Spark Digital – With Bag
As the volume of internet podcasts and video content increases, content creators are going to need better and better gear to stand out among the noise. One of the most important aspects of this new content has to be the audio. With the Spark Digital from Blue Microphones, you can get an all in one package to capture that great audio into not only your computer, but also your iOS device as well.
The Spark Digital is the digital version of their excellent Spark cardioid condenser microphone. In this digital version, Blue replaces the standard XLR connectivity with an embedded analog to digital interface. This interface allows you to connect the Spark directly into a computer via USB interface, which appears as a standard audio device.
Spark Digital – Cables
Unique to the Spark Digital’s professional class of digital microphone is the optional connection to iOS devices via a 30-pin Apple dock connector cable. With this cable, you can attach the Spark Digital to your iPad or iPhone and use any number of audio recording applications to record.
Spark Digital – iPad Input
For example, you could use Apple’s GarageBand app to record an entire song with multiple tracks with just your iPad. If you are recording a podcast, the BossJock app is a great way to record and publish your show with live jingles and sound effects and never have to go back to a computer.
The 30-pin dock cable is fully compatible with Apple’s 30-pin to Lightning adapter so you can use it on the latest iOS devices.
UPDATE December 26th: Last week, Blue released a new cable for the Spark Digital providing a native Lightning connector. You no longer need to use the dock adapter.
Both versions of the cable include an headphone jack so you can listen in on what you are recording or playback what you just recorded.
Spark Digital – Headphone Mode
On the front of the microphone, a button-dial controls the volume and microphone levels. In volume mode, you can adjust the headphone output. If you hold it down, it changes to amber for control over the microphone gain levels. Pressing the button once mutes the microphone in either mode, as indicated by the blinking light.
Spark Digital – Microphone Mode
On the back is a small focus switch that adjusts the characteristics of the microphone. In off mode, it provides a standard sound with very good low frequency response. In focus on mode, it trims off the lowest end of the spectrum to enhance the mid and upper ranges, an ideal setting for some vocals and instruments.
The Spark Digital retail box includes a custom shock-mount desk stand to prevent it from picking up movements on the desk, and it comes with a great soft case to protect the microphone from scratches in transit.
Spark Digital – Closeup
The sound quality of the Spark Digital is superb. In either mode, the Spark Digital provides a very balanced sound that works great for vocals and most instruments. Compared to some other competing professional USB microphones in this space, I’d have to say the Spark has a much fuller sound that many will take notice.
The only shortfalls of the Spark Digital would have to be the use of the last generation 30-pin dock connector. While the microphone works perfectly well using an adaptor, I, of course, would love to see a new native cable specifically for the Lighting port on new iOS devices.
UPDATE December 26th: Last week, Blue released a new cable for the Spark Digital providing a native Lightning connector. You no longer need to use the dock adapter.
Spark Digital – Soft Bag
Additionally, I found it disappointing they didn’t include a standard microphone stand mount in box or as part of the desk stand. To mount it to standard 5/8-27 mount on a typical microphone stand, you need to purchase a separate accessory from Blue.
I also wish that the Spark Digital included a secondary XLR output like their Yeti Pro microphone. I would have loved to be able to use this microphone as both a computer microphone and then switch it over to an actual mixer when I need to.
Spark Digital – With Bag
Overall, the Spark Digital from Blue is an excellent digital microphone for podcasting and vocal work, and I believe it tops the professional digital microphone space. The sound quality is superb and its functionality is unquestioned. If you are looking to step up your vocal work quality for your audience, or just want to be able to turn your iPad into an audio production studio, you would be hard pressed to find something better than the Spark Digital. That quality earns it an Editor’s Choice award.
You can find the Blue Spark Digital from various retailers online for less than $200.
