Blue Microphones have long had one of the more interesting lines of USB recording gadgets. Their latest device, announced at CES 2013, is called Nessie, a snazzy-looking USB microphone that applies “fundamental recording techniques in real time for instantly polished results.”
Armed with a built-in pop filter and internal shockmount, the mic can record “expertly finished sound” with no need for additional mixing or editing post-recording. The integrated hardware supposedly reduces harsh plosives, disruptive rumblings and vibrations on the fly, regardless of whether you’re recording yourself singing, playing an instrument or doing a voiceover. Aside from that, it also integrates adaptive processing (EQ, de-esser, and level control) that automatically smooths and refines the audio throughout the course of your session.
Nessie uses a single, custom-tuned condenser capsule sporting a cardioid pattern with a highly-adjustable head that can be moved with “serpentine flexibility.” It comes with three recording modes: one optimized for rich vocals, another for raw audio, and a last one for instrument sounds. Other details include zero-latency headphone output for direct monitoring and mute/volume controls in the mic itself.
While designed to run on both PCs and Macs, the Nessie is also optimized to work with an iPad, although you’ll need to use an adapter to do so. Price is $99.99.
