Home Microphone Comparisons Blue Yeti vs. Blue Spark | THE DIFFERENCE?

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Hi friend and Welcome!!

If you were looking for the Blue Yeti vs. Blue Yeti Pro, and clicked on this article out of curiosity, head on over there! Otherwise..

Today I’m comin’ at you in style with a sweet comparison review of the Blue Yeti vs. Blue Spark! Both are good microphones, but they’re very different from one another. Before we get into it, grab a snack, sit back and relax because…

You’ve come to the right place!!

What I will bring you in this review

Of each microphone:

  1. A Summary
  2. Pros
  3. Cons
  4. Video Review
  5. Who this mic benefits?
  6. What you will need?
  7. Consensus/Conclusion
  8. Similarities/Differences
  9. USB or XLR?
  10. Final Word

Let’s get started!

Blue Yeti

Price: Check Amazon! | Check eBay!

Specifications

  • Microphone Type: Condenser. Condenser mic vs. Dynamic mic.
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid or Omni-directional.
  • Frequency Response: 40Hz – 18kHz
  • Color: Silver, White or Black
  • Connector: USB.
  • Weight: 460 g
  • Included Accessories: USB Cable, Stand.

Summary

This is a really popular condenser mic and for good reason. Standing about a foot tall on your desk, it’s got a great sound, is really solid, reliable, and most importantly it’s convenient. I know many of you don’t really want to bother with the whole XLR setup. You just want to be able to plug and play. If that sounds like you, then this may be a great option.

Being that the Yeti is a USB mic, you won’t have to tinker around with extraneous gear.

Some folks get scared off from USB setups because they seem cheap and easy, but not satisfying.

What you’re getting here is a versatile piece of equipment with great sound quality.

Called exceptional, this mic handles a variety of applications very well. I’ve seen it endorsed mostly for Skype, conference calls, pod-casting, you-tube, and anything that requires voice-over.

You may not want to pick this up as your primary vocal mic, but it has been known to handle that as well. What I will say is that I believe the Yeti to be first in line in The best mics for podcasting! It also has a very nice build, is made of metal, and feels solid in your hand 🙂 Some have complained that it leaves a rather large footprint on your desk, because of the fact that it stands so tall.

Pros

  • The sound quality is exceptional.
  • Solid build (made of metal) and a great mic stand that comes with it.
  • Convenient, just plug and play.
  • Recognized by all windows platforms.
  • Has a mute button. simple knobs and design.
  • Good USB cable provided.
  • Versatile. You can record almost anything in any type of circumstance.
  • 4 different polar patterns for amazing versatility.
  • Gain control and headphone jack for no latency live monitoring. What is latency?

Cons

  • Needs to be plugged directly into a USB port on your laptop/computer. Some say it doesn’t do well plugged into a separate USB hub.
  • The mic does not actually have an On/off switch.
  • Extremely sensitive and picks up everything (this can be a good and bad thing).

Check out the super informative review! (mic test comes around 7:30)

Who benefits from this mic?

  • people who do video conferencing
  • pod-casters, people who need to do voice over
  • people who want to Skype
  • people who need to record for videos or animations

What you will need?

Really the only thing you need is the windscreen!

Consensus/Conclusion

So many people rave about its sound quality, build, convenience, and versatility. It’s really an all-purpose mic that is super easy to use. Complaints include size (a bit large), and you can’t include a standard pop filter unless you Jerry rig it. People were also saying it’s hyper-sensitive, but recording in the right environment greatly helps.

Overall, this is one of the best options you can go with if you’re looking to record with Skype, doing any pod-casting, you-tube videos, video conferencing, and anything similar. I wouldn’t recommend it much for vocals, although it can be done. The 4 different polar patterns, its rugged build, and remarkable versatility make it an affordable and valuable option.

Onto..

Blue Spark

Price: Check Amazon! | Check eBay!

  • Microphone Type: Condenser.
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid. What is a cardioid capsule?
  • Diaphragm Size: 0.91″ (23mm).
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
  • Color: Orange
  • Connector: XLR. What is XLR?
  • Max SPL: 128dB. What is SPL?
  • Output Impedance: 50 Ohm.
  • Signal to Noise Ratio: 84dB
  • Self Noise: 10dB (A-weighted).
  • Weight: 1.25 lbs.
  • Included Accessories: Shockmount, Pop filter, Wood Box.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: SPARK

Summary

The Blue Spark has been touted as an affordable and quality alternative to more expensive mics that may be out of price range. It’s been called a jack of all trades type of mic, and captures the voice accurately, while still giving it a touch of warmth.

However, the reviews are mixed. Some say it’s really hit and miss as far as vocals go, and depends on your voice. The Blue spark does well with smoother, medium-to-high pitch voices, and places more of an emphasis on treble rather than mid-range and bass.

Almost every review I’ve read complained that the pop filter was worthless. Similarly, the shock-mount got fewer complaints overall, but of those, the gripe was that of a design flaw. It is simply a pain to deal with. Some have said that the mic alone is worth a lot more than its price tag, however.

As far as sound is where the mic shines. As mentioned above, it’s a jack of all trades type of piece. It does well with drums, vox, guitar, violin, acoustics, gaming, making videos, skype, podcasting, webinars, etc. You get the point 🙂 It has a balanced tone and fairly low noise, and captures your voice so accurately that it may make you feel uncomfortable! 😀

The build of the mic is very solid. There are 3 sections of it that are all twisted on, forming one. It has been said that they can become loose when attaching this mic to a stand. Be wary of this.

Pros

  • Jack of all trades mic.
  • Great for higher voices (female).
  • Balanced tone and fairly low noise.
  • Well made, heavy durable, solid.
  • Comes in a nice wooden case.
  • Great packaging.
  • Comes with nice tips and instructions on how to use it.
  • Pairs very well with the Scarlett 2i2 and the Steinberg U22 audio interface. What does an audio interface do?
  • Captures the voice very accurately.
  • Adds warmth and color to the voice.
  • Can be paired with the blue icicle which converts it into USB.

Cons

  • Worthless pop filter.
  • Shock-mount is questionable at best.
  • Hit and miss as far as vocals go. Could sound either amazing or just plain muddy depending on the voice.
  • No provided XLR cable.

Check out the video review!!

Who this mic benefits?

Endorsed for all of the following:

  • Gaming
  • Videos
  • Skype
  • Pod-casting
  • Webinars
  • Violin
  • Drums
  • Vox
  • Guitar
  • Acoustics

What you will need?

Chillin’ in studio 🙂

This is an XLR cardioid condenser mic, so you will need the following:

A couple of good options to consider are the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 mentioned above, or the Steinberg U22. Both pair extremely well with this unit.

Check out my Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Review!

Consensus/Conclusion

The sound quality is exceptional but can be hit and miss depending on your voice. If you have a medium to higher-pitched voice, with emphasis on the treble, this may be the mic for you. It doesn’t do as well with bass-heavy folk. The pop filter is also pretty much worthless, and the shock-mount is questionable.

Overall I would say it’s a pretty remarkable mic as far as sound quality and build are concerned. If you’re looking for a jack of all trades type of mic, then this may be a great option. Just be aware of some of its flaws.

Similarities and Differences

Similarities

  • Both do well with podcasting and voice-over type work and are also quite versatile in that they can handle a wide range of genres.
  • Both are made by Blue Microphones.
  • Both have a nice build and good sound quality.

Differences

  • Aesthetic. The Blue Spark has a baby bottle quality to it and looks radically different from the rounded-off, somewhat tube shape of the Yeti.
  • Connection. The Blue Spark is an XLR mic that requires 48v Phantom Power. By contrast, the Blue Yeti offers simple plug-and-play by way of a USB connection.
  • Application. The Blue Spark uses a more traditional setup, utilizing a standard mic stand outfit. The Blue Yeti simply sits on your desk.
  • Protection. The Blue Yeti requires a separate windscreen, while the Blue Spark uses a traditional pop filter.

USB or XLR? Which to Choose?

When starting out, it may be tempting to go with the USB option. I can definitely see why. It’s convenient, there are no extra necessities you have to worry about, and there are some pretty great models out there that deliver a more than adequate sound! If you’re doing voice-over-type stuff, The Blue Yeti USB will give you the results you’re looking for.

The downside is cost. You’re in essence sacrificing price for convenience. The trade-off when you buy an XLR mic is that sometimes the cost is lower, but you’ll have to spend that extra dough on essentials like an audio interface, XLR cables, etc. Your audio interface.

If you need a mic to record your voice or lay down some simple tracks, USB may be the way to go.

If you’re looking for better sound quality, an XLR mic may be your best bet. Some benefits include being able to record vocals and instruments, as well as being able to power a good pair of studio monitors. What are studio monitors? You can also hook up a MIDI device as well, so long as the interface has MIDI capability. What is MIDI? It’s more of a long-term investment, as you can upgrade your mic and have a lot of different ones to choose from.

For a great pair of entry-level monitors, check out my JBL LSR305 Review!

Final Word

It really depends on your needs when deciding which of these is more suitable.

Do you want an XLR setup that requires 48v phantom power? Go with the Blue Spark.

SEE THE BLUE SPARK FOR YOURSELF ON AMAZON!!

Or

Do you want to be able to simply plug and play? Need the best mic for podcasting? Go with the Blue Yeti. It’s the all-in-one solution and comes power-packed with everything you need to get started recording. Check out my in-depth and informative:

BLUE MICROPHONES YETI REVIEW!!

As far as sound, both mics are very comparable and do well in a lot of the same applications. The Blue spark was more endorsed for vocals than the Blue Yeti. Both mics more than deliver results when it comes to voice-over-type stuff.


Well that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve enjoyed my Blue Yeti vs. Blue Spark comparison review!!

Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Let me know down below or Contact me!!

So what do you think about these 2 microphones? Which one would you be more likely to go with? Let me know!!

All the best and God bless,

 

 

-Stu

[Xtr@Ba$eHitZ]

Be sure to check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!

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16 comments

aba November 7, 2015 - 6:44 am

Thanks for the review.
I have been thinking about starting a podcast for my site and couldn’t come with the right tools to use especially mics. From your detailed review, I think I’ll go with blue yeti.

Reply
Stu November 8, 2015 - 4:25 pm

Hey Aba! The blue yeti is quite a nice mic. Glad you’ve come to the right decision!!

-Stu

Reply
Riaz Shah November 7, 2015 - 9:39 am

Great review Stu!
I’m looking for a mic to start recording some of my acoustic covers and Blue Spark sounds just right! My voice is somewhere between medium-high pitch so I tend to sing higher when stretching vocals, will that be okay with Blue Spark or should I go for Blue Yeti?

Reply
Stu November 7, 2015 - 11:18 pm

Hey Riaz!

Yes the Blue Spark does well with medium to higher pitched voices. Sounds like it may be the mic for you. If you don’t want to invest in an audio interface, the Blue Yeti may be more convenient as it’s USB plug and play. It’s a great all around mic as well.

-Stu

Reply
Tyler Redlev November 7, 2015 - 9:40 am

Great review! A Mic was one of the things that I was looking forward to get, and this content was helpful for me. I just couldn’t decide which is better. It’s a hard choice to make. But i will be keeping this information in mind. But for me Blue Yeti seems to go better with me. Thank you!

Reply
Stu November 7, 2015 - 11:16 pm

No problem Tyler!

Glad to be of some help. Let me know if you have any questions.. Hope you end up making the right decision..

-Stu

Reply
James W D April 12, 2016 - 2:04 pm

Been looking to build out a home office for my blooming internet business and YouTube Channel. I really like the look of the Blue Yeti and it’s pros.

Where I am concerned is the lack of a power switch on it. Is that controlled through the computer or is it just always working when plugged in?

Reply
Stu April 13, 2016 - 3:53 am

Hey James!

Yeah unfortunately the mic doesn’t have one. It instead powers on and off via the USB cable, so I’m assuming even if it’s plugged in and you shut your computer down, it will power down as well. An awkward flaw in an otherwise stellar mic. You would think since the mic itself has like 80 different features (lol), they could include a power switch? Oh well. Glad you stopped by. Come back again anytime!

-Stu

Reply
Brad June 10, 2016 - 6:57 pm

I’m looking to get the Yeti Pro and doing more narrative, voiceover work. Would this microphone be a good option?

Reply
Stu June 11, 2016 - 1:55 am

Yes! Absolutely.

Reply
Aura January 3, 2017 - 8:14 pm

Glad that I stumbled upon this article, I liked the way you reviewed it. My query is did you ever compare the zoom h2n vs blue yeti.
Let me know

Reply
Stu January 4, 2017 - 1:25 am

No would you like me to do a comparison article?

Reply
Aura January 4, 2017 - 6:55 am

That would be great, because there are very few who compared but the way you do is just phenomenal.

Reply
Stu January 4, 2017 - 8:03 pm

Sure man no problem! Contact me so I will know when to alert you.

Reply
Valentin July 13, 2017 - 6:23 am

2 questions, 1. best settings for blue spark? On OBS i see that i have background noises but it’s silence in my room
2. The Scarlett sounds better with spark? Not Blue icicle?

Reply
Stu July 14, 2017 - 12:42 pm

Hey Valentin!

I would just mess around with the gain until you reach a level that doesn’t clip, but yet still sounds full and loud enough. I’m not sure what other settings you mean? Let me know. As for your other question, I wouldn’t worry too much about what you hook it up to. The UR22 and 2i2 are both great pairings. As for the Icicle, yeah it’s pretty good, but a little hit and miss as far as issues are concerned. You may be better off investing in something more solid, as a good audio interface will last you a long time work well with many different microphones should you decide to upgrade.

Keep me posted!

-Stu

Reply

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