on Piy Painting microphones for podcasting. Yes, this computer mic are cardioid pick-up pattern that background noise is screened out while sound sources directly in front of the streaming mic are recorded more focused and full-bodied.
Question:	Can this be used with an extension cord so that it is not attched to the iPhone? Which cord
Answer:	Higher sampling rate will provide you clearer, smoother and flatter response of voice. 192khz/24bit is much better.
Question:	Do all the features of the mic work when taking a video with it
Answer:	Absolutely, this usb microphone kit comes with a foam cover and a pop filter, great quality for singing

Product features

Capture professional sound directly to your iOS device

Mounted via Lightning, your iOS device now sports the plug-and-play mic with stereo audio. The MV88 records with crystal clear sound, gets that interview with clarity and captures the performance of a lifetime. MV88 only compatible with Lightning-enabled iOS devices.

iOS Compatible

MV88 supports Lightning iOS devices only. Check supported devices on the Shure website.

Professional Sound

A century of audio excellence informs this plug-in mic that’s everything you'd expect from Shure.

App Integration

Download our free ShurePlus MOTIV Audio and Video apps and configure your mic settings and record.

Fully Adjustable

Tilt, rotate or flip the MV88 up to 90 degrees, to get stereo clarity recording from your source.

Two months of Adobe Premiere Rush with every purchase

We have partnered with our friends at Adobe to provide a two-month subscription to Premiere Rush with every MOTIV microphone. Create, edit and share video content on the move, and have the flexibility of switching between mobile and desktop to edit, whilst your project is saved on the Cloud. Combine your MOTIV microphone with Adobe Premiere Rush and level-up your video production. Visit the Shure website for information on how to redeem.

Zoom H1n Portable Recorder, Onboard Stereo Microphones, Camera Mountable, Records to SD Card, Compact, USB Microphone, Overdubbing, Dictation, For Recording Music, Audio for Video, and Interviews

Zoom

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Zoom H1n Handy Recorder (2018 Model)

Streamlined Body with matte finish and newly designed protective mic enclosure
Built-in stereo condenser microphones in 90-Degree x/Y format
One-touch button controls.Battery life (alkaline batteries): Approximately 10 hours (continuous recording time using built-in mic, 44.1 kHz/16-bit)
Localized and intuitive menus for easy operation.Input impedance: 2 kΩ
Playback Speed Control, Voice Emphasize Filter, and Stereo overdubbing functions

User questions & answers

Question:	When you connect a mic into the input line. Can you mix it with the built-in mics
Answer:	No, but ZOOM makes (and Amazon sells) another model that will record FOUR channels --- the "same" two built-in mics PLUS two LINE/XLR jacks: the H5 (which I also own). (See here: http://amzn.to/2l8U4nC) (that's a lowercase L and N)
Question:	How can I use the zoom h1 as a dslr mic.? If it is possible do I have to press record on the zoom h1 and and press the record button on the dslr whe
Answer:	Just a note about recording into a dslr: the bitrate and sample rate you set on the zoom doesn't affect the bitrate and sample rate recorded onto the dslr file. Your dslr always determines the bitrate and sample rate. (IE: for most Canon's that's 44khz/16 bit). The audio quality from the zoom will be better than your on-camera mic simply because the microphone itself is higher quality, but don't expect to be recording 96khz/24 bit audio straight into your dslr's .mov files!
Question:	can I record a piece to video with the Zoom recording my voice and then synch it to video
Answer:	Sure thing. I use mine as a primary aiduo recorder for my Nikon D5300. I use the sound from the camera as areference track and then stnc the wave file from the Zoom to the video using Final Cut X. Works perfect with much better sound quality.
Question:	What does this device actually record onto - some sort of a memory card or flash drive? I'm looking for something that will record at least 6 hours
Answer:	You get roughly 12 hours on the 2GB micro SD card included, in MP3 320kbps. Quality is excellent. If you want WAV format your looking at about 2.5 hours with the stock card. Larger cards are cheap though so it's upgradable.

Product features

Zoom H1n

The evolution in portable recording continues with the Zoom H1n. Designed for creators of all kinds, the H1n boasts built-in 90-degree X/Y stereo mics, advanced one-touch button controls, and distortion-free recording. It’s powerful enough for professional projects yet small enough to fit into your pocket. It’s the ultimate.

take-anywhere recorder for every creators gig bag.

Built-in 90˚ X/Y Microphones

The H1n features built-in X/Y stereo microphones for capturing high-quality stereo sound. The mic itself covers a wide area while emphasizing the center of the sound field, allowing creators to record crystal clear audio in almost any setting.

Record Anytime, Anywhere

Thanks to the H1n’s compact and rugged design, it can record high-quality sound just about anywhere. It features a newly designed mic enclosure to protect the X/Y mics from wear and tear, so you can put it your pocket, toss it in your backpack, or take it out in the field.

Distortion-Free Recording

An advanced onboard limiter enables the H1n to record distortion-free signal up to 120 dB SPL. Capture concerts, band practice, or other loud environments without compromising audio quality.

Enhanced Playback and Control

Playback Speed Control lets you easily transcribe interviews. For musicians, the A-B repeat comes in handy when you are learning and rehearsing. The overdub feature lets you add new sounds over existing recordings. You can also set the H1n to auto-record, pre-record, and self-time.

Easy-to-Use Menus and Controls

Graphic LCD display, one-touch button controls, and localized menus make the H1n perfect for both entry-level and professional creators. Quickly record song ideas, audio for film projects, lectures or meetings, podcast interviews, and more—all with exceptional audio quality.