"The Icicle (US$59.95) is Blue's new stylish USB converter and mic preamp combo that allows you to connect any XLR microphone directly into your computer via USB! The Icicle features a studio quality microphone preamp, 48V phantom power, fully balanced low noise front end, analog gain control, and driverless operation."
It's important that you have the chops. But do you have the hardware?
The Juice
The Icicle is approximately half a foot long with its own proprietary cord and teeny Quick Start Guide book. All you have to do is plug the XLR cord that is attached to your mic (it is not recommended that you plug your mic directly into The Icicle as this could damage the unit and would void the warranty) and the USB plug directly into your computer (not a hub, etc.). Once plugged in, the logo will glow a soft blue to let you know that you are successfully connected. If your mic requires phantom power, The Icicle will sense this and supply it.
You then open your System Preferences and go to sound. Click the Input tab and check that your mic has been selected (my system switched automatically). You can now adjust the gain with the knob located on the side of the unit. Just that easy.
The Pulp
The Icicle is very easy to use. Anyone without any audio experience could set it up in no time.
The Rind
The gain control knob is a bit difficult to turn as its surface is smooth and its hard to grip it with your fingers. The price could be an issue depending on your situation. If you already have a mic or can get one cheaply (around $30), then there combined cost is comparable to that of a USB mic (of which Blue Microphone has a fine selection).
Summary
The Icicle is a solid piece of audio hardware, the kind of quality that Blue Microphone always delivers. But is it for you? Again, it all depends on your situation, as I stated earlier.
"And that's the way it was, September 24th, 2009." "Good night, Chet." "Good night, David.:
Macsimum rating: 8 out of 10
©2009 Frank Petrie
