Can I plug a microphone into a USB-C?
What is USB-C?
USB-C is a relatively new USB standard that offers faster data transfer speeds and a reversible connector. First introduced in 2014, USB-C has quickly become the standard port for many laptops, phones, tablets and other devices (Wikipedia).
Unlike previous USB versions, USB-C has a reversible connector that allows the cable to be plugged in either direction. The USB-C connector is also smaller than previous versions. In addition to data transfer, USB-C can provide power delivery for charging devices. USB-C supports data rates up to 10Gbps, much faster than older USB standards (PCMag).
While the USB-C connector itself is standardized, the cables and ports may support different types of data transfer and power delivery. For example, some are USB 2.0, some USB 3.1, and Thunderbolt 3 shares the USB-C connector. So USB-C has become the standard port, while protocols and capabilities can vary.
USB-C Ports on Computers and Devices
USB-C ports are becoming increasingly common on newer computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices. Many new laptops, smartphones, and tablets now feature USB-C ports instead of or in addition to older USB-A ports. As per this Computerworld article, even MacBooks, iPads, iPhones, and Chromebooks now have USB-C ports.
USB-C ports are rectangular in shape and smaller than traditional USB-A ports. They allow for reversible plug orientation, so you don’t have to worry about plugging the cable in upside down. USB-C ports support USB 3.1 and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for fast data transfer speeds. They also support power delivery for charging devices.
Many Android smartphones from top manufacturers like Samsung, LG, Motorola and more now feature USB-C ports instead of micro USB ports. Popular devices like the Galaxy S21, Pixel 5, and OnePlus 8 all use USB-C. Several Windows laptops and tablets also incorporate USB-C, including Microsoft’s Surface products.
As USB-C becomes more ubiquitous, expect to see it implemented in everything from monitors, hard drives, and docking stations to keyboards, mice, and other accessories. USB-C delivers significant advantages in transfer speeds, power delivery, and ease of use compared to older USB standards.
Connecting Microphones to USB-C
Most USB microphones can plug directly into a USB-C port and work seamlessly. USB-C ports provide power and data transfer, allowing the microphone to function properly when connected. There are now many microphones on the market designed specifically for USB-C connections, like the Shure MV7 (Amazon). These microphones can take advantage of the capabilities of USB-C, including power delivery for condenser mics needing phantom power and high-bandwidth data transfer for high-quality digital audio.
Many traditional USB microphones with USB-A connectors can also work when connected to a USB-C port, especially if they are powered externally and not relying on bus power from the port. In most cases, you can simply use a USB-A to USB-C adapter or cable to connect the microphone to a USB-C port. Some microphones may require installing a driver or software on the host device to enable full functionality.
Overall, USB-C ports make connecting microphones very convenient. As USB-C becomes more ubiquitous, microphone manufacturers are releasing more options designed for direct USB-C connectivity, eliminating the need for adapters. With a compatible USB microphone, you can plug directly into a USB-C port on a laptop, tablet, or phone and have high-quality audio input.
Using USB-C Hubs and Adapters
For non-USB-C microphones, you can use a USB-C to USB-A adapter or hub to connect. This allows you to plug in microphones that only have a standard USB-A connector into a USB-C port. Popular options include the CableCreation USB-C to Audio Adapter and the Sound Professionals SP-USB-C-ADAPTER. Adapters like these provide a straightforward way to use existing USB microphones with USB-C equipped laptops and devices.
USB hubs can also expand the number of USB inputs, allowing you to connect multiple microphones or other peripherals. Hubs with both USB-C and USB-A ports offer flexibility. When shopping for adapters and hubs, look for ones that support high-speed data transfer for quality audio capture.
Audio Quality Considerations
When it comes to audio quality, USB-C can deliver nearly the same quality as traditional USB-A and 3.5mm connections in most cases. This is because USB-C ports can transmit analog or digital audio signals just like USB-A ports. The USB-C specification supports up to 32-bit/384kHz lossless audio, which matches the quality achievable over 3.5mm.
However, the actual audio quality will depend on the headphones, microphone, or speakers being used, along with the digital-to-analog (DAC) components inside the USB-C device. Higher quality DACs can take full advantage of USB-C’s capabilities and produce excellent fidelity, while lower quality DACs may result in degraded sound.
In general, USB-C audio should sound very similar to USB-A audio when using the same headphones or speakers according to enthusiasts. The main advantage of USB-C is the ability to deliver power, data, and audio over a single cable, not necessarily better quality.
USB-C also opens up more options for external DACs and amplifiers that can enhance quality, which are not possible over 3.5mm. So while the baseline quality is similar, USB-C provides headroom for higher quality audio with the right equipment.
Power Delivery Benefits
One of the major benefits of USB-C ports is their ability to provide power delivery via the USB-PD (USB Power Delivery) specification. USB-PD allows USB-C ports to deliver up to 100 watts of power, according to manhattanproducts.us[1]. This is enough power to charge laptops and high-demand devices that previous USB specifications could not support.
For microphones and audio interfaces, the power delivery capabilities of USB-C can provide enough power to use those devices without needing additional power cables or battery power. Older USB ports often did not provide enough consistent power for professional microphones and interfaces, so separate power cables or batteries were required. With USB-PD over USB-C, that is no longer the case, allowing for simpler setups.
The USB-PD specification enables power delivery up to 100W over a USB-C cable for both data transfer and power, according to the USB Implementers Forum[2]. This makes USB-C very convenient for powering mics, audio interfaces, headphones, and other audio gear that may require substantial power to operate.
Cables and Connectors
To connect a microphone to a USB-C port, you’ll need the proper cable. The most straightforward option is a USB-C to USB-C cable, which allows you to plug directly into the USB-C port. Popular options include the RØDE SC16, which is a high-quality 300mm cable designed specifically for RØDE microphones (RØDE SC16).
Make sure to use a high-quality, purpose-built USB-C cable for maximum compatibility. Lower quality generic cables may not properly carry both data and power. For shorter connections, such as plugging into a smartphone, a short 6-12 inch cable is recommended. For longer runs, you can use a 3-10 foot cable. Using the proper cable will ensure a solid digital connection between the mic and USB-C device.
You can also use USB-C hubs or adapters to connect microphones with other outputs like XLR or 3.5mm. Companies like comica make adapters that convert XLR to USB-C so you can use professional mics (CVM-XLR-UC). Make sure any adapter or hub you use is high-quality and explicitly supports microphone audio.
Setting up Drivers and Software
Your microphone may need specific drivers installed or software configured for proper functionality when connected through USB-C. Most USB microphones designed for Mac or Windows will automatically install drivers when first plugged in. However, you may need to manually install drivers for more specialized mics. Check your microphone manufacturer’s website for the latest software and drivers. These will ensure your operating system recognizes the mic and enables core features.
On Windows 10, go to Start > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound to configure your microphone input and adjust settings like gain and volume. On Mac OS, open System Preferences > Sound to select your USB mic as the input device and adjust input volume. You may also need to grant the microphone app permission to access the mic in your Mac’s Security & Privacy settings. Some mics like the Blue Yeti have companion apps that let you control settings and monitor levels. Be sure to install any required software for your mic to enable all its capabilities when connected over USB-C.
Troubleshooting Tips
There are some common issues that can arise when using USB-C microphones. Here are some troubleshooting tips to try:
Echoes and distortion – Make sure to adjust your microphone settings and gain levels. Go into your device’s audio settings and reduce the microphone boost if it is too high. Also try adjusting the placement and direction of the microphone.
Connectivity problems – Check that the USB-C cable is fully inserted into both the microphone and device. Try different cables and ports to isolate the issue. Also check for debris in the ports and update USB and microphone drivers. According to this thread, cleaning the USB-C port can help resolve connection problems.
Not detected by device – Go into your system settings and check that the microphone is selected and set as the default input device. Restart your device and microphone. Try reinstalling drivers or use a USB-C hub or adapter if needed, as suggested in this Microsoft forum post.
If issues persist, contact the microphone manufacturer for further support. Following proper setup and troubleshooting steps can help resolve most common problems with USB-C microphones.
The Future of USB-C Audio
USB-C has the potential to become the new standard for digital audio connections. With its high bandwidth, reversibility, and power delivery capabilities, USB-C addresses many of the limitations of previous USB standards. As device manufacturers increasingly adopt USB-C ports, the future looks promising for USB-C audio.
According to a recent blog post from Kramer AV, “USB-C: The Future of Pro AV Connectivity,” USB-C has two main advantages for audio connectivity: high bandwidth and power delivery [1]. The USB 3.1 standard provides up to 10Gbps bandwidth, which is more than enough for high-resolution multi-channel audio. And USB-C’s ability to deliver up to 100W of power means mics and other audio devices can draw power over the same cable as the audio signal.
However, Kramer notes USB-C also faces challenges around reliability of connections and cable length limitations that will need to be addressed as the standard matures [1]. Still, as device manufacturers increasingly build USB-C into their products, it’s likely to become the preferred single-cable solution for digital audio.
