Blue Icicle* Says "In Your Face" To Complex Interfaces
There is something misleadingly limited about Blue Microphones' name. First off, their microphones come in all sorts of colors, and second, they make more than just mics. Take for example, the all new Blue Icicle, which is not a microphone -- rather it is an in-line USB converter and preamp. It doesn't lack the stylish sensibilities that Blue adds to their microphones, though.
Our main Blue man, Blue Microphones President Skipper Wise offered this comment:
"Today's musicians live in both the analog and digital worlds, and Icicle bridges those worlds in a way that only Blue can, with sophistication, an understanding of how musicians work, and a clean, simple style,"
The premise behind Icicle holds true to Blue's devotion to make making music as technologically uncomplicated as possible -- no drivers, I/O boxes or multi-purposeful converters, just plug your mic into Icicle and plug Icicle into your computer's USB slot, and you're good to go.
Fast Features:
- Studio quality microphone preamp
- 48V phantom power
- Fully balanced low noise front end
- Analog gain control
- Plug and Play driverless operation
- 44.1 kHz, 16-bit CD quality converter
- Mac or PC operation
* The Blue Icicle MAY look different than the picture with this article represents.
What about headphone monitoring?
Even easier to use, plus a headphone out with zero latency monitoring and full 24-bit/96kHz audio performance is the MicPort Pro from CEntrance: http://www.micport.com
Blue Icicle Vs. Mic Port Pro?
I've heard good things about the Mic Port Pro. The built-in "no latency" headphone port with gain is a big convenience.
But is it worth 3 times the price of Blue's Icicle? I don't know. An Icicle as of today, March 23, 2009 is $50. The Micro Port Pro is $150.
Does MPP provide a cleaner, more robust sound? Is it noticeable to the ear to justify the price difference?
Would be interesting to hear results from a "product showdown" from someone.
David
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