Experience the sound of the world live: An overview of the binaural mic

In today’s world surrounded by people wearing headphones, binaural microphones are becoming increasingly important. This technology makes it possible to capture sound as we hear it, creating immersive and very realistic recording soundscapes that immerse listeners in an authentic acoustic experience.

Binaural microphones, which mimic the human ear, offer a precision and spatiality that conventional microphones cannot match. This article explores the fascinating world of binaural microphones and introduces some outstanding models that are ideal for professionals and hobbyists alike to capture the purest sound.

Types of binaural microphones

There are two main types of binaural microphones, which are characterized by their specific advantages and areas of application. The first is in-ear microphones, which are inserted into the user’s ear canals. These microphones use the natural shape of the the ear canal to capture sound with high precision and spatial depth.

They are particularly suitable for mobile and unobtrusive recordings, such as field recordings or live performances.

Secondly, the original head microphones, which are a realistic replica of the human head and ears binaurally. These microphones are placed in a special head model and capture sounds from a perspective that closely resembles human hearing.

Original head microphones offer impressive spatial accuracy and are ideal for recording orchestral concerts, theater performances and other sound-intensive recorded environments where accurate reproduction of spatial acoustics is critical.

Applications and advantages of binaural microphones

Binaural microphones thus open up attractive settings for sound recording and offer an incomparable experience for the listener. Whether for professional productions or creative hobby projects, these microphones are an indispensable tool for sound professionals or anyone who wants to create a realistic and immersive soundscape.

Binaural in-ear microphones

Roland CS-10EM (~90€)

The Roland CS-10EM binaural microphones are known as one of the most popular models for the entry-level example. These microphones are specifically designed for musicians who need to accurately capture their own sound while playing.

Design and features

By placing the microphone capsule in close proximity to the earphones, they enable a particularly authentic reproduction of the sound from the musician’s perspective. They combine classic in-ear headphones with two omnidirectional electret condenser microphones. This makes it possible to simultaneously record and listen to recordings, which classifies the Roland CS-10EM as a headset.

Price-performance ratio and popularity

Due to the very affordable price of around 90€, the Roland CS-10EM binaural microphones are particularly popular among field recording producers who want to experiment with binaural sound. The sound recordings are very low-noise and offer an excellent price-performance ratio.

Technical details and versatility

Although the headphones are the weaker part of the CS-10EM, they do an excellent job of monitoring. Released in 2010, the Roland headset comes with two 3.5mm jack connections, which makes it universally applicable, e.g. on field recorders, wireless microphone systems or laptops.

Binaural microphones such as the Roland CS-10EM are indispensable tools for anyone seeking precise and immersive film recordings, for example.

Mu6 Scenes Lifelike 2 (~140€)

The Mu6 Scenes Lifelike 2 are innovative binaural microphones designed specifically for 3D audio recording. These in-ear headphones combine state-of-the-art recording technology with user-friendly design to create immersive and realistic soundscapes.

Omnidirectional products for precise recording

The Mu6 Scenes Lifelike 2 microphones are equipped with omnidirectional microphones that are integrated into the earphones and enable precise recording of ambient sounds. This technology mimics the human ear structure, resulting in authentic and spatial audio reproduction.

Compatibility characteristics during implementation

Particularly noteworthy in ear holders is the compatibility with various devices thanks to the USB-C connection, which facilitates use with smartphones, tablets and computers. Thanks to their lightweight design and the included ear tips in different sizes, the Mu6 Scenes Lifelike 2 offer a high level of comfort, even during longer sound recording sessions.

Sound quality and possible applications for recording

The high-density ferrite boron magnets and the polymer diaphragm also ensure outstanding sound quality that will delight both professionals and hobbyists. These binaural microphones are ideal for a variety of applications, including field recording, music production and ASMR recording.

Their affordable price makes them an attractive option for those looking to enter the world of binaural recording. Overall, the Mu6 Scenes Lifelike 2 offer an impressive combination of ease of use and versatility.

Soundman OKM II Classic (~195€)

The Soundman OKM II are binaural microphones designed specifically for high-quality audio recording. These microphones are particularly popular with musicians, sound designers and audio enthusiasts who want to achieve the most realistic recording, and immersive sound recordings.

Use of binaural recording technology

The Soundman OKM II offers numerous advantages. Thanks to binaural recording technology, they deliver an extremely realistic sound image that is ideal for live recordings, natural sounds and concerts. The OKM II microphones can easily be worn like in-ear headphones, enabling discreet and unobtrusive recordings.

They offer a wide frequency response and excellent sensitivity, allowing even the finest sound details to be captured accurately. These microphones are not only suitable for music recordings, but also for podcasts, interviews and field recordings.

Ball characteristic from the input signal

The technical details of the Soundman OKM II are impressive. They offer a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a sensitivity of 9 mV/Pa. The maximum sound pressure level is 125 dB and the connection is made via a 3.5 mm stereo jack. These specifications make the OKM II a first-class choice for various applications.

Artificial head type without audio interface

Whether at live concerts, in nature, with city sounds or in VR projects – these binaural microphones always offer impressive fidelity and depth. In summary, the Soundman OKM II binaural microphones are a first-class choice for anyone who values realistic and high-quality sound recordings.

Price-performance ratio and application possibilities

With their natural recording quality, versatility and affordable price, they set the standard for binaural microphone technology. Whether for professional or personal projects, the OKM IIs offer an unparalleled binaural audio using experience. The Soundman OKM II is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the world of binaural sound recording.

Sennheiser Ambeo Smart Headset (offers from ~80€ incl. VAT)

User-friendly design for on the go The Sennheiser Ambeo Smart Headset offers outstanding user-friendliness. Designed as in-ear headphones, it is extremely comfortable super soft to wear and enables discreet recording in any environment. This is particularly beneficial for vloggers, podcasters and content creators who are often on the move and want to make spontaneous high-quality audio recordings.

Innovative functions for maximum flexibility The Ambeo Smart Headset seamlessly integrates features such as Active Noise Cancellation and Transparent Hearing. These allow the user to switch between complete isolation from outside noise and a clear perception of the surroundings. This flexibility makes it ideal for various situations, from noisy urban environments to quiet natural settings.

Popular with various users The Sennheiser Ambeo Smart Headset is very popular not only with musicians and sound designers, but also with filmmakers and journalists. The binaural microphone technology ensures that every recording becomes an immersive experience that puts the recorder and listener in the exact location of the recording. This provides an impressive recording quality that far surpasses conventional microphones.

Easy integration, especially with mobile devices A major advantage of the Ambeo Smart Headset is its easy integration with mobile devices. It is compatible with a wide range of Apple iPhones, allowing users to save their recordings directly to their devices and process them immediately. This is particularly useful for fast and efficient workflows.

Conclusion: versatility and ease of use To summarize, the Sennheiser Ambeo Smart Headset is an excellent choice for beginners who are interested in binaural microphones and value good audio quality. Its versatility and ease of use make it an indispensable tool for anyone who wants to create authentic and immersive sound recordings.

Whether for professional projects or personal binaural recordings, the Ambeo Smart Headset offers an unparalleled audio experience.

Hooke Audio Verse (~160€)

The Hooke Audio Verse microphone is a remarkable solution for wireless binaural microphones. An outstanding feature of the Hooke Audio Verse microphone is its versatility. It connects easily to various devices such as smartphones, tablets and computers wirelessly via Bluetooth, making it an ideal tool for content creators who want to create high-quality audio recordings on the go.

Its ergonomic design and comfortable fit make it ideal for discreet recording in any environment, be it busy urban areas or tranquil natural settings. This mobility and ease of use is particularly beneficial for vloggers, podcasters and documentary filmmakers looking to capture spontaneous and authentic soundscapes.

The Hooke Audio Verse microphone gives you the ability to work wirelessly, allowing for greater freedom of movement and flexibility when recording. This feature is particularly useful for producers who want to capture their performances in high quality without being restricted by cables.

Despite the wireless connection, recordings are captured with amazing accuracy and spatial depth, giving the listener the feeling of being right there.

Another advantage of the Hooke Audio Verse microphone is the user-friendly app, which has been specially developed to optimize the recording and editing processes. With this app, users can easily control and edit their recordings and share them directly on social media platforms.

This integration makes the microphone particularly attractive for influencers and social media professionals who need to work quickly and efficiently without sacrificing the quality of their audio and video recordings.

Overall, the Hooke Audio Verse microphone offers an excellent way to explore the world of binaural microphones and create high-quality, realistic recording, and immersive sound experiences. It is not only suitable for professional applications, but also for personal projects where audio quality plays a crucial role. Whether for live performances, interviews or nature recording.

DPA 4560 CORE Binaural Microphone (~1100€)

Extended possibilities through deep insertion Compared to other in-ear microphones, the DPA 4560 CORE microphone is inserted relatively deep into the human ear. This placement enables particularly precise and realistic sound reproduction. The MicroDot connectors increase versatility by offering numerous application possibilities.

Ergonomic design for high wearing comfort of the construction method The DPA 4560 CORE is characterized by its ergonomic and unobtrusive design. It offers high wearing comfort, especially during longer recording sessions. The discreet integration of the microphones in the headset enables unobtrusive recording in various environments, whether in nature, in urban scenarios or at events.

Ease of use and flexibility of results Another advantage of the DPA 4560 CORE microphone headset is the easy integration with different recording devices. This flexibility significantly improves the workflow, as users can transfer their recordings directly to their devices and process them immediately.

High sound quality for professional applications and ears The high sound quality of the DPA 4560 CORE enables the precise capture of the finest details and nuances. These characteristics make the microphone an essential tool for professional users such as musicians, sound engineers, content creators and filmmakers.

Conclusion: An investment in professional sound quality from the sound source To summarize, the DPA 4560 CORE microphone headset is an excellent choice for anyone looking for professional, low-noise and immersive sound recordings. The high quality and versatility justify the professional price paid for this excellent performance.

Brüel & Kjær Type 4101-B

Versatile application possibilities in position This microphone is used in a variety of professional scenarios, including environmental sound monitoring, film and music production, and research and development. In these areas, it is used to create authentic acoustic environments and immersive soundscapes.

High quality recordings in challenging environments per person The Brüel & Kjær Type 4101-B delivers high quality recordings even in demanding environments where conventional microphones often reach their limits. Its robust construction and precise audio capture make it ideal for outdoor use and demanding recording situations.

Creative possibilities for and influence on sound designers The binaural recording technology of the Type 4101-B enables sound designers to capture unique and authentic sound textures that would not be possible with conventional stereo or surround microphones. This opens up new creative possibilities and takes the listening experience to a new level.

Indispensable tool for the highest sound quality With its ability to realistically simulate human auditory perception and capture sounds in their natural environment, the Brüel & Kjær Type 4101-B is an indispensable tool for anyone who demands the highest sound quality.

Availability and price The Brüel & Kjær Type 4101-B is sold exclusively on request by institutions and companies, which is why no price information is available.

Conclusion Binaural microphone

Binaural microphones are essential for realistic and immersive sound recordings. They capture sound from the perspective of the human ear and offer impressive spatial depth. In-ear models such as the Roland CS-10EM are ideal for mobile applications, while original head microphones such as the DPA 4560 CORE and the Brüel & Kjær Type 4101-B enable professional audio recordings with the highest precision.

The choice of the right model depends on the requirements of your recordings, whether for field recordings, virtual reality or music productions. Binaural microphones take the listening experience to a new level and are an indispensable tool for authentic sound reproduction.