This in-depth review dives into the Neat BumbleBee II USB microphone, examining its build quality, features, and overall performance. We'll explore its compact design, including its metal construction, intuitive controls (mute button and multi-function dial), and convenient connectivity options (USB-C and 3.5mm headphone jack). We'll assess the microphone's sound quality through various tests, considering its frequency response, off-axis rejection, and handling of different sound sources at varying distances.This comprehensive analysis includes audio samples and direct comparisons against leading microphones across various price points, such as the Razer Seiren Mini, HyperX Solocast, and even professional standards like the Shure SM57 and Neumann U87 Ai. We'll uncover its strengths and weaknesses, ultimately determining whether the BumbleBee II's impressive value proposition at a discounted price justifies its place in the competitive microphone market. Read on for a complete assessment of this budget-friendly contender.
Pros And Cons
- Solid sound quality, especially at a sale price.
- Includes all necessary accessories to start recording.
- Easy mixing between computer playback and zero-latency monitoring.
- Has a mute button.
- The multi-function dial/button sometimes gets stuck.
- Microphone input and headphone output settings are remembered after power loss, but the mix setting is reset.
- Poor off-axis rejection.
- Green and yellow lights are difficult to distinguish (colorblindness issue mentioned).
- Mute button has a slight click.
Read more: SM Professional XR50 Wireless Microphone: Unboxing, Features & Review
Unboxing and Build Quality
The Neat BumbleBee II arrived in a standard box containing the microphone, a pre-installed desktop stand, a USB-C to USB-A cable (approximately 1 meter long), a 5/8" to 3/8" microphone stand adapter, and minimal documentation. The microphone itself feels surprisingly solid for its price point.
The metal body and grill show minimal flex, and the metal yoke mount adds to its sturdy construction. While the metal components aren't top-tier quality, they are more than adequate for everyday use.
Controls and Features
The microphone features a mute button and a multi-function dial on the front. Pressing the dial cycles through headphone volume, microphone level, and a mix between computer playback and zero-latency monitoring. The multi-function dial on my unit had a minor issue with occasional sticking, requiring a gentle nudge to unstick.
On the bottom, you'll find a USB-C port for connecting to your device and a 3.5mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring and computer playback. The microphone is manufactured in China.
Off-Axis Rejection and Polar Pattern Demonstration
The video includes a demonstration of the BumbleBee II's off-axis rejection and coloration. The presenter rotates the microphone to show how it handles sound from different angles. This helps viewers understand how well it isolates the primary sound source from background noise.
Sound Quality Tests: Proximity Effect and Background Noise Rejection
The reviewer tests the microphone's performance at various distances and in different acoustic environments. This includes tests at close range (6 inches) to illustrate the proximity effect, as well as at distances of 1ft, 2ft, and 4ft to assess how it handles different sound levels.
Tests are also performed with the microphone on both a desk and a boom arm, and background noise such as keyboard typing is assessed. This offers a comprehensive evaluation of its real-world performance.
Microphone Comparisons: Multiple Microphones
The Neat BumbleBee II is compared directly to several other microphones across different price points and functionalities. The comparison involves a variety of microphone models, including the Samsung Go Mic, Razer Seiren Mini, HyperX Solocast, Logitech Blue Yeti Orb, Rode NT-USB Mini, Sennheiser Profile USB, and Audio-Technica AT2020X-USB and even the industry standard Shure SM57 and Neumann U87 Ai.
The reviewer provides audio samples for each comparison, making it easy to hear the subtle differences in sound quality and character between these microphones, allowing for an objective comparison.
Music Recording Test
A musical recording test was conducted, showcasing the microphone's suitability for music production. The recording quality is presented to provide a clearer understanding of the frequency response and its performance under musical conditions.
The clip allows the listener to judge the Bumblebee II's audio characteristics for musical applications. It is meant to highlight its ability to capture nuances in musical instruments and vocals.
Conclusion and Verdict
At a discounted price of $25, the Neat BumbleBee II is an excellent value, offering surprisingly good sound quality. Its V-shaped frequency response provides strong bass and low mids with good detail and articulation, making it well-suited for various applications. The sound is better with the microphone closer to the sound source and off the included desk stand.
However, minor issues like the occasionally sticking button and the resetting of the monitoring mix upon power loss slightly detract from the experience. While a solid performer at its discounted price point, the $100 MSRP may make it less compelling compared to more established brands.